In Asia, there is a tradition of naming the year after one of the 12 animals of the Chinese zodiac - 2016 is the year of the monkey.

The eurozone has seen an internal shift in economic fortunes of late - the focus of investor concern no longer rests with the 'periphery' but with the 'core' instead.

With market turbulence increasing, Simon Elliott, head of research at Winterflood Securities, analyses how well investment companies are using discount control mechanisms to reduce volatility and ward off corporate activity.

Was it hopes disappointed, or simply more of the same? Or both? 2015 continued to be characterised by what is widely perceived as 'dull world growth', writes Cazenove Capital CIO Richard Jeffrey.

With the bears on a rampage, it is increasingly incumbent on those of us who regard ourselves as cautious optimists to get real about what could go wrong, writes David Stevenson.

Following record demand in 2015, this year will see ETFs diversify further to meet investor needs, according to David Hazelton, head of business development at Raymond James

Investors likely to rush for exit

Changing demographics in developed nations, a growing demand for both digital and physical infrastructure, and renewed interest in good corporate behaviour are set to rule 2016 and beyond.

Rapid and violent market swings feel uncomfortable to most, but as a long-term investor you have to learn how to stomach them and maybe even appreciate them - like some enjoy the scary rollercoaster rides in amusement parks, according to M&G's John William...

January is famous for containing the most depressing day of the year. But the New Year malaise seems to have gone further this year, infecting equity markets and leaving investors nursing multiple headaches.