FiNETIK – Asia and Latin America – Market News Network

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March 13, 2013 • 1:46 am 0

VAM: Vietnam Market Analysis – February 2013

After a long Tet holiday, rumors about financial policy changes and further arrests of top bank leaders emerged and eroded all the stock market’s gains from the beginning of February. Consequently,  the VN-Index closed the month with a 0.52% loss, whilst HNX shed 1.05%. With a 3.05% fall, the VN30 seemed to be even more sensitive to the panic.
 
Inflation subdued in the month of Tet
Thanks to the phasing out of pharmaceutical products price increases, inflation slowed somewhat in February as the consumer price index climbed 7.02 percent YoY (versus 7.07 percent YoY in January). The concerns about the “traditional” consumer price hikes during the Tet holiday did not materialize, partly due to weaker festive demand than usual. The government also decided not to raise retail prices of petroleum products including gasoline to ensure economic stability and keep inflation under control. However,  Ministry of Finance did not provide the information on price stabilization fund balance for petroleum products, so it remains unclear on how the gasoline price control will transpire in the coming time.
 
Trade surplus continued, foreign reserves given a boost
According to GSO, the trade balance in February continued to show a surplus, reaching USD900mn, the highest monthly level ever and the ninth month of surplus in a row. With this result, following the USD700mn in Jan, the YTD trade surplus is now around USD1.6bn, a comfortable level which should lend healthy support to the already strong foreign reserve (by Vietnam standard) and consequently the value of the Dong. However, exchange rate showed unexpected volatility in the first two weeks after Tet, possibly due to brisk actions in the gold market and the upsetting rumours. To comfort the market, a Central bank spokesman has stated that no depreciation is being planned for the foreseeable future.
 
Newly released NPLs figure eased concerns on banking system reform.
While the Prime Minister requested to establish the AMC in 1Q 2013, the new NPLs figure released by the Governor was encouraging. Accordingly, bad debt on banking system has come down from 8% in June 2012 to 6% as banks wrote off non-performing loan balance at the end of last year. As the Government set credit growth target of 12% in 2013 to boost economic growth and implement the “dual-targets”, the destination for credit flow is still at stagnation point. Whilst total liquidity (M2) increased 3.31% YTD, the credit growth up to 21 Feb was till in negative territory at – 0.16% YTD.
 
Business environment still appears challenging
In line with stagnation on the supply side, demand remained weak with retail sales increasing only 3.6% in Jan-Feb period, which is not different from Dec 2012′s level. While the inventory level hiked 19.9% Y-o-Y, industrial production showed no improvement. In a related note, the government released that by February, the number of enterprises going out of business was 8,600, which exceeded the figure of 8,000 newly created enterprises, implying the fact that the business environment is still very difficult.
 
A bumpy recovery progress reflected by a drop in the PMI.
After adjusting for seasonal factors, including the Tet holidays, the HSBC Vietnam Manufacturing PMI posted 48.3 in February, down from 50.1 in January. This has been the largest dip since last August. Notably, in February, the survey showed a first drop in four months of manufacturing output; a decline in the level of new order received and a sixth time in seven months increase in average input prices.
 
Our View – After a long Tet holiday, the stock market was hit by negative rumors about possible currency devaluation, financial policy changes and further arrests of banking officials. Although these rumours were addressed and corrected in a timely manner by the relevant authorities, the stock market and economy in general showed its uncertainty and vulnerability. In 2013, the story will be mainly about boosting production and restructuring the economy. Fortunately, Vietnam’s leaders’ determination is supported by a relatively stable currency and a healthy trade balance.
We remain cautious and will carefully watch development in the political space and changes in macro economy as that will definitely affect the stock market. We are generally comfortable with our equity position but may look to selectively acquire more stocks if the macro environment becomes more favourable.

Filed under: Banking, News, Risk Management, Vietnam, Wealth Management, , , , , , , , , ,

February 22, 2013 • 1:40 am 0

VAM: Vietnam Market Analysis – January 2013

All indices recorded strong gains in January as investors’ sentiment improved
The VN-Index surged 15.5% to close at 479.8 while the HNX jumped 9.7% to 62.62. The VN30, after reaching its all time high at 577, eased back to 564.01 at the end of the month, gaining 16%.
 
Timely measures to give market a boost
With effect from15th January 2013, the trading band on HSX and HNX have been loosened to 7% and 10%, from 5% and 7%, respectively. Besides, SSC also introduced other measures to support the stock market such as tax incentives, allowing to issue stocks below par value, increasing margin ratio and most importantly, increasing foreign ownership limit by non-voting rights in some selective industries (namely at weak banks to over 30%, and at securities companies to 100%).
Furthermore, SBV also intends to participate in domestic gold trading to stabilize domestic gold price, closing the gap with global price, thus discouraging people from holding too much gold. Those measures to boost the stock market, especially the possibility on increasing foreign ownership and the proposal to tighten gold control have somewhat created the wave of optimistic buying in January.
 
