Institutional Investment in Central and Eastern Europe: Investment Criteria of Western Portfolio Managers

Abstract

This study provides detailed evidence on the recent transition state of Central and Eastern Europe (CEE) countries. It draws on data from a survey conducted among portfolio managers of Western investment funds thereby making use of the knowledge of experts in CEE markets. The approach of the study is two-fold: First, criteria for portfolio investment and current barriers to higher investment in CEE coumtries are identified. Second, the CEE portfolio structure is explained making use of detailed grading data from the survey. The results suggest that a reduction in general and macroeconomic risk temds to increase investment and that the potential of high returns and low risk from the setting of financial markets contributes to significantly higher investment in some countries