The FSA is to look into charges levied by UK fund management groups after its head of investments policy queried why they have been rising in recent years.

BT led the FTSE 100 this morning, with shares jumping sharply after it revealed it had spent £2bn cutting its pension deficit in half.

Investors who have helped pushed gold prices up to record highs are now turning their backs on the precious metal, with figures this week showing heavy selling by gold ETFs.

The government's plans to issue gilts with a maturity greater than 50 years, or even with a never-ending life, have been criticised as little more than a 'gimmick'.

Chancellor George Osborne has confirmed the government will consult on launching perpetual gilts and gilts with a life longer than 50 years, despite a wave of criticism from potential investors.

Two members of the Bank of England's Monetary Policy Committee called for further stimulus to offset the UK's lacklustre growth, the minutes of the latest meeting have revealed.

The Chancellor George Osborne will today raise stamp duty on the country's highest priced properties as part of a tax raid on the wealthy.

Henderson Global Investors saw its share price climb in the face of a declining market for the second day running today following rumours of a takeover.

REGULATION

Tom Dobell, manager of M&G's £8bn Recovery fund, has revealed two stocks he wishes he had never added to the portfolio.