Investment Outlook 2018 Personal Financial Services
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5 Editorial 06 Our Macro Outlook 08 Our Roadmap Macro Outlook Risk and 2018 Key Events 16 Key Risks and Calendar Key Events Around the World Investment Flow Trends 22 and Asset Classes Themes and Ideas Asset Class Focus Fixed Income Equities Foreign Exchange Country Focus 36 Singapore Malaysia Thailand Indonesia China Editorial Team Regional Chung Shaw Bee Calvin Nico Herlambang Contributors Singapore and CFA Regional Head, Singapore and Leong Wei Ji Deposits and Regional Head, Malaysia Wealth Management Investment Strategy and Communications Kitiwat Nanthawatsiri Joyce Lim Thailand CFA, CAIA, CFP Grace Qu Regional Head, CFA Erricky Soh Funds and Advisory Investment Strategist Indonesia Abel Lim Nicole Tsai Lily Huang Singapore Head, Investment China Wealth Management Research Associate Advisory
Editorial Editorial 06 We entered 2017 hoping for strength Earth, an important medium of growth, in the investment world after exiting is associated with the macro backdrop a very bumpy and challenging 2016 for investments. Despite diverging fraught with fears that China’s economy monetary policies across central banks, could be headed for a hard landing, we see growth in developed markets and uncertainties surrounding Brexit to continue albeit moderating, while and the US presidential election. growth in emerging markets likely to accelerate in 2018 led by continued Hence the theme 山重水复疑无路, structural reforms and a recovery 柳暗花明又一村。(After endless in exports. mountains and rivers that leave doubt whether there is a path out, suddenly Metal, like earth’s minerals, is akin one encounters the shade of a willow, to the fundamentals that support the bright flowers and a lovely village.) macro backdrop. We expect inflation to remain benign, and consumer and Our strategy in 2017 was to focus business sentiments to improve, thus on equities, and here we identified providing the catalysts for higher capital opportunities in Asia ex-Japan, Europe, expenditures that would fuel economic the healthcare sector and global quality growth further. stocks. For fixed income, the focus was on short-duration high-yield bonds. Fire, which can be associated with danger, is like investment risk. However, Not only 2017 did not disappoint, proper handling allows us to mitigate the year surprised investors on multiple this risk. An understanding of key events fronts: S&P500 +20.4%*, Euro Stoxx that may impact one’s investments 600 +10.4%*, MSCI Asia ex-Japan allows investors to position their +38.3%*, Barclays global-aggregate portfolio well without taking excessive bonds +7.0%* and Global High Yield risks. There could be continued bonds +9.9%*. Investors who have headwinds from central banks’ policies, invested and remained invested would as well as geopolitical events in 2018. have reaped the benefits of the buoyant global markets. Different types of wood grow differently under the same conditions. Some may Entering 2018 flourish while some may not. Hence, we As we deliberated the investment associate wood with opportunities from themes for 2018 after an exuberant different asset classes. It is important 2017, we took inspiration from to know the potential returns of each nature and the parallels between asset class in the given environment. the interactions of the five natural Equities remain our preferred asset elements—Earth, Metal, Fire, Wood, class even though returns are expected Water—and our investment strategies. to moderate compared to 2017. *As of end November 2017
Investment Outlook 2018 07 Finally, water. Water takes the shape At UOB we remain right by you, taking of the vessel that holds it and naturally a risk-first approach when tailoring flows from higher level to lower level. investment advice and solutions for you. Similarly, investor sentiments and fund Thank you for your business and trust flows that are more fluid in nature will in us all these years. We hope you enjoy flow out from investments with higher our tongue-in-cheek analogy of our 2018 valuations to those at more attractive outlook as much as we enjoyed putting levels. Investors can consider rotating it together for you. out of US equities, where valuations are higher, into Europe, Japan or Chung Shaw Bee emerging markets. Personal Financial Services Singapore and Regional Head, We believe 2018 is the year to be more Deposits and Wealth Management selective in our investment strategy.
08 Earth and Metal A tower of nine storeys begins with a heap of earth. —Lao Tze
09 Our Macro Outlook Identifying the fundamental drivers and understanding the macro environment are essential. This knowledge helps us ground our investment views and forms the basis of our strategies.
Our Macro Outlook 10 Our Resilient so far The economy took recent hikes in its stride. At the Roadmap same time, diminishing output gaps and heightened asset valuations are causing The macro environment concern among central banks. will shift in 2018. Conditions could be more challenging Monetary Policy Central banks are moving than before and the winners away from QE, with the are unlikely to be the same. Fed leading the way. Further reduction in output gap Economy Rising sentiments Synchronised growth Robust growth is prompting expected to continue a rise in both consumer and broaden. Political and business sentiments, headwinds dissipated particularly in DM. in DM while EM reforms are coming to fruition. Markets A strong rally in markets have created richer valuations across bond and equity markets. Risk assets surge Investors, confident in the durability of the cycle, reach for higher returns. Valuation concerns become prevalent.
Investment Outlook 2018 11 Continued tightening Central banks are likely to continue tightening, especially when inflation comes through. Inflationary pressure Demand support for commodities prices Continued growth Improving sentiments are precursors for higher Rotation spending and investments, A reflationary which are important environment is likely for sustaining growth. to benefit equities over bonds while rich valuations are likely to drive a rotation between countries and sectors. Refocus on laggards Cheaper laggards, some of which actually have good fundamentals, finally appear on investors’ radars.
