Zurich International Life has named Carlos Sabugueiro as chief executive of its Middle East and Africa operations. The firm has created the new position as it looks to extend its coverage of these markets.

Norwich Union has enlisted the help of an ex-burglar to promote security measures as Britons fear for their homes in the credit crunch.

The Dow Jones opened more than 5% down this morning as investors feared a lasting global recession following the release of poor economic data across Europe and Asia.

The future of newly-launched AXA Winterthur Wealth Management (AWWM) is secure thanks to AXA's extraordinary financial strength, according to its sales and marketing MD.

Schroders has appointed Karl Dasher as head of fixed income.

Prudential International has introduced a guided architecture element to its Portfolio Account offshore bond.

Threadneedle has boosted its Defined Contribution (DC) pensions team following the acquisition of Invesco Perpetual's DC business earlier in 2008.

Cofunds will extend its business opportunities masterclasses for advisers into next year.

Half of the general public are most threatened by rising food and energy prices, with only 13% citing recession as their primary financial concern, according to the AIC.

Investors will need to return to old fashioned, conservative investing, where patience not shareholder pressure is key, according to Henderson's Tim Stevenson.