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Funds Pour into Southeast Asia as Rate-Cut Cycle Gains Momentum

2024-09-15 17:40:42.543000

In recent weeks, global investment trends have shifted significantly as funds increasingly flow into Southeast Asia, driven by anticipated interest rate cuts and attractive asset valuations [6b67637a]. Money managers have notably boosted their positions in sovereign bonds across Thailand, Indonesia, and Malaysia over the past two months, reflecting a growing confidence in the region's economic prospects [6b67637a]. Net buying of equities in Indonesia, Malaysia, and the Philippines has been observed for three consecutive months, signaling a robust interest in Southeast Asian markets [6b67637a].

Southeast Asian currencies are currently among the best performers in emerging markets this quarter, with the Philippines already implementing rate cuts in August 2024, and Indonesia expected to follow suit [6b67637a]. The region's real interest rates are historically high, which creates a conducive environment for potential policy easing [6b67637a]. For instance, Indonesia's real policy rate stands at 4.1%, significantly above the five-year mean for the country, while the Philippines also enjoys favorable conditions [6b67637a].

BlackRock has expressed intentions to invest in bonds from the Philippines and Indonesia, describing this period as a 'golden age' for fixed-income investments in Asia [6b67637a]. Furthermore, Southeast Asian currencies are viewed as undervalued compared to historical averages, presenting additional opportunities for investors [6b67637a]. The region is also benefiting from a trend known as 'friend-shoring', where businesses are seeking alternatives to China for their supply chains, further enhancing the attractiveness of Southeast Asia as an investment destination [6b67637a].

As the global economic landscape evolves, upcoming rate decisions from Bank Indonesia and other regional central banks will be closely monitored by investors looking to capitalize on the shifting dynamics [6b67637a]. This influx of capital into Southeast Asia aligns with broader trends observed globally, where a turning point in the economic cycle is anticipated, characterized by decreasing inflation and falling long-term interest rates [0c81efb1].

Manulife Investment Management has also highlighted the potential for growth in Asian equities, particularly in China, India, and the South Korean electric vehicle sector, as easing headwinds and attractive valuations could catalyze a re-rating in these markets [48e52b7a]. The overall sentiment in global markets has shifted positively, with investors increasingly optimistic about the prospects for risky assets, including those in Southeast Asia [c530d8e5].

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