It has become very clear that investors who continue to ignore foreign stocks will be missing out on the greatest growth stories of the next couple of decades. The growth and diversification benefits are such that Wharton finance professor Jeremy Siegel says U.S.-only investors are practicing a "risky strategy."
But there is also a danger in jumping into foreign equities at any price, particularly in the richly valued Chinese market. Siegel, Buffett, and common sense will all tell you that. Fortunately, there is a way to buy into the massive growth of the Chinese economy without overpaying, and I'll tell you how by the end of this article.
But first ...
Consider this: U.S. stocks accounted for 90% of the world's equity capitalization at the end of World War II, but by 2050 they will make up less than 18% of the worldwide market, according to the U.N. Demographic Commission. Sure, there will be plenty of American success stories in the coming decades, but why exclude from your investing universe foreign wonders like Canadian wireless expert Research In Motion
Experts are particularly excited about the Chinese and Indian markets, which Siegel says will move "to the forefront of the world economy." But here's where the danger comes in. Siegel's research in Stocks for the Long Run clearly shows that fast growth does not necessarily translate into superior stock returns, mostly because of high valuation levels. For instance, some of the finest growth businesses in the world were so overvalued at the height of the tech bubble that they went on to lose 70% or more after the bubble popped -- Amazon.com
So, you want to be in the Chinese market, but you don't want to overpay. You want to find the future Amazons and Intels before they get all... bubbly on you. Here's how you can do it.
Tiers for fears
Motley Fool Global Gains advisor Tim Hanson has visited China three times in the past three years, and has come away with insights you won't read about anywhere else. He's advising his members for the time being to stay away from the glitz and glamour of "tier one" China, which is centered on coastal giants such as Beijing or Shanghai. This is the China familiar to most of us, and home to companies such as Origin Agritech
Instead, investors should turn to the poorer, rural, less developed tier two and tier three China, which are not only experiencing faster growth than tier one China, but are also home to more reasonably valued companies. Yes, we're talking faster growth at cheaper prices, and Tim is one of the few analysts in the country talking about this opportunity.
Cheaper stocks, faster growth
For the seventh year in a row, the Chinese government says its top focus will be on furthering development and raising incomes in the rural parts of the country. With more government money and manpower pouring in, the fast growth in rural China will continue. Here you'll find, according to Tim, "cheaper stocks, faster growth, and more sustainable economic tailwinds."
If you'd like to know more about which stocks Tim and rest of the Global Gains team specifically recommend, you can do so at no cost with a free 30-day trial of the service. This not only includes all their active recommendations, but also the special report, The China Rural Boom Basket: 5 Ways to Play the Fastest-Growing Niche in China. Here's more information.
Fool analyst Rex Moore finally found where the rubber meets the road. Intel is a Motley Fool Inside Value pick. Baidu is a Motley Fool Rule Breakers selection. Amazon.com is a Motley Fool Stock Advisor recommendation. Motley Fool Options has recommended a buy calls position on Intel. The Fool has a covered strangle position on Intel and a disclosure policy.
