March MPF Returns 0.51%; Korea Equity Funds Top at +9%

The MPFA reports March MPF fund performance of 0.51% overall, with wide dispersion: Korea equity funds topped at +9%, Japan equity funds sank 9% on the earthquake, and European funds fell about 1%.

Which fund categories led in March?

Korea equity funds up 9%; Asian funds broadly firm. March’s best performers were Korea equity funds at +9%; Asia-ex-Japan and Greater China equity funds also posted solid gains. At the other end, March’s earthquake hammered Japan equity funds down 9% — the worst category.

How did other asset classes fare?

Europe down 1%; bond and conservative categories steady. European equity funds slipped about 1% on lingering debt-crisis fallout. Lower-risk bond, guaranteed and conservative funds stayed flat to slightly up, continuing their safe-haven role.

How should workers read single-month returns?

Don’t sweat monthly wiggles — the long run is what counts. MPF is a multi-decade investment; a few percent up or down in a month is normal. Don’t rush to switch funds on one bad month. Regular portfolio reviews with regional and asset-class diversification are the proper way to ride out volatility.

To compare charges and returns across MPF funds, visit MPF fund comparison.