The silk road to riches: How you can profit by investing in Asia’s newfound prosperity

Introduction

Preparing for Change

A vast network of ancient trade routes, the “Silk Road,” connected Asia with the West. From the Chinese metropolis of Xian to the shores of the Indian Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea, goods and ideas traveled on this road, enhancing the lives of millions of people.

In May 2005, during the annual meeting of the Asian Development Bank, finance ministers from 13 Asian nations moved a step closer to creating an Asian monetary fund and establishing a Silk Road for a new era. Although building this road is a long process, the fact is that Asian countries (including Japan) are pushing for more regional financial integration.

The reasons for this common desire are twofold. Asian governments were disappointed with the International ...