Asia Seeks Algorithms to Beat Turmoil as Designer Indexes Surge

Tired of dull returns from traditional indexes? Try designing your own, throwing in a secret formula and maybe earning 6 percent even as the world caves in.

Tailor-made indexes that can apply algorithms are surging in popularity throughout Asia as gains from conventional assets languish. The amount invested in securities tied to such indexes has climbed to the highest since the global financial crisis, according to London-based analytics firm Coalition Development Ltd. It estimates sales rose at least 30 percent last year.