The UK's economy continued to grow in the first quarter, avoiding a double-dip recession, but the recovery remains weak, warns the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC).

A sudden sell-off in Greek sovereign bonds yesterday has pushed up the cost of borrowing for the embattled state to record levels, casting doubts on its ability to refinance up to €15bn of debt over the next two months, reports The Times.

An overwhelming majority of advisers would consider adopting a "mini-wrap" to cater for clients with more modest investment needs, according to OPAL.

Adviser Alliance's mission to defeat what it sees as damaging RDR regulations is gathering political support - including that of the shadow minister for constitutional affairs and justice.

Research from NatWest Intermediary Solutions suggests 67% of brokers are optimistic they will write more mortgage business in 2010 than last year.

A report published by independent valuer BDO has ruled there is no reason for Northern Rock shareholders to receive any compensation and has determined that there is "no value" in shares of the beleaguered lender.

A law firm preparing a legal challenge to an FSCS decision to levy advisers for a number of high-profile investment failures says it needs the backing of 1,000 IFAs to succeed.

Friends Provident has launched a corporate investment platform aimed at employee benefit consultants and trustees in the unbundled pensions market.

Royal London went into the black in 2009, with the group boosted by pensions sales and a strong take-up of its Ascentric wrap.

The financial crisis has cost the British economy up to £7.4trn in lost output, according to the Bank of England.