Asset managers in Asia say they will focus their marketing on multi-asset and bond products to meet a widespread demand for funds that generate reliable income.
According to research firm Cerulli Associates, which surveyed managers in the region, equity funds have not attracted the inflows that were expected, with the exception of India. The lacklustre equity flows in the first half of 2018 came despite regional asset managers placing a high priority on promoting these products, said the firm.
“Managers selected regular and steady income payments as the top product feature appealing to investors, similar to last year,” said Cerulli Associates.
“Multi-asset funds could be in the limelight this year as global markets take cues from various events, including US interest rate hikes and rising trade concerns,” added the company’s statement. “Managers have indicated a strong inclination to promote multi-asset and fixed-income funds, and in particular, Asian high-yield funds.”
Bond funds were the top net driver of inflows in Singapore, Hong Kong and Taiwan last year, according to the research firm.
©2018 funds global asia 
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