If you are seeking international and emerging market exposure, these mutual funds may be worth a look.
Baron Emerging Markets (BEXIX, BEXFX) and Baron International Growth (BINIX, BIGFX)
from No-Load Fund Analyst
We have recommended Baron Emerging Markets (BEXIX, BEXFX) and Baron International Growth (BINIX, BIGFX) since December 2013. Baron International Growth was launched December 2008 and Baron Emerging Markets two years later, leaving us with too short a time period to conduct meaningful performance analysis. Since-inception and year-to-date returns through June 30, 2014, for the International Growth fund are 16.3% and 5.5%, respectively. This compares favorably with the MSCI AC World ex U.S. Growth index, which returned 13.7% and 5.3%, respectively, over the same time periods. For the Emerging Markets fund, since-inception and year-to-date returns are 7.2% and 8.5%, which also compares favorably with the iShares MSCI Emerging Markets index, which has lost 0.7% since December 31, 2010, but gained 4.8% year to date.
We believe Baron Emerging Markets and Baron International Growth will beat their benchmarks over the long term. Despite the relatively short track records, we see many positives. Our confidence stems from Baron Capital’s disciplined long-term approach to growth investing, superior understanding of long-term trends and business models, as well as the experience, passion, and work ethic of portfolio manager Michael Kass. We continue to recommend both Baron Emerging Markets and Baron International Growth.
Stephen Savage, No-Load Fund Analyst, Litman/Gregory Research Inc., www.nlfa.com, 800-776-9555, August 2014