Japanese Buys at a Discount

Article Excerpt

Japanese stock markets remain volatile, along with global markets. As well, a slowing U.S. economy continues to hurt Japan’s major export industries. However, we think that Japan’s interest rate cuts and $51 billion stimulus package will help stock prices rebound. JAPAN EQUITY FUND $4.51 (New York symbol JEQ; CWA Rating: Aggressive) invests mostly in large capitalization stocks on the Tokyo Stock Exchange. The fund’s top holdings include: Toyota Motor, Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group, East Japan Railway Co., Shin-Etsu Chemical Co. and Takeda Pharmaceutical Co. Japan Equity Fund is available for 15% less than the current value of its assets. It’s a buy. JAPAN SMALLER CAP FUND $6.41 (New York symbol JOF; CWA Rating: Aggressive) invests mainly in less-widely-followed Japanese over-the-counter stocks. The fund’s top holdings are Jupiter Telecom, Rohto Pharmaceutical Co., Moshi Moshi Hotline, Inc., Seven Bank, Ltd., Kuraray Co., Ltd. and Air Water Inc. Japan Smaller Cap Fund sells for a 12% discount to the current value of its assets. Japan Smaller Cap is…