Best performer this year may surprise investors

There lingers a persistent negativity toward emerging markets growth and commodities that prevents many investors from jockeying their portfolios into a position for growth Since the stock market's gate opened at the beginning of 2012, emerging countries were off to a fast start. Stocks in Brazil, Colombia and India galloped to the lead, increasing more than 10 percent within the first few weeks of the year. By the time the end of April came around, Colombia had sprinted to the lead, followed closely by Thailand and the Philippines. All increased more than 20 percent in the first four months of 2012. However, rather than focusing on the leaders of the pack, spectators seemed to have directed their attention toward the S&P 500 Index, as it galloped to its best first-quarter gain since 1998. The recovery in U.S. stocks is significant and helps restore confidence in equities. We're pleased to see markets improving, especially following a rough finish in 2011. Yet there lingers a persistent negativity toward emerging markets growth and commodities that prevents many investors from jockeying their portfolios into a position for growth. Rather, they remain spectators on the sidelines, with equity fund outflows continuing. Continue reading this article

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