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Global Fixed Income Bulletin
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June 14, 2024

Lost in the Forest

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June 14, 2024

Lost in the Forest


Global Fixed Income Bulletin

Lost in the Forest

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June 14, 2024

 
 

May saw global government bonds rallying for the first three weeks, followed by a slight sell off to close out an otherwise uneventful month. Japan was one of the few exceptions, as bond yields continued to rise as the need for eventual rate hikes, later in the year, became more certain. Emerging market bond yields followed pace with their developed market counterparts over the month, but lingering inflation made it difficult to outperform. The U.S. Dollar had its first down month of 2024 with the euro, pound, and other developed/emerging market currencies outpacing the clear leader of the first four months of the year. Within spread sectors, investment grade (IG) credit spreads were broadly tighter with Euro IG marginally outperforming the U.S. Within high yield, U.S. high yield spreads were wider over the month, while Euro high yield spreads tightened significantly. Securitized credit spreads continued to tighten and have been one of the best performing sectors year-to-date within the fixed income universe.

 
 
DISPLAY 1
 
Asset Performance Year-to-Date
 

Note: USD-based performance. Source: Bloomberg. Data as of May 31, 2024. The indexes are provided for illustrative purposes only and are not meant to depict the performance of a specific investment. Past performance is no guarantee of future results. See below for index definitions.

 
 
DISPLAY 2
 
Currency Monthly Changes versus USD
 

Note: Positive change means appreciation of the currency against the USD. Source: Bloomberg. Data as of May 31, 2024. 

 
DISPLAY 3
 
Major Monthly Changes in 10-Year Yields and Spreads
 

Source: Bloomberg, JPMorgan. Data as of May 31, 2024.

 
 

Fixed Income Outlook
May proved to be a good month for U.S. dollar bonds, but not as much for the rest of the world. U.S. Treasuries were buoyed by weaker-than-expected data supporting the idea that the first quarter’s outsized inflation prints, and strong aggregate demand data, were not the start of a new trend, e.g., the “no landing” / “no rate cut” scenario. In many ways this was not surprising as U.S. growth peaked in Q3 last year and has been decelerating since. The big question on investors’ and policy makers’ minds is how far will the deceleration in growth and employment go? The worries over the “no landing” scenario were replaced by optimism that economies were back on track for the “soft-landing” version -- a world of rate cuts and falling inflation accompanied by trend-like growth.

This scenario looks more probable than two months ago with central banks in Sweden, Switzerland and now Canada and the European Central Bank, cutting rates. Central banks are eager to cut rates and are looking for excuses to do so, and that excuse is lower inflation and expectations of even lower inflation in the future. The Fed is turning out to be the most recalcitrant to initiate a rate cut and justifiably so. Recently, the U.S. has had the strongest economy in the world and even with the deceleration underway, they are handily outperforming most other countries including many emerging markets.

Despite still high levels of growth and inflation (relative to targets), bond investors have become optimistic about future Fed policy and are now forecasting up to two Fed rate cuts in 2024, when, as of earlier this year, there was less than one expected. This is not unreasonable if inflation falls further, and if labor markets continue to ease. Hard U.S. economic data still does not suggest that a rate cut is imminent, nor does sticky service sector inflation. Service sector data still does not point to material economic weakness and with no credit imbalances in the U.S. economy, it is difficult to see the need for imminent rate cuts. At some point rate cuts will happen, just not yet.

The absence of U.S. rate cuts, lack of clarity about the extent of easing cycles (both in the U.S. and elsewhere), and the continued inversion of yield curves makes long-maturity bonds on the margin less attractive. 10-year U.S. Treasuries are flirting with the 4.25% level, which we believe is likely to be the limit unless data materially weakens, particularly employment data. Moreover, real yields on 10-year U.S. TIPs look like they will run into resistance around the 1.9-2.0% level. While it is difficult to see what will drive yields back to their 2024 highs (c. 4.7% in 10-year U.S. Treasuries), it is too early to jump onto the bullish bandwagon, and a similar situation exists around the world where yields have been following the U.S. lower.

Credit markets have essentially shrugged off the May equity volatility and remain well supported.  While there is no doubt that most credit spreads are rich by historical standards, we do not believe they are expensive to fundamentals. While we do not expect further meaningful tightening, there is no reason to believe that spreads will widen given still sound fundamentals and macroeconomic performance, which should be supportive of spreads. Strong yield-oriented buying should prevent spreads from widening, and a neutral to modestly overweight credit position still seems warranted. One factor we are paying close attention to is the level of all-in yields and their impact on demand for corporate bonds. It is possible that if yields fall further, buyer demand could begin to fall, and spreads could widen. However, this remains a risk and not a foregone conclusion as the U.S. economy continues to perform well and the global economy remains on an upswing. We remain overweight credit in portfolios, paying more attention to idiosyncratic risks rather than general macro spread widening risks.

