The combination of the US giants will create a global infrastructure powerhouse with over $150 billion in assets and a strong presence in Apac, and could help reduce project costs.
BlackRock's deputy head of Apac steps up, as predecessor Rachel Lord becomes head of international. The investment firm has also made its largest M&A deal in over a decade to significantly expand its infrastructure assets, including in Apac.
Asian institutions are keen to raise allocations to private debt this year, a newly-released BlackRock survey and comments from asset owners such as family offices show.
The international hunt for yield has helped the Philippines sell its largest-ever offshore bond, but despite a ratings upgrade by S&P, it must balance fiscal easing with a balanced currency.
China's fast-growing coffee chain is clearly on the double espressos. Despite widespread concerns about its cash-burning business model, it has just completed its third funding round in 10 months.
A potent brew of volatile markets, inexperienced issuers and increasing competition among banks and brokerages has led to a marked deterioration in G3 bond market practices out of Hong Kong. Calls for change are growing louder.