Some of the best-performing exchange traded funds (ETFs) this year have been in the hot and getting hotter area of emerging markets. But is there any steam left in this rally?
Although the pace may eventually slow down, Barron’s reports that emerging markets still have room left to grow in the long haul. And for the time being, they may be the place to hide out as developed markets still work toward normalcy. In the near-term, growth rates in developed nations are expected to be lackluster, and much less robust than those in the developing world’s. (What you’re missing when you’re not globally invested).
Countries that are resource rich and developing are stockpiling cash and shoring up their balance sheets for a strong recovery and a growth spurt unlike any seen before. Earnings and economic activity have been revived. Morgan Stanley feels that earnings in emerging markets have bottomed in the third quarter and they’re now set to climb again. (Why frontier markets could be even bigger).
For more stores about emerging markets, visit our emerging markets category.
There are a variety of ways to play emerging markets. There are broad funds, such as iShares MSCI Emerging Markets (NYSEArca: EEM), Vanguard Emerging Markets (NYSEArca: VWO) and iShares MSCI EAFE Index (NYSEArca: EFA).
There are funds that focus on regions, such as Claymore/BNY Mellon BRIC (NYSEArca: EEB) and BLDRSAsia 50 ADR Index (Nasdaq: ADRA).
Finally, there are single-country funds, such as iShares MSCI Brazil (NYSEArca: EWZ) and Market Vectors Vietnam (NYSEArca: VNM).
Keep in mind that the narrower you get in your exposure to emerging and frontier markets, the higher your risk will be. Be sure to have an entry and exit strategy before you invest. (How to follow trends).