Emerging market (EM) local market returns were mixed in May, testifying to the cross-current of forces at work. While EM central banks had been in the vanguard of cutting rates, that is no longer the case. Most rate-cutting EM central banks have paused or are slowing down the pace of cuts. It is no longer clear if inflation will fall faster in EM countries than in developed countries and if EM central banks will be able to aggressively cut rates. That said, DM central banks have been more slow to begin easing policy, which has led to a more benign global backdrop for EM countries.  This could restart the carry trade where investors buy higher yielding currencies and sell lower yielding ones.  We have sympathy for this view but remain concerned about idiosyncratic risks such as the political upsets in recent elections in Mexico, India, and South Africa.  We have reduced exposure to Latin American rates in favor of U.S. and Euro credit.

Given the uncertainty surrounding the robustness of the global economy, the extent of DM central bank easing and the timing of the first U.S. rate cut, we continue to find the best fixed income opportunities in shorter maturity securitized credit, such as residential mortgage-backed securities (RMBS), asset backed securities (ABS), and selective non-office commercial mortgage-backed securities (CMBS), given their higher yields and strong collateral.  U.S. households with prime credit ratings have very strong balance sheets, and this should continue to be supportive of consumer credit and ancillary structures, especially as house prices remain firm. U.S. agency mortgages still have value compared to investment grade credit, at least in higher coupons, and they should outperform U.S. Treasuries.

In currency markets, the outlook for the U.S. dollar remains uncertain.  On one hand, other central banks front running the Fed should be dollar supportive, but that has not been the case. With the global economy’s trajectory looking better than the U.S. (albeit from a low base), the period of strong U.S. economic outperformance may be coming to an end.  It is too early to be sure, but the groundwork is being laid. The global FX carry trade is likely to resurrect itself as idiosyncratic risks die down.  As such, we are not convinced that large pro or anti U.S. dollar trades make sense.  The best opportunities remain in non-USD currencies such as small Latin EM currencies, and on the negative side, the Canadian dollar which should struggle with weak economic growth and easing monetary policy.

Developed Market Rate/Foreign Currency

Monthly Review:
May was a month of two halves in the DM rates markets. Bond markets rallied in the first half of the month as the Fed leaned dovish at its May meeting, continuing to signal an intention to cut interest rates. Economic data, such as U.S. retail sales, also came in weaker than expected while the April U.S. CPI print ended a string of upside inflation surprises, with services inflation in particular moderating. Later in the month, however, policymakers turned less dovish, and data came in stronger. Various Fed speakers also began to explicitly reference further policy tightening, though they were quick to stress hikes were not in their base case, while minutes from the May meeting revealed that a few policymakers doubted just how restrictive current policy is. Inflation in other markets – most notably Australia, the UK, and the Eurozone – were also higher than expected and showed signs of price pressures reaccelerating. On foreign exchange, the U.S. dollar ended the month weaker against all G10 peers. Sterling gained 2% against the USD as higher inflation reduced Bank of England rate cutting expectations, while the Australian dollar also gained 2.7% on a hawkish inflation print. The Scandinavian currencies were the biggest outperformers given the risk-on environment. Given the divergent cross-market monetary policy outlooks, we continue to favor the Australian dollar over the Canadian dollar.1

Outlook:
While several DM central banks are widely expected to cut rates in the coming months, the depth of the cutting cycle is more important for fixed income markets than the timing of the first cut. Recent data and policy communication suggests central banks will likely adopt a cautious approach. We stay short duration as momentum is bearish, carry is negative and valuations in longer-maturities are unattractive. Cross-market, we prefer to be short Australian vs. U.S. rates due to evidence of still-sticky inflation and the RBA turning more hawkish. We also remain underweight duration in Japan, where communication has turned less dovish amid concern about the weak yen, and confidence has grown that positive wage-price dynamics will lead to sustainably higher inflation. 

