Archive

The last 12 months has seen a total reversal in fortunes for property funds. Is this recent trend due to continue or are we witnessing a scramble for alternative asset classes? What are the real prospects for property investing over the next 12 months and beyond and are positive returns sustainable?

Is the Euro on the verge of collapse? Is Spain the next European country to face a financial crisis? Will Germany withdraw from the Euro altogether? A number of factors have intensified the pressure on the Euro, making some investors question Europe as an investment. Our panel will discuss what these issues mean for the Euro and if it is possible to still make money in European Equities.

At the halfway point in 2010 have we seen the worst of the recent economic turmoil? Investors could be forgiven for not knowing where to invest, however recent IMA stats suggest that Absolute returns, Emerging Markets and Property are the key areas of growth whilst Corporate Bonds continue to suffer redemptions. What are the prospects for the equity markets and the wider economy and what should in... [read more]

Worthwhile opportunities in US equities might have been overlooked by investors. Most jumped on the emerging markets train, which now looks overcrowded and heading towards a market bubble. The US remains the world’s largest economy but have investors missed the recovery or is this the perfect time for exposure to US equities?

One year on from FTSE hitting a six year low, many are looking to UK equities to lead a recovery, but is the recent rally underpinned by anything more substantial than hope? How strong are the big name companies that make up the UK stock market? Our panel will look at the implications of the undecisive general election and what impact a coalition government might have on the UK’s fortunes.

Global Equities have bounced back in recent months led primarily by the speedy recovery of Emerging Markets. But how sustainable is this recovery? Exports, consumer spending and domestic demand remain buoyant but how much of this is due to interest rate manipulation and unsustainable fiscal measures? With the whole world to choose from where are Global Equity managers finding value and what areas... [read more]

The rise in popularity of the Absolute Return sector was one of the big investment stories of 2009. However the sector is a mixed bag of funds with managers employing very different styles to achieve their target returns. This debate will look at some of the strategies employed by Absolute Return managers as well as the stocks and sectors they find attractive.

Fixed Income - With credit rallying strongly over the course of 2009, many investors are now starting to question if value remains in fixed income markets. With expectations of government bond yields rising on the back of burgeoning budget deficits across the developed world, investors are now looking to flexible fixed income mandates and funds which can protect against the potential pitfalls for ... [read more]

With the end of Q1 in sight and the UK out of the recession, how will advisers fare in the upcoming months? The end of the quarter saw Obama achieve his ambition to provide 95% of all Americans with health insurance and the Chancellor present his latest budget. With the general election on the horizon and a potential hung parliament, how will the markets react to such turbulence? Our expert panel ... [read more]

The last 12 months has seen a total reversal in fortunes for property funds. Ranked 28th out of 34 sectors in January 2009, a late rally saw the property sector finish the year as the top selling fund sector for 3 months running. Is this recent trend due to continue or are we witnessing a scramble for alternative asset classes as the exodus from Corporate Bonds continues? What are the real prospec... [read more]

With the RDR fast approaching many advisers are looking at the possibility of outsourcing their investment decisions. Is the current selection of Multimanager funds flexible enough to offer IFA’s a full outsourcing option or are they just one part of a much larger solution? What new trends and developments are emerging in the Multimanager arena and how are the providers gearing up for the potent... [read more]

In recent weeks the problems surrounding the Greek economy and its subsequent EU bailout has grabbed all of the headlines. Some commentators have cited the the inflexibility of the Euro as a contributing factor and with Portugal, Ireland and Spain rumoured to be heading the same way as Greece is Europe on the verge of a financial meltdown or is this just an isolated case? How are European Equity ... [read more]

UK Equity income investors face high concentrations of risk, with just 10 companies paying 60% of all dividend income according to a recent statement. With the demise of the financial sector there are significantly fewer dividend opportunities. Do UK only income funds place their investors at greater risk than more diversified funds or do UK Equity income managers see good value outside of these 1... [read more]

2009 was a difficult year for structured products. In a year of record sales, the sector was rocked by the demise of four plan providers and a barrage of negative and, some would say, unfair commentary. Despite these setbacks many advisors consider structured products as a mainstream product for UK investors. With almost unlimited potential, flexibility and options, structured products are a very ... [read more]

The last 20 years have been notoriously difficult for Japanese equities. Despite these difficulties there have always been opportunities to make positive returns for the shrewd investor. Investment in certain Japanese sectors is also seen as a way of indirectly accessing China's recent growth. With a new government now in place and fiscal policies designed to revive the economy currently being imp... [read more]

Emerging economies have undergone a stronger recovery than developed markets in recent months, a trend that is expected to continue into 2010. With China driving much of the growth in Asia, Russia still dependent on commodities and Brazil leading the charge in Latin America, which markets can still offer good value and returns and which markets are laden with risk?

