Global recovery ushers in new opportunities

Article Excerpt

Most Canadian investors focus on stocks traded in this country and the U.S. That “home country bias” reflects their preference for familiar company names, but also the regulatory protections of Canadian and U.S. stock markets. However, we continue to recommend foreign holdings of as much as 10% of a conservative investor’s portfolio. Investors that are prepared to broaden their horizons can expect to encounter great opportunities to enhance their portfolio returns and lower their risks. However, investors need to be aware that foreign investments come with country, company and currency risks. Here are some reasons to consider international markets. A lost opportunity The Canadian equity market makes up about 3% of the global universe and the U.S. market another 50%. So, while many Canadian investors will feel comfortable venturing south of the border for selected investments, there are significant opportunities available for those who go east and west. A global economic recovery is underway According to a recent Reuters poll of 500 economists, the…