Amro Asset Management head of UK institutional sales and global head of consultant relationships Shamus Young has died. He was 39.

Bulk buyout specialist Paternoster has rejected a survey which claims the market is "stagnant" and has failed to live up to the hype.

CANADA - The Canadian Pension Plan (CPP) Investment Board has committed US$125m to a joint venture sponsored by a real estate private equity firm.

The Society of Pensions Consul-tants has welcomed government assurances it recognises the importance of early communication before introducing personal accounts.

TUC seeks ‘champions'

A new firm claims it can slash the cost of removing scheme liabilities by up to 20pc with a non-insurance based alternative to buyouts.

Operating profits at Thomsons Online Benefits soared by 56pc in 2006, the latest audited accounts revealed. Group turnover rose 54pc to £5.85m in the year to December 31, while operating profits reached £682,490.

Sales of enhanced annuity policies more than doubled in the year to the end of June, figures from financial adviser Just Retirement show.

US - The Alaska Permanent Fund Corporation (APFC) saw a 17% return on investments in the 2007 fiscal year.

INCLUDING - UK - HBOS keeps Watson Wyatt, JAPAN - Sales tax targeted for pension, GERMANY - Fin heads to Franklin Templeton