A wave of Japanese FDI and record remittances to welcome Tet
According to the Ministry of Planning and Investment, FDI disbursement in January reached USD420mn in total, up 5% YoY. Total newly registered and top-up capital grew 74% YoY, of which newly approved projects registered USD257mn, a 293% YoY increase, and top-up capital touched USD24.3mn, rising 25.2% YoY. Japanese became the biggest investor making up 57.6% total newly approved projects so far this year.
Thanks to the surge before Tet holiday, total remittances this year are estimated at a record USD10 billion. The total foreign reserve has increased to USD26bn, equivalent to 2.3 months of imports, a historical high and an 8.3% increase from USD24bn as at the end of 2012. The healthier FX reserve helps to safeguard the value of the Dong.
 
Tet, on the other hand, narrows trade surplus
Januaryrecorded a smaller trade surplus as demand for imports increased before Tet holiday. Exports exceeded imports by only USD200 million in January, after a revised trade surplus of USD498 million in December. From the previous month, export value decreased 2.5% while the import value edged up about 0.4%, although both of them showed huge improvement, more than 40%, compared to the same period last year. Foreign invested enterprises continue to be the leading sector with 66% and 55% of total export and import value, respectively. They also outperform domestic sector in terms of more import growth and less export reduction during the first month of 2013.
 
Credit drop and CPI jump surprise market.
The industrial production index (IIP) decreased 3.2% from December amid pessimistic outlook for stagnation on retail sales. Indeed, consumers continued to reduce spending at the prospect of lower income and no year-end bonus. The retail sales edged up just 2.2% MoM in Jan, the month before a long Tet holiday. As a result, credit dropped 1.06% YTD, according to the press release from a government meeting.
In contrast, January’s PMI moved in a different direction with the IIP since it increased to 50.1 from 49.3, thanks to modest improvement in new order volumes from domestic market and marginal job growth. Amidst stagnation of industrial production and credit growth, a solid increase in average input prices, a component of PMI basket, after a marginal reduction in December, suggests that SBV should be more cautious about further easing as inflation risk came back from the beginning of a new year. Jumps in health care (9.5% MoM) and foodstuff (1.96% MoM) items led CPI to soar 1.25% MoM (7.07% YoY) in January, exceeding market expectation. Accordingly, inflation risk puts any rate cut rumors on hold until at least after Tet holiday.
 
Government charts out tasks for banking sector with focuses on inflation control and bad debt resolution
Main objectives of SBV in 2013 continue to be curbing inflation, stabilizing macro economy alongside with restructuring banking sector and tackling NPL issues. For 2013, the SBV targets to keep credit growth at 12%. Importantly, SBV has submitted to government the plan that allows AMC to purchase bad debts based on book value (after provision) and pay by bonds to the bank. Banks could use AMC bonds as collateral to get cheap fund from SBV at a discount rate. Commercial banks with NPLs higher than 3% will be forced to bring down their NPLs to 3%.
On the other hand, as there are many linkages between real estate market and NPL problems in banking system, government also issued the Resolution No.2, which introduces several tax incentives, credit line for low income individuals to purchase social houses and transferring commercial housing projects into social housing. However since social housing only accounts for a small portion of property sector, we think these solutions are not effective enough to rescue the whole troubled real estate market.
 
Our View – Bullish momentum remained in the first month of 2013 thanks to good round of macroeconomic indicators release. While capital inflow continued being positive, actions of authorities looked effective in boosting the market. However, as stocks ran too high and too fast during the last two months, we start to be skeptical about the strength of this momentum. A month before Tet, inflation risk seems to be coming back and industrial stagnation looks a bit tense. We maintain a cautiously optimistic view and relatively high equity holding, particularly stocks with strong fundamentals in consumers, pharmaceuticals and materials sectors. As Government is showing more and more determination to improve the economy and clean up the banking sector, stickers with strong cash flow, low debt and high beta are also in our consideration to pick up to ride the market’s uptrend.

Filed under: Exchanges, News, Vietnam, Wealth Management, , , , , , , , , , ,

February 12, 2013 • 1:13 am 0

Avaloq the Swiss Wealth Management Solution provider opens office in Australia

The Avaloq Group, the international reference for integrated and comprehensive banking solutions, is pleased to announce the opening of its first branch office in Australia.

As part of its continuous internationalisation strategy and aim to extend its presence in the most demanding financial markets globally, Avaloq has opened an office in Australia end of last year. The expansion to Australia – a new continent for Avaloq – comes after the company successfully established local offices in various regions in recent years.

Avaloq signed its first customer on the Australian continent – one of the reasons why the company decided to further extend its international presence and open a branch in Sydney. The Australian market bears a great potential for wealth management platforms such as the Avaloq Banking System. The fully integrated solution offers the entire field of investment products and additionally covers local tax and superannuation requirements. Combined with a team of experts, equipped with substantial know-how and experience regarding the Australian financial market, Avaloq significantly improves its local position.

“Opening an office in Australia is yet another important step in our internationalisation strategy and an additional milestone in Avaloq’s remarkable company history. Building up a local presence in the most demanding financial centres worldwide ensures that we are close to the markets and companies we work with. This allows us to cater towards our client’s needs and requirements without having to work around different time zones”, says a delighted Francisco Fernandez, CEO Avaloq. “The Australian market has immense potential, with demand for wealth management platforms increasing. Being present in Australia is the logical move for the company”, Fernandez continues.