Emerging Market Rate/Foreign Currency

Monthly Review:
May performance was positive for the major segments of emerging markets debt (EMD). Global bond markets reacted positively to softer than expected U.S. inflation for April, and this helped support EMD assets as well. Most EM currencies strengthened month-over-month and the U.S. dollar weakened. The Chilean peso rallied as copper, a major export for the country, continued the price rally that started in April. One notable outlier was the Philippine peso, which continued its year-to-date weakening streak as inflation remains sticky. As inflation continued to accelerate, neighboring Indonesia hiked rates in April to support the currency, but a rate hike for the Philippines is not likely due to the potential negative impact on economic growth. Spreads marginally tightened for the EM corporates index, but both the sovereign and corporate index were supported by U.S. Treasury yields. After a brief flows reversal in April for hard currency bonds, both local currency and hard currency bonds reverted to outflows in May.2

Outlook:
Valuations for emerging markets debt are still attractive and assets are cheap, which presents an attractive entry point for investors. Spreads for hard currency assets are near long-term averages, but bifurcation in the markets and off-benchmark countries provide opportunities for investors. The direction of monetary policy in the U.S. is likely easing, which will provide a supportive backdrop for emerging markets assets. However, growth expectations along with credible monetary policy will continue to support local assets. Real yields are near historic high levels and with continued falling inflation this provides a good environment for bond investors. Reform stories and positive turns in policy continue to make progress which is exciting for a team of country pickers.

Corporate Credit

Monthly Review:
In May, investment grade credit spreads continued to grind tighter, with Euro outperforming the U.S., and credit volatility remained low. Market sentiment was dominated by several factors: Firstly, inflation and growth data surprised to the upside in Europe but in-line in the U.S. Secondly, central bank policy continues to diverge as the ECB is expected to cut rates in June while the Fed remains hawkish. Thirdly, Q1 corporate reporting was positive for credit, with the confirmation that corporates were seeing limited stress in their business with the majority running low risk strategies. M&A activity continues to be conservatively funded from a bondholder perspective. Finally, the technical remains strong as the higher-than-expected supply is met with strong demand.3

May was a modestly strong month for the U.S. and global high yield markets. The average yield in the U.S. high yield market fell by more than 35 basis points (bps) over the first two weeks of the month before gradually climbing in the second half as spreads modestly widened. Ultimately, the average spread ended the month only slightly higher while the average yield was modestly lower on the back of lower U.S. Treasury yields.  The technical conditions in high yield strengthened in May as retail demand was notably stronger, gross issuance increased and net issuance remained light, with capital markets squarely focused on refinancing. Finally, traditional default activity among high yield bond issuers was non-existent in May; however, the volume of distressed exchanges remained elevated.4

The global convertible bond market had a modestly strong month as the balance of macroeconomic data was generally interpreted as supportive of risk assets. While the asset class generated positive returns, it underperformed both global equities and global bonds in May. New issuance was historically strong with $18 billion pricing during the month. The U.S. led the way in terms of primary issuance followed closely by Asia, which saw two large deals from Alibaba and JD.com, at $5 billion and $2 billion, respectively. Both deals were among the largest deals ever for the region.5

Outlook:
Looking forward, our base case remains constructive for credit given expectations of a “no/soft landing”, strong corporate fundamentals supported by low-risk corporate strategies, accommodative fiscal policy and robust demand for the “all-in” yield creating a supportive technical dynamic. When looking at credit spreads, we view the market as fairly priced and therefore view carry as an attractive return opportunity but given the uncertain medium term fundamental backdrop, we have less confidence in further spread tightening.

Our outlook for the high yield market is somewhat cautious as we progress through the second quarter. The high yield market is contending with several elements of uncertainty, and potential sources of volatility, including the forward path of monetary policy, U.S. fiscal and regulatory policy, the labor market and consumer health and, ultimately, economic growth and the health of the corporate fundamentals of high yield issuers. High yield faces this uncertainty with the unique combination of historically attractive yields and an average spread that ranks near cycle lows. Further inspection of valuations reveals a market with ample dispersion, significant bifurcation, and continued opportunity at the security level.

We continue to remain constructive on the global convertible bond market as we progress through the second quarter of 2024. We believe global convertible bonds currently offer their traditional balanced profile of upside equity participation and downside bond protection. New issuance in the first quarter was strong and we expect issuance to continue to increase in 2024 as corporations look to refinance existing convertible bonds as well as traditional debt in the convertible bond market given the relatively high interest rate environment. A more traditional asymmetric return profile coupled with an expectation of an increase in new supply continues to give us optimism for global convertible bonds in 2024.

