Insights
Explore the latest news, expert articles, and market outlooks to stay ahead of industry trends.
Newsroom
Banjaran AMC's CEO, Mr. Eric Loo, joins LionTrust’s 20th Anniversary Celebration
Singapore – September 5, 2025 Banjaran Asset Management (Cambodia) Plc. was invited to attend LionTrust Group's 20th-anniversary celebration in Singapore. It was an honor for our CEO and Executive Director, Mr. Eric , to join founders, partners, and industry peers in celebrating this remarkable milestone. LionTrust's two-decade journey is a powerful testament to the impact of trust, culture, and consistency. In an industry often focused on short-term gains, they have proven that genuine relationships and long-term stewardship are what build enduring success. This commitment deeply resonates with Banjaran Asset Management's mission in Cambodia. The principles LionTrust embodies are the very same we strive for: Trust as the cornerstone of every partnership. A collaborative culture that fosters shared purpose. Longevity built through alignment and sustainable growth. We extend our warmest congratulations to the entire LionTrust team. Their legacy of values and dedication is an inspiration, and we look forward to continued collaboration as we both work to shape a stable and prosperous financial future for our respective communities.
Banjaran AMC Shares Insights on Collective Investment Schemes with University Students
On the morning of August 26, 2025, representatives from Banjaran Asset Management (Cambodia) Plc. participated in a training session on "Smart Investing," organized by ACLEDA Securities Plc. with support from the Securities and Exchange Regulator of Cambodia (SERC), the Cambodia Securities Exchange (CSX), and Asia Euro University (AEU). During this training session, with the approval of the management of Banjaran Asset Management (Cambodia) Plc., Mr. Taing Hoy, Legal and Compliance Officer, delivered a presentation on " Collective Investment Schemes (CIS)" introducing new investment knowledge relevant to the securities sector in Cambodia. This training was organized with the aim of promoting financial literacy, fostering effective saving habits, and enhancing smart investment practices among university students.
Shaping Cambodia’s Financial Future: Insights from Industry Leaders
The recent session on 22nd of August 2025, brought together industry leaders to share their expertise on pivotal topics shaping Cambodia’s financial sector. Mr. Eric Loo opened with an impactful presentation on “The Profound Significance of Successfully Launching Cambodia’s First Public Fund for the National Economy and Financial System”. He highlighted Banjaran AMC’s footprint as a pioneer in the Cambodian market, discussing the challenges faced in introducing the country’s first public fund and the company high standards in setting to the industry to ensure transparency, security, and investor confidence. He also emphasizes how this succession brings economic advantages, one such as attracting new investment opportunities and how the CIS can support projects & SMEs in driving growth. His insights underscored the importance of innovation and diligence in building a financial system that strengthens both the economy and the investment landscape. Following this, Mr. Hans Chen from StrongHold Trustee introduced his company and elaborated on the importance of trustee services, underscoring their role in ensuring security, transparency, and trust in the management of collective investment schemes. Finally, Mr. Zhang Dazhi shared his expertise on corporate compliance in Cambodia, discussing practical strategies for businesses to manage risks effectively. He covered key areas including proper tax planning, sustainable growth through EIAs, accurate reporting, and overall adherence to regulatory requirements, providing guidance on how companies can navigate the evolving compliance landscape safely. Together, these discussions highlighted the collective efforts of industry experts in shaping a stronger, more resilient, and forward-looking financial ecosystem for Cambodia.
