Value of India-focused funds in question


Despite the subcontinent's emerging market reputation, India-focused funds are facing challenges in gaining interest from global investors, a sector report from institutional data provider eVestment has found.
Based on a study of eight funds of hedge funds that allocate solely to India-focused funds, the report found that India-focused funds had lost -2.98 per cent in the first four months of 2013, underperforming against the hedge fund aggregate.
Estimated assets under management in India-focused funds dropped 7.3 per cent through the first three months of 2013 to an estimated US$6.7 billion, although early indications for April show a slight rebound in asset levels with new allocations growing.
The report said the top priority for investors remained the capacity to generate quantifiable out-performance, but India's current macro-environment and sluggish economy as of late might be keeping investors from committing to illiquid emerging markets (EM).
This resulted in cumulative net investor outflows from EM funds of US$440 million year-to-date, according to the study.
"The value of India funds for hedge fund investors appears to remain in question," eVestment said.
Recommended for you
AUSIEX has announced it will acquire FIIG, a specialist fixed income provider with $4.5 billion in funds under advice.
Platinum Asset Management has announced it is in discussions with a global alternatives fund manager regarding a possible merger to create an $18 billion firm.
JP Morgan Asset Management has appointed an ETF specialist from Vanguard as it seeks to expand its ETF range.
The alternative asset manager has expanded its Singapore office with a head of Asian distribution, representing a “critical step” for the Asian business, where it is seeking to launch new offerings.