Securitized Products

Monthly Review:
U.S. agency MBS spreads tightened 10 bps in May to 143 bps above comparable duration U.S. Treasuries.  Agency MBS spreads are now 4 bps wider in 2024. Current coupon agency MBS spreads are slightly wider year to date, while nearly all credit spreads have tightened materially. Lower coupon MBS outperformed higher coupon MBS as interest rates fell, and lower coupon passthrough agency MBS have longer rate and spread durations. The Fed’s MBS holdings shrank by $30 billion in May to $2.35 trillion and are now down $385 billion from their peak in 2022. U.S. banks’ MBS holdings rose by $1.62 billion to $2.54 trillion in May, resuming the trend of bank increases after a small decrease in March; however, bank MBS holdings are still down roughly $455 billion since early 2022. Securitized credit spreads continued to tighten in May as demand remained very strong, and new issue deals were consistently oversubscribed. Securitized new issuance remained high in May, but the increased supply continues to be easily absorbed. Relative to other fixed income sectors, securitized credit sectors outperformed the Global & U.S. aggregate, Euro investment grade corporates, and U.S. & Euro High Yield.6

Outlook:
After several months of spread tightening across securitized products, we expect spreads to stabilize at current levels in June as securitized credit spreads are approaching agency MBS spread levels. Overall demand levels remain strong, but we believe it will be challenging to push spreads much tighter from current levels.  Securitized credit sectors have been among the best performing sectors in 2024, but performance should normalize in the coming months. We also believe that rates will likely remain rangebound for much of 2024, and that returns will result primarily from cashflow carry in the coming months.  We still believe that current rate levels remain stressful for many borrowers and will continue to erode household balance sheets, causing stress for some consumer ABS, particularly involving lower income borrowers.  Commercial real estate also remains challenged by current financing rates, and some sectors may see declines in operating revenue in 2024.  Residential mortgage credit opportunities currently remain our favorite sector and is the one sector where we remain comfortable going down the credit spectrum, as we remain more cautious regarding lower rated ABS and CMBS. We have moved from a neutral to a positive view on agency MBS valuations, which are one of the very few sectors that have cheapened year to date, and they continue to remain attractive versus investment-grade corporate spreads and versus historical agency MBS spreads.

 
 

1Source: Bloomberg. Data as of May 31, 2024.
2Source: Bloomberg. Data as of May 31, 2024. EM corporates represented by The JP Morgan CEMBI Broad Diversified Index.
3Source: Bloomberg Indices: U.S Corporate Index and the European Aggregate Corporate Index. Data as of AMay 31, 2024.
4Source: J.P. Morgan and Bloomberg US Corporate High Yield Index. Data as of May 31, 2024.
5Source: Bloomberg and Refinitiv Global Convertibles Focus Index. Data as of May 31, 2024.
6Source: Bloomberg. Data as of May 31, 2024.

 
 

RISK CONSIDERATIONS

Diversification neither assures a profit nor guarantees against loss in a declining market.

There is no assurance that a portfolio will achieve its investment objective. Portfolios are subject to market risk, which is the possibility that the market values of securities owned by the portfolio will decline and that the value of portfolio shares may therefore be less than what you paid for them. Market values can change daily due to economic and other events (e.g., natural disasters, health crises, terrorism, conflicts, and social unrest) that affect markets, countries, companies or governments. It is difficult to predict the timing, duration, and potential adverse effects (e.g., portfolio liquidity) of events. Accordingly, you can lose money investing in a portfolio. Fixed-income securities are subject to the ability of an issuer to make timely principal and interest payments (credit risk), changes in interest rates (interest rate risk), the creditworthiness of the issuer and general market liquidity (market risk). In a rising interest-rate environment, bond prices may fall and may result in periods of volatility and increased portfolio redemptions. In a declining interest-rate environment, the portfolio may generate less income. Longer-term securities may be more sensitive to interest rate changes. Certain U.S. government securities purchased by the strategy, such as those issued by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, are not backed by the full faith and credit of the U.S. It is possible that these issuers will not have the funds to meet their payment obligations in the future. Public bank loans are subject to liquidity risk and the credit risks of lower-rated securities. High-yield securities (junk bonds) are lower-rated securities that may have a higher degree of credit and liquidity risk. Sovereign debt securities are subject to default risk. Mortgage- and asset-backed securities are sensitive to early prepayment risk and a higher risk of default, and may be hard to value and difficult to sell (liquidity risk). They are also subject to credit, market and interest rate risks. The currency market is highly volatile. Prices in these markets are influenced by, among other things, changing supply and demand for a particular currency; trade; fiscal, money and domestic or foreign exchange control programs and policies; and changes in domestic and foreign interest rates. Investments in foreign markets entail special risks such as currency, political, economic and market risks. The risks of investing in emerging market countries are greater than the risks generally associated with foreign investments. Derivative instruments may disproportionately increase losses and have a significant impact on performance. They also may be subject to counterparty, liquidity, valuation, and correlation and market risks. Restricted and illiquid securities may be more difficult to sell and value than publicly traded securities (liquidity risk). Due to the possibility that prepayments will alter the cash flows on collateralized mortgage obligations (CMOs), it is not possible to determine in advance their final maturity date or average life. In addition, if the collateral securing the CMOs or any third-party guarantees are insufficient to make payments, the portfolio could sustain a loss.