The new Avaloq branch in Australia will significantly profit from the vast experience of the regional headquarters in Singapore, which was established in 2007. The Singapore branch has seen strong expansion in recent years under the management of Martin Frick, Managing Director Asia Pacific.

Source: Avaloq, 12.02.2013

Filed under: Australia, Banking, Singapore, Wealth Management, , , , , , , ,

January 18, 2013 • 1:32 am 0

VAM: Vietnam Market Analysis – December 2012

Improved economic conditions somewhat buoyed the stock market in the last month of the year as all three indices moved up
The VN-index closed at 413.7, gaining 11.23% while VN30 closed at 485.4, picking up 9.42%. HNX was the best performer of three indices, increasing 11.83% to close the month at 57.09.
 
Macro indicators showed joyful December
Market confidence was regained thanks to better-than-expected CPI, trade balance, interest rates cut and detail implementation of the Government on spurring the economy. For the first time in four months CPI slowed in December, with consumer prices rising 6.81% from a year earlier after climbing 7.08% Y-o-Y in November. Consequently, the State Bank cut benchmark interest rates for a sixth time to help companies cope with difficulties in production and business. The trade balance posted a first year of surplus (of US$284mn) since 1993. Despite a gloomy year, FDI disbursement reached USD10.5bn, dropping a marginal 5% YoY. As a result, foreign reserves are significantly improved, reaching US$24 billion, equivalent to 12 weeks of import. The Dong remains unchanged.
 
However, stability was achieved at the cost of growth
Vietnam’s economy expanded at the slowest pace in 13 years in 2012 as a slump in bank lending dampened domestic demand. GDP grew 5.03%, down from 5.89% in 2011, and the lowest since 1999. Bad debt and the gloomy business environment hampered credit growth, which ended 2012 at 6.45% YoY while total liquidity growth and deposit growth were 19.85% and 20.29% YoY, respectively.As the lenders’ liquidity position becomes comfortable and full-year inflation was a lower-than-expected 6.81%, the central bank decided to cut all policy rates and deposit cap rate by 1%, effective on December 24, in an attempt to make banks lend more. But as the real interest rate is still positive, some are speculating on another rate cut, even as the World Bank warned against easing too soon.
On the other front, the HSBC’s Vietnam PMI index fell back to deterioration in December, down to 49.3 from 50.5 last month, as a result of reduction in order inflows, disinvestment of inventory holdings and stagnating production volumes.
 
Government details its determination to spur the economy
To spur the economy and resolve the financial system, the Government started implementing a detailed action plan. Businesses may enjoy lower corporate income tax rate in 2013, i.e. 23% for large enterprises and 20% for SMEs (down from 25% earlier); real estate will receive more support based on a newly approved proposal by MoF, which includes a 50% VAT reduction, 2-year extension on the deadline of land use fees payment and the establishment of AMC aiming to solve rising NPLs. Moreover, USD300mn from Asian Development Bank in a 25-year loan package will help to restructure SOEs in 2013.
 
Authority changes rules to push the capital market
On the capital market, SSC submitted its proposal in support of the stock market to the Ministry, in which key measures might include tax incentives, allowing to issue stocks below par, increasing margin ratio and trading band and most importantly, increasing foreign ownership limit. Otherwise, SBV governor also announced that they are working on revising the Decree 69/2007, wherein special cases, i.e for restructuring commercial banks, the foreign ownership ratio might be allowed to exceed 30%. Since 10th January, the number of gold bar shops will decline from 8,000 to 2,400 including around 900 in Ho Chi Minh City and 400 in Hanoi, after SBV completes the licensing procedures. 
 
Our View – On the background of good macro economic indicators coming out in December and improved investor sentiments after seeing the Government’s determination to spur the economy being detailed into action plans, the stock market had a good run in the last month of 2012. We are cautiously optimistic and have started to mobilize cash into Vietnam Dong to be ready for deployment toward increasing equity level for the Fund. We are keen to buy stocks of strong companies with sound cash flow and healthy balance sheets in fundamental industries such as consumers and materials.

Filed under: Banking, Exchanges, News, Risk Management, Services, Vietnam, Wealth Management, , , , , , , , , , , ,

December 15, 2012 • 2:19 am 0

Latin America: Investor News Letter 14 December 2012

Mexcio

With a little help from my friends; Mexico´s new Government
The rise of Mexico The US needs to look again at it´s increasingly important neigbour
Mexico’s New President Offers Much to U.S. Investors
Macquarie Mexico IPO Offers REIT Where Murder Reigned
Thor Urbana Capital Launches $500M Investment in Mexico
HSBC became bank to drug cartels, pays big for lapses
Pemex Sues Siemens Claiming Bribery in Refinery Project
How to Invest in Mexico
Peru, Chile and Mexico are Societe Generale’s favourites for LatAm investments Cemex crumbles and Latin America starts to look weak
 
