Few VCTs are upbeat nowadays - they are either fretting over the state of their portfolio, or their next fund, but one manager has just experienced a record number of deals.
Manx Financial Group has acquired Isle of Man-based IFA Edgewater Associates as the firm looks to diversify beyond the lending arena and develop its wealth business.
Scottish Provident has launched an online Life Matrix program.
The fund will invest primarily in Asia-Pacific real estate investment trusts as well as infrastructure and the utility sector.
IFA portals, back office technology services, and product providers have unveiled a major education initiative to help intermediaries understand what e-business can do for them.
Scottish Life is to improve its range of external fund links to give intermediaries access to funds that are more likely to meet their client's needs, by providing a 'fund matrix'.