 
 
 
The Broad Markets Fixed Income team unites the expertise of single-sector research and trading teams across the Morgan Stanley Investment Management fixed income platform to identify what they believe are the best opportunities in fixed income.
 
 

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DEFINITIONS

Basis point (bp): One basis point = 0.01%.

INDEX DEFINITIONS

The indexes shown in this report are not meant to depict the performance of any specific investment, and the indexes shown do not include any expenses, fees, or sales charges, which would lower performance. The indexes shown are unmanaged and should not be considered an investment. It is not possible to invest directly in an index.

“Bloomberg®” and the Bloomberg Index/Indices used are service marks of Bloomberg Finance L.P. and its affiliates and have been licensed for use for certain purposes by Morgan Stanley Investment Management (MSIM). Bloomberg is not affiliated with MSIM, does not approve, endorse, review, or recommend any product, and. does not guarantee the timeliness, accurateness, or completeness of any data or information relating to any product.

The Bloomberg Euro Aggregate Corporate Index (Bloomberg Euro IG Corporate) is an index designed to reflect the performance of the euro-denominated investment-grade corporate bond market.

The Bloomberg Global Aggregate Corporate Index is the corporate component of the Bloomberg Global Aggregate index, which provides a broad-based measure of the global investment-grade fixed income markets.

The Bloomberg US Corporate High Yield Index measures the market of USD-denominated, non-investment grade, fixed-rate, taxable corporate bonds. Securities are classified as high yield if the middle rating of Moody’s, Fitch, and S&P is Ba1/BB+/BB+ or below. The index excludes emerging market debt.

The Bloomberg US Corporate Index is a broad-based benchmark that measures the investment grade, fixed-rate, taxable, corporate bond market.

The Bloomberg US Mortgage-Backed Securities (MBS) Index tracks agency mortgage-backed pass-through securities (both fixed-rate and hybrid ARM) guaranteed by Ginnie Mae (GNMA), Fannie Mae (FNMA) and Freddie Mac (FHLMC). The index is constructed by grouping individual TBA-deliverable MBS pools into aggregates or generics based on program, coupon, and vintage. Introduced in 1985, the GNMA, FHLMC and FNMA fixed-rate indexes for 30- and 15-year securities were backdated to January 1976, May 1977, and November 1982, respectively. In April 2007, agency hybrid adjustable-rate mortgage (ARM) pass-through securities were added to the index.

Consumer Price Index (CPI) is a measure that examines the weighted average of prices of a basket of consumer goods and services, such as transportation, food, and medical care.

Euro vs. USD—Euro total return versus U.S. dollar.

German 10YR bonds—Germany Benchmark 10-Year Datastream Government Index; Japan 10YR government bonds —Japan Benchmark 10-Year Datastream Government Index; and 10YR US Treasury—US Benchmark 10-Year Datastream Government Index.

The ICE BofAML European Currency High-Yield Constrained Index (ICE BofAML Euro HY constrained) is designed to track the performance of euro- and British pound sterling-denominated below investment-grade corporate debt publicly issued in the eurobond, sterling

The ICE BofAML US Mortgage-Backed Securities (ICE BofAML US Mortgage Master) Index tracks the performance of US dollar-denominated, fixed-rate and hybrid residential mortgage pass-through securities publicly issued by US agencies in the US domestic market.

The ICE BofAML US High Yield Master II Constrained Index (ICE BofAML US High Yield) is a market value-weighted index of all domestic and Yankee high-yield bonds, including deferred-interest bonds and payment-in-kind securities. Its securities have maturities of one year or more and a credit rating lower than BBB-/Baa3, but are not in default.

The ISM Manufacturing Index is based on surveys of more than 300 manufacturing firms by the Institute of Supply Management. The ISM Manufacturing Index monitors employment, production inventories, new orders and supplier deliveries. A composite diffusion index is created that monitors conditions in national manufacturing based on the data from these surveys.

Italy 10-Year Government Bonds—Italy Benchmark 10-Year Datastream Government Index.

The JP Morgan CEMBI Broad Diversified Index is a global, liquid corporate emerging markets benchmark that tracks US-denominated corporate bonds issued by emerging markets entities.

The JPMorgan Government Bond Index—emerging markets (JPM local EM debt) tracks local currency bonds issued by emerging market governments. The index is positioned as the investable benchmark that includes only those countries that are accessible by most of the international investor base (excludes China and India as of September 2013).

