Why should I invest in Asia?

The region has seen a period of sustained high growth over the past decade, during which GDP has risen year on year, that is, at levels more than double those seen in Western markets. Those fortunate enough to have been invested in this surge would have seen their returns outshine those that kept money invested in domestic markets – so the evidence is compelling in that the developing nature of the region has led to many augmenting their returns in a rising market.

Investors can further heighten returns through foreign exchange effects, as currency appreciation goes hand in hand with regional development. Put simply, those regions across the globe that have witnessed mass development in their infrastructure and productivity have seen high demand for their currency – as this demand increases the value of their currency strengthens against others. This has led to many differing currencies across the region strengthening: for example, for UK-based investors Asia could provide not only a strong investment return but once they exit their positions they convert out of Asian currencies at potentially more attractive exchange rates than those in force when they originally invested.

Balance sheets have begun to strengthen across the region meaning that companies are increasing dividend payments, which potentially could see growth in the income levels for funds operating in this space. This contrasts with the West which has seen declining yields in recent years. The region may therefore be one to watch in forthcoming years for those investors seeking income.

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