By Pierre-Henri Cloarec, CFA, Portfolio Manager of the Emerging Sustainable Stars Equity Strategy and Emerging Ex China Sustainable Stars Equity Strategy at Nordea Asset Management

Emerging markets have long been overshadowed by the dominance of U.S. technology giants and a global preference for perceived safe-haven assets. Yet today, against a backdrop of a weakening U.S. dollar and rising uncertainty over American trade policy, they are reasserting themselves as a strategic option for investors seeking growth, diversification, and resilience. This is not a short-lived rebound but a renewed relevance underpinned by compelling valuations and robust economic fundamentals.

As the dollar loses strength and the U.S. safe-haven appeal wanes, economies with strong domestic demand are gaining momentum. This is reflected in the persistent valuation gap between emerging and developed market indices: the MSCI Emerging Markets Index trades at nearly a 30% discount to the MSCI World Index—a gap that is increasingly difficult to justify. Importantly, many emerging market companies are less vulnerable to international trade frictions, adding to their attractiveness in an uncertain global environment.

Within this landscape, we see particularly compelling opportunities in Emerging Markets where domestic drivers and policy support are increasingly setting the pace for growth.

India continues to stand out, supported by structural reforms that have enhanced competitiveness and growth in recent years. With projected annual GDP expansion of 6–7%, Indian equities justify higher valuations relative to peers. Real estate and financials are key beneficiaries of improving domestic dynamics, while targeted fiscal policies aimed at boosting consumption among lower-income households provide an additional tailwind for demand.

Latin America, despite political volatility, also offers strong long-term potential. The region is home to experienced management teams and businesses able to grow faster than their domestic economies—all at reasonable valuations. For patient investors with a disciplined, active approach, the region offers meaningful opportunities.

South Korea and Taiwan are well positioned to benefit from global demand in strategic technology sectors, particularly artificial intelligence and semiconductors, with global leaders such as TSMC anchoring their competitive edge. Beyond the larger markets, Poland is showing considerable promise and stands out as a driver of growth in Eastern Europe supported by EU funding program and Germany’s fiscal stimulus.

What makes emerging markets especially compelling is not only their relative value but also their position as home to some of the world’s most powerful long-term growth engines. Sectors such as technology, healthcare, sustainability, and consumer goods are undergoing rapid transformation, fueled by the rise of expanding middle classes. In addition, progress in financial inclusion in underbanked economies is opening new avenues for development and profitability, further cementing emerging market equities as a vital tool for portfolio diversification and growth.

Ultimately, the resurgence of emerging markets is not a temporary phenomenon but a natural response to a shifting global landscape that demands new sources of growth and resilience. With disciplined active management and careful selection, this asset class is reclaiming its place as a cornerstone of well-diversified portfolios—offering not just returns, but also sustainability and long-term stability. Far from being a risk, emerging markets are today a key pillar for investors seeking to be well-positioned in the global economy of the future.