Global

Important members of Chancellor Angela Merkel's coalition in Germany are resisting plans for an increase in the EU's bailout fund to protect Spain from contagion, complicating a crucial meeting of EU finance ministers on Monday.

Maria Merricks talks to Ghadir Abu Leil-Cooper, manager of the Baring MENA fund, about her outlook for the region.

CURRENCY PICKS FOR 2011

INVESTING IN MENA

North's John Husselbee has been increasing risk within his multi-manager portfolios by upping his exposure to Asian equities during the market sell-downs towards the end of last year.

Investec multi-asset managers Philip Saunders and Max King outline seven key themes for investors in 2011:

London's leading index rose almost 150 points, or 2.48%, to reach 6,045 by late morning, buoyed by the commodities sector.

ON ASIA

Neptune CEO Robin Geffen has dismissed fears China is overheating, but warns there is a bubble forming in bond markets.

Mercator Trust's Stephen Collier explains how Qualifying Recognised Overseas Pension Schemes could benefit your clients who move overseas.