Forget bubble fears

Questor share tips: forget bubble fears, Templeton Emerging Markets remains a buy

Questors does not believe emerging markets have quite become a bubble yet and recommends buying Templeton Emerging Markets.

Published: 5:30AM GMT 26 Jan 2010

Are emerging markets in a bubble or not? This is the debate that has been raging for a couple of months now. Although there is the chance that a bubble may emerge, Questor feels we are not there yet – and Citigroup agrees.

“Asset price gains in emerging markets have been particularly strong recently, although we’re not convinced that it’s right to talk about bubbles just yet,” according to economist David Lubin. “There is little to suggest that the price appreciation we’ve seen in emerging equity markets exhibits the kind of characteristics seen in previous equity market bubbles,” he added

However, this does not mean it is all plain sailing. By their nature, emerging markets are volatile and risky. There is a valuation risk once stimulus packages are withdrawn later this year.

Valuations are also likely to be supported by a wave of money as investors continue to releverage into risk positions. Some commentators have suggested selling part of their holdings and running with the rest of the investment. This is a perfect strategy for cautious investors.

However, for now Questor is comfortable maintaining a buy stance on Templeton Emerging Markets Investment Trust, which was recommended on January 5 last year and is up 78pc compared with a market up 16pc.

As of January 22 the funds net asset value stood at 542.97p.


http://www.telegraph.co.uk/finance/newsbysector/epic/tem/7073100/Questor-share-tips--forget-bubble-fears-Templeton-Emerging-Markets-remains-a-buy.html