STR Global Hotel Reports - Asia Pacific

STR Global have reported hotels within the Asia Pacific region experienced positive results during May this year. The region's occupancy during the month grew by 3.2% to 67.6%; its daily average rate ended the month virtually flat with a 0.1% increase to US$115.10; with its revenue per available room increased by 3.3% to US$77.80.

The Philippines excelled by occupancy growth, increasing from 13.7% to 70.6%, owing to an increased demand of 17.6%. Indonesia also experienced positive growth rate during May, increasing by 10.7%. This is one of the highest increases of the Asia Pacific, principally motivated by Jakarta, increasing rates by 12.1%.

Highlights from significant market performers during May in local currency (year-over-year comparisons):

The big 6 Asian markets of 2014

Yesterday, BlackRock released its investment outlook for Asian equities and credit, where it was reported Indonesia, China, India, Japan, Korea and Taiwan are the significant markets to watch during the latter half of this year.

This is as it was claimed structural reforms remain to dominate the agenda and outlook for stock markets across the region.

China

The head of Asian equities at BlackRock claimed that the Chinese leadership continues to motivate the domestic reforms process, as there has been added value and risk as the year has progressed. This is particularly in the energy and industrial sectors.

India

The election win of the BJP may access India’s potential by rebooting its investment cycle. The decisive election result may improve government decision making and execution, which in turn would boost investment in energy and infrastructure, opening more employment opportunities.

Korea and Taiwan

According to a representative from BlackRock, Korea and Taiwan should be beneficiaries of global and improved export growth.

Japan

Japan remains to add liquidity even as the economy absorbs the increase in consumption taxes. Investors should expect more reform progress.

Indonesia

The market has delivered exceptional returns so far during 2014. However, Indonesia is currently under elections, with market positioning, valuations, plus the risk of negative surprise subsequent of the upcoming July elections adding some caution. Although, any sell-off following the election would be a buying opportunity.