Billionaire investor and co-founder of Platinum Asset Management Limited (ASX: PTM) Mr Kerr Neilson is a legend in investment circles. His flagship International Fund has returned 13% per annum (pa) since inception, compared with its benchmark which has returned just 6% pa.
The release of Platinum's latest Quarterly Report offers investors the opportunities to read the thoughts and musings of Neilson. One particularly enlightening comment about just where he sees opportunities today is this: "The thrust of our buying was in Asian financials, metals and minerals and the new internet opportunities."
While Neilson didn't mention the following stocks and would be unlikely to buy them given his fund primarily invests outside of the ASX, here are a few ASX-listed companies which arguably fit the themes that Kerr is looking for exposure to.
AMP Limited (ASX: AMP) recently undertook a joint venture with China Life which gives AMP access into China's wealth management market. Although still in its infancy, the venture has already attracted over $2 billion in funds.
Australia and New Zealand Banking Group (ASX: ANZ) is the most advanced of the 'big four' in building an Asian presence. The ANZ has a "super regional strategy" which aims to establish a franchise throughout Asia including in China, Vietnam, Indonesia, The Philippines and Hong Kong.
Insurance Australia Group Limited (ASX: IAG) already has established positions in both Thailand and Malaysia and is also developing and expanding its Asian presence in India, China and Vietnam. IAG is utilising joint ventures and local partnerships to help build its footprint.
