MERCER Investment Consulting is to expand its global research into alternative investments in a bid to diversify its product range.

US - Governor of California Arnold Schwarzenegger (pictured) has signed two bills prohibiting the state's pension funds from investing in companies with active business interests in Sudan.

GOVERNMENT should consider basic term assurance as part of the proposed national pensions savings scheme, Standard Life Assurance says.

EUROPE - The Bear Stearns Companies has appointed Michel Péretié (pictured) to the newly-created position of European CEO, and said further appointments were imminent as the firm seeks to increase its European focus.

Hong Kong - Credit Suisse has appointed Anthony Iliya to the role of executive vice chairman of asset management for the Asia Pacific region.

DENMARK - Many of Denmark's largest pension funds are increasing their infrastructure allocations or investing for the first time as the asset class becomes an important part of their portfolios, industry experts have claimed.

WATSON WYATT investment consulting has appointed David Aleppo as a senior investment consultant.

Goldman Sachs gears up for move into corporate pension schemes; Resolution Life could be sold; UK firms underestimating life expectancy; Standard Life's Reed set to collect £770,000

ACTUARIES must respond to the changing demands of the marketplace, Institute of Actuaries president Nick Dumbreck warns.

HSBC Actuaries and Consultants is set to market a Aegon Benefit Solutions employee benefit system.