Banjaran AMC Plays a Key Role at National Seminar on Investment Instruments
On August 14, 2025, Banjaran Asset Management (Cambodia) Plc. participated in a key national seminar focused on "Understanding Investment Instruments and Financing in the Securities Sector." The event, held at the NSSF Headquarters, was organized by the Securities and Exchange Regulator of Cambodia (SERC) and the National Social Security Fund (NSSF) in collaboration with the National Social Security Fund (NSSF), with the support of Cambodia Securities Exchange (CSX), ACLEDA Securities Plc., Banjaran Asset Management (Cambodia) Plc., and Gold Financial Global Investment Co., Ltd. (GFG). It brought together more than 150 participants, including government officials and financial professionals. H.E. Kim Keoreaksmey, Deputy Director General of NSSF, expressed appreciation for the positive impact of the NSSF card in helping citizens with hospital bills and medical expenses, while reinforcing NSSF’s commitment to delivering essential social security and financial services for the benefit of its members. He also acknowledged the importance of investment opportunities in complementing social protection and ensuring long-term sustainability. His remarks reflect the strong support and recognition from high-level government leadership, underscoring the strategic importance of Banjaran AMC collaboration with NSSF in advancing national welfare and long-term economic growth. Mr. Eric Loo , CEO & Executive Director of Banjaran Asset Management (Cambodia) Plc., was at the forefront, highlighting our company’s role as a pioneer in Cambodia’s emerging fund management market. His vision and leadership have been instrumental in advancing new fund initiatives and establishing Banjaran AMC as a first mover in the market. Mr. Low Hon-Yu and Mr. Christopher Wong , our Singapore-based Board Members, also attended to show their full support for this important national effort. This powerful combination of local leadership and global expertise is what sets Banjaran AMC apart. Banjaran AMC's commitment to building a stronger market didn't go unnoticed. H.E. Sou Socheat , Delegate of the Royal Government in charge as Director General of SERC, showed great appreciation as one of the sponsorships in the success of the seminar, and its dedication to educating investors and developing the market. This high-level recognition underscores our crucial role in building trust and spreading knowledge throughout Cambodia’s financial ecosystem. Mr. Nhem Sopaul , Corporate Manager of Banjaran AMC, delivered a presentation on "Collective Investment Schemes (CIS)" that simplified complex financial topics for NSSF officials. He illustrated how these funds can create disciplined, diversified opportunities for everyday Cambodians, reflecting our commitment to empowering investors. Our pioneering work and focus on education sparked a great deal of interest at the seminar. It led to powerful networking and meaningful conversations, with several executives showing interest in our funds. This signals that our efforts to lead the way in Cambodia's investment market are truly succeeding and solidifying our reputation as a trusted market leader. Driven by strong leadership and global expertise, Banjaran AMC is committed to its mission: making investing accessible, promoting financial literacy, and playing a transformative role in Cambodia’s financial future.
Cambodia Capital Markets Assessment Report
On July 11, 2025, Banjaran Asset Management (Cambodia) Plc. had the privilege of participating in the IFC Capital Markets Assessment & Fundraising Event, held at the Hyatt Regency Phnom Penh. This high-level session, hosted by the International Finance Corporation (IFC), brought together key stakeholders across Cambodia’s financial sector—including fund managers, insurance providers, regulators, and banks—to explore strategies for strengthening the country’s capital markets. The discussions centered on unlocking new capital-raising opportunities, with particular emphasis on the development of Cambodia’s bond market as a vehicle for long-term investment and sustainable economic growth. Representing Banjaran AMC were Mr. Aaron Ng , CEO of Banjaran Asset Management Pte Ltd (Singapore), and Mr. Jevin Loo , Business Manager of Banjaran Asset Management (Cambodia) Plc.. During the event, our senior representatives had the opportunity to engage directly with IFC officials, introduce Banjaran AMC’s core mission, and present the impactful work being done through initiatives such as the K-Fund —a Collective Investment Scheme focused on agriculture and empowering local farmers that support the workshop's vision. IFC representatives expressed strong recognition and interest in Banjaran’s vision and ongoing efforts. These interactions helped lay the groundwork for potential future collaboration and opened new doors for strategic engagement in Cambodia’s fast-evolving investment environment. This event marked an important milestone in Banjaran AMC’s ongoing efforts to connect global capital with local opportunity, and to support the development of Cambodia’s financial ecosystem through innovation, transparency, and inclusion.
Banjaran AMC Promotes Smart Investing Through CIS Seminar at Preah Kossamak Polytechnic Institute
On the morning of July 8, 2025, representing Banjaran Asset Management (Cambodia) Plc., Mr. Taing Hoy, Legal and Compliance Officer, delivered an insightful presentation on "Investing in Collective Investment Schemes (CIS)" at Preah Kossamak Polytechnic Institute. His session formed part of the "Intelligent Investment" training program, organized by ACLEDA Securities Plc., with support from the Securities and Exchange Regulator of Cambodia (SERC), the Cambodia Securities Exchange (CSX), and Preah Kossamak Polytechnic Institute., aimed at deepening financial literacy and promoting smart investment practices among students.
National Social Security Fund held an initial meeting to explore investment opportunities with Banjaran Asset Management (Cambodia) Plc.
