A Global Economy in Transition: Prospects for Investment Returns

6 May 2007 (2:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.)

After three years of strong growth, the world economy is at an important juncture. Growth in the United States, while still strong, is slowing in the face of headwinds from a cooling housing market and rising fuel costs. On the other hand, growth in Europe has gained momentum, while Japan's economy is increasingly being supported by domestic demand. Meanwhile, emerging markets have grown rapidly, led by the People's Republic of China, and India.

A variety of risks cast a shadow to this favorable economic landscape. Among these are the effects of the increase in the price of oil, instability in some oil-exporting countries, protectionist sentiment in much of the developing world, and a huge financial imbalance between the United States and the rest of the world. Amid the uncertainties, what are the prospects for investment returns? Is investing in today's markets safe enough? Bond yields are low, spreads are low, risk premiums are low, and volatility is low. Can this be sustained? How can investors, such as those in the Asia and Pacific region, overcome obstacles and sustain their investment performance?

The seminar aims to examine the various risks to the global economy and the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead for investors. A panel of speakers, representing a mix of diverse market segment expertise, will discuss the global economic outlook and present their investment insights. Participants will be able to share their perspectives with the speakers during the question and answer session that follows.

Read the Seminar summary. [PDF]

Contact Us

For further information, contact Ms. Melendres Howe, tel: (63-2)632-4798, email: mhowe@adb.org or Mr. Philip Erquiaga, tel: (63-2)632-6085, email: perquiaga@adb.org