Macro Outlook Our Macro Outlook 12 for 2018 Growth: another good year Key takeaways Synchronicity and low dispersion consumption, higher corporate Global growth is likely to remain of growth were the hallmarks of CapEx and stimulating fiscal policies. resilient in 2018. In DM, growth 2017. Not only did overall economic is expected to remain positive expansion accelerate, both developed Job markets remain relatively tight, though momentum may moderate. markets (DM) and emerging markets as unemployment rates in the US, In EM, growth could accelerate (EM) registered higher growth for Europe and Japan fell to post-crisis as structural reforms in key the first time since 2010. Improved lows. With consumer confidence and economies bear fruit. consumer and corporate confidence household incomes increasing at a in DM helped spur domestic healthy pace, domestic consumption Monetary policy is likely to consumption and private investments. is expected to stay robust and form tighten especially if inflation Meanwhile, a resurgence in global the support for continued DM growth. picks up. However, central trade and stability in China provided Corporate CapEx has been subdued banks are expected to act a constructive backdrop for EM until recently. Higher profit margins gradually and therefore sudden equities and bonds to outperform and improved business prospects spikes in yields are unlikely. the broader market. resulted in bigger CapEx investment to increase production capacity and Market valuations have become Heading into 2018, our outlook for drive productivity. Fiscal policies rich. While economic fundamentals global growth remains optimistic such as the US tax reform can further have been improving, fledging and the global economy is expected support growth in the US economy. signs of exuberance in certain to remain resilient. (Figure 01) In Europe, improving current accounts regions and sectors are starting are providing governments with room to appear. DM growth remain positive for higher fiscal spending. Finally, in but could moderate Japan, Prime Minister Abe’s victory Our strategy for 2018 centres In DM, growth is expected to hold in snap elections is breathing life around the idea of rotation. up, underpinned by robust domestic back into Abenomics and anchors We favour investments that benefit from a reflationary environment Figure 01—Outlook for global growth Emerging Economies and those that have lagged against remains positive for 2018. EM are likely World Economy the broader market but possess to lead growth. Developed Economies strong fundamentals. 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017F 2018F Source: IMF World Economic Outlook October 2017, Bloomberg, 22 October 2017
Investment Outlook 2018 13 expectations that easy monetary to steer away from an accommodative and fiscal conditions are likely to stay. stance. Leading the pack is the Federal While the growth outlook of DMs Reserve (Fed), which began its Balance remains positive in 2018, the momentum Sheet Reduction (BSR) operations in may not be as strong compared to 2017. October 2017 and is projected to hike Cyclical economic indicators, such as interest rates in December 2017 for the the Purchasing Managers Index (PMI) third time since the crisis. The European are registering elevated levels and are Central Bank (ECB), although lagging setting a ceiling for upside surprises. the Fed in terms of policy normalisation, has announced its schedule for tapering Structural reforms its quantitative easing (QE) program in bearing fruit in EM 2018. Though the Bank of Japan (BOJ) On the other hand, EM growth remains committed to accommodation, rates are forecast to outpace growth its ownership of more than 40% of the in DM and further accelerate in 2018. local bond market could limit the scope The improvements are likely to be for continued purchases. (Figure 02) driven primarily by structural reforms in key economies such as China, Subdued inflation, India and Brazil. but trending higher Inflation, or the lack thereof, China is expected to continue the has restrained central banks from gradual and controlled process of pursuing an aggressive tightening rebalancing its economy. With President policy. Although unemployment Xi increasing his influence during the has been trending lower, inflation recent 19th Party Congress, the policy continues to remain subdued. This direction for China is likely to remain is particularly so for the US, where unchanged while the pace of reform unemployment is low, at 4.1%, while is likely to strengthen. India’s economic inflation remains benign at 2%. growth is projected to improve significantly from 6.7% in 2017 to Though mild, inflation has been 7.4% in 2018, according to projections picking up and broadening across by the International Monetary Fund regions. In DMs, inflation is expected (IMF). In 2017, the Indian economy to rise from 1.5% in 2017 to 1.9% was affected by demonetisation and in 2018. Meanwhile, inflation in EMs uncertainty related to the introduction is projected to remain roughly stable of the Goods and Services Tax (GST). at 4.2% in 2017 and 4.4% in 2018. However, GST is helping to unify Stronger economic activities and India’s vast domestic market and commodity prices can eventually set the grounds for stronger growth drive higher inflationary pressure. in 2018. Brazil is also expected to see higher growth in 2018 due to the Markets underpricing implementation of key reforms to drive rate outlook fiscal sustainability and a gradual Markets are currently pricing in low restoration of confidence among expectations for rate hikes, in particular consumers and business spending. the path of rate hikes from the Fed. Although the Fed undershot its own Central banks: projections in the past, the economy readier than ever has been on firmer footing and recent A synchronised pickup in the global communications seem to suggest a economy prompted key central banks lower dependency towards rate hike
Our Macro Outlook 14 Figure 02—A slow move towards the exit from QE ECB Fed Milestones BOJ 2008 2015 Start of 2011 QE 2010 2016 Expansion 2013 of QE 2013 2017 Taper ? talks 2014 2018 Tapering ? 2015 ? 1st rate ? hike 2016 2nd rate ? ? hike 2017 ? 3rd rate ? hike & BSR Source: UOB Investment Strategy, 22 October 2017
Investment Outlook 2018 15 decisions on inflation data. Should providing the perfect environment for inflation show sustained growth, the both equities and fixed income markets Fed would have a stronger mandate to perform. Strong investor sentiments to continue its tightening. Subsequent further drove markets higher, causing re-pricing of expectations by markets valuations to soar. is likely to cause yields to drift. Expensive equities, Higher interest rates over time expensive bonds While we have explained the reason As of end November 2017, the for higher interest rates in 2018, the total return for US equity markets pace of this increase, and by extension was 20.5%, outperforming other a growth in yields, is likely to remain DMs such as Europe and the UK. gradual. Barring an inflation overshoot, As a result, valuations in US equities the Fed is expected to remain cautious, appeared to be stretched. In the hiking rates slowly and conducting fixed income markets, spreads Balance Sheet Reduction (BSR) continued to tighten on expectations according to the announced schedule. of positive growth and dovish central The same should hold for European bank policies. Central Bank (ECB) when it tapers its QE program over the course of 2018. While economic fundamentals have Based on projections from Bloomberg, improved over the course of 2017 net purchases from key central banks and earnings have been strong, there should remain positive in 2018, thereby are some fledging signs of exuberance. reducing odds of market shocks and According to surveys, a record-high sharp spikes in yields. percentage of investors see equities as overvalued yet cash levels are simultaneously falling. Meanwhile, Markets: high high yield spreads globally are hovering valuations to at post-crisis lows, around the same continue climbing levels as late-2005. Although 2017 started on a tepid note, initial headwinds, mainly political, soon faded. Growth accelerated while key central banks remained relatively dovish, 2018 strategy: Rotation Entering 2018, our key strategy is built around the idea of rotation. With reflation in the global economy picking up, equities are likely to be favored over fixed income. Heightened valuations in the US markets could drive a switch into ex-US markets which are earlier in the economic cycle and have improving fundamentals. A lot of the focus this year has been on the technology sector. Going forward, we expect other cyclical sectors, such as financials, which could benefit from a reflationary environment to receive more attention.
