AIFA today launches a platforms guide to help members conduct "robust" due diligence on wraps and platforms.

The FSA has fined Money Wise IFA £19,600 for compliance failings on investment advice it gave to more than 500 customers using platforms and discretionary portfolios.

Nucleus has hired Skandia sales director Mike Wallis as new regional business development director.

The RDR could drive up to 3,000 advisers out of the industry over the next five years, according to the latest estimates.

Towergate Financial has announced Investment Services Scotland as the first IFA firm to sign up to its new Transition Toolkit.

Ascentric clients now have access to Tax Elected Funds (TEFs) following the launch of Querns Income First fund on the wrap - the first TEF to be marketed in the UK.

Principal Investment Management has launched a set of model portfolios on three platforms as it looks to make discretionary fund management accessible to the lower and middle market.

Adviser Alliance(AA)has bemoaned the rise of consumer power in light of the first successful Keydata claim and says advisers should not "carry the can" for company failings.

Disappointing economic figures from the US coupled with a warning over a double-dip recession in the UK have plunged global markets further into the red in afternoon trading.

The FTSE 100 has plunged in late morning trading as renewed concerns over the global economy end the recent rally powered by M&A speculation.