Positive outlook for Asia

conference

fund managers can expect double-digit earnings growth from asia equity vehicles in 2004

Return on equity (ROE) in Asia has increased sixfold in certain markets since the 1997 crisis and the area is expected to post double-digit earnings growth in 2004. Ayaz Ebrahim, director and chief investment officer of Asia Pacific ex Japan equities at HSBC Asset Management, was keen to allay investor concerns at a recent Investment Week conference, after a turbulent few weeks on the region's stock markets. His positive view is backed not only by improving global macro factors, but a range of local factors as well. Ebrahim said, at a domestic level, much progress has been made since the...