16 Fire The flame that burns twice as bright burns half as long. —Lao Tze
17 Key Events and Risks for 2018 Anticipating key events as well as identifying potential sources of risk are paramount to strategic investment positioning.
Key Events and Risks for 2018 18 January Key Events 1st Quarter 22—23 Jan BOJ Meeting Calendar 30—31 Jan FOMC Meeting Knowing the timeline of events for 2018 25 Jan helps guide our positioning through the ECB Meeting year. Attention in the first half of the year is likely to be focused on central bank ECB scheduled to reduce monthly decisions. Political events, however, are asset purchases spread throughout the year and dates Starting from January, the ECB is scheduled to reduce its monthly asset remain fluid. purchases from EUR 60 billion to EUR 30 billion. The asset purchase program will end in September 2018. Decisions regarding future monetary actions are likely to be data dependent. April May June 2nd Quarter 26 Apr 1—2 May 12—13 Jun ECB Meeting FOMC Meeting FOMC Meeting 26—27 Apr 20 May 14 Jun BOJ Meeting Deadline for Italy General Election ECB Meeting End of term for BOJ Governor The populist party, Five Star Movement Kuroda (M5S), has been running neck-and-neck 14—15 Jun with the ruling party. However, the populist BOJ Meeting TBC stance of M5S has recently moderated. IMF World Economy Outlook October 4th Quarter Central Banks 15 Oct ECB Meeting Political Events 18 Oct Economic Events Brazil General Election
Investment Outlook 2018 19 February March 3 Feb 8 Mar 18 Mar New Fed chair ECB Meeting Russia Presidential Elections Powell is expected to be the new Fed Chair after Yellen’s term 8—9 Mar 20—21 Mar expires in February 2018. Powell’s BOJ Meeting FOMC Meeting appointment likely means continuity to the Fed’s policies. The Fed is 3—15 Mar projected to hike rates three times China National People’s Congress in 2018. and Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference Confirmation of positions for new members of the Politburo Standing Committee. Successor to PBOC Governor Zhou Xiaochuan could be appointed during the meeting. July August September 3rd Quarter 1 Jul 24 Aug 13 Sep Mexico General Election Deadline for Malaysia ECB Meeting General Election 26 Jul 18—19 Sep ECB Meeting BOJ Meeting 30—31 Jun 25—26 Sep BOJ Meeting FOMC Meeting 31 Jul—1 Aug FOMC Meeting November December 6 Nov TBC 13 Dec US Mid-Term election UK parliamentary vote on ECB Meeting Given the low approval rates for Brexit deal (around year-end) Trump, the mid-term election is likely UK is due to leave the European 18—19 Dec to be rocky. Union in March 2019. If no deal FOMC Meeting is reached, the UK economy may 7—8 Nov face heightened uncertainty. 19—20 Dec FOMC meeting BOJ Meeting TBC Thailand general election
Risk Hotspots Key Events and Risks for 2018 20 Identifying associated risks is necessary to make informed investment decisions. Risks can represent both upside and downside catalysts. However, as we enter the late period of the economic cycle, investors should exercise more caution as tail risks loom larger. North America Europe Japan Wage inflation has been The Italian general election, JPY is viewed as a safe-haven rising gradually but steadily. due to be held by May 2018, asset and hence it is sensitive could lead to political to risk events. A strong yen could The Fed may tighten too uncertainties. negatively affect the Japanese aggressively and cause stress equity market. to the market and the economy. German Chancellor Merkel continues to work out a US President Trump’s low coalition with other parties. approval rate may lead to a more uncertain mid-term election. Brexit talks are progressing slowly. If no deal is reached, the economic and political ramifications could be significant. ECB could normalise policies too quickly and kill the fragile economic recovery.
Investment Outlook 2018 21 Inflation overshoot Geopolitical The low unemployment rates and political risks may indicate that the economy Geopolitical risks remain is approaching full capacity. heightened, particularly in This could soon translate to wage North Korea and the Middle growth. Coupled with stablising East. Although the probability commodity prices, inflation may of conflict is low, it has been surprise on the upside. As markets creeping up. have been underpricing inflation, inflation surprise could cause Meanwhile, a number of elections yields to rise sharply and result are scheduled to be held in the US, in a sell-off of risk assets. Europe and some key emerging economies. The results could Data points: Wage growth, change the political landscape. global Consumer Price Index (CPI), personal consumption Data points: News flow, election polls Central bank missteps Key central banks are beginning China’s hard landing to wind down their unprecedented China concluded its 19th Party monetary experiments. Without Congress and President Xi’s precedence to rely on, they run influence was strengthened. a higher risk of misjudging the real The country’s focus on stability impact on economy when they and deleveraging is likely to unwind their policies. continue, but overly aggressive policies could raise default rates Data points: Central bank and hard landing concerns. meetings Data points: China Purchasing Managers Indices (PMIs), retail sales, monetary supply, property sales Asia Pacific excluding EM excluding Asia Japan Tensions have been rising between Saudi Arabia and Iran. China’s structural reforms could cause short-term pains Russia is expected to hold and spark hard-landing concerns. its presidential election in March 2018. North Korea is likely to continue with its missile and nuclear tests. Mexico is expected to hold its general election in July 2018. Malaysia is expected to hold its general election before Brazil is expected to hold its 24 August 2018. general election in October 2018. Thailand is expected to hold its general election in November 2018.
