Avalon is launching a direct-to-consumer version of its platform for advisers servicing lower income clients.

Skandia has posted an online video showing the seven steps advisers should follow for a robust investment process.

Elevate has partnered with Premier Asset Management and Richmond House Group to provide a range of bespoke and managed portfolio options for IFAs.

The UK could be entering a "profoundly different" era of slow growth and high debt reminiscent of the economic ills engulfing Japan, says the BBC's economics editor Stephanie Flanders.

Bank of England governor Mervyn King has not ruled out another round of quantitative easing and has reiterated his belief the UK recovery will be choppy.

The FSA has flagged up concerns around the quality of advice surrounding Distributor Influenced Funds (DIFs) and has warned adviser firms it expects standards to improve.

HSBC has reported pre-tax profits of $19bn (£11.8bn)for 2010 - more than doubling the previous year's figure of $7.1bn.

The FTSE has opened trading in negative territory as fears over the fallout in Libya continue to unsettle investors.

AIFA has joined the growing chorus of industry players urging the FSA to re-think its proposal to ban cash rebates as it warns the plans will be detrimental to customers.

Transact, Standard Life and Elevate have been rated the best platforms by IFAs, according to The Platforum.