UK - Pension funds have recorded the first surplus of 2008 but funding levels are still below last year, according to data released by the Pension Protection Fund (PPF).

EDF Energy has appointed software administrator eShare to provide its trustee board with tools to meet their trustee knowledge and understanding requirements.

US - Trustees of the Cleveland Sheet Metal Workers Local 33 Pension Plan have been ordered to return US$625,000 to the scheme and pay a $125,000 fine by the US Department of Labor.

AUSTRALIA/UK - QIC has appointed Brad Bowton and Lyn Gearing to its board bringing the membership to ten.

PERSONAL accounts must remain as simple as possible to ensure the scheme works for the target market, delegates heard.

US/SWEDEN - CalPERS has appointed Kenneth W Marzion as interim CEO and AP4 has found a head of fixed income and currency.

THE Occupational Pensions Defence Union and ACE European Group have joined forces to offer trustees a comprehensive trustee indemnity insurance policy.

The Merseyside Pension Fund and the London Borough of Lambeth Superannuation Fund have appointed numerous consultancy firms to advise them on different aspects of their fund management.

MERCER has appointed Chris Sheasby as a senior associate in its retirement business.

US - CalSTRS has awarded the three first fixed income contracts in its developing manager programme and established a pool of firms to supplement the line up.