22 Water and Wood All streams flow to the sea because it is lower than they are. Humility gives it its power. —Lao Tze
23 Asset Class Outlook and Strategy In formulating our asset class outlook, we consider the macro environment as well as specific attributes of the particular asset class. This helps us to construct our investment strategies and select suitable opportunities.
Our Strategy Asset Class Outlook 24 and Strategy We expect 2018 to be dominated by a reflationary environment and heightened valuations. Hence, we prefer opportunities with attractive relative valuations and strong secular drivers that can benefit from reflationary environments. 01 Equities: Reflation Theme and rotation in DM Heightened valuations and reflationary impulses in DM means it is timely to rotate out of expensive, late-cycle markets and interest rate-sensitive sectors. Sectorial play in the US Ex-US opportunities Strategy Rich valuations and a hawkish Focus on opportunities in Fed could limit the upside Europe and Japan. Their for equities. Focus on sectors economies are at earlier that could benefit from a stages of economic recovery, reflationary environment. while monetary policy is likely to remain easy. US bank equities European equities Solutions Higher rates help improve Attractive valuations compared interest margins for banks. to the US, while recovery Potential deregulation in the is firm. Cyclicals sectors like financial sector could provide Banks and Autos could benefit additional tailwinds. from the current environment. Japanese equities Attractive valuations compared to DM peers. The market has been under-loved by investors but fundamentals and an accommodative policy are in its favor.
Investment Outlook 2018 25 02 Equities: Tap 03 Equities: Secular 04 Fixed Income & into EM growth developments Foreign Exchange: Synchronised global Secular developments Converging policies, growth provides a stable could drive long-term but still divergent backdrop for accessing growth in specific industries, Key DM central banks higher growth opportunities even in times of slower agree on the need to in EM economies. global expansion. reduce excessive monetary policy accommodation, but disagree on the pace. Limelight on reforms Everyone needs Rates are important, and commodity plays healthcare but so are other factors Focus on regions where The industry benefits from Aside from rates, supply- past and ongoing reforms rapidly aging populations demand dynamics and foreign are coming to fruition. in DM and rising income exchange are also important Stable commodity prices in EM, which could drive contributors to absolute returns could also provide tailwinds. sustained demand for in fixed income products. its products and services. EM equities Global healthcare Local currency EM debt Structural reforms are setting equities The asset class offers yield the stage for higher quality The sector trades at an pickup over DM debt. Better growth in Asia. Ex-Asia, attractive discount to the current account balances are commodity exporters could broader market. Subsectors supportive of currency strength. benefit from commodity price with strong innovation recovery. For China, sectors capabilities could continue AUD bonds that benefit from economic to see earnings growth. A less hawkish Reserve Bank reforms could offer attractive of Australia (RBA) and positive opportunities. commodity outlook bodes well for AUD and AUD bonds. The asset class also offers yield pickup over similar USD bonds. Asia IG Spreads are compressed, but yield pickup is still positive over DM debt. Reduced issuances coupled with robust demand should support prices.
Equities Asset Class Outlook 26 and Strategy Equities remain our most preferred asset class. Returns could moderate but should remain positive in 2018. Being selective is the key. Key takeaways Within the DM space, we prefer opportunities outside the US, such as Europe and Japan. European equities could play catch-up with their US counterparts while Japanese equities are supported by valuation and strong earnings. Although we are neutral on US equities, we see opportunities in the financial sector. EM equities are likely to continue their winning streak in 2018. The cycle in EM equities is still early and valuations are attractive against DM equities. Secular trends for healthcare will continue and the sector is trading at attractive discounts to the broader market. Overview 2017 was a stellar year for equities As such, equities remain as our and marks the ninth year of the equity preferred asset class. Returns bull run. As of end-November, global could moderate but should remain equities registered total returns of positive in 2018. Given the relatively 21%. While sentiments remain generally full valuations, investors need to upbeat, investors are increasingly be selective and be prepared for questioning how much more the aged higher volatility in the markets. bull can advance. Indeed, the current In the DM space, we prefer markets bull market is the second-longest bull and sectors with relatively lower market on record, but a bull market valuations that are earlier in the cycle is not determined by its duration. economic cycle. Meanwhile, we Past bull markets were usually brought continue to be constructive towards to an end by economic recessions the growth story in EM. or external shocks. Looking ahead, although the 2017 growth surge may be hard to replicate, recession risks remain low for 2018. The macro environment remains constructive. Synchronised global growth, rising corporate earnings and relatively accommodative monetary policies are all supportive drivers of equity outperformance. While external risks, such as geopolitical tensions, continue to be present, they are unlikely to derail markets.