PHNOM PENH, Cambodia – June 4, 2025 As part of an ongoing review of the country's social security system, an initial meeting took place between the National Social Security Fund (NSSF) of Cambodia and Banjaran Asset Management (Cambodia). The NSSF hosted a key delegation from Banjaran Asset Management (Cambodia) Plc., led by Mr. Eric Loo , CEO and Executive Director to discuss possible collaboration opportunities. The meeting was specially attended and led by two Board of Directors from Banjaran Asset Management Pte Ltd (BAMPL), Singapore. The NSSF's core objectives include enhancing social security benefits for Cambodian citizens and ensuring the prudent management of its funds, and actively contributing to national development initiatives. The meeting discussions centered on the product and services of Banjaran Asset Management (Cambodia) Plc. that corelates to social security fund investments. Both parties expressed strong enthusiasm for this initial meeting as a valuable opportunity to gain mutual understanding of each institution’s goals and services. NSSF representatives welcomed Banjaran AMC's proactive approach and diverse portfolio, recognizing the substantial value such a collaboration could bring –- to strengthening Cambodia's vital social security framework. The meeting concluded with a strong commitment, with hopes that both parties will establish an investment partnership in the near future.
Successful Training on Collective Investment Schemes Held in Kampong Cham
Kampong Cham, Cambodia – May 30, 2025 – A highly successful training session on "Investing in Collective Investment Scheme (CIS)" was held today in Kampong Cham province, providing valuable insights into investment opportunities for attendees. Organized by ACS and supported by Banjaran Asset Management (Cambodia) Plc, the event took place at the National University of Cheasim Kamchaymear at Kampong Cham, Cambodia. Mr. Veasna Monireach, Operation Officer at Banjaran Asset Management (Cambodia) Plc, led the engaging presentation. He delved into the intricacies of Collective Investment Schemes, explaining their benefits, risks, and how individuals can participate in these pooled investment vehicles. The training aimed to enhance financial literacy and empower participants with the knowledge to make informed investment decisions. The event saw a strong turnout, with attendees actively participating in discussions and Q&A sessions, demonstrating a keen interest in understanding investment strategies. This initiative underscores the commitment of ACS and Banjaran Asset Management (Cambodia) Plc to fostering financial education and development within Cambodian communities.
Banjaran AMC at DMUC Careers Fair 2025!
We were proud to be a part of the De Montfort University of Cambodia (DMUC) Careers Fair 2025, an exciting and vibrant event that brought together over 80 leading organizations from sectors including banking, healthcare, hospitality, NGOs, education, and technology. Our team at Banjaran Asset Management (Cambodia) Plc. had a fantastic time engaging with students, recent graduates, and jobseekers who were eager to learn more about the financial and investment industry. From sharing insights into fund management and financial planning to discussing career paths within the non-bank financial sector, our booth was buzzing with conversations, questions, and meaningful connections. We also had interactive activities, giveaways, and plenty of one-on-one discussions with future professionals passionate about shaping Cambodia’s financial future. A heartfelt thank you to all the enthusiastic visitors who stopped by our booth, and to DMUC for hosting such a dynamic platform for employers and jobseekers to connect.
Market Outlook
2026 February Market Outlook: From U.S. Policy Turmoil to Mixed Signals Across Asia
The geopolitical scene in the US has been uncertain and volatile. The January jobs report exceeded expectations, though employment gains were largely concentrated in the healthcare sector. Kevin Warsh, known for his hawkish stance, has been nominated as the next Federal Reserve Chair, though this remains to be confirmed by the Senate. In the past week, the Supreme Court has ruled against President Trump’s International Emergency Economic Powers Act (“IEEPA”) tariffs. In return, the Trump administration acted quickly to impose 10% global tariffs, and immediately raised to 15% that will remain effective for 150 days under a separate trade law. These developments have contributed to a weakening US dollar, which is further exacerbated by rising US-Iran military tensions. Gold extended its rally and reached new highs, while silver surrendered most of its gains. Investors remain cautious amid sharp swings in these traditional safe haven assets. In Asia, market performance has been mixed. Indonesia experienced its largest stock crash since 1998, whereas South Korea and Taiwan delivered strong returns. Markets have shown heightened sensitivity to the external macro environment, resulting in intermittent pullbacks. Most recently, Chinese stocks rose as IEEPA tariffs were removed as China is set to face lower duties on shipments to the US. The Shanghai Composite and Hang Seng indexes also experienced recent declines, as is expected due to thin trading volumes during the Lunar New Year holiday season. Overall sentiment towards Asian equity markets amid the uncertain global political climate remains positive. Against this backdrop, we continue to diversify across different markets and sectors while remaining selective to stock selection, particularly within the technology sector. We continue to maintain a disciplined, bottom-up approach in portfolio construction.
