Regions

Including: US - CalPERS' Baggesen talks investments; SWEDEN - AP7 divests from arms; AUSTRALIA - First Home Saver Account costs "insurmountable" for super funds

Turbulent times and strict funding regulations have brought ALM to the fore again, reports Elizabeth Pfeuti

EUROPE - Jacqueline Lommen has been appointed to Hewitt Associate's pan-European consulting team as a senior international benefits consultant.

INCLUDING: UK - ACA chairman announced; UK - Former Watson Wyatt staffer joins Mercer; AUSTRALIA - Kouryialas joins Martin Currie; UK - Hymans Robertson promotes Birmingham head

Sovereign wealth funds, private companies and new money from emerging market economies may be pushing pensions out of the frame for lucrative infrastructure investments.

EUROPE/CANADA - The Canada Pension Plan Investment Board (CPPIB) is increasing its focus on investment opportunities in Europe and the UK with the opening of an office in London.

FundQuest, the multi-manager owned by BNP Paribas, has confirmed to Global Pensions it is considering unbundling its fee structure, following on from the recent acquisition of UK based IMS.

INCLUDING: EUROPE - BNP completes first Eastern European deals; CANADA - CPP totals CAN$122.7bn; ASIA - Threadneedle opens Asian office

GLOBAL - Mercer's investment consulting business has undergone a management shake up as it moves to takes advantage of growing demand for implemented consulting.

GLOBAL - Standard & Poor's has launched two indices for the commodities and natural resources sectors.