Corporate bonds were the must have investment of 2009 leading the IMA sales charts for much of the year. However many believe the bond market has reached saturation and value is increasingly difficult to find. With last year’s resurgence of global equity markets, will 2010 be a year of redemptions for Corporate Bonds or are they still a must have?

A constant presence in most portfolios Europe did not escape the economic downturn. GDP in the Euro zone fell by 1.5% in the last quarter of 2008 and the start of 2009 offered little in the way of respite. But with tighter investment controls across most of Europe and less exposure to the toxic debt which burdened the UK and US which Euro zone countries are best equipped to bounce back and which a... [read more]

The end of the year is always time for resolutions but with the uncertainty seen in the markets this year, investors could be forgiven for not knowing what to resolve. With the Dubai property crisis providing an unwanted reminder that we are not out of the woods yet how will are the markets and the wider economy react to yet more bad news and what should investors expect in 2010?

Property funds sales were up for the sixth consecutive month in October, the first time this has happened since June 2007, with sales totaling £261m, more than double the £129m achieved in August. Property is firmly back on the agenda but as inflows increase where is the best value to be found, UK, Global, Commercial, REITS or Bricks and Mortar?

By carefully picking through the companies that other funds avoid, recovery funds have made a killing in the past few months as the stock market has surged. But will they be left behind as markets stabilise? Or will a ‘W’-shaped recovery mean more opportunities for these funds?

Despite the recent recovery in stock markets, volatility continues to put many investors off equities, with the main beneficiary being corporate bonds. IMA UK Corporate Bond has been the best-selling sector amongst retail investors in every month this year. But corporate bonds are not without volatility either – are current yields sufficient to reward for risks? What issues are bond fund manager... [read more]

On the first anniversary of the collapse of Lehman Brothers, are we heading out of the storm that has consumed financial markets? With both Mervyn King and Ben Bernanke predicting the worst might be over, are hopes being falsely raised? Our panel will discuss these issues and look at which countries and sectors might be the first to recover.

Managers in the equity income sector have had a torrid time over the past year. The search for income has become increasingly difficult as hard hit companies cut dividends. As the markets continue to rally there are signs that conditions may improve for the sector. This Conjecture will look at how equity income managers have coped during the past year. The panel will also assess the prospects f... [read more]

One big criticism of the Structured Products market is that it is not liquid or transparent enough. Those who have bought a 5yr structured product have no guarantee of a fair redemption price if they choose to redeem mid term or at any point before its maturity date. This Conjecture will examine the future of Structured Products and how the industry can address this problem - will the UK copy ... [read more]

The bleak economic outlook has been well documented, but will market conditions appear any better as we go into the third quarter of 2009? Our panel will identify the geo-political sectors that have coped best throughout the downturn and highlight those that they feel are best equipped to bounce back.

More and more investors are turning to exchange-traded funds, looking for value in markets or commodities that are thriving in the face of falling global markets. But which funds - and which underpinning markets - are most likely to provide increasingly elusive returns?

While counterparty risk has always been a consideration for investors buying structured products and other investments, it has come to the fore of investors’ mindsets since the collapse of Lehman Brothers last year. In the weeks immediately after, investor confidence was severely dented, as many lost their capital in Lehman structured products and third party products backed by Lehman paper. ... [read more]

Corporate Bonds, for so long among the most secure asset classes, has seen doubt cast on its ability to guarantee returns as companies struggle to raise cash. The fallout from Lehman Brothers’ collapse has even seen several Corporate Bonds funds post a loss and many investors have turned to the greater perceived reliability of government-backed gilts. How well equipped are corporate bonds to bou... [read more]

Structured products are currently facing their first big test. The vehicles became a hit thanks to their stated aim of providing returns irrespective of prevailing market conditions, but now, as global investment markets endure a turbulent passage, Structured Products must deliver the returns they promise. The market has quickly expanded to incorporate a diverse range of underlying investments fro... [read more]

They have become a cornerstone of the investment market, luring investors with the promise of security irrespective of prevailing market conditions. The funds' arrival was confirmed by the IMA's introduction of a dedicated absolute returns sector last year. But this perceived security is facing a stern test amid current market uncertainty. How well have the funds stood up to the global downturn so... [read more]

Uncertainty regarding equities should see a rush to fixed income vehicles from investors looking for shelter and security. However the corporate bond market has not escaped the recent volatility but which sectors offer the most potential in terms of bonds and gilts? Our panel will examine the fixed income market to pick the most likely stars.