Brazil
Brazil stimulates construction to spur economy
Deutsche Bank Reduces Investment Bank, Research Teams in Brazil
Brazil Subsidizes Uncertain Shipyard Success
Rousseff Seeks Investment From Spain
Alstom handed Sao Paulo infrastructure contract
GE to Build Oil, Gas Facility at LLX’s Brazil Acu Port
New trains for World Cup host cities
Brazil´s Ceará to receive $66.5 million IDB loan to improve urban infrastructure and business environment

Latin America

LatAm Wealth Management Overview
The world has gotten wealthier, but not the whole world. The engine of growth for private wealth is by far the emerging markets such as LatAm and, particularly, East Asia ex-Japan, which is outpacing the rest of the world by a long shot …

South American airports need more investment: ALTA head
Can South America Become the New European Union?
IDB Approves $153 Million in Loans to Set Up IDB-China Eximbank Equity Investment Platform

Argentina

Argentina May Abandon International Court, Treaties Over Debt Ruling
Argentina raising energy tariffs to fund investment
Argentina’s YPF buys majority stake in natgas distributor

Chile

Chile approves Endesa 740 MW coal-powered project

Colombia

Colombia is Fast Becoming a Rising Oil Giant in Latin America
Southern Cross Group Invests in Sociedad Portuaria Regional de Barranquilla (Columbia)
Holcim to double capacity in Colombia by building new US$600mn cement plant
As Panama Canal expands, Latin America rushes to be ready
Embezzlement stalling Colombia’s infrastructure development: Minister
Infrastructure in Colombia

Peru

Peru Is Clear Investment Destination In Latin America: Minister
Peruvian ports in peril?
 
FiNETIK News Summarier, 14.12.2012

Filed under: Argentina, Brazil, Central America, Chile, Colombia, Energy & Environment, Latin America, Mexico, News, Peru, Risk Management, Wealth Management, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

December 14, 2012 • 8:41 am 0

Alternative Latin Investor: Hedge Fund Latin America Issue 19

We are proud to announce the launch of our 19th issue of Alternative Latin Investor, with a special focus on Hedge Funds within the region.

Special Issue: Hedge Funds Latin America

 LatAm’s Maturing Hedge Fund Industry  – The Need for More Managers in the Andean Region

Why LatAm Equity Funds are Looking Beyond Brazil

LatAm Hedge Fund Experts Weigh in on the Current Political and Economic Context

Hedge Fund Marketing Post-JOBS Act: Concepts to Begin the Advertising Conversation

Victor Hugo Rodriguez of LatAm Alternatives
LatAm’s Maturing Hedge Fund Industry
As they did in 2011, LatAm hedge funds are leading the world in returns in 2012. According to the November Eurekahedge Report, which tracks global returns through October, LatAm is up 8.17% in 2012, well head of Asia ex Japan, with 6.40%, and emerging markets in general, with 6.14% …

Latin American Art
2012 Auction Recap
Following inconsistent results during the 2-week stretch of mega-auctions of Impressionist/Modern and Art Post-War/Contemporary art at Sotheby’s, Christie’s and Phillips, anticipation for the Latin American art sales ran high. Evening sales featuring Latin American masterworks at both major auction houses preceded considerable day-sale offerings …

…and much more. Banking, Regulations, Political Risks,  Foreign Direct Investment, Renewable Energy, Agri Business, Wine Investment, Infrastructure, Art Investment

Please view and access Issue 19  in the following formats

Virtual Viewer    
http://www.alternativelatininvestor.com/issue19-preview.htm

For more details and information please view
http://www.alternativelatininvestor.com

Source: AlternativeLatinInvestor 14.12.2012

Filed under: Argentina, Brazil, Central America, Chile, Colombia, Energy & Environment, Latin America, Mexico, News, Peru, Risk Management, Wealth Management, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

November 3, 2012 • 1:11 am 0

Latin America: Investor News Letter 2 November 2012

MEXICO

Mexico 2013 inflation view steady despite price spike
Credit Suisse Raises $420 Million to Create Mexico Fund
Mexico: Big investment for citrus producers
Indigenous Groups Protest Mexico’s Biggest Wind-Energy Project
FOX BUSINESS – Mexican fishermen and indigenous groups from the southern state of Oaxaca protested Wednesday in front of the Mexico City offices of participants in a wind-energy project that would be one of the largest ever in Latin America, targeting Coca-Cola bottler and convenience-store operator Femsa (FMX), the Inter-American Development Bank and the Danish government, among others.

BRAZIL

The Brazilian Law on Money Laundering
Precautions Investors Must Take when Investing in Brazil. Brazil has recently altered its money laundering law. The new bill has tightened the government’s grip on most of the investment operations and has significantly broadened financial institutions’ and investment brokers’ duties to report suspicious activities …

ThyssenKrupp Brazil mill fined for pollution, could face closure
The long, brutal haul from farm to port in Brazil
Brazil hit by new blackout, infrastructure in spotlight
Brazil Gives Tax Exemption to Foreign Mortgage Investors
Brazil Power Generators Ask to Renew 106 of 123 Concessions

LATIN AMERICA

Private Aviation takes off in Latin America
The growth of private wealth in LatAm has led to a rise in demand for private aircraft and private aviation services. For the region’s mounting numbers of high-net-worth and ultra-high-net-worth individuals, a plane can be purely a luxury item, of course; but for increasingly global and mobile professionals and business owners, it meets a demand unsatisfied by local transportation alternatives, as well .

