In this preview report (the full report will be published in a few weeks), Barclays reviews the performance of the global ETF market in 2008. The report notes that the use of ETFs by IFAs is likely to increase in the UK due to regulatory proposals outlined on November 25 as part of the Retail Distribution Review. The proposals outline changes the UK Financial Services Authority wants to make for the retail investment market to establish a new level of consumer trust and confidence by distinguishing between independent advice and sales advice.
Written by Corporate Monitor Tuesday, 25 November 2008 11:37
Responsible Investment 2008 is the 8th annual Benchmark Report commissioned by The Responsible Investment Association Australasia (RIAA) and the fifth report based on research carried out by Corporate Monitor. Its aim is fourfold: to update figures for the 2007-08 financial year for the various forms and segments of responsible investment; to present analysis of its level of growth (or decline); to show comparisons with the total managed investment market; and to provide a summary of the latest reported overseas figures.
Written by Lincoln Monday, 24 November 2008 16:47
In this report, Lincoln notes the significant deterioration in the health of the Australian sharemarket and the resulting opportunities created for long-term investors.
The report, authored by Deutsche Asset Management's global climate change investment research team, provides a detailed analytical framework for understanding the opportunities for investing in climate change. It also notes that an economic downturn offers governments across the developed world a prime opportunity to boost their spending on ‘green’ infrastructure as a stimulus to avoid severe recession. 
This research on the Australian funds management industry identifies industry funds as the main competitive threat for "for profit" retail funds in the mass superannuation market in Australia. Beyond the current cyclical issues for listed fund managers (i.e. weak investment markets and reduced net flows), potential structural headwinds are also examined. 
