M&G

Diverse sector at the forefront of downturn over past year, with just eight funds producing positive returns to investors

Corporate bond funds saw a resurgence in popularity following a two-month dip in demand, accounting for a third of net sales on the Cofunds platform in July.

M&G posted a record £4.1bn net retail inflow in the first half of 2009, with more than £3bn placed in the group's range of fixed income funds.

Core strength of Prudential Group is its focus on top-down asset allocation, says Williams

Newly-appointed manager reduces banks exposure to turn around performance on New Star Sterling Bond vehicle

There have been two events within the multi-manager sector of the market occurring in the last two weeks - both quite different in nature - that are equally important and point a way forward for advisers.

M&G's Richard Woolnough has reduced his exposure to interest rate risk in his Optimal Income fund on the back of concerns about a possible excess in supply of government bonds.

Investors made a marked move towards the Cautious Managed sector last month at the expense of corporate bond funds which continued to fall in popularity.

Government's scheme divides sector predictions on future buy-ups despite programme creating extra demand for asset class

Threadneedle was the big winner in last night's Investment Week Fund Manager of the Year Awards, landing the prestigious Group of the Year accolade at the Royal Albert Hall.