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By Mark Dampier, Head of Research There is more than one way to benefit from any rise in commodities. There is the simple commodity play, buying mining and prospecting firms around the world. Another is to invest in the companies which support these firms and those that convert these In the past demand for commodities didn't seem to increase with economic activity because the world improved the way it used them and learned how to use less. The result is there have been only a few new mines brought on-stream. Suddenly countries with huge populations have thrown their hat into the world's economic melting pot. This has caught out the commodity producers who have been sitting pretty and watching the prices rise. They are now scurrying around seeking new sources. The price of commodities is such that many potential sources deemed too expensive in the past now look profitable. It is interesting to note that many pundits believe an opportunity has opened up to invest in companies involved not only with extracting commodities but also transportation and storage and other supporting companies. Another factor to consider is the cause of the rise in demand - the unprecedented amount of construction in China and other emerging markets. As these nations develop their landscape changes but so do their economies and the needs of their people. Currently the demand is for raw materials for infrastructure, basic food and agriculture. As the economy matures, desires change. In the West we take some goods for granted. We view cars, toothpaste from a tube and shampoo in a bottle as essential items. In many places in the developing world these are currently considered luxury goods. Demand for the basics of everyday life is expected to increase massively as these nations grow wealthier. A mixture of commodities-related companies and those that provide the everyday basics are key parts of the M&G Global Basics Fund. The manager, Graham French, looks for not only the primary beneficiaries of the commodities boom but also the secondary. The returns have been superb and this has been the top performing fund of this higher risk sector since November 2000, rising by 164.9% against a sector average of 5.6%. Please remember that past performance is not a guide to the future and funds can fall in value as well as rise. In our opinion the commodities boom and demand from the emerging market consumers look unlikely to end any time soon. If you are looking for a fund offering diversified exposure to natural resources and exposure to the emerging wealth of the developing economies, we believe M&G Global Basics makes an excellent long term choice. The M&G Global Basics Fund is available through Hargreaves Lansdown with no initial charge. Investors can apply online with a debit card or download application forms or transfer forms from our website. The Fund of the Month is written by Hargreaves Lansdown. An independent broker offering unit trust, stockbroking, pension and investment services. Useful links: |
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