The International Monetary Fund has revised up its forecast for UK GDP growth in 2012 from 0.6% to 0.8%, amid the return of "some optimism" to the global economy.

AXA IM manager Julian Thompson has questioned the findings of a McKinsey study which suggests a ‘funding gap' may reshape global markets over the next decade.

Anthony Bolton is to extend his tenure as manager of Fidelity China Special Situations until at least April 2014.

Unicorn UK Income manager John McClure said wealth manager Brewin Dolphin has the potential to increase margins by over 50% as it catches up with its peers in the sector.

Threadneedle is reorganising its fixed income department with the creation of a global macroeconomic strategy group as EMD head Richard House departs the group.

Worse than expected UK trade deficit data for February suggests net trade will have been a drag on GDP growth in the first quarter, according to Capital Economics.

George Soros has said Germany's central bank must recognise its policies may be increasing the threat of a deflationary debt trap in the eurozone.

First State Investments' Angus Tulloch and two members of his team are to take over management of the £192m Scottish Oriental Companies trust next year.

Santander's multi-manager team has added the $233m Brown Advisory American fund to its portfolios as it concentrates active US exposure around three core holdings.

Standard Life Investments and other major shareholders in Barclays are understood to be preparing to vote against CEO Bob Diamond's pay package after the award of a tax-related lump sum.