Colombia Regulators Seize Interbolsa Brokerage on Funding

Colombia’s financial regulators seized Interbolsa SA’s brokerage, the country’s largest, after the company said it faces a “temporary” funding shortage.

 Latin America stocks rise on China, U.S. data
20 Latin American in the World’s 200 Richest People
Argentina bonds close lower after S&P downgrade
Argentina Plans Regulatory Overhaul to Spur Investments
Increase in pension fund investments makes for headwinds in Andean market
Colombia Equity Fund targets European countries for distribution
Protests in Peru Scaring Off Mining Investment, Government Responds With Social Programs
Honduran supreme court rejects idea of building independently governed ‘model cities’
CAF and OFIC ink agreement to promote energy efficiency projects in Latin America
Modern airport terminal to be opened in Bogota
IDB approves $200m financing for Latin America hydro plant

Filed under: Argentina, Asia, Banking, Brazil, Central America, Chile, Colombia, Latin America, Mexico, News, Peru, Risk Management, Wealth Management, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

October 19, 2012 • 10:59 pm 0

Alternative Latin Investor: Wealth Management Issue 18

The Alternative Latin Investor Issue #18 is focusing on Wealth Management in Latin America.

Special Issue: Wealth Management

The World’s First Diamond Fund
Lack of Transparency in Colombia: Root Causes
LatAm Wealth Management Overview
Private Aviation Takes Off in Latin America
High-Tech Financial Technology Hits LatAm

…and much more. Regulations,  Tax & Money Laundering, Structured Finance, Political Risks,  Agri Business, Impact Investment, Wine Investment, Infrastructure, Art

Please view and access Issue 18  in the following formats

Virtual Viewer
http://www.alternativelatininvestor.com/Issue18-Preview.htm

For more details and information please view http://www.alternativelatininvestor.com

Source: AlternativeLatinInvestor 18.10.2012

Filed under: Argentina, Banking, BM&FBOVESPA, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Energy & Environment, Islamic Finance, Mexico, News, Services, Trading Technology, Wealth Management, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

September 22, 2012 • 6:12 am 0

Latin America: Investor News Letter 21.September 2012

Mexico

Analysis: China worries spur Mexico stock market flows

MEXICO CITY – Mexico has been on the wrong side of China’s economic boom for the last decade, but is now seeing an upturn in its fortunes as the Asian powerhouse’s economy slows and international stock pickers look to hedge their bets.

Can Mexico live up to its investment potential?
Deutsche Bank Downbeat On Brazil In Wake of Intervention; Mexico Retail Sales Up

Mexico, the “Forgotten” Emerging Market


Brazil

Brazil mulls raising Mexico car trade quota – sources

Brazil is considering raising a three-year bilateral auto trade pact quota it agreed to with Mexico in March, potentially allowing Mexican exporters to sell around $350 million worth of additional vehicles to the Brazilian market annually.

Brazil: PE cools in Brazil, warmes in Mexico and Andes

US urges Brazil in “clear terms’ not to hike tariffs

Brazil reacts to US stimuli saying it will keep the Real ‘devalued’ and competitive

Brazil ethanol returns to US as biofuel rules pave way

Goldman Sachs Plans Private-Equity Comeback in Brazil


Latin America

Colombia rapidly becoming another “positive surprise” from Latinamerica

Uruguay’s economy suffers slight deceleration in 2Q but on track to the 4% target

IMF calls on Argentina to implement measures on the quality of official data

Moody’s changes Argentina rating outlook to negative from stable

Deal Analysis: Panama City Metro Line 1

Gazprom in talks with Argentina’s YPF on LNG supplies

Private equity in LatAm: less new money, more deals

Shadow banking to dominate in LatAm projects

Cuba struggles with foreign investment, growth

China Steps Up Push Into Latin America

Korean Art fair highlights Latin American art

Filed under: Argentina, Banking, Brazil, Central America, Chile, China, Colombia, Energy & Environment, Events, Latin America, Mexico, Peru, Risk Management, Wealth Management, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

September 20, 2012 • 6:37 am 0

VAM: Vietnam Market Analysis- August 2012

Markets declined in August
In August, the market’s ascent topped above the 437 level, but on the 21st of the month the market began a six trading day descent to a low of 385.78. After making a slight correction in the final days of the month, the VN-index closed at 396.02, losing 4.5% over the month. The Hanoi exchange faired significantly worse, closing the month at 61.43, to lose 11.2%, while the VN30 gave up 5.4% to close at 465.29.
 