Investment Outlook 2018 27 Regional views Neutral on US equities as interest margins widen with a pickup with preference to financials in yield and credit demand. Domestic We maintain our neutral view on economic recovery could translate to US equities. Despite the positive better sales for Autos. Valuations for earnings momentum and possible both sectors are undemanding while tax cuts, the upside could be limited prices on index levels are well below by rich valuations. In addition, the their cyclical highs. Fed is poised to tighten further with BSR and three rate hikes. Some risks remain for the region. The combination of rich valuations Excessive euro strength could hurt and the tightening policy could earnings, but we take comfort that cause valuation multiples to contract. the currency’s strength is backed by improving economic conditions. However, financials appear to be Meanwhile, we remain cautious about attractive and the sector trades at political risks that could threaten the an attractive discount to the overall EU’s integrity. Finally, the European US market. Furthermore, as the debt issue could rear its ugly head Fed tightens and rates move higher, again next year when Greece’s bailout banks could see their interest program ends. margins improve. The sector also stands to benefit from potential Upgraded Japanese equities deregulation. Finally, if tax reforms after snap election are implemented, corporate tax rates The recent victory of Prime Minister may be reduced from 35% to between Abe in the snap election removed 20% to 25%. This could translate a crucial risk for Japanese equities. to significant tax savings for financials, With Abe’s party retaining its dominant which currently have one of the highest position, Abenomics is likely to continue tax rates, at 33%. and BOJ is likely to remain highly accommodative. Meanwhile, the Constructive on macro backdrop looks favourable, European markets with GDP expanding for the seventh In Europe, economic activities have straight quarter in 2017 Q3. firmed over the course of 2017 while political headwinds have receded Valuations for Japanese equities are significantly. On the policy front, very attractive relative to its DM peers, ECB has stated that it would keep even after the recent rally. In addition, rates accommodative until well after earnings could benefit from the weaker its QE program ends. JPY, as policy divergence with other key central banks is likely to temper Entering 2018, European equities JPY strength even amid sporadic safe could play catch-up with US equities, haven trades. Fund inflows have picked especially as markets seem to be up strongly in recent months and look underpricing economic growth in the well supported. Finally, improvements European region. Fund flows moderated in corporate governance, spearheaded in recent months but remain positive by Abe, could encourage companies and supported. On a sectorial basis, to return cash to investors through cyclical industries, for example Banks dividends or share buybacks. This could and Autos, are likely to outperform. trigger a rerating of Japanese equities. The former could see earnings improve
Asset Class Outlook 28 and Strategy Japanese equities could be vulnerable, Potential headwinds for EM equities if BOJ changes its policy stance and include unexpected USD strength, begins tapering in 2018. Geopolitical especially if the Fed hikes interest risk surrounding North Korea lingers rates more aggressively than expected. and could weigh on sentiments. Commodity weakness could affect EM commodity exporters, while stability Positive on EM equities of the Chinese economy continues After years of soft performance, to be a concern. EM equities finally outpaced their DM peers in 2017. A confluence of factors contributed to the outperformance, Structural such as synchronised global growth, opportunities improving global trades, stabalisation Global healthcare of China economy and revival of The secular story of healthcare commodity prices. continues in the background. Rapidly aging populations in DM and rising EM equities are likely to continue their incomes in EM could drive the demand winning streak in 2018. The cycle in for healthcare products and services. EM equities is still early and the growth The sector has been trading at a differential between EM and DM discount to the broader market in the is expected to widen further in 2018. last two years, due to uncertainties Meanwhile, valuations for EM equities surround US healthcare policy. are still attractive against DM equities. Fund inflows have been strong and While policy risks remain, investors positive, in contrast to negative to can focus on subsectors such as flat flows in the last four years. Key biopharma, which have strong economies, namely China and India, innovation capabilities that could are undergoing structural reforms, continue to propel earnings growth. which could help set the stage for The subsector has seen drastic higher quality growth in the future. increase in innovative drug approvals A number of countries, for example in 2017 and a strong pipeline could Brazil, Thailand and Malaysia, are drive earnings in 2018. holding elections in 2018 and these events could be catalysts for economic reforms. For Chinese equities, the sectors benefitting from economic reforms, particularly large banks, offer attractive opportunities.
Investment Outlook 2018 29 Figure 03—In the DM space, European and Japanese equities have Highest PER in five-year history more attractive valuations against US equities and their economies Lowest PER in five-year history are earlier in the cycle +1/–1 standard deviation range of five-year PER history Current PER Average PER Valuation based on price-to-earnings ratio (PER) Japan Europe US Economic cycle Source: UOB PFS Investment Strategy
Fixed Income Asset Class Outlook 30 and Strategy Valuations are tight for the broad fixed income market. Monetary policy normalisation is the key development to monitor. Investors should focus on the basics of bond investment. Key takeaways yield, identifying issues with Asian investment-grade bonds reasonable valuation, assessing are supported by favourable the supply and demand mechanics, supply-demand dynamics. and holding bonds in currencies with appreciation potential. AUD-denominated bonds could benefit from a neutral central bank policy and improving commodity USD-denominated prices support the currency. bonds Supply-demand dynamics High real yield and underpriced support Asian investment- currencies help EM local currency grade bonds bonds stand out. Despite the relatively tight valuation of USD-denominated investment-grade bonds, opportunities are still present. Asian investment-grade bonds shine among higher quality bonds, supported by supply-demand dynamics. The issue of Asian investment bonds has been subdued, while local demand remains strong as investors continue Overview searching for yields. At the same Credit spreads for fixed income markets time, default risks are kept low by the have tightened in 2017. Across the US, positive economic outlook. Although Europe and Asia, credits spreads for Asian investment-grade bonds are both investment-grade and high-yield exposed to a Fed rate hike risk, their bonds have reached post-financial crisis credit spreads have reflected low lows. Although the spread compression correlations to rate hikes in previous was partially driven by improving tightening cycles. fundamentals such as declining default rates and improving credit metrics, the extremely tight spreads offer a limited Non-USD cushion in a rising-rate environment. denominated bonds AUD bonds supported by central 2017 also marks the start of monetary bank and global trades policy normalisation across major In contrast to the Fed’s hawkish bias, central banks. The Fed has already the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) embarked on rate hikes and balance is well-positioned to be in a neutral sheet reduction plans. The ECB state as inflation is relatively low. has announced plans to taper its AUD-denominated bonds could have QE program, though any exit will the potential for capital gain should remain gradual. Only BOJ is likely yield decline. In addition, the yield to continue easing. for AUD-denominated bonds is still relatively competitive compared to Against this backdrop, to achieve USD-denominated bonds. AUD is positive total return, investors should likely to appreciate against the USD, revert back to the basics of bond supported by recovery in commodity investment. The factors investors exports supported by recovery in should consider include finding the commodity exports, stabilisation in right balance between quality and China’s economy, and global growth.