The JPMorgan Government Bond Index Emerging Markets (JPM External EM Debt) tracks local currency bonds issued by emerging market governments. The index is positioned as the investable benchmark that includes only those countries that are accessible by most of the international investor base (excludes China and India as of September 2013).

The JP Morgan Emerging Markets Bond Index Global (EMBI Global) tracks total returns for traded external debt instruments in the emerging markets and is an expanded version of the EMBI+. As with the EMBI+, the EMBI Global includes US dollar-denominated Brady bonds, loans and eurobonds with an outstanding face value of at least $500 million.

The JP Morgan GBI-EM Global Diversified Index is a market-capitalization weighted, liquid global benchmark for US-dollar corporate emerging market bonds representing Asia, Latin America, Europe and the Middle East/Africa.

JPY vs. USD—Japanese yen total return versus US dollar.

The Markit ITraxx Europe Index comprises 125 equally weighted credit default swaps on investment grade European corporate entities, distributed among 4 sub-indices: Financials (Senior & Subordinated), Non-Financials and HiVol.

The Nikkei 225 Index (Japan Nikkei 225) is a price-weighted index of Japan’s top 225 blue-chip companies on the Tokyo Stock Exchange.

The MSCI AC Asia ex-Japan Index (MSCI Asia ex-Japan) captures large- and mid-cap representation across two of three developed markets countries (excluding Japan) and eight emerging markets countries in Asia.

The MSCI All Country World Index (ACWI, MSCI global equities) is a free float-adjusted market capitalization weighted index designed to measure the equity market performance of developed and emerging markets. The term "free float" represents the portion of shares outstanding that are deemed to be available for purchase in the public equity markets by investors. The performance of the Index is listed in US dollars and assumes reinvestment of net dividends.

MSCI Emerging Markets Index (MSCI emerging equities) captures large- and mid-cap representation across 23 emerging markets (EM) countries.

The MSCI World Index (MSCI developed equities) captures large and mid-cap representation across 23 developed market (DM) countries.

Purchasing Managers Index (PMI) is an indicator of the economic health of the manufacturing sector.

The Refinitiv Convertible Global Focus USD Hedged Index is a market weighted index with a minimum size for inclusion of $500 million (US), 200 million (Europe), 22 billion Yen, and $275 million (Other) of Convertible Bonds with an Equity Link.

The Russell 2000® Index is an index that measures the performance of the 2,000 smallest companies in the Russell 3000 Index.

The S&P 500® Index (US S&P 500) measures the performance of the large-cap segment of the US equities market, covering approximately 75 percent of the US equities market. The index includes 500 leading companies in leading industries of the U.S. economy.

S&P CoreLogic Case-Shiller US National Home Price NSA Index seeks to measure the value of residential real estate in 20 major US metropolitan areas: Atlanta, Boston, Charlotte, Chicago, Cleveland, Dallas, Denver, Detroit, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Miami, Minneapolis, New York, Phoenix, Portland, San Diego, San Francisco, Seattle, Tampa and Washington, D.C.

The S&P/LSTA US Leveraged Loan 100 Index (S&P/LSTA Leveraged Loan Index) is designed to reflect the performance of the largest facilities in the leveraged loan market.

The S&P GSCI Copper Index (Copper), a sub-index of the S&P GSCI, provides investors with a reliable and publicly available benchmark for investment performance in the copper commodity market.

The S&P GSCI Softs (GSCI soft commodities) Index is a sub-index of the S&P GSCI that measures the performance of only the soft commodities, weighted on a world production basis. In 2012, the S&P GSCI Softs Index included the following commodities: coffee, sugar, cocoa and cotton.

Spain 10-Year Government Bonds—Spain Benchmark 10-Year Datastream Government Index.

The Thomson Reuters Convertible Global Focus USD Hedged Index is a market weighted index with a minimum size for inclusion of $500 million (US), 200 million euro (Europe), 22 billion yen, and $275 million (Other) of convertible bonds with an equity link.

U.K. 10YR government bonds—U.K. Benchmark 10-Year Datastream Government Index. For the following Datastream government bond indexes, benchmark indexes are based on single bonds. The bond chosen for each series is the most representative bond available for the given maturity band at each point in time. Benchmarks are selected according to the accepted conventions within each market. Generally, the benchmark bond is the latest issue within the given maturity band; consideration is also given to yield, liquidity, issue size and coupon.

The US Dollar Index (DXY) is an index of the value of the United States dollar relative to a basket of foreign currencies, often referred to as a basket of US trade partners’ currencies.

The Chicago Board Options Exchange (CBOE) Market Volatility (VIX) Index shows the market’s expectation of 30-day volatility.