Markets reacted to news and rumors, presenting some good buying opportunities
Upsetting market activity this month was the arrest of a key figure in the banking system and Vietnam football, for alleged illegal business activities in his 3 private companies. Days later, the arrest of ACB’s CEO for “economic violations” caused the SBV to add VND 23.31 trillion in liquidity to the banking sector to support the market and help ACB as its customers rushed to withdraw funds. Rumors of Masan Group’s Chairman’s arrest, while unfounded, added to the turmoil the market was undergoing as investors wondered who’s next and what are the repercussions. Also adding to market jitters was talk of a 3rd petroleum price hike of the month, for a total increase of 15% in 40 days. As sellers outnumbered buyers, the market lost USD 3.85 billion in 3 days, providing a buying opportunity which foreign investors rushed to take advantage of. 
 
Credit growth to remain at 6-8% for 2012, notwithstanding ceiling increased for some
23 of the nation’s 62 credit institutions applied to have credit growth ceilings increased, of which 10 were approved. The increased target encourages banks to spur lending to struggling enterprises dealing with high inventories and low demand. Considering growth in the first 8 months is a meagre 2%, the entire banking sector credit growth is expected to remain at 6-8% for 2012, according to the Central bank.
 
Deflation fears allayed as Inflation rises
Having recorded two consecutive month of negative inflation, deflation was concerning to some. In August however, CPI rose 0.63%, contributed by petroleum price hikes, along with increases in healthcare and pharmaceutical items, which registered the largest increase of 5.44% MoM. Despite August’s increase, inflation continues to slow from its peak of 23% in 2011 to 5.04% YoY.
 
Trade balance reflects increased demand
Reflecting increasing demand, internal and external, the positive trade balance once again turned negative for the first time in 3 months. August’s trade deficit of USD150million, combined with an average monthly export revenue increase of 17.8% YoY for the January to August period, suggests that easing of monetary policy may be reversing domestic contraction. At the same time though, an ICAEW report forecasts GDP growth for 2012 to be only 5.1%.
 
FDI disbursement level paces 2011′s levels
Vietnam attracted 66.1% of total 2011 FDI, for a total of USD 8.47 billion in the first 8 months of the year.  While overall attraction had declined, FDI disbursed reached USD 7.28 billion, totaling 99.7% of 2011′s disbursed FDI. Strong FDI disbursements have bolstered the FX reserves to nearly USD 20 billion and contributed to S&P’s upgraded economic outlook and Fitch Ratings’ affirmed B+ status of the dong.
 
Our View – While the circulated rumors, both founded and unfounded, created some turmoil in the market, investor reaction was more sentiment driven rather than fundamentals driven, and as such, a buying opportunity was presented. The chain of events in August suggests that uncertainty still remains; however, we can get comfort that given some of the encouraging economic signs lately, it is probably that the eased monetary policies have begun to stimulate domestic demand. We continue to shy away from property and related sectors but are selectively adding stocks in basic industries such as Materials, Utilities and Consumers.

Source: VAM Vietnam Asset Management, 20.09.2012

Filed under: News, Risk Management, Services, Vietnam, Wealth Management, , , , , ,

February 26, 2012 • 12:29 pm 0

Alternative Latin Investor: Investing in Mexcio Issue 14

The Alternative Latin Investor Issue #14 is focusing on Investing in Mexico.  Below some of the other content of issue #14. LAWEA pronounces 2012 ‘The Year of Wind,’ we explain how investors can publicly trade private equity in Mexico, as well as an in-depth update of foreign land regulation in Brazil and Argentina.

Special Issue: Investing in Mexico

    • Finding the Value in Mexican Real Estate
    • Understanding the Mexican Mortgage
    • The  Mexican Investment Environment
    • Investment Opportunities in Business Hotels and Affordable Tourism
    • Mexico City: Car Addiction
    • Improving Mexico’s Housing Finance Infrastructure
    • Private Equity in Mexico: Capitalizing on the Growing Middle Class
    • CKDs: The Marriage of Wealth and Growth
    • Mexico’s Outlook for 2012 and Beyond
    • What We Talk About When We Talk About  Infrastructure

Renewabale Energy:  2012: LatAm’s Year of Wind Energy
Agriculture Business:Red Roses, Blue Skies: A glimpse at the LatAm flower industry
HF:  What Hedge Funds Association (HFA) members have to say about LatAm
Emerging Markets: How Will European Banks’ problems affect  Latin America
Profiles:Investing in Argentina: A legal  Perspective
Forex:Trading LatAm currencies in 2012
Real Estate

  • 40  years of residential and commercial  Development in Colombia
  • Unconstitutional regulation in Brazil
  • Argentina’s Rural Land Law

Private Equity CKD: Public Private Equity
Latin American Art
Philanthropy
Regulation: Rural Land Laws – Brazil and Argentina

Please view and access Issue 14 in the following formats

Virtual Viewer   www.alternativelatininvestor.com/issue14-sample.htm

PDF   www.alternativelatininvestor.com/issue14-sample.pdf

For more details and information please view http://www.alternativelatininvestor.com

Source: AlternativeLatinInvestor 24.02.2012

Filed under: Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Energy & Environment, Latin America, Mexico, Peru, Wealth Management, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

January 6, 2012 • 2:51 am 0

Alternative Latin Investor: Latam Family Office January 2012 Issue Nr 13

The Alternative Latin Investor Issue #13 is focusing on family offices.  With some great content this issue, from maverick economist Doug Casey, estimates on the effect of climate change in the region, and of course with premium focus looking at the needs, attitudes and opinions of family offices in LatAm. Below some of the other content of issue #13.

