HAVE RISK ASSETS TAKEN FLIGHT?

An imminent interest rate hike would be the ultimate policy error by the Monetary Policy Committee, which should not raise rates before Q4 if inflation is still high, says Caspar Rock at Architas.

Royal London Asset Management's David Varley is leaving his role as manager of the £429m Japan Growth fund this month, to pursue opportunities outside the industry.

Architas is increasing exposure to UK stocks across its multi-manager range, awarding mandates to Majedie Asset Management and TT International.

THE FUTURE OF EMU

Punch Taverns' bondholders are seeking to halt the ailing firm from selling pubs in its estate and instead arrange a debt for equity swap.

BlackRock is preparing to expand its equity income fund range with the launch of onshore global, European, and resources offerings.

The FTSE 100 index edged higher in early trading following gains overseas in the US last night.

Portugal could need a bailout 'imminently' after opposition parties rejected the government's austerity policies, leading Prime Minister Jose Socrates to resign, according to reports.

The UK government bond market has shown resilience in reaction to the Budget and inflation soaring to 4.4% in February, offering a safe haven for investors, says M&G's Mike Riddell.