There is no guarantee that any investment strategy will work under all market conditions, and each investor should evaluate their ability to invest for the long-term, especially during periods of downturn in the market.

A separately managed account may not be appropriate for all investors. Separate accounts managed according to the particular strategy may include securities that may not necessarily track the performance of a particular index. Please consider the investment objectives, risks and fees of the Strategy carefully before investing. A minimum asset level is required. For important information about the investment managers, please refer to Form ADV Part 2.

The views and opinions and/or analysis expressed are those of the author or the investment team as of the date of preparation of this material and are subject to change at any time without notice due to market or economic conditions and may not necessarily come to pass. Furthermore, the views will not be updated or otherwise revised to reflect information that subsequently becomes available or circumstances existing, or changes occurring, after the date of publication. The views expressed do not reflect the opinions of all investment personnel at Morgan Stanley Investment Management (MSIM) and its subsidiaries and affiliates (collectively “the Firm”) and may not be reflected in all the strategies and products that the Firm offers.

Forecasts and/or estimates provided herein are subject to change and may not actually come to pass. Information regarding expected market returns and market outlooks is based on the research, analysis and opinions of the authors or the investment team. These conclusions are speculative in nature, may not come to pass and are not intended to predict the future performance of any specific strategy or product the Firm offers. Future results may differ significantly depending on factors such as changes in securities or financial markets or general economic conditions.

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Charts and graphs provided herein are for illustrative purposes only. Past performance is no guarantee of future results.

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MSIM, the asset management division of Morgan Stanley (NYSE: MS), and its affiliates have arrangements in place to market each other’s products and services. Each MSIM affiliate is regulated as appropriate in the jurisdiction it operates. MSIM’s affiliates are: Eaton Vance Management (International) Limited, Eaton Vance Advisers International Ltd, Calvert Research and Management, Eaton Vance Management, Parametric Portfolio Associates LLC and Atlanta Capital Management LLC.

This material has been issued by any one or more of the following entities:

EMEA:

This material is for Professional Clients/Accredited Investors only.

In the EU, MSIM and Eaton Vance materials are issued by MSIM Fund Management (Ireland) Limited (“FMIL”). FMIL is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland and is incorporated in Ireland as a private company limited by shares with company registration number 616661 and has its registered address at 24-26 City Quay, Dublin 2, D02 NY 19, Ireland.

Outside the EU, MSIM materials are issued by Morgan Stanley Investment Management Limited (MSIM Ltd) is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Registered in England. Registered No. 1981121. Registered Office: 25 Cabot Square, Canary Wharf, London E14 4QA.

In Switzerland, MSIM materials are issued by Morgan Stanley & Co. International plc, London (Zurich Branch) Authorised and regulated by the Eidgenössische Finanzmarktaufsicht ("FINMA"). Registered Office: Beethovenstrasse 33, 8002 Zurich, Switzerland.

Outside the US and EU, Eaton Vance materials are issued by Eaton Vance Management (International) Limited (“EVMI”) 125 Old Broad Street, London, EC2N 1AR, UK, which is authorised and regulated in the United Kingdom by the Financial Conduct Authority.

Italy: MSIM FMIL (Milan Branch), (Sede Secondaria di Milano) Palazzo Serbelloni Corso Venezia, 16 20121 Milano, Italy. The Netherlands: MSIM FMIL (Amsterdam Branch), Rembrandt Tower, 11th Floor Amstelplein 1 1096HA, Netherlands. France: MSIM FMIL (Paris Branch), 61 rue de Monceau 75008 Paris, France. Spain: MSIM FMIL (Madrid Branch), Calle Serrano 55, 28006, Madrid, Spain. Germany: Germany: MSIM FMIL (Frankfurt Branch), Grosse Gallusstrasse 18, 60312 Frankfurt am Main, Germany (Gattung: Zweigniederlassung (FDI) gem. § 53b KWG). Denmark: MSIM FMIL (Copenhagen Branch), Gorrissen Federspiel, Axel Towers, Axeltorv2, 1609 Copenhagen V, Denmark.

MIDDLE EAST

Dubai: MSIM Ltd (Representative Office, Unit Precinct 3-7th Floor-Unit 701 and 702, Level 7, Gate Precinct Building 3, Dubai International Financial Centre, Dubai, 506501, United Arab Emirates. Telephone: +97 (0)14 709 7158). This document is distributed in the Dubai International Financial Centre by Morgan Stanley Investment Management Limited (Representative Office), an entity regulated by the Dubai Financial Services Authority (“DFSA”). It is intended for use by professional clients and market counterparties only. This document is not intended for distribution to retail clients, and retail clients should not act upon the information contained in this document.

