Global X Funds [see profile] just launched an ETF focused on Southeast Asia. Yesterday the New York-based asset manager unveiled the Global X FTSE ASEAN 40 ETF, which invests in Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore and Thailand [see prospectus].
Global X charges 65 basis points in operating expenses for the new ETF. Bruno del Alma and Jose Gonzalez (the firm's CEO and chief operating officer, respectively) run the new offering. SEI handles distribution and sub-administration. Brown Brothers Harriman serves as custodian and transfer agent. Dechert provides the ETF with legal counsel, and Sanville & Company handles accounting.
Company Press Release
NEW YORK, Feb. 17, 2011 -- Global X Funds, the New York based provider of exchange traded funds, today launched the Global X FTSE ASEAN 40 ETF (Ticker: ASEA). The fund is the first ETF listed in the US to target the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). As of February 11, 2011, the index break down was: Singapore (41.19%), Malaysia (32.82%), Indonesia (14.77%), Thailand (10.58%), and the Philippines (0.61%).
The Southeast Asian nations have profited from considerable growth and a combined market capitalization of $1.75 trillion in 2010, larger than that of both India and Brazil (World Federation of Exchanges).The fund allows investors to tap into the ongoing economic integration in the region, which has contributed to the 111% rise in M&A deals between ASEAN companies to $53.7bn (Financial Times, 2011). To further aid integration there is a planned cross-border trading platform slated for 2011, which includes the stock exchanges in Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand and the Philippines.
In addition, the region enjoys a stronger relationship with China, as the Asian giant seeks to develop the China-ASEAN Free Trade Area (CAFTA) (Guangxi Regional Government, 2011), as well as an increase in imports from ASEAN, which increased by nearly 45% in 2010 (China Daily, 2011).
"We are pleased to provide access to the ASEAN market for US investors," said Bruno del Ama, CEO of Global X Funds. "This is one of the most dynamic regions in the world with accelerating consumer demand that should develop a middle class of about 300 million people by 2015."
The Global X FTSE ASEAN 40 ETF seeks to provide investment results that correspond generally to the price and yield performance of the FTSE/ASEAN 40 Index. The FTSE/ASEAN 40 Index tracks the performance of the 40 largest companies in the five ASEAN countries: Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand and the Philippines. As of February 3, 2011 the three largest components for ASEA were DBS Group Holdings, Singapore Telecom, and Oversea-Chinese Banking.
ABOUT GLOBAL X FUNDS
Global X Funds is a New York-based provider of exchange-traded funds that facilitates access to investment opportunities across the global markets. With over $1 billion in managed assets as of December 31, 2010, it is one of the fastest growing ETF providers in the world with a focus on Global Commodities, Developed and Emerging Markets fund suites. For more information, please visit www.globalxfunds.com.
DISCLOSURE
Investing involves risk, including the possible loss of principal. International investing may involve risk of capital loss from unfavorable fluctuations in currency values, from differences in generally accepted accounting principles, or from economic or political instability in other nations. Emerging markets involve heightened risks related to the same factors as well as increased volatility and lower trading volume. Narrowly focused investments may be subject to higher volatility.
Carefully consider the Funds' investment objectives, risk factors, charges and expenses before investing. This and additional information can be found in the Funds' prospectus, which may be obtained by calling 1-888-GX-FUND-1 (1.888.493.8631), or by visiting www.globalxfunds.com. Read the prospectus carefully before investing.
Global X Management Company, LLC serves as an advisor to the Global X Funds. The Funds are distributed by SEI Investments Distribution Co., which is not affiliated with Global X Management Company or any of its affiliates.
FTSE Indexes have been licensed for use by Global X Management Company, LLC. Global X Funds are not sponsored, endorsed, issued, sold, or promoted by FTSE, nor does this company make any representations regarding the advisability of investing in the Global X Funds.
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