M&G

Corporate bond funds saw a resurgence in popularity following a two-month dip in demand, accounting for a third of net sales on the Cofunds platform in July.

Prudential UK's total APE sales for the first half of the year were down 14% to £376m with a strong showing for with-profit bonds and individual pensions offset by falls for individual annuities, offshore bonds and corporate pensions.

M&G's Richard Woolnough has reduced his exposure to interest rate risk in his Optimal Income fund on the back of concerns about a possible excess in supply of government bonds.

Aegon Scottish Equitable has partnered with M&G to offer five insured fund links as part of its evolving external fund range.

Threadneedle was the big winner at the Investment Week, sister title of IFAonline and Professional Adviser, Fund Manager of the Year Awards, landing the prestigious Group of the Year accolade at the Royal Albert Hall.

There is still a need for a greater understanding of the bond market amongst experienced advisers as well as newcomers to the industry, according to M&G managing director, global sales Jonathan Willcocks.

Mike Felton is taking extended leave from M&G, having been diagnosed very recently with leukaemia.

M&G will join forces with eight other top UK fund management houses to host the Life Link Conference 2008.

Norwich Union is to host a series of investment roadshows in May and June giving advisers the chance to quiz a number of fund managers.

Prudential has reported a 4% increase in UK sales in Q1 this year, to £189m (APE basis).