Commentary

Asian bonds, currencies power ahead

Fertile ground for high-quality gains as US dollar strength and trade war likely to ease

The Asian bond market had to grapple with a slowing Chinese economy, mostly as a result of the country's efforts to reduce debt in the financial sector over the past two years. PHOTO: REUTERS
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The United States spent much of last year exceeding expectations. Growth was stronger than expected. Interest rates rose more rapidly than expected, leading to a stronger-than-anticipated US dollar.

In combination, these factors have created much angst for Asian bond markets, resulting in negative performance.

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A version of this article appeared in the print edition of The Straits Times on January 07, 2019, with the headline Asian bonds, currencies power ahead . Subscribe