May 3, 2023 | Emerging Markets Debt
Why Emerging Markets Debt Now

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https://youtu.be/lhKXIJzvzes?si=HBZQGdSNzlUPeh86
Transcript
Some investors associate emerging markets debt with something very risky, very exotic.
The asset class has evolved tremendously over the years. Today, it represents more than 25% of the global fixed-income universe, spanning over 90 countries with more than 900 issuers and a combined market capitalization of over $4.5 trillion U.S. dollars.
Yet, the asset class that is still underappreciated, still under-represented in global fixed-income indices, in global fixed-income portfolios. And because of that, it’s an asset class that tends display higher risk premium, higher yields.
We strongly believe that emerging markets debt offers a very attractive investment opportunity and significant diversification benefits.
We believe that the structural risk premium in emerging markets debt overcompensates investors for credit risk and volatility.
Historically, credit default rates in emerging markets debt have been very low and recovery values very high. Therefore, we believe there is a strong disconnect between risks and perception of risks when it comes to investing in emerging markets countries.
Valuations are attractive. Credit spreads are still above averages, especially within the higher yielding part of the market, especially in frontier markets debt, that currently look very favorably versus credit spreads in other parts of the credit market.
We have a very constructive outlook for emerging markets debt. The fundamental landscape has improved as the global economy recovers. We are living in a very ample liquidity condition environment, and multilateral support has been very strong for emerging markets countries.
Going forward, we believe that a positive combination of improving fundamentals, ample and affordable financing conditions, and attractive valuations will continue underpinning the performance of emerging markets debt.
Filmed June 2021
The views and opinions expressed herein are those of the speaker(s) as of the date of publication, are subject to change without notice as economic and market conditions dictate, and may not reflect the views and opinions of other investment teams within William Blair. Factual information has been obtained from sources we believe to be reliable, but its accuracy, completeness, or interpretation cannot be guaranteed. This material may include estimates, outlooks, projections, and other forward-looking statements. Due to a variety of factors, actual events may differ significantly from those presented. This video has been provided for informational purposes only and should not be considered as investment advice or a recommendation of any particular strategy or investment product, or as an offer to buy or sell any securities or related financial instruments in any jurisdiction. Investment advice and recommendations can be provided only after careful consideration of an investor’s objectives, guidelines, and restrictions. Investing involves risks, including the possible loss of principal. Investing in foreign denominated and/or domiciled securities may involve heightened risk due to currency fluctuations, and economic and political risks. These risks may be enhanced in emerging markets. Investing in the bond market is subject to certain risks including market, interest rate, issuer, credit, and inflation risk. High-yield, lower-rated, securities involve greater risk than higher-rated securities; portfolios that invest in them may be subject to greater levels of credit and liquidity risk than portfolios that do not. Diversification does not ensure against loss. Any investment or strategy mentioned herein may not be appropriate for every investor. Past performance is not indicative of future results.
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