hsbc

Some of the largest funds in the IMA Global Emerging Markets and Asia Pacific ex Japan sectors have significantly increased exposure to Indian equities over 12 months to the end of January.

Shares in banking giant HSBC fell 2% in early trading today as it reported profit before tax was $20.6bn(£14bn) in 2012, down 6% on 2011.

Neptune founder Robin Geffen has blamed an underweight to financials for the recent poor performance of the £922m Neptune Income fund.

Frontier markets are less volatile, more diversified and a better bet for dividends than their broader emerging market peers, according to HSBC's Andrew Brudenell.

The wealth arm of Barclays has scrapped plans to charge fund groups an administration fee when their products are recommended for private client portfolios.

Christian Gardner, investment analyst at StructuredProductReview.com, compares four kick-out plans from different providers.

Managers are setting up portfolios for a pull-back in equity markets, looking at put options and moving more defensive as several indicators post sell signals.

A former head of HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) who stepped down after he was accused by MPs of lying has been hired by HSBC to advise on honesty, according to reports.

Nick Paler talks to Cazenove's Robin Minter-Kemp about the challenges and opportunities ahead as he discusses his plans for growing the business in 2013.

CONTRARIAN