Should investors care about BRICS in 2016?

The BRICS’ (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa) prominence in the global market has swelled over the last decade and a half. Today, these emerging markets account for nearly 25% of global gross domestic product, more than triple what they did in 2001. But beyond the catchy acronym, does grouping these markets together make sense for investors?

This research commentary examines the rise of the BRICS, the challenges facing their attempt to form an economic bloc, and whether their differences outweigh their common interests and concerns.

Use this paper to:

• Review the BRICS’ rapid growth in the last 15 years.
• Examine the relative strengths and weaknesses of the BRICS’ economies.
• Evaluate how the BRICS members’ economic and political differences could undermine their goals as a bloc.

Read the whitepaper.

Notes:

• All investments are subject to risk, including possible loss of principal.
• Diversification does not ensure a profit or protect against a loss.

This article was produced by Vanguard and not by the Quartz editorial staff.