S&P

Investors are increasing their exposure to the emerging markets by investing in small cap ETFs tracking the region, according to a report by Standard and Poor's.

Renewable sector

OBSR investment research analyst Sarah Bewley picks her top US funds

The UK's credit rating has been revised from negative to stable by S&P, further consolidating its ‘AAA' status and boosting the coalition government's economic plans.

A new fund research tool has been launched on independent wrap platform Ascentric, allowing users to access material relating to ETFs and other funds in a single location.

The drought that has devastated Russia's wheat harvest has brought misery to thousands, but the sharp rise in prices has meant bumper returns for investors in the agriculture sector. Nick Sudbury reports

Emma Dunkley speaks to Lothian Pension Fund portfolio manager Bruce Miller and West Midlands Pension Fund chief investment officer Judy Saunders about their approach to ETFs

EUROPE

Standard and Poor's(S&P) has downgraded pension provider Scottish Equitable and warned on the restructure of parent company Aegon.

Standard & Poor's has downgraded Ireland's credit rating over fears about the country's weak banking system.