Investment Outlook 2018 31 EM local currency bonds supportive to the inherent strength with high real yield and of the currencies. While EM countries underpriced currency have relatively higher inflation compared Total returns of EM bonds are driven to DMs, it is mitigated by the high level by income yield and potential currency of nominal yield. In India, Russia and appreciation. EM currencies are well Brazil, central banks may even have positioned due to the improvements in room to cut rates. A spike in USD the countries’ current account balances is the main risk. However, we believe and a recovery in commodity prices. that USD is likely to remain sideways Higher global trade and rising foreign as the currency is expensive. direct investments have also been Figure 04—Supply-demand dynamics, high real yields and potential currency appreciation will be the main drivers of total returns for fixed income High real yields Comparable Comparable yields to yields to USD- IG bonds denominated issued by US IG bonds corporates EM Local AUD IG Asian IG bonds currency bonds bonds Favourable Potential Potential supply-demand currency currency dynamics appreciation appreciation Low inflation gives RBA more flexibility to remain neutral Source: UOB PFS Investment Strategy
Foreign Exchange Asset Class Outlook 32 and Strategy Diverging returns among G10 and Asian currencies against USD in 2018. Key takeaways Commodity currencies are likely to strengthen against USD. AUD is supported by a recovery in commodity prices. NZD could see some upside, as the currency is oversold and the central bank’s guidance suggests hawkish preference. EUR is expected to be stable against USD with supportive economic fundamentals and a gradual normalisation of the ECB’s monetary policies. Outlook for GBP and JPY remains bearish. Dovish BOE policy and Brexit talks could weigh on GBP. JPY could stay weak as BOJ continues its accommodative monetary policy. Overview At the start of 2017, many investors normalising their monetary policies. Asian currencies could see expected a stronger USD. However, Going into 2018, we hold a neutral more mixed performances it turned out to be a lacklustre year. view on the dollar index. Instead against USD in 2018 due Though the Fed kept to its plan and of a broad-based USD strength, to idiosyncratic factors. hiked rates three times, USD weakened G10 and Asian currencies are expected against most G10 currencies. The to deliver diverging returns against divergence has narrowed between the USD, influenced by the stage of the Fed and other major central banks, as monetary cycle and the currency’s synchronised global growth has steered idiosyncratic risks. central banks such as the ECB to start
Investment Outlook 2018 33 G10 currencies against USD AUD and NZD likely EUR to be stable to strengthen with upside bias AUD will likely be supported by By the end of November 2017, recovering oil and industrial metals EUR strengthened 12% against USD prices. With the Reserve Bank of year-to-date with upside bias, and Australia (RBA) widely expected is expected to be stable in 2018. to keep rates on hold, commodity Fundamentally, economic recovery prices are likely to be the key driver has been broad-based in Europe, for AUD movements. with PMIs and sentiments at a multi- year high. Current account balances A recovery in commodities prices have improved significantly since is expected to continue into 2018. 2011, and have already turned positive Demand for oil has improved as in most countries. However, a global growth picked up pace, and consolidation is expected in 2018 supply is expected to be tight next after the strong rally. Despite the year with OPEC likely to extend its ECB’s reduction of its monthly supply cut beyond March 2018. Oil purchases, the recent communication inventory is forecasted to decrease suggested a more gradual pace. slowly, albeit steadily. For industrial Yield differential between 10-year metals, improving manufacturing US Treasuries and 10-year German activities, higher infrastructure bunds has also decreased, putting spending and supply-side reforms downward pressure on EUR. In addition, in China may drive prices higher. the speculative net long positioning in EUR/USD looks stretched and NZD has been volatile as a result could be prone to reversion. of a change in government in 2017. After the general election in September, GBP and JPY to weaken the currency lost 5% against USD Although the Bank of England (BOE) within two months. However in 2018, hiked rates by 25 bps in the November NZD is expected to strengthen against meeting, this does not necessarily USD. Growth has been robust, signal a new hiking cycle. The dovish supported by strong global trade and statement after the monetary decision a tight job market. The Reserve Bank hinted at only two hikes in the future: of New Zealand (RBNZ) is to modify one in late 2018 and another in 2020. its mandates. As RBNZ has indicated Uncertainties surrounding Brexit in recent meetings that the market’s negotiations and a weaker government interpretation about its future policy further adds downward pressure path may be overly dovish. Although on GBP. political uncertainty could continue weigh on NZD, at the current level, NZD/USD is likely to see more upside.
Asset Class Outlook 34 and Strategy JPY is likely to stay weak against RMB is likely to remain firm against USD. PM Abe’s landslide victory USD. Economic growth momentum in the snap election ensures the in China is expected to soften, continuity of Abenomics and but at a controlled pace. Improved accommodative monetary policies. foreign reserves could help keep The core inflation in Japan is still RMB anchored. SGD is expected below 1% and BOJ has no pressure to be stable against USD. Further to normalise its policies any time soon. tightening from the Fed could put downward pressure on SGD. However, the Monetary and Authority Asian currencies of Singapore (MAS) is increasingly against USD likely to hike rates during its April A mixed bag 2018 meeting as Singapore’s growth Supported by improving global and activity have gathered pace. trades and a stable RMB, Asian currencies have made decent gains However, some Asian currencies of 5% to 10% in 2017. Going into could face downward pressure, 2018, Asian currencies could see for instance IDR and INR. Due to more mixed performances. lower inflation, central bank policies could remain relatively easy. MYR could see further gains in 2018 as economic indicators are turning increasingly positive for MYR. Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM) turned more hawkish and could hike rates by 25 bps in early 2018. Improving economic data, including better growth, higher inflation, stable current surplus and growing FX reserves, could provide a constructive backdrop for MYR to strengthen. Furthermore, the rising oil price could benefit MYR, as Malaysia remains a net oil exporter.