This document relates to a financial product which is not subject to any form of regulation or approval by the DFSA. The DFSA has no responsibility for reviewing or verifying any documents in connection with this financial product. Accordingly, the DFSA has not approved this document or any other associated documents nor taken any steps to verify the information set out in this document, and has no responsibility for it. The financial product to which this document relates may be illiquid and/or subject to restrictions on its resale or transfer. Prospective purchasers should conduct their own due diligence on the financial product. If you do not understand the contents of this document, you should consult an authorised financial adviser.

US

NOT FDIC INSURED | OFFER NO BANK GUARANTEE | MAY LOSE VALUE | NOT INSURED BY ANY FEDERAL GOVERNMENT AGENCY | NOT A DEPOSIT

Latin America (Brazil, Chile Colombia, Mexico, Peru, and Uruguay)

This material is for use with an institutional investor or a qualified investor only. All information contained herein is confidential and is for the exclusive use and review of the intended addressee, and may not be passed on to any third party. This material is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute a public offering, solicitation or recommendation to buy or sell for any product, service, security and/or strategy. A decision to invest should only be made after reading the strategy documentation and conducting in-depth and independent due diligence.

ASIA PACIFIC

Hong Kong: This material is disseminated by Morgan Stanley Asia Limited for use in Hong Kong and shall only be made available to “professional investors” as defined under the Securities and Futures Ordinance of Hong Kong (Cap 571). The contents of this material have not been reviewed nor approved by any regulatory authority including the Securities and Futures Commission in Hong Kong. Accordingly, save where an exemption is available under the relevant law, this material shall not be issued, circulated, distributed, directed at, or made available to, the public in Hong Kong. Singapore: This material is disseminated by Morgan Stanley Investment Management Company and may not be circulated or distributed, whether directly or indirectly, to persons in Singapore other than to (i) an accredited investor (ii) an expert investor or (iii) an institutional investor as defined in Section 4A of the Securities and Futures Act, Chapter 289 of Singapore (“SFA”); or (iv) otherwise pursuant to, and in accordance with the conditions of, any other applicable provision of the SFA. This publication has not been reviewed by the Monetary Authority of Singapore. Australia: This material is provided by Morgan Stanley Investment Management (Australia) Pty Ltd ABN 22122040037, AFSL No. 314182 and its affiliates and does not constitute an offer of interests. Morgan Stanley Investment Management (Australia) Pty Limited arranges for MSIM affiliates to provide financial services to Australian wholesale clients. Interests will only be offered in circumstances under which no disclosure is required under the Corporations Act 2001 (Cth) (the “Corporations Act”). Any offer of interests will not purport to be an offer of interests in circumstances under which disclosure is required under the Corporations Act and will only be made to persons who qualify as a “wholesale client” (as defined in the Corporations Act). This material will not be lodged with the Australian Securities and Investments Commission.

Japan:
For professional investors, this document is circulated or distributed for informational purposes only. For those who are not professional investors, this document is provided in relation to Morgan Stanley Investment Management (Japan) Co., Ltd. (“MSIMJ”)’s business with respect to discretionary investment management agreements (“IMA”) and investment advisory agreements (“IAA”). This is not for the purpose of a recommendation or solicitation of transactions or offers any particular financial instruments. Under an IMA, with respect to management of assets of a client, the client prescribes basic management policies in advance and commissions MSIMJ to make all investment decisions based on an analysis of the value, etc. of the securities, and MSIMJ accepts such commission. The client shall delegate to MSIMJ the authorities necessary for making investment. MSIMJ exercises the delegated authorities based on investment decisions of MSIMJ, and the client shall not make individual instructions. All investment profits and losses belong to the clients; principal is not guaranteed. Please consider the investment objectives and nature of risks before investing. As an investment advisory fee for an IAA or an IMA, the amount of assets subject to the contract multiplied by a certain rate (the upper limit is 2.20% per annum (including tax)) shall be incurred in proportion to the contract period. For some strategies, a contingency fee may be incurred in addition to the fee mentioned above. Indirect charges also may be incurred, such as brokerage commissions for incorporated securities. Since these charges and expenses are different depending on a contract and other factors, MSIMJ cannot present the rates, upper limits, etc. in advance. All clients should read the Documents Provided Prior to the Conclusion of a Contract carefully before executing an agreement. This document is disseminated in Japan by MSIMJ, Registered No. 410 (Director of Kanto Local Finance Bureau (Financial Instruments Firms)), Membership: The Japan Securities Dealers Association, the Investment Trusts Association, Japan, the Japan Investment Advisers Association and the Type II Financial Instruments Firms Association.

 

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