INCLUDING: CHINA - More officials on trial, UK - HSBC appoint Ashmore, US - Supermarket senior on gov board

GREMLINS in the system meant that readers of PP Online were yesterday asked to provide answers to three questions to enter ING Real Estate's competition while readers of our print edition were only asked to answer two.

MORE than one-third of investors believe commercial property is not a significantly risky investment according to Barclays Stockbrokers.

THREADNEEDLE INVESTMENTS has expanded its investment management team with three key appointments - head of equities, head of fixed income and chief risk officer.

US - The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has established an advisory committee to examine the US financial reporting system.

US - Pension fund returns could be up to 1.4% lower if they are assisted by consultants with undisclosed conflicts of interest, according to a new report by government investigators.

US - The California State Teachers' Retirement System (CalSTRS) said it would vote against the $2.8bn proposed takeover of auto-parts supplier, Lear Corporation in which it held a 2% stake.

UK - Northamptonshire County Council pension fund has awarded two fund of hedge funds mandates, totaling £56m.

EUROPE - British investment trusts are due to be repaid up to £300m and save £40m per annum after the European Court of Justice (ECJ) ruled they should not have to pay value added tax (VAT).

The £2.25bn Leicestershire County Council pension fund has appointed a fund of hedge funds for a targeted return mandate worth £105m.