Analysis

Rising equities, improving economic newsflow and corporate earnings put sector in good position

Emerging market equities rose strongly over the third quarter of 2009 and have now more than doubled from the low point seen in October 2008. Indeed, the last six months have seen the asset class deliver the best returns on record.

Interesting investment opportunities exist across the three main natural resources areas: energy, metals and agriculture. In recent months the energy, metals and mining sectors have been particularly strong performers, with companies such as South African...

As an astounding year nears its end, it is hard to recall the true despair that existed in almost all markets other than government bonds one year ago.

British pride has taken a knock recently as both Germany and France this month reported their economies had expanded for the second consecutive quarter. Britain is pinning its hopes on the Q4 of 2009 bringing an end to its recession.

In what has been an extraordinary year for global equity markets, sterling investors have profited most from staying at home.

What is normal going forward? Recently, investors appear to be assuming corporate profitability and economic growth will rebound to prior levels as quickly as they disappeared. Many are assuming a ‘V-shaped' recovery and have embraced cyclically driven...

Strong returns from emerging markets prompt surge of investment into funds connected with less developed countries

The euphoric markets that we enjoyed before the credit crunch are probably as unrealistic as the markets that confronted us in the 12 months after the onset of the crunch.