 Renewable Energy 

  • Electric Energy Storage in Latin America: Smart Grid Technologies.

Funds 

  • Top Ten LatAm Hedge Funds
  • Mutual Funds in Argentina
  • Latin America fund assets to exceed $3 trillion by 2020

Emerging Markets

  • 2012 Should Be Better: A wasted year for LatAm Stock Markets
  • Investors Beware of Brazilian FIDCs (ABS) Backed by Consumer Credit

Agribusiness

  • Gauging the Effects of Climate Change on Brazilian Agri Output
  • 2011 Agribusiness Round Up

Forex

  • SPOT-trade’s Facundo Molina on Forex and CDFs
  • Mitigating Currency Risk when investing in LatAm

Private Equity 

  • A Primer on Colombian Taxes for the PE Investor

Art

  • Meso-American Remix
  • LatAm auction recap: Sotheby’s and Christie’s

Issue Focus: LatAm Family Business

 Please view and access Issue 13 in the following formats

Virtual Viewer

http://www.alternativelatininvestor.com/issue13.html

PDF

http://www.alternativelatininvestor.com/issue13.pdf
 

For more details and information please view
http://www.alternativelatininvestor.com

Source: AlternativeLatinInvestor 23.12.2012

Filed under: Argentina, Brazil, Central America, Chile, Colombia, Energy & Environment, Events, Latin America, Mexico, News, Peru, Services, Wealth Management, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

November 10, 2011 • 1:29 pm 0

Latin America Fund and Investment News Aug-Oct 2011 – Alternative Latin Investor

American Business Practices in Brazil: A Contrarian’s View

Premium Article OCT, 2011 U.S. companies have been investing heavily in Brazilian private equity in recent years, capitalizing on the across-the-board growth in the country’s small, mid and large cap companies. But according to Malcolm McLelland, an American-born, Brazil-based consultant and…Read Full Article

Latin American Hedge Funds

Premium Article OCT, 2011 Hedge funds have become one of the most vital asset classes in LatAm in recent years, and LatAm hedge funds some of the most successful in the global industry, as local investors aim to diversify their strategies and exposure in the region while foreign investors vie for b…Read Full Article

Brazil

Premium Article OCT, 2011 Given its robust growth in recent years and massive wealth compared to its neighbors, Brazil has attracted the lion’s share of global investment in LatAm, with foreign investors allocating especially aggressively to equity and government bonds. Brazilian investors, …Read Full Article

MILA Integrated Latin American Market

OCT, 2011 On May 30 of this year, the Integrated Latin American Market (Mercado Integrado Latinoamericano, or MILA) was launched, combining the stock markets of Colombia, Chile and Peru into a single cross-trading platform. A key component of a regional trend toward integration, MILA has been wide…Read Full Article

Brazilian Pension Funds

Premium Article OCT, 2011 Alternative asset managers around the globe are vying for the attention of Brazil’s swelling pension funds. As of early 2011, these funds had a total of $342 billion under management and had grown an average of 14% per year for the last five years, one of the highest…Read Full Article

Meta-Trends in LatAm Investment

Premium Article OCT, 2011 The progress of alternative asset investment in LatAm is following two basic meta-trends, that is, large-scale and long-term patterns that transcend specific products, firms or opportunities. These meta-trends are, first, the increasing interpenetration of managers from th…Read Full Article

High Net Worth Individuals in LatAm

Premium Article AUGUST, 2011 The wealth and quantity of high net worth individuals (HNWI) in LatAm has grown in recent years. According to the Capgemini/Merrill Lynch World Wealth Report 2011, the number of LatAm HNWI grew by 6.2% in 2010, and its total HNWI wealth by 9.2%. There are about a half…Read Full Article

Quant Funds

Premium Article AUGUST, 2011 After taking a battering during the 2008 credit crunch and struggling in the early stages of recovery, quantitative (or ‘quant’) funds are trying to reassert themselves in the industry. And a small, but growing, number are looking to start afresh in the …Read Full Article

LatAm Funds

Premium Article AUGUST, 2011 U.S. Institutional investors looking to increase their exposure to emerging markets have been turning increasingly to a handful of LATAM countries, where they see a swelling pool of experienced fund managers working within a context of political stability and economic g…Read Full Article

Institutional Investing in LatAm

Premium Article AUGUST, 2011 For most institutional investors, there is an uncertainty about LatAm´s quality and future – and a certainty about its checkered past – that gives them pause as they investigate young managers in the region. Most of these investors want to see a stron…Read Full Article

Source:Alternative Latin Investor, October 2011

 

Filed under: Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Exchanges, Latin America, Library, Mexico, News, Peru, Risk Management, Services, Wealth Management, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

September 2, 2011 • 1:59 am 0

Alternative Latin Investor: Premium Launch Issue Nr 11.

