ASIA

ASIA aims to invest in common and preferred stocks of Asian companies capable of sustainable growth. It taps into the Asia Pacific ex-Japan markets, covering developed, emerging, and frontier markets. The portfolio typically consists of mid- or large-cap companies, though it may consider companies of varying sizes based on book value, revenues, profits, cash flow, dividends, and employee count. The fund manager places a strong emphasis on fundamentals, selecting companies with strong balance sheets, cash flow stability, adaptability, integrity, product lines, marketing strategies, corporate governance, financial health, and effective management. ESG characteristics are also taken into consideration in the investment process. However, not all investments may exhibit strong ESG characteristics, and there could be instances when a company's ESG profile cannot be evaluated. The fund may also invest in depositary receipts, such as American, European, and Global Depositary Receipts.