The UKIP factor: M&G's Leaviss warns of disaster for sterling as political risk looms

The growing chance of a party outside the established top three getting a key role in a coalition government is starting to spook managers, as UKIP in particular gains ground ahead of the general election.

The unexpected win of the UKIP party led by Nigel Farage (top left) in a recent by-election in Clacton has been followed by surveys suggesting the party has much greater support across the UK than previously thought. A YouGov poll released on Thursday estimated support at 18%, while Survation and Ashcroft National Poll reported 25% and 19% respectively would vote UKIP. Recent analysis by the Guardian’s data team also suggests UKIP has the chance of winning 30 constituencies in next year’s election. M&G’s bond veteran Jim Leaviss (top right) said while a coalition formed by the Cons...