threadneedle

Threadneedle is to push ahead with plans to convert its UK Property Trust to a more tax-efficient structure.

Threadneedle is to merge its multi-manager range into funds run by Seven Investment Management (7IM), with two managers set to move across as part of the deal, Investment Week can reveal.

Simon Brazier has completed his overhaul of the £164m Investec UK Alpha fund, trimming positions in "expensive" cyclical stocks in favour of more globally diversified companies.

Tilney Bestinvest has named nine funds that have consistently earned its top fund rating over the past five years.

Threadneedle's Richard Colwell is adding more to stocks including Centrica and GlaxoSmithKline as he seeks contrarian equity income plays for the months ahead.

Investec Asset Management's Simon Brazier has warned investors on the higher volatility likely to be experienced in 2015, pointing to a backdrop similar to the year in which Lehman Brothers collapsed.

THE BIG QUESTION

US financials' increasing attraction to income investors makes the US equity income landscape reminiscent of that seen in the 1980s, according to Threadneedle head of US equities Diane Sobin.

Several of the UK's major asset managers are falling short on stewardship and responsible investment practice, according to NGO ShareAction.

How asset managers are meeting the pensions challenge