Asia Local Currency Bonds: A timely opportunity

In a world of shifting macroeconomic tides, Asia’s local currency bond markets are emerging as a compelling destination for global investors. The confluence of a rising US fiscal deficit, weakening US dollar, subdued inflation across much of Asia, and higher real yields in the Asia region is creating a favourable backdrop for these assets. For investors seeking diversification, income, and resilience, the case for Asia local currency bonds has rarely been stronger.

In our mid-year outlook, we noted that the new US budget may have negative long-term implications for US Treasuries. At the same time, while the USD would probably maintain its reserve currency status for the foreseeable future, concerns over weaker US growth, the sustainability of the US’ fiscal deficit and growing geopolitical tensions have all contributed to a reassessment of the USD’s dominance. We believe that this is likely to drive some further repatriation of funds out of the USD over the next year.

Asian currencies are likely to strengthen as a result. In recent months, the USD has depreciated against most major currencies, including those in Asia. See Fig. 1. This trend enhances the appeal of local currency bonds for foreign investors, as currency appreciation can amplify total returns. Moreover, as the USD weakens, the relative attractiveness of US Treasuries and other US assets diminishes, potentially prompting investors to diversify and seek alternatives with better risk-reward profiles. Asia currency exposure may also be attractive to USD investors who are looking to diversify.

Fig. 1. Asian currency movements against the USD (year to date)

Source: Bloomberg. As of 15 May 2025.

Asia local currency bonds offer diversification benefits as they exhibit low to moderate correlations to US Treasuries and to other major developed market peers. This is increasingly valuable in today’s volatile environment. Fig. 2.

Fig. 2. Correlations between bond yields, 1995 to 2025

Source: Bloomberg, IIF. May 2025.

The asset class has also matured significantly. As of end April 2025, the outstanding value of local currency bonds in Asia reached USD 1339 bn, comprising over 2000 issues from more than 390 issuers.¹ The size of the market reflects not only the region’s economic growth but also regulatory reforms and increased foreign participation. As more Asia local currency bonds get included in global benchmarks, passive flows are likely to rise, further supporting valuations. For example, India government bonds were included in the JP Morgan Government Bond Index – Emerging Markets from 2024 while South Korea's government bonds are set to be included in the FTSE Russell World Government Bond Index starting in April 2026.

Asian sovereigns are key issuers in local currency bond indices. With many of Asia’s government bond markets having investment-grade ratings, they potentially offer investors both quality and yield. Fig. 3. Corporate issuers are relatively more active in China, Malaysia, Singapore and Thailand. Fig. 4.

While inflation remains sticky in the US and parts of Europe, Asia tells a different story. Central banks in the region have largely succeeded in anchoring inflation expectations. Fig. 5. In India, for instance, inflation has declined to a six-year low of 3.2% year-on-year, driven by falling food prices. Similarly, in the Philippines, inflation is subdued, with weak domestic demand allowing the central bank to maintain a dovish stance.

Fig. 5. Asia inflation appears contained

Source: LSEG Datastream. May 2025.

Moderate inflation gives Asian central banks room to maneuver. In 2025 to date, central banks in India, Indonesia, Korea, Singapore, China, Philippines and Thailand have already cut rates or eased. More easing is expected going forward. This policy flexibility supports bond prices and provides a stable environment for income-seeking investors.

With inflation under control and nominal yields still elevated, real yields in Asia are among the most attractive globally. For example, real yields in Indonesia, India and Philippines are currently higher than the US’. Fig. 6.

Fig. 6. Asia vs US real yields

Source: Bloomberg. May 2025. Inflation data as of latest available. Yields may be an estimation in some instances, as some local currency bonds have wide bid-asks.

This yield advantage is not just a function of policy rates. It reflects deeper structural strengths such as prudent fiscal management, improving credit fundamentals, and growing domestic investor bases.

Besides tailwinds from potential rate cuts, many of the markets also enjoy idiosyncratic drivers such as strong domestic demand in Indonesia, Malaysia, India, South Korea and China. Meanwhile, Singapore, one of the few remaining AAA-rated government bond markets in the world, enjoys a safe haven status given its low volatility and high credit rating.

Asia local currency bonds offer a rare combination of yield, stability, and diversification. As the global economic order evolves, these assets can play a key role in global bond portfolios. With the US dollar under pressure, inflation subdued across Asia, and high real yields, now may be the time for investors to take a closer look at what Asia’s local bond markets have to offer. In markets like Indonesia and Malaysia to a lesser extent, steep yield curves offer opportunities for duration plays, especially ahead of anticipated rate cuts. In the near term, market volatility—driven by trade tensions, geopolitical risks, and uncertain US trade policy—may create entry points for nimble active investors.