FEG INSIGHT BRIDGE PODCAST

Emerging Unscathed: Featuring Ali Akay

Written by FEG | April 1, 2025

How does one navigate the risks and opportunities of emerging markets today? Ali Akay, founder and CIO of Carrhae Capital, shares his wisdom.

In this episode of the FEG Insight Bridge Podcast, Greg Dowling sits down with Ali Akay, Founder and CIO of Carrhae Capital and experienced emerging markets investor. Ali shares his journey from central bank consultant to founder of a successful investment firm, embodying his personal mantra, "Struggling, I emerge." His perspective on macroeconomic factors, political and currency risks, and the benefits of country and currency diversification provide a roadmap for navigating the complexities and considerable opportunities inherent in these markets.

Tune in for an insightful discussion on identifying, navigating and unlocking the opportunities in today’s emerging markets.

 

Key Takeaways:

  • Understanding macroeconomic factors and country-specific differences are crucial for investing in today’s emerging markets. To make informed decisions, Ali’s investment process emphasizes economic stability and prudent central bank policies.
  • Navigating regional and country-specific political and currency issues can be a challenge for some investors. Ali discusses how these factors can – and should - impact portfolios.
  • Diversification is essential for managing risk and enhancing returns, especially in emerging markets. Ali and Greg discuss how investing across countries, industries, and asset classes provides access to broader opportunities and can help investors achieve better outcomes.
  • In emerging markets, experienced active managers can add considerable value. Ali shares his approach to identifying opportunities, managing risks, and the importance of agile decision-making.




Episode Chapters
0:00 Podcast Introduction
1:14 Introduction to Ali Akay
2:46 Macro-Outlook Shaped by Experience with Central Banks
4:04 "Whole stack" Analysis of Emerging Markets (EM) Stocks
5:16 Key Learnings and the Lauch of Carrhae Capital
7:30 Why Invest in EM Now? Potential Effects of Tariffs and Opportunities
11:27 Managing Currency Fluctuations
12:19 Investing Opportunities in China
14:52 Considerations for Investing in Greece
15:51 Turkey, an Under-rated Opportunity?
16:58 Being Selective in Peru
18:12 Recently on South Korea
20:63 Investing in Mexico and Current Geo-Political Climate
27:29 Managing Risk in the Emerging Markets
30:18 Bonus: More on Ali Akay