Volatility strikes again: Why investors shouldn’t panic
September has a reputation. Ask any investor on Wall Street and they’ll tell you — it’s the month markets misbehave. But is that jinx a uniquely American problem, or does Asia catch the same fever?
That’s the question on this week’s Market Focus Weekly, hosted by Emily Liu for The Business Times. She’s joined by Vikas Pershad, portfolio manager of APAC Equities at M&G Investments, who doesn’t just talk volatility — he thrives on it.
And this episode packs plenty of reasons to tune in:
Why listen?
1. Is volatility really the villain?
Markets are lurching with dizzying speed — one day plunging, the next day roaring back. Vikas argues it’s not the swings but the velocity that investors should fear. And why long-term players might actually welcome the bumps.
BT in your inbox
Start and end each day with the latest news stories and analyses delivered straight to your inbox.
2. India’s trillion-dollar runway.
A GST cut in the world’s fastest-growing major economy isn’t just a tax tweak. It could unlock a decade of growth and trillions in market cap. Emily and Vikas break down what it means for autos, air-cons, and the average Indian investor.
3. Gold at US$3,500 — bubble or backbone?
Safe-haven buying has turned gold into a market darling. But is this surge sustainable, or a shiny distraction from deeper cracks in currencies and bonds? And where does crypto fit in this tug-of-war for “store of value”?
Add to that China’s attempt to cool a US$2.7 trillion rally and Japan’s bond market flashing warning lights, and you’ve got an episode that’s less crystal-ball gazing, more reality check.
Because if September teaches us anything, it’s this: Markets might not be smooth sailing. But if you know where to look, you might land on opportunity.
That’s all in this week’s Market Focus Weekly. Listen to more episodes at bt.sg/podcasts. Got feedback? Email us at btpodcasts@sph.com.sg.
---
Written and hosted by: Emily Liu (emilyliu@sph.com.sg)
With Vikas Pershad, portfolio manager, APAC Equities, M&G Investments
Edited by: Chai Pei Chieh & Claressa Monteiro
Produced by: Emily & Chai Pei Chieh
A podcast by BT Podcasts, The Business Times, SPH Media
---
Follow Market Focus Weekly podcasts every Friday:
Channel: bt.sg/btmktfocus
Amazon: bt.sg/mfam
Apple Podcasts: bt.sg/mfap
Spotify: bt.sg/mfsp
YouTube Music: bt.sg/mfyt
Website: bt.sg/mktfocus
Do note: This podcast is meant to provide general information only. SPH Media accepts no liability for loss arising from any reliance on the podcast or use of third party’s products and services. Please consult professional advisors for independent advice.
Discover more BT podcast series:
BT Money Hacks at: bt.sg/btmoneyhacks
BT Correspondents: bt.sg/btcobt
BT Podcasts: bt.sg/pcOM
BT Branded Podcasts: bt.sg/btbrpod
BT Lens On: bt.sg/btlenson
Copyright SPH Media. All rights reserved.
