Analysis

Monetary conditions are tight in the UK and action must be taken to slow inflation, while predictions in the US forecast a sluggish 2007, although economists are optimistic for a soft landing despite sub-prime issues

The unexpected jump in UK inflation has pushed sterling centre stage while cooling measures have failed to dent Beijing's double-digit growth and eastern Europe shifts into being driven by domestic demand

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Principally investing in gold minng shares, Merrill's Gold & General fund boasts metal specialists and geologists on its portfolio team

The Bond aims to provide an investment return on a cash sum by investing in Merchant Investors' inve...

Colin McLean is looking to grow business substantially over the next five years, with £700m under management since launching the group in 1990

Manager uses mix of strategic and tactical investments, focusing on high-conviction stock ideas, on 30-40 holding Gartmore Global Focus portfolio

Firms look to move away from asset stripping image of 1980s to helping ailing firms meet full potential and boosting UK economy

Group enjoyed strong retail inflows over 2006, up 340%, year on year, with income and small-cap funds proving popular with intermediaries

A more benign inflationary outlook in the UK coupled with a more troubled world picture has eased pressure for a rise in interest rates while European equity income investing looks to have hit a sweet spot