Nearly two thirds of advisers are contemplating using offshore bonds as the sector becomes increasingly mainstream, research suggests.

The alleged $65bn Madoff fraud has damaged the offshore fund industry's credibility and spurred on the regulatory changes that have been promised by authorities, according to International law firm, Appleby.

Prudential International has launched a 1% extra allocation special offer on its International Prudence Bond.

Standard & Poor's (S&P) Fund Services has de-rated several funds of hedge funds (FOHFs) with exposure to Madoff strategies.

Skandia International has announced a special offer of up to 107% enhanced allocation across its key markets.

Axa has launched an International Portfolio Bond from its Dublin office as part of its expansion programme.

The Dow opened at 7,915 points, down five from yesterday's close, and fell to 7,870 before rallying to 7,905 by around 9.30am Eastern Central Time.

F&C Investments has agreed a two-year extension to its sponsorship deal with Birmingham City Football Club.

A guide designed to help advisers successfully navigate through a recession has been launched by J.P.Morgan Asset Management.

Lending by the equity release sector has fallen by almost a quarter over the first quarter of 2009, according to Key Retirement Solutions.