Asset Managers Flock to Singapore and Asia

The recent capital flow to Asia is pushing leading asset managers to hire analysts and bond traders in the region.

BlackRock Inc., for example, has made Singapore its home base for trading regional debt and currencies. Manulife Asset Management, Aberdeen Asset Management and Western Asset Management have also made plans to expand their staff and focus in the region.

BlackRock Asia-Pacific chairman Mark McCombe explained:

“Quite recently, our Asian fixed-income capability was quite underdeveloped and so the decision was made to try to build a world-class capability. The regulatory framework, the living and working environment as well as the kind of rich base of investors make Singapore a very attractive place to do business.”