Manulife Investment Management (IM) today announced the appointment of June Chua as head of Asian equities, effective 4 August 2025.
Based in Hong Kong, Chua will lead the equity team in the region, comprising more than 90 investment professionals across 10 markets, and oversee investment process execution across Asia, with specific oversight in Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, Taiwan, and Vietnam.
She will also be head of Asian equity research, coordinating research coverage and resources across the region. Chua will report to Charlie Dutton, head of emerging market equities.
“June brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record in managing Asia ex-Japan and Asia Frontier equities,” said Dutton, in a statement.
“As we remain focused on delivering resilient investment outcomes and long-term value to our clients, June’s appointment further strengthens our ability to harness local insights and global perspectives.”
Chua has more than 25 years of investment experience, including expertise in Asia ex-Japan and Asia frontier equities. Prior to joining Manulife IM, she was senior vice president, head of Asia and emerging markets equities at Lombard Odier, where she led the firm’s regional equity strategies.
Before that, she was executive director, head of Asian equities at Harvest Global Investments, overseeing portfolio management for Asia ex-Japan, Asia frontier, and HK-China connect equities, while managing a team of equity analysts.
Earlier in her career, Chua held senior portfolio management roles at Pinebridge Investments, Sumitomo Asset Management, and Crosby Wealth Management.
At the same time, Manulife IM said that Yuting Shao has joined as senior global macro strategist as a part of its multi-asset solutions team.
Based in Hong Kong, she will be responsible for developing macroeconomic strategy views that will inform the firm’s investment teams, supporting their ability to navigate evolving economic conditions and market risks. She will also be responsible for articulating these views to clients and media stakeholders.
Shao has over eight years of experience in the role. Prior to joining Manulife IM, she was vice president, macro strategies at State Street Global Markets, where she focused on China and emerging markets Asia. Before that, she worked at the International Monetary Fund and Institute of International Finance.
“Yuting brings valuable macroeconomic insight and a strong understanding of China and emerging markets Asia, which will enhance our ability to navigate today’s dynamic market environment,” said Nathan Thooft, chief investment officer, multi-asset solutions and global equities.
This leadership development highlights Manulife IM’s continued growth in Asia, where the firm has operated for over a century and currently oversees more than $24bn in AUM across Asia equity strategies, said the statement.