Investment Outlook 2018 35 Figure 05—Focus on total returns when investing in bonds— consider both yield and capital appreciation perspectives Strengthen against USD AUD Higher oil and metal prices, RBA on hold NZD Oversold, hawkish guidance USD from RBNZ Diverging returns EUR for currency pairs Improving economic fundamentals, but dovish ECB guidance could Neutral against USD limit the upside SGD MYR MAS to tighten but gradually Better economic data, higher oil prices, hawkish BNM CNY Weaken against USD Growth momentum to slow down, but at a controlled pace. IDR, INR Improved foreign reserves Central banks likely to stay dovish stabalises currency GBP BOE dovish, Brexit risk JPY BOJ continues with easy policy Source: UOB PFS Investment Strategy
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37 Country Focus Singapore Malaysia Thailand Indonesia China
Singapore Country Focus 38 Moderating but broadening growth points to a stable economic outlook Key takeaways Overall, growth is likely to be more broad-based in Singapore, although headline numbers are likely to moderate. Domestic sectors in Singapore are likely to bottom out while a slowdown in China could cause a drag on global trade. A sustained pipeline of public sector projects should support economic growth. Inflation has been picking up. MAS could tighten its monetary policy as early as April 2018. However, the flexibility of its policy tools allow for incremental adjustments and its impact should be limited. Private home sales grew 29% For the services sector, better year-on-year in September 2017 sentiments and economic activities despite coinciding with the “hungry are likely to continue to support ghost festival”. The optimism in the its expansion. Finally, for the lagging housing sector underscores the same construction sector, a sustained pipeline confidence in the broader economy. of public sector projects should help to The manufacturing sector enjoyed arrest any decline. Overall, Singapore’s double-digit growth, led by a surge real GDP growth is expected to slow in global semiconductor demand. from 3.3% in 2017 to 2.5% in 2018, and The services sector, accounting for headline inflation is expected to pick up two-thirds of the economy, also from 0.5% to 1.5% in 2018. witnessed notable improvements. It expanded 3% year-on-year in the Monetary policy could be adjusted third quarter of 2017, the strongest as early as April 2018, during the next showing since 2015. MAS meeting. SGD NEER has been trading above its midpoint for most Moving into 2018, we are likely to of the time this year. However, given see growth converge between sectors. the flexible nature of its policy tools, Growth in the manufacturing sector we expect limited impact to the is likely to slow as semiconductor economy as adjustments are likely sales moderate, due to the high to be incremental. base effect and potential slowdown in China.
Investment Outlook 2018 39 Stocks Bonds Foreign Exchange As with the global stock market, Local rates are likely to drift higher, SGD is likely to decline gradually Singapore equities also enjoyed a stellar led by the tightening cycle in the US. against USD due to monetary policy run in 2017. The environment, however, Hence, investors are advised to avoid divergence. MAS may adjust its stance will be more challenging going into taking up excessive duration in their in April 2018, but changes are likely 2018. Interest rates are poised to rise portfolios. Issuance has tapered since to be incremental. Meanwhile, the while growth could moderate in the the series of commodity-led defaults Fed is expected to continue tightening. local economy. Banks could benefit in 2016 while demand remains robust, Singapore Interbank Offered Rate from such an environemnt, as a steeper leading to favorable demand-supply (SIBOR) is likely to drift higher yield curve could help improve net dynamics for the local bond market. alongside US London Interbank Offered interest margins and support earnings. The setup is likely to continue into Rate (LIBOR), albeit to a lesser degree. A benign environment will also support 2018, creating a supportive environment business activities and loan growth. for local bonds despite potentially higher rates. Figure 06—The recent rebound in Singapore’s external sectors Externally oriented industries could spill over positively Domestically driven industries Growth YoY % Dot-com bubble Global financial crisis 30 25 20 15 10 5 0 –5 –4.4% –10 –15 –6% –20 2000 2002 2004 2006 2008 2010 2012 2014 2016 Source: CEIC, UOB GLobal Economics and Markets Research
Malaysia Country Focus 40 Sound macro fundamentals provide a buffer against market volatility Key takeaways Malaysia’s compelling growth in the first half of 2017 outpaced regional performance, lifted by private spending and exports. Current growth momentum is expected to sustain into 2018. Outlook on Malaysian equities remains positive, underpinned by a strong economic backdrop, better corporate earnings, rising commodity prices, potential China investments and election- related spending. Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM) continues to signal a neutral tone on the direction of interest rates. MYR is fundamentally undervalued over the long-term. Malaysia’s economy is on firmer The benchmark overnight policy footing after delivering remarkable rate (OPR) is expected to remain GDP growth of 5.7% in the first half status quo at 3% in 2018, but do of 2017 compared to 4% in the same not rule out the possibility of a rate period last year. Following the data, hike if strong GDP growth sustains Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM) said and wage pressures filter into higher growth in 2017 will be stronger than inflation pressures. expected. The country’s growth in 2018 is expected to be further fuelled An undervalued ringgit, supported by domestic demand and robust by positive fundamentals and higher exports. Domestic economic policies Brent crude oil towards USD60/bbl, continue to be supportive, and its 2018 underpins our view that the ringgit budget is likely to be expansionary and is in a better place to strengthen spur consumption growth. assuming modest USD gains. Headline inflation is expected to peak in 2017 at 3.9% year-on-year and moderate in 2018 to 2.5% year- on-year as global cost factors abate. Demand-led inflation will be sustained by more robust domestic demand but is expected to remain contained.
