The number of high net worth individuals in Asia has reached European levels for the very first time, but capturing this wealth is the key to the recovery of the private banking sector, writes Elisa Trovato.

Taiwan’s master agent regime has fed the growing demand for overseas investments in the country, and has left domestic fund companies with the choice of either trying to compete with the foreign players, or going into partnership with them. Elisa Trovato reports from Taipei.

Mutual fund take-up in Asia remains very low, but private bankers are trying to encourage investors to increase the usage of these instruments, which can represent core allocations in diversified portfolios, writes Elisa Trovato.

India’s stock exchanges planned to extend the reach of mutal funds and reduce trading costs, reports Rekha Menon.

Asian clients would be wise to diversify away from their own local currencies, but should consider allocations to other Asian currencies rather than rushing towards the US dollar as in the past, writes Elisa Trovato.

Environmental, social and corporate governance priciples may be gaining ground in Asia, but they are a long way from being the key to a company’s success. Elisa Trovato reports.

Despite the political turmoil, Thailand remains attractive in terms of investment potential, although foreign investors may prefer other countries in the region that appear to be more stable, writes Elliot Smither.

Private banks and wealth managers in the world are invited to take part in the Global Private Banking Awards 2010, supported by PWM magazine and The Banker magazine.  For further information and to receive a copy of the questionnaire, please contact elisa.trovato@ft.com