2026 January Market Outlook: A Month That Redirected Market Attention
The New Year began with subdued volatility, but the calm was subsequently shattered by geopolitical events, notably US’s desire to take over Greenland for its strategic Arctic Circle argument. Demand for gold and silver skyrocketed with prices hitting new fresh highs. However, these high precious metal prices can create a range of challenges for precious metal-dependent industries like solar panel makers and EV producers which use silver as part of their components in their production. This may further impact the profitability of the solar panel makers which are already facing an oversupply situation. Asian markets started the year mixed but with some positive moves. Several key themes are driving the markets, central amongst them is a strong Asian IPO pipeline especially in Hong Kong and India. Other country-specific themes that are driving the markets include the deployment of funds from the Equity Market Development Programme in Singapore. The Korean Kospi has exceeded their President’s target, with technology companies fueling the rally on accelerated semiconductor demand. China surprised with an export outperformance with a record 2025 trade surplus, plus resurgent interests in AI-related tech names. While in Japan, performance is mixed where there are concerns with the volatility and soaring yields in the Japanese Government Bonds market. In 2025, US technology stocks dominated investor attention for much of the year, later turning to precious metals commodities. This period also underscored the importance of diversification and currency exposure beyond the US. With growth now amplifying across global markets, moderate softening of the US dollar may act as a drag on returns from US assets. Against this backdrop, we retain our emphasis on broadening exposure to other markets and sectors while being mindful of our stock selection, particularly in the technology sector. We continue to maintain a disciplined, bottom-up fundamental approach in portfolio construction.
2025 December Market Outlook: Protecting Value as Risks Reprice.
The hawkish rate cut signaled the Fed’s caution, even as tariff-related inflation pressures appeared to be fading. November’s jobs report suggested a subdued consumer environment. Unemployment had risen to its highest level since 2021, and retail sales remained unchanged despite Black Friday sales. Though the Trump administration has softened its language on China, recent developments highlight the delicate truce in their trade war. The U.S. has restricted China’s access to technology, such as permitting limited Nvidia chip exports, and formed an international partnership to counter China’s rare earth dominance. Across Asia, the picture remains mixed. The weaker U.S. dollar alleviates pressure on currency weakness in countries like Indonesia, South Korea, India, and the Philippines. The Bank of Japan have responded to the Fed’s rate cut by raising interest rates by a quarter point in a widely expected decision. In China, the economy continues to be supported by sustained capital inflows and the boom in exports while pivoting away from dependence on U.S. consumers. This was in spite of the property sector slump, missed industrial production expectations, weak retail sales, and unchanging unemployment rates. Measures to drive consumption appear ineffective, and rising trade frictions with countries beyond the U.S are weighing on sentiment. Investors are increasingly watchful for signs of an AI-driven bubble, including circular financing risks inflating valuations, where such dynamics could unwind abruptly. Against this backdrop, investors face a strategic dilemma - rein in AI exposure ahead of a potential bubble popping, or double down to capitalize on game-changing technology breakthroughs. In response, we are positioning portfolios defensively and broadening exposure to other sectors. This includes increasing allocations to commodities such as silver and gold, which can serve as stores of value, and consumer staples, that tends to offer more resilient demand. We continue to maintain a disciplined, bottom-up fundamental approach in portfolio construction.
2025 November Market Outlook: AI Bubble Alert
Mega-cap chip making company Nvidia Corp (“Nvidia”) became the first company to hit $5 trillion market capitalisation, likely due to U.S. President Trump’s comments ahead of the trade talk with Chinese President Xi Jinping at the end of October. The talk resulted in a consensus on cooperation in expanding agricultural trade and pausing the rare-earths licensing regime for a year. Mid-November saw the conclusion of the record U.S. government shutdown, which lasted 43 days, and put an end to unpaid furlough and other government operations. Consequently, the October jobs report was cancelled due to insufficient data. The ambiguity around unemployment rates raised uncertainty about the state of the U.S. economy. Compounding concerns were exacerbated by growing anxieties about stretched valuations of an “AI bubble”, which led to a selloff towards the end of November. Similarly, the Asian equity market, primarily due to technology companies in the AI landscape, slumped after an initial rally in the previous month’s end. In the semiconductor space, South Korean company Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. reported an 80% surge in profit and SK Hynix Inc. continued to lead in chip memory. In China, different industries continue to diverge as technology companies grow while consumption and property remain a drag. In response, China’s policymakers are evaluating various measures to support the housing market. The MSCI Emerging Markets Index fell sharply, and losses were led by the tech heavy Korean Kospi index where the aforementioned Korean companies posted steep declines. Looking ahead, we remain cautious of the volatility in the markets. Due to concerns about inflated valuations for technology companies, the pullback observed in late November may have been a profit taking move or a price correction. Investors remain watchful for indicators of the widely discussed AI bubble, and signals for a potential burst. Against this landscape, we maintain a disciplined and balanced approach, grounded in bottom-up fundamental analysis in our portfolio construction.
