Global Bond Fund launched for retail investors

The Bank of East Asia (BEA) has launched the BEA Global Bond Fund, which aims to provide retail investors with potential investment return over the medium to long term through investment in a diversified range of global bonds denominated in major currencies.

Managed by BEA Union Investment Management Limited, the Fund invests in high quality debt securities issued mainly by governments and their agencies worldwide, with an average investment-grade rating.

"The global economy is in the midst of prolonged economic adjustment," said Mr. Henry Wong, Head of Fixed Income at BEA Union Investment. "With short-dated  interest rates expected to remain low or to reach zero in the near term, investors are searching for other investment opportunities that potentially offer enhanced yields. Furthermore, given its low correlation to the performance of equities and other asset classes, the bond market is generally considered to be relatively attractive during periods of volatility."

With over ten years of investment experience, BEA Union Investment’s portfolio managers leverage the expertise of Union Asset Management Holding AG (Union Investment), particularly in terms of the global economy and risk and return management. In the current "zero interest rate" era, BEA Union Investment is striving to offer investment solutions involving a diversified range of global bonds that will enable investors to enjoy medium to long-term potential returns.

From now until 30 June 2009, customers who subscribe to the Fund can enjoy a variety of offers including a Preliminary Charge as low as 1 percent for lump-sum subscriptions and 3 percent for the Monthly Investment Plan. In addition, customers will receive a HK$300 cash rebate for every accumulated subscription amount equivalent to HK$200,000.