Multi-manager funds have grown in popularity due to the access they give investors to a range of expertise. But the funds’ comparatively high fees could deter investors if diminished returns mean less room for error. In a wounded market, do the benefits derived from putting your eggs in several baskets justify the cost?

UK Equities have long been the cornerstone of most portfolios and in times of volatility, equity investors turn to companies perceived to be more stable – and nothing says stability like being able to return capital to shareholders in the form of dividends. But none of the funds in the sector escaped the downturn last year and investor confidence is understandably shaky. This debate will look fo... [read more]

Investors could be forgiven for wanting to put 2008 behind them, but are we likely to see any improvement next year? Our expert panel will dissect what’s in store for a variety of global markets and investment sectors in an attempt to find some light at the end of the tunnel.

The most difficult periods for ‘sexier’ sectors typically see Fixed Income funds nudge their way back into favour, attracting investors simply by being dependable. This Conjecture will analyse the market in fixed return products and reveal which sectors’ bonds are offering the best value.

With world equity markets suffering the effects of the banking crisis is there any corner of the world still delivering value, if so where and what are the long term prospects.

More and more investors are likely to turn to exchange-traded funds, looking for value in markets or commodities that are thriving in the face of falling western markets. But which funds - and which underpinning markets - are most likely to provide increasingly elusive returns?

Bear Stearns, Lehman Bros, Merrill Lynch, AIG, Northern Rock. These are the names keeping investors and fund managers awake at night. Combined with spiralling inflation and a record week of collapse and recovery on the markets, it's proving to be a real rollercoaster at the moment. But have we reached the end of this wild ride or will there be further thrills and spills in the coming weeks and mon... [read more]

As the UK, the US and other established markets face a challenging time, emerging markets will come to the fore to offer respite from the downturn. Several South American and Asian countries have seen dramatic growth over recent years, but will these economies continue to develop or will new markets begin to emerge?

With tiger economies such as Singapore, South Korea and Hong Kong complemented by an increasingly strong China and the rapidly developing Indian economy, there is potential for growth across the Asian region. But will Asia ex-Japan funds continue the dynamic growth that they have seen in recent years, and which countries are best equipped to maintain this performance?

With 'new' Europe growing rapidly and ‘old’ Europe working to reform, the economies of the Continent have been strong performers in recent years. But how is Europe placed in the face of a global economic slowdown? This Conjecture debate will look at how the European investment market is changing and which areas offer the best value.

Only strong absolute return fund sales prevented a net UK retail fund outflow in June. The funds’ stellar performance in the face of awkward market conditions has been a rare highlight in the UK investment landscape. But do you know your absolutes from your total and target return funds?

In times of volatility, equity investors turn to companies perceived to be more stable – and nothing says stability like being able to return capital to shareholders in the form of dividends. This Conjecture will analyse which sectors’ stocks are offering the best value and which countries promise most in the income field.

There is little doubt that the world economy is changing, with the rise of the ‘tiger’ economies in the east, and the dwindling dominance of the world’s only remaining superpower. However, after several years of booming growth in the world economy, there are signs that some economies are flagging, and that old word, recession, has reared its ugly head in the media. The UK Chancellor, Alist... [read more]

As emerging market economies such as China and Russia enter the mainstream, the hunt is on for their successors. There have recently been a number of fund launches in this space as fund managers see investment opportunities in under-analysed regions and companies. However, although the potential for investment in these countries is huge, what are the risks? We will be discovering which areas are p... [read more]

This is one of the best-selling sectors, according to the Investment Management Association (IMA), but in reality it’s a mixed bag of products – and performances, as its title suggests. This discussion will get to the bottom of what funds make up this sector and whether it is worthy of widespread consideration.

With research indicating that 50% of financial advisers plan to boost their multi-manager (MM) exposure in 2008, the future for these funds looks rosy. Of those planning to increase MM exposure, nearly half expect a 10-20% increase whilst one in five are predicting a 21-30% rise. What are the wider issues associated with using these broad investment vehicles and is managing expectations in the cur... [read more]

Europe remains a complex and, in many respects, disjointed fund management market. While the resurgence of some eastern European economies offers enormous potential for asset managers, and their clients, Europe is not yet a single market so problems remain. The implementation of Markets in Financial Instruments Directive in November last year has made things easier but, in truth, a lot of firms ... [read more]

The turbulence in global stock markets and plummeting equity values has forced investors to think carefully on where their money is best placed. While fixed income is often thought of as a safe haven, corporate bonds and gilts are seen by many as inappropriate in the current climate. Is fixed interest still the best play, or will investors find more value by holding currency or even pouring back i... [read more]

The uncertainty currently facing global markets should see absolute return funds enjoy continued popularity. But despite their declared ability to prosper irrespective of prevailing market conditions, any bear market will provide a stern test of this claim