Fund managers see potential in Central Europe and Russia

Russia and Central Europe have been identified by fund managers as offering the best investment opportunities in emerging Europe at present. In contrast, many are steering clear of Romania, Bulgaria and Turkey. One of the main reasons for this is politics. "Politics in Central Europe is a bit of a non-event," says Elena Shaftan, head of Jupiter's emerging Europe equity team. "Politicians may come and go but their policies are all very similar. They are all bound by their commitment to the EU." Russia also looks set to remain stable when Vladimir Putin steps down next year. "I don't think...