The fortunes of the U.S. equity markets continue to be a key determinant of the health of the global economy. However, their dominance has receded significantly over the years and a world of exciting opportunities has emerged in global markets. Moreover, research has shown that a portfolio with a combination of domestic and foreign securities produces greater returns over the long term. Global funds allow investors to hold an optimum combination of international and domestic investments without incurring the costs of holding such securities individually. Below we will share with you 5 top rated global funds. Each has earned a Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) as we expect the fund to outperform its peers in the future. To view the Zacks Rank and past performance of all global funds, then click here. Dodge & Cox Global Stock Fund (DODWX) seeks capital appreciation over the long term as well as income. It invests the majority of its assets in equity securities from at least three different countries, including emerging markets. At least 40% of its assets are invested in securities issued by companies outside the U.S. This global fund returned 88.68% over the last one year period. The global fund has a minimum initial investment of $2,500 and an expense ratio of 0.87% compared to a category average of 1.53%. ING Global Value Choice A ( NAWGX) invests at least 65% of its assets in different countries, including the U.S. The majority of its assets are invested in stocks, depository receipts, derivatives and convertible securities. It may also consider purchasing ADRs and dollar denominated foreign securities. The fund has a three year annualized return of 6.12%. David B. Iben is the fund manager and he has managed this global fund since 2006. American Funds Capital World Growth & Income A ( CWGIX) invests mainly in common stock of companies worldwide, these securities are denominated in U.S. dollars or other currencies. Cash and money market instruments are also part of the fund’s portfolio. This global fund has a ten year annualized return of 6.61%. As of December 2009, this global fund held 396 issues, with 3.09% of its total assets invested in Microsoft Corporation. Manning & Napier World Opportunities A ( EXWAX) seeks long-term capital growth. It invests in common stocks of companies worldwide, including the U.S. It purchases ADRs and other dollar denominated foreign securities. It is non-diversified and may invest in companies form both developed and emerging markets. It is a no-load fund. The global fund returned 59.6% over the last one year period and has a five year annualized return of 5.96%. Marsico Global ( MGLBX) seeks capital growth by investing in domestic and foreign stocks. These companies are selected on the basis of their potential for long term growth. At least 40% of its assets are used to purchase securities of companies located abroad or with business interests outside the U.S. The global fund returned 61.79% over the last one year period. The fund manager is Thomas F. Marsico and he has managed this global fund since 2007. To view the Zacks Rank and past performance of all global funds, then click here . About Zacks Mutual Fund Rank By applying the Zacks Rank to mutual funds, investors can find funds that not only outpaced the market in the past but are also expected to outperform going forward. Learn more about the Zacks Mutual Fund Rank at http://www.zacks.com/funds/mutualfund/ Zacks Investment Research