By MARCEL PORCHERON 05/04/2007
In common with other funds run by First State's Asian equity team, David Gait aims to invest in high quality growth companies with shareholder friendly management. The sustainability mandate also leads to a policy of positive engagement with companies held. The manager seeks companies that successfully manage environmental, social and governance issues. The fund will not invest in arms or tobacco, although the manager does have a pragmatic view of what is investable and describes the fund as 'mid green'. When markets rally strongly the fund's focus on quality companies could lead it to underperform. The fund's mandate means that it will be restricted from investment in some companies, which could impact performance when these are driving the market.
Awarded 3 stars