As asset managers and asset owners seek a greater universe of investment options, emerging markets and frontier markets are increasingly appealing. While these markets bring new opportunities, they also bring new challenges. Operational areas that are generally well established, tightly controlled and routine for developed markets might be anything but in these markets.
This investment trend in emerging and frontier markets will likely continue to accelerate and evolve, which is why it is critical for an asset manager to take a thoughtful approach to selecting the right custodian—one that brings the knowledge, skills and client service models to help successfully navigate this uncharted territory.