2025 October Market Outlook: Between Tariffs and Growth — Searching for Stability
Towards the end of September, in an effort to protect American jobs, the Trump administration made surprised changes to immigration visa laws that target foreign talent, particularly those working in the U.S. technology sector. Amongst the heaviest users of this targeted immigration visa scheme include Amazon.com Services LLC, Meta Platforms Inc, Apple Inc and Google LLC. Later that month, the U.S. Immigration Service issued guidance that included exceptions, thus stabilising concerns. However, the labour market outlook remains uncertain with the shutdown of the U.S. government, which began on October 1st. Consequently, data reports such as the official U.S. monthly jobs report and the labour-intensive Consumer Price Index report would likely be delayed amidst the impending mass firing and unpaid furlough of certain segments of federal workers. In China, September data showed low domestic demand, a continued property downturn and the weakest economic growth in a year. With the ongoing US-China trade war, Chinese regulators have urged against the use of Nvidia chips completely, stating that domestic chips are adequate in delivering comparable computing power. As such, Chinese domestic chipmakers have benefitted from efforts to become self-sufficient, and this move should serve as a catalyst to grow the technology sector. China tightened exports of rare earth where products that contain certain rare earths or traces of it sourced from China will now require an export license. With a 70% share of global supply, the supply crunch would be felt by the U.S. and Europe. In response, the U.S. imposed a 100% import surtax on Chinese goods effective November 1st, ahead of the 90-day tariff truce that was set to end on November 9th. Despite the trade war uncertainty, Chinese exports rebounded in September from a slump in August, beating estimates and increasing 8.3% year over year while imports grew 7.4%. The sweep of high tariffs from the U.S. have led China to seek imports from other avenues, such as Brazil and Argentina for soybean, which has caused farmers in the U.S. to scramble for buyers. On the other hand, aggressive price competition among manufacturers in China have led to what has been termed ‘Chinese dumping’, where low prices due to Chinese imports are alarming domestic producers in India, Africa and South-east Asia. Looking ahead, we remain cautiously optimistic of the global markets. In the U.S., businesses and households are concerned over trade tariffs, changes to immigration laws and the shutdown of the U.S. government. The structural imbalance in China represented by slow domestic growth and heavy reliance on export further weighs on global financial markets and investor confidence. Despite the uncertainty, there were reports of pockets of positive news. Alternative data in the U.S. such as restaurant bookings and theatre box office receipts reflects resilient consumer activity. The number of seated diners was up 9% from last year and domestic box office grossed 13% more than the previous month.
2025 September Market Outlook: Bullish Trends Meet a Cautious Reality
August began with higher reciprocal tariffs imposed by the U.S. on its trading partners. Notably, a 50% tariff on India that included a 25% penalty for purchasing Russian oil and weapons. Meanwhile, the U.S. and China extended a tariff truce for another 90 days to 10 November. Credit spreads narrowed further in August, indicating continued high investor risk appetite. Equity markets broadly advanced, reinforcing bullish sentiment amid strong earnings from technology driven firms. That said, investors are growing cautious about returns from technology and particularly, AI investments. Economic data indicated a struggling Chinese economy with low factory output, weak retail sales, troubled property sector and high unemployment. This raises the likelihood of policy support in the fourth quarter; economists suggest monetary easing and fiscal expansion. Despite underwhelming economic data, the Chinese stock market stands at a stark contrast to the economy with the Shanghai Composite Index at a 10-year high. Additionally, the government announced their aim to triple chip output in 2026. The reluctance of household spending is evident in the size of savings worth more than 60% of the total value of the Chinese stock markets, leading analysts to believe that the rally is supported by long-term and institutional investors. Key drivers include the strategic deployment of state funds, inflows from global institutional investors—such as major U.S. financial institutions like Goldman Sachs and JPMorgan, as well as large Singapore-based funds—and increased participation by domestic mutual funds and insurers. Looking ahead, we remain cautiously optimistic. While trade frictions, sticky inflation, and geopolitical tensions continue to weigh on sentiment, global activity remains resilient. Primarily driven by technology companies’ robust earnings, U.S. equities performed well, with S&P 500 and Nasdaq reaching record highs in August. Despite an initial pullback, markets have broadly rallied since, buoyed by expectations of two more rate cuts this year, moderating inflation, and resilient corporate earnings. Within Asia, institutional investors looking for diversification beyond U.S. assets are lured by China’s stock market bull run. Against this backdrop, we maintain a disciplined and balanced approach, grounded in bottom-up fundamental analysis in our portfolio construction.