The majority of Asian governments are tightening monetary policy. In addition China is trying to prevent inflationary pressures by raising the interest rate. Apparently, there will be a lot more monetary tightening in the Asian countries. This seems to be the situation since Asian currencies are appreciating very swiftly, apparently resulting from interest rate increases. Asian economies are heavily based on exports. Therefore, currency price increases means loss of global competitiveness, markets and profits.
Feb
13
Financers to Turn Around Underachieving Companies in Japan
A new fund is to be launched in Japan that will invest approximately $1.2bn in publicly listed companies which are underachieving. The fund will then work with management to improve corporate performance.
A UK group, Governance for Owners and one of Japan’s largest Asset managers, Tokio Marine Asset Management, are cooperating to launch the new ”Japan Engagement Fund”.
This Japanese Engagement fund plans to invest in 10-30 mid-size and small companies in Japan. The fund will invest in companies that it can turn around through better management and financing practices, according to a partner of Governance for Owners, Simon Wong.
According to Ed Young, a South African investment adviser, there is great opportunity in buying up underachieving companies and turning them into business powerhouses.