Outlook

Following years of underperformance, emerging market equities are leading global markets in 2025 to date, driven by a softer US dollar, policy reforms, and renewed investor confidence. With valuations still discounted and structural tailwinds in place, this rally signals a potential long-term shift in global equity dynamics.

The forecast-defying strength of the US economy has been one of the key drivers of financial markets in recent quarters, but as economic prospects diverge, Europe is where we see the better relative value in fixed income today.

Are stock markets poised for a good year in 2024? Jean-Louis Nakamura, head of the Convictions Equities Boutique takes a comprehensive look at the various factors that indicate it may well be.

We’ve likely reached peak interest rates as disinflation paves the way for an economic slowdown. The 2024 outlook from our Fixed Income Boutique explains why.

Legendary investor Charlie Munger, who recently passed away, followed a simple philosophy of “soldiering on” – persevering through challenging times while also knowing when to seize opportunities. Munger’s wisdom guides us as we manage key risks and seek to find opportunities in 2024.

Consensus expectations are that we could be nearing the end of the rate-hiking cycle. What does this mean for fixed income investors and Global Investment Grade in particular, and how do these typically change at the inflection of rate cycles?

Luc D’hooge and Wouter Van Overfelt review the developments of the Emerging Markets Debt and Emerging Markets Corporate Bond strategies they manage.

Luc D’hooge and Wouter Van Overfelt review the developments of the Vontobel Fund – Emerging Markets Debt and Vontobel Fund – Emerging Markets Corporate Bond and share their forecast for the remainder of 2023.

Wouter Van Overfelt, Head of Emerging Market Corporates and Luc D’hooge, Head of Emerging Markets Bonds, provide a review on the developments in the first quarter, the current positioning of the strategies as well as an outlook for the remainder of 2023.

Luc D’hooge, Head of Emerging Markets Bonds and Wouter Van Overfelt, Head of Emerging Market Corporates, provide a review on the developments in 2022, the current positioning of the strategies as well as an outlook for 2023.

2022 was a stormy year for bonds. As 2023 gets under way, our Fixed Income Boutique heads predict whether bonds are set for a smooth touchdown or a bumpy landing amid the continuing headwinds in the global economy.

High yield markets entered the year at an attractive entry point and investors can enjoy the power of high carry with still solid credit fundamentals. Turning the page on a challenging 2022, the Global High Yield Bond team is hopeful 2023 will be a fortunate year for many things, especially income.