Global

GLOBAL - The spread of the SARS virus could have a "devastating" impact on pension schemes' portfolios - especially those with investments in Asia - fund managers warn.

GLOBAL - Fund management giant Amvescap has blamed falling markets for a near 50% slump in first quarter pre-tax profits.

UK - Coller Capital has appointed Erwin Roex as investment director. Roex is responsible for transaction origination and structuring.

GLOBAL - Fund managers are divided over whether equity markets will recover following the conclusion to fighting in Iraq.

GLOBAL - Global economic growth is likely to remain sluggish for the foreseeable future because nations cannot afford to devalue their currencies right now.

GLOBAL - Amvescap-owned Invesco is hoping to launch a new hedge fund strategy by year-end as the race for higher yields among investors hots up.

UK/GLOBAL - A radical new code of stewardship for pension funds backed by some of the world's biggest investors has already caused outrage among fund managers.

GLOBAL - Citisoft, the investment management consultancy, has launched a new risk and performance service to help fund managers get more value from their investments.

GLOBAL - Institutional investors are being urged to snap up emerging market equities despite heightened risks and dwindling returns.

GLOBAL - State Street Corporation has become the latest global custodian to provide qualified foreign institutional investors (QFII) access to China's US$500bn A-share market.