Finding resilience through income investing
In a time of market volatility, M&G Investments exec Amy Cho shares why investors not only need performance, but also a financial home built to last
Every time Amy Cho sets out on a run, she is reminded that progress takes discipline and resilience – two values that have shaped her approach to leadership and investing. As M&G Investments’ head of Asia-Pacific and CEO of M&G Investments Singapore, she sees parallels between the endurance of a long-distance runner and the mindset needed to navigate both markets and life with purpose.
“I often think about leadership as a long-distance journey, not a sprint,” Cho says. “Some days, the path is smooth; other days, it is uphill in the rain, but you still lace up and go.”
That long-haul mindset shapes how Cho operates as a leader in the asset management industry, where adaptability, consistency and resilience are essential. Her approach is grounded in creating conditions that allow people to thrive, and for ideas and strategies to take root.
“Leadership, to me, is about building a culture where people feel safe, valued and empowered. When there is clarity and context, people make better decisions, and bring their best selves to the table,” she says. “That is the kind of workplace I want to lead: calm when it needs to be, energised when it matters and always grounded in purpose.”
Following that philosophy has earned Cho recognition across the industry. Earlier this year, she was named Best CEO in the AsianInvestor Asset Management Awards, highlighting her reputation as an inclusive and empowering leader.
A financial home for income investors
The concept of “home” runs through Cho’s reflections on leadership, and it also serves as the foundation of M&G Investments’ latest campaign, “Income investing has a new home”.
“Home is where you feel safe, understood and supported,” Cho explains. “That is the feeling we want to offer investors: a place of clarity and care, built to weather different market cycles.”
Income investing focuses on generating a steady stream of cash flow, which can come from dividends, bond interest or other sources. During uncertain times in the markets, Cho says, such strategies can help investors maintain a long-term perspective and find reassurance.
Income investing for real life
In Asia, financial planning often spans generations, dealing with issues that range from housing and education to retirement and ageing parents. Income investing can play a practical role.
“Investors aren’t just looking for returns. They are balancing multiple life goals,” Cho says. “Income investing offers a degree of predictability, a steady rhythm that helps people stay focused on what matters most. What makes it powerful is how it adapts to different needs.’’
For retirees, it may cover everyday expenses. For families, it can balance short-term needs like education or housing with long-term security. For professionals navigating market uncertainty, it may provide a sense of stability.
A research-driven approach
M&G has managed income strategies for over 90 years, and its approach is based on active management, detailed research and long-term conviction.
“We don’t chase trends. We focus on getting the fundamentals right, again and again,” Cho says. “That is how we build trust, and that is how we deliver value.’’
In the Asia-Pacific region, that means adapting M&G’s global expertise to local realities.
“It is not about cut-and-paste solutions. We bring a global lens, but we tailor it to the needs of investors here,’’ Cho adds. “That is what makes it feel like home – familiar, stable and designed with real people in mind.’’
Building for the future
Looking ahead, Cho sees both complexity and promise in Asia’s investment landscape. Demographic shifts, growing wealth and evolving investor expectations are reshaping the region and creating new possibilities for income strategies.
“What excites me is building something that genuinely lasts – solutions that serve people and not just markets,” she says.
That principle is seen not only in Cho’s leadership style, but in M&G’s investment philosophy as well.
“Like a well-cared-for home, our strategies are managed with attention to detail,” Cho says. “They are designed to be diversified and resilient, grounded in purpose – focused on helping people move forward with clarity and confidence.”
Whether it is leading a team, investing for income or training for a marathon, Cho believes that showing up with purpose, resilience and conviction is where the real reward lies.
Disclaimer from M&G Investments:
This article expresses the author’s opinion and is for informational purposes only. It should not be considered as investment advice or recommendation. All investments involve risk and may not be suitable for everyone. Past performance does not guarantee future results. This article has not been reviewed by regulatory authorities.
In Hong Kong, this material is issued by M&G Investments (Hong Kong) Limited. In Singapore, it is issued by M&G Investments (Singapore) Pte. Ltd. (UEN 201131425R), regulated by the Monetary Authority of Singapore.