There are many prospects in the U.S. consumer industries and high technology; within these categories, multinational firms have appeal because they can withstand economic blows and they provide exposure to emerging markets
Most fund portfolio managers expect Europe will sink into a recession, but those same managers agree that companies in the region that are in defensive sectors and have strong balance sheets or global exposure still offer good opportunities
Although results were disappointing for many developing nations in 2011, they could well post strong performances this year
Despite the effects of slower growth in China, most countries in the region have low sovereign debt, prudent fiscal policy and strong domestic demand to propel their economies further in 2012
Post-tsunami reconstruction will create some investment opportunities while the expensive yen hampers economic expansion
Although the country’s economic expansion will not match the double-digit growth of the past decade, portfolio managers expect China to forge ahead at a healthy pace while maintaining employment and social stability
Fixed-income portfolios don’t have to be restricted to government debt. Infrastructure issues, investment-grade corporates and municipal bonds can be effective diversifiers
Increased risk of default and historically low interest rates mean you need to keep a closer eye on your clients’ bond holdings. You also will need to find good bond fund portfolio managers or develop your skill in picking the right issues
The expected continued high value of the loonie and the yen vs the greenback pose challenges, while weakness in the euro will be welcome
Policy-makers are set to continue refining the new capital requirements that will affect all global banks with the introduction of the Basel III capital regime, which will start taking effect next year