The new funds allow investors in Singapore and Hong Kong to seize opportunities from global megatrends, which include technological innovations, demographic trends and environmental challenges.
Asset manager Amundi is enhancing its thematic investment range for retail investors in Asia with the launch of six new offerings that cater to the growing demand for alternative sources of return, the firm said in a press release on Tuesday.
The five global equity funds in Singapore, managed by CPR Asset Management, focus on climate action, education, food security, disruptive business models and population ageing, while in Hong Kong the firm introduced a global education-focused equities fund.
«Asia is Amundi’s second domestic market and is underpinned by strong economic fundamentals and growing wealth,» Vincent Mortier, deputy chief investment officer and Asia ex-Japan supervisor, said. He added that he expects market volatility and global uncertainty to drive the growing demand for deep investment expertise.
Education a Key Theme
Amundi noted that education is a key investment theme that has been gaining in popularity among Asian investors, pointing out that its education-themed strategy is the first one offered to retail investors in Hong Kong and Singapore.
It cited the growing global annual education expenditure and rising demand for education facilities, services, content and tools, particularly in China, driven by population growth and the expansion of the middle class in emerging countries.
«We believe education is the next long-term, sustainable theme. There are powerful, structural trends at play, making the sector an attractive opportunity for investors seeking huge growth potential,» Valérie Baudson, CEO of CPR Asset Management, said.
