Although emerging markets stocks and exchange traded funds are rebounding this year, for a good part of 2016, China has been a drag on that theme. That has changed for the better in recent weeks. Just look at the Deutsche X-trackers Harvest CSI 300 China A-Shares Fund (NYSEArca: ASHR).
ASHR, the largest US-listed ETF tracking stocks trading on mainland China, also known as A-shares, is up nearly 6% over the past 90 days. With the Hong Kong Securities and Futures Commission and the China Securities Regulatory Commission approving the much anticipated Shenzhen-Hong Kong Stock Connect program, China is opening up its capital markets and could ultimately benefit investors seeking exposure to Chinese markets through A-shares-related exchange traded funds.
SEE MORE: China A-Shares ETFs Climb on Anticipated Shenzhen-Link
Earlier this year, China ETFs retreated after index provider MSCI said it is again delaying the inclusion of China A-shares, the stocks trading in Shanghai and Shenzhen, in its widely followed emerging markets indexes.
Chinese A-Shares are a specific class of equity securities issued by Chinese companies and denominated in RMB. Under current Chinese regulations, foreign investors may access A-Shares if they are a designated foreign institutional investor or gained access through either the Qualified Foreign Institutional Investor (QFII) or a Renminbi Qualified Foreign Institutional Investor (RQFII) programs.
ASHR’s recent strength is prompting bears to run for cover while bullish traders reconsider the fund.