It would appear financial services are going to play a fundamental part of the next general election with the Conservatives tackling many of the main issues with policy ideas and initiatives being announced during its party conference last week.

With three-quarters of the year now behind us, thoughts turn to reflect upon the year that is drawing to a close and what 2010 will bring.

Managers cite good foresight and cheap equities as reasons for outperformance

Recent fund gains have been generated by stock selection and sector allocation

PSigma Balanced Managed Fof head has negotiated the fund well through volatility

Today's market sentiment could not be much more different than it was seven months ago, when investors stared into the abyss.

Some readers may not be aware that some of the most well-regarded fund managers in the UK also run investment trusts.

Despite a benign inflationary outlook there are still compelling yields to be found in the corporate bond market

In recent months, the Russian stock market has staged an impressive rally. With stocks among the cheapest in the emerging market universe, it is trading at a discount of 40% compared to its peers

The new energy sector continues to benefit from government-mandated growth targets which aim to combat climate change and promote energy security.