Investment Outlook 2018 41 Stocks Bonds Foreign Exchange Malaysian equities have been a We expect Malaysian yields to trend MYR is likely to strengthen laggard in 2017, compared with Asia higher along with US Treasury yields, moderately against USD, although ex-Japan. We maintain a constructive albeit at a moderate pace. Demand some volatility is expected. The view supported by domestic macros, for bonds has remained resilient, positive view is underpinned by stronger foreign fund inflows and supported by attractive real yields. positive fundamentals, improving the resumption of corporate earnings With an improving macro backdrop fiscal position and higher commodity growth. Key investment themes include and reserve adequacy ratio, the sharp prices. It is currently trading at the infrastructure spending, rising China foreign selling of government bonds bottom of its historic real effective foreign direct investments, reforms since November 2016 has abated and exchange rate range. among government-linked companies, the foreign holdings of Malaysia bonds a rebound in tourism and growth in should largely remain stable. commodity prices. Bottom-up stock picking strategy and profit taking from outperformers would be a prudent approach in 2018. A key risk to look out for is the country’s domestic elections. Figure 07—Malaysia’s growth is underpinned by private consumption GDP Growth (left) and exports Private Consumption (left) Exports (right) Growth YoY YoY % % 10 35 30 8 25 20 6 15 10 4 5 0 2 -5 -10 0 0 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 Source: Bloomberg
Thailand Country Focus 42 Moderately rising economic growth driven by investment and tourism Key takeaways The Thai economy enjoys a healthy level of growth driven by a combination of infrastructure spending, private investments and tourism. However, rich valuations in the local equity market could put a ceiling on further upside, especially since global rates could rise. The bond market could also be at risk due to reduced policy accommodation, although low foreign ownership in local bonds could help limit hot money flows. On the currency front, the THB is likely to weaken against USD as policy divergence widens. Key drivers for Thailand’s growth in The overall economic outlook remains 2018 include infrastructure spending, positive for Thailand and is underscored private investments and tourism. by the Bank of Thailand (BOT) revising Infrastructure spending could pick its GDP growth target for 2018 from up as many of the previously delayed 3.7% to 3.8% in September. The target projects are expected to kick-start in may look ambitious, but it is achievable 2018. Higher level of utilisation in the if the key growth drivers hold up. manufacturing sector and Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC) should Finally, in terms of monetary policy, incentivise private investments. BOT is expected to keep its rate Meanwhile, Thailand remains one of unchanged at least to the second half the top destinations for tourists and of 2018 as slack remains in the economy the number of visitors is expected to and inflation looks manageable. grow by 7% to 8% to reach 38 million in 2018, from the current year-end forecast of 36 million for 2017. Conversely, a growth in household consumption could slow in the lower- to-mid income space. This is due to a combination of a slowdown in farm incomes and continued deleveraging in households due to tighter credit card and personal loan regulations. Exports are likely to continue growing modestly, but are unlikely to be a growth driver.
Investment Outlook 2018 43 Stocks Bonds Foreign Exchange Valuations in the Thai equity market A steady supply of shot-term bills Monetary divergence between the are elevated. The setup reduces upside and BOT’s stable monetary policy Fed and BOT, reduction in Thailand’s potential and leaves little room for outlook should keep short-term yields current account surplus and potential error. Selective sectors could offer relatively anchored in the local market. tax reform in the US are likely to cause opportunities. For example, the banking Low levels of foreign holdings help limit THB to weaken in 2018. We expect sector has seen NPLs stabilised and it volatility. As such, bonds with shorter the currency to remain in the range is also likely to benefit from increased terms are preferred, though investors of 33.50 to 34.50 in 2018. public and private investments. The could consider taking tactical positions commerce sector, meanwhile, could in longer term bonds if long-term enjoy support from tourism growth, and yields spike. investors can consider buying on dips. Figure 08—Tourism in Thailand continues to provide support for growth 12-month rolling average of monthly visitor arrivals Monthly visitor arrivals Monthly visitor arrivals 3.0M 2.5M 2.0M 1.5M 1.0M 0.5M 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 Source: Bloomberg
Indonesia Country Focus 44 Resilient economy towards both internal and external pressures Key takeaways The economic outlook for Indonesia remains positive, however, it is clouded by potential risks such as rising trade protectionism, weakening commodity prices and an escalation in geopolitical tensions. The 2018 regional election and 2019 presidential election may raise the domestic political risk. The recent reduction of corporate tax for small-medium enterprises (SMEs) from 1% to 0.25% is likely to increase domestic investment from more than 56 million SMEs in the country, which accounts for 60% of GDP. Indonesia’s 2018 GDP growth is to 2.92% of GDP, the government expected to improve to 5.4% from forecasts the budget deficit in 2018 to 5.2% in 2017 as set in the 2018 State improve to 2.19% of GDP, this is with Budget approved by the Indonesian the assumption that the tax ratio is Parliament. Social spending is expected increased from the existing 10.3% to to pick up as Indonesia is entering into 10.9% in coming year. The country’s a year of elections. This tends to have recent upgrade by Standard & Poor’s positive impact on private consumption, to an investment-grade rating and which accounts for more than half continued reform efforts by the of the country’s GDP. Indonesia’s government has helped accelerate expansionary fiscal policy remains the capital inflows, including private key focus and is expected to support investment. With inflation slowing down, growth through budget reallocations the Central Bank is keeping an easing- in providing larger spending ceiling bias with a 50 bps rate cut this year. for public infrastructure, health and The lower rate aims to further boost education. Although the budget credit growth to double-digits in 2018. deficit in 2017 widened from 2.41%
Investment Outlook 2018 45 Stocks Bonds Foreign Exchange Infrastructure and structural Indonesia’s government bonds IDR is expected to experience reforms remain key priorities for the offer one of the most attractive inflation- downward pressure because the government. Ease of doing business adjusted returns. Monetary policy central bank’s view diverges from and the low cost of funding after rate continues to be accommodative, with that of the Fed. The pause in policy cuts of 200 bps since beginning of the government aiming to keep inflation easing signals and record-high foreign 2016 are expected to attract more below 4%. Short-medium local currency reserves allow the Central Bank to investments from both domestic and government bonds are preferred over maintain the currency within the foreign investors. Higher domestic long-term ones due to a divergence in target set by the government. holdings in local equities may reduce central bank views toward monetary external shock should regional or global policy, which places downward pressure uncertainties escalate. Investment in on IDR. Considering the hawkish stance the stock market, particularly in the from the Fed, short duration USD consumer staples, construction and Indonesian government bonds are the banking sectors, remain attractive as preferred asset class as Indonesia’s consumer sentiment rises, infrastructure sovereign rating has just been raised spending continues and merger and and has a positive outlook. acquisition activities pick up in the banking sector. Figure 09—Bank of Indonesia is expected to remain accommodating Yield curve as of 31 Dec 2016 Yield curve as of 11 Oct 2017 Indonesia Interest Rate % 8.0 7.5 7.0 6.5 6.0 5.5 5.0 4.5 4.0 1 Day 1 Week 1 Month 3 Months 6 Months 1 Year Tenor Source: Bloomberg
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