International equity markets have gradually acquired greater prominence and account for more than half of the world’s market capitalization. Investors are now aware of this fact and over time a clear preference for international mutual funds has emerged. Emerging market mutual funds are of particular interest because of the untapped potential of these countries as well as their growth performance. International mutual funds are the best way to explore these markets since they have the advantages of expert management, diversification and a disciplined approach
Below we will share with you 5 top rated international mutual funds. Each has earned a Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) as we expect these mutual funds to outperform their peers in the future. To view the Zacks Rank and past performance of all international funds, investors can click here to see the complete list of funds.
Ivy International Growth A (IVINX) invests a large share of its assets in common stocks of companies located outside the U.S. It selects firms for investment on the basis of their potential for long term growth and focuses on companies from developed countries. The international mutual fund has a ten year annualized return of 4.21%.
F. Chace Brundige is the fund manager and has managed this international mutual fund since 2009.
Putnam International Growth A (PINOX) seeks capital growth over the long term. The fund primarily invests in common stocks of foreign companies regardless of their size. The international mutual fund has a ten year annualized return of 5.06%.
As of September 2011, this international mutual fund held 236 issues, with 2.74% of its total assets invested in BG Group PLC.
Waddell & Reed International Growth A (UNCGX) primarily invests in foreign firms that have growing market share, an advantageous competitive position and the ability to deliver long term growth. The fund focuses on investing in mature markets, but may also invest in emerging economies. The international mutual fund has a ten year annualized return of 4.48%.
The international mutual fund has a minimum initial investment of $500 and an expense ratio of 1.48% compared to a category average of 1.45%.
Columbia International Value A (NIVLX) seeks capital appreciation over the long term. The fund invests at least 65%of its assets in companies outside the U.S. with a market capitalization of more than $1 billion. The international mutual fund has a ten year annualized return of 5.22%.
Jeffrey Germaine is the fund manager and he has managed this international mutual fund since 2009.
AllianceBernstein International Growth A (AWPAX) seeks capital appreciation over the long term. The fund primarily invests in equity securities issued by foreign companies from various market sectors. It usually invests in 90-130 companies located in three different countries at any given time. The international mutual fund has a ten year annualized return of 7.59%.
The international mutual fund has a minimum initial investment of $2,500 and an expense ratio of 1.30% compared to a category average of 1.45%.
To view the Zacks Rank and past performance of all international mutual funds, investors can click here to see the complete list of funds.
About Zacks Mutual Fund Rank
By applying the Zacks Rank to mutual funds, investors can find funds that not only outpaced the market in the past but are also expected to outperform going forward. Learn more about the Zacks Mutual Fund Rank at http://www.zacks.com/funds.
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