Performance of the Asia Pacific region has been disappointing with no country posting a gain over the month. The worst performers were China (concerns about slowing growth), and Taiwan (softer end demand in the tech sector, and poor investment choices at a number of financial institutions).
The short term outlook remains uncertain, with much of the recent market commentary surrounding the implications of a slowing China. Whilst risks in the short term are definitely valid, Chinese growth should remain robust and the government is expected to support growth if necessary.On a more positive note, the long term outlook for the region remains compelling driven by several structural themes and valuations, in aggregate, are at attractive levels. We have made several additions to stocks already held and continue to find attractive new ideas where growth prospects appear undervalued.