FTSE

Hargreaves Lansdown has topped the FTSE 100 index in early trading after reporting record levels of assets under administration in its quarterly results this morning.

Weaker than expected economic data from China has caused a sell-off in risk assets, especially commodities.

The FTSE 100 has shed almost 2% after US employment numbers for March came in well below expectations.

The FTSE Small Cap index has risen sharply for ten consecutive months, but is there still value in the UK small cap space or should investors take profits and look elsewhere?

Banks across the world have rallied sharply in the last 12 months, the shares featuring among the best performing stocks in many indices but, after a sharp climb, are there any opportunities left for investors?

London's leading share index had lost 1% by mid-afternoon, weighed down by weaker than expected manufacturing and services data in the eurozone.

Goldman Sachs has forecast the FTSE 100 could reach 7,200 within the next 12 months - a new record high for the market.

PROPERTY

Marlborough's top-performing fund manager Giles Hargreave has admitted it will be difficult for UK small-cap equities to replicate their 2012 performance this year.

Paul Mumford of Cavendish Asset Management said there are so many opportunities in the equity market at present he would be amazed why anyone would consider investing in bonds.