Europe

UK - International agency broker NeoNet has expanded its execution services of European exchange traded funds (ETFs) to the London Stock Exchange (LSE).

UK - The Foundation for Independent Directors is backing calls for a pool of non-executive directors - including those from public and private company backgrounds.

UK - The Legal Service Commission Pension & Assurance Scheme is currently looking to hire a firm to provide administration, actuarial and investment consulting services.

EUROPE - European private equity fundraising recorded a substantial fall in activity levels across all segments of the market in 2002.

UK - JPMorgan Treasury Services - which provides pension funds and companies with cash management facilities - has boosted its Bournemouth operations centre.

UK - A leading consultant has warned Threadneedle Investments that derogatory remarks by its chief executive about investors could have an adverse impact upon its business.

UK - Hermes Pensions Management has opposed the re-election of Scottish Investment Trust chairman Sir Angus Grossart because "he is no longer independent".

UK - Employers have no legal obligation to advise part-time staff on backdated pensions rights, the pension ombudsman has confirmed.

UK - Government proposals to cut VAT on all types of pension fund management fees will increase costs, the Investment Management Association claims.

UK/US - Workplace training by AVC and group personal pension providers can prevent US-style litigation, Prudential claims.