The global markets showed remarkable resilience in 2012 and the beginning of 2013.With economic recovery gaining momentum and a solid pool of profitable companies ready to list, the first quarter of the year was strong.

In 2013, we saw companies and their potential investors adapting to a new market environment, one in which volatility has become the norm. Timing this market is an art; the windows when conditions are favorable for a listing are short and unpredictable. Companies need to prepare earlier and be ready to move fast.

“In Order to Move Forward, Timing the Market is an Art.”

Short-term concern aside, 2012 saw the continuation of many of the trends that have driven global markets for a few years now – the rapid growth of the emerging markets and the rise of Asean, in particular. These trends have continued into 2013. Developed markets peaked intermittently during the year, in key industries such as technology, mining and metals and healthcare, and there was a growing number of private equity and venture capital-backed listings. Volatility will remain with us, although probably at a reduced level. Europe may not resolve its sovereign debt problems, but it should at least agree upon a way forward – that in itself would remove a significant weight from the Asean markets.

In supporting this insight, HCB Trust Ek. för. has launched the Asean Fund to capitalize on the steady and eventual strong growth of the targeted market, mainly Asean. Our fund managers will undertake the fixed-rate investment principles and processes into the precise analysis of each sector to determine their return potential, thus maximizing growth with asset protection.

For a more detail discussion on how you can benefit and invest in the Asean Fund, please contact your respective financial advisor.