Alternative Latin Investor August 2011 – Issue 11 Premium Launch Issue

 News

Political Moves: brought to you by Latinnews.com

Emerging Markets

Growing M&A Activity between Asia and Latin America?

Latin American Venture Capital: Lessons Learned from China

Be careful What You Wish For- A Brazilian Cautionary Tale

Philanthropy

Cuipo: Saving the Rainforest One Meter at a Time

Nuts: Crops that Grow Well in LatAm

Entering The Brazilian Agribusiness Sector (Premium)

Infrastructure

Mezzanine Financing for LatAm’s Infrastructure

Energy

Investing in Brazilian Oil (Premium)

Art

Fine Art Funds: Taking the Soul Out of Art Investing?

Hedge Funds

MILA Integration

LatAm Fund Due Diligence: What Managers Need to Know (Premium)

Institutional Investing in LatAm: A Contrarian’s View (Premium)

Attracting US Institutional Investors to LatAm Funds (Premium)

Quant Funds in LatAm (Premium)

How HNWI in LatAm View Alternative Assets (Premium)

Forex

Spotting Opportunities in LatAm Forex Trading

Regulation

Tax Incentives: Software Development in Argentina

Ventures

Mercatrade: Inter-emerging Market Trade

QuickStart Global: Have an Office Anywhere

Real Estate

Airlift Encourages Latin America to reach for the skies

Read the content  at www.alternativelatininvestor.com/issue11.html 

To subscribe please click on the corner tabs within the above magazines or click directly to www.alternativelatininvestor.com/signup.php If your firm is interested in multiple licenses we can provide corporate discounts.

Please feel free email me directly with comments or questions regarding our current content or with suggestions for future stories. I can be reached at editor@alternativelatininvestor.com or 202-905-0378.

 
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Filed under: Argentina, Banking, Brazil, Chile, China, Colombia, Mexico, News, Peru, Risk Management, Wealth Management, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

May 6, 2011 • 9:52 pm 0

ETF Landscape: Industry Review – Q1 2011 – BlackRock

At the end of Q1 2011, the global ETF industry had 2,605 ETFs with 5,905 listings and assets of US$1,399.4 Bn  from 142 providers on 48 exchanges around the world. This compared to 2,131 ETFs with 4,133 listings and assets of  US$1,081.9 Bn from 123 providers on 42 exchanges at the end of Q1 2010.  ETF Industry Review_Q1-2011

Additionally, there were 1,119 other ETPs with 1,835 listings and assets of US$183.7 Bn from 58 providers on 23 exchanges. This compared to 718 ETPs with 1,025 listings and assets of US$153.6 Bn from 42 providers on 18 exchanges at the end of Q1 2010.

Combined, there were 3,724 products with 7,740 listings, assets of US$1,583.2 Bn from 178 providers on 52 exchanges around the world at the end of Q1 2011. This compared to 2,849 products with 5,158 listings, assets of US$1,235.4 Bn from 147 providers on 44 exchanges at the end of Q1 2010.

Below is a list of some upcoming events where we will be presenting:

Asia Trader and Investor Convention 2011, Singapore 07-08 May 2011
Complimentary passes are available
www.theatic.net

2nd Annual Inside ETFs – Europe Conference, Amsterdam, 05–06 May 2011
Complimentary passes are available for institutional investors.
www.indexuniverse.eu

Turkey Investment Summit, Istanbul, 09–11 May 2011
www.terrapinn.com

iShares Investment Konferenz, Frankfurt, 11 May 2011
www.ishares-events.com

22nd Annual Conference on Globalisation of Investment Funds, Boston,
15–18 May 2011
www.int-bar.org

ETF & Indexing Investments, New York, 16–18 May 2011
www.terrapinn.com

Factset Investment Process Symposium, Monaco, 23–25 May 2011
www.cvent.com

ASX ETF Institutional Conference, Sydney, 02 June 2011
www.asx.com.au

The 10th Annual Canada Cup of Investment Management, Toronto,
07–08 June 2011
Complimentary passes are being offered by IMN to attend this event to investment professionals at Pensions, Foundations, Endowments, Hedge Funds, Insurance Companies as well as for Registered Investment Advisors. Please contact Jackie Rubbo at jrubbo@imn.org.
www.imn.org

ETF & Indexing Investments, Madrid, 15–16 June 2011
www.terrapinn.com

The Mondo Visione Exchange Forum, London, 15–16 June 2011
www.mvexchangeforum.com

Africa Investment Summit, Johannesburg, South Africa 20–23 June 2011
www.terrapinn.com

European Cup of ETFs and Investment Management, London,
19–20 September 2011
Complimentary passes are being offered by IMN to attend this event to investment professionals at Pensions, Foundations, Endowments, Hedge Funds, Insurance Companies as well as for Registered Investment Advisors. Please contact Jackie Rubbo at jrubbo@imn.org.
www.imn.org

ETF & Indexing Investments, London, 17–19 October 2011
www.terrapinn.com

Please join ETF Network on Linkedin at www.linkedin.com.

Source: BlackRock, 06.05.2011

Filed under: Banking, News, Services, Wealth Management, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

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