The board of Abrdn Asian Income Fund Limited announce that Isaac Thong is to be appointed lead manager of the fund, working alongside Eric Chan.
Thong was formerly co-manager of the Morningstar four star rated JPMorgan Global Emerging Markets Income Trust PLC and five star rated JPMorgan Emerging Markets Income Fund.
Thong will be joining Aberdeen’s Asia Pacific Equities team as Senior Investment Director, based in Singapore, and will be responsible for the day-to-day portfolio management of the fund.
He will also lead the Asian Income portfolio construction group within Aberdeen which includes responsibility for the company’s portfolio.
Thong replaces Yoojeong Oh who is leaving Aberdeen “to pursue other interests.”
Aberdeen had assets under management and administration (AUMA) of about £511 billion at the end of 2024.
The fund said: “The board is extremely grateful to Yoojeong for her careful stewardship of the company over the last decade and as we look forward to celebrating our 20th anniversary later this year.
“Isaac joins the company at an exciting time, with Asia set to power more than half of the world’s GDP.
“With over 15 years’ experience in the financial services industry and over a decade of experience investing in Asia equities, Isaac brings with him a wealth of knowledge and expertise that will enable the investment team to continue finding companies that will deliver sustainable growth, consistent income and attractive returns for our shareholders.”
Abrdn Asian Income Fund chairman Ian Cadby said: “We are delighted to be welcoming Isaac, who will be leading the investment team. His excellent track record in Asia and Emerging Markets investing is a tremendous asset for our company.
“With Asia poised to drive global economic growth, Isaac’s expertise will be instrumental in navigating this dynamic landscape.
“Asian companies are increasingly prioritising shareholder returns and dividend growth, which aligns perfectly with our investors’ focus on both growth and yield. I am confident that under Isaac’s leadership, our investment strategy will continue to deliver sustainable capital growth and a consistent income for our shareholders”
Thong said: “I am looking forward to taking on the management of abrdn Asian Income Fund, at a significant moment given the recently established new dividend regime and its 20th anniversary this year.
“The Company has a rich heritage of investing in Asia, while the team at aberdeen has an excellent track record in Asia Equities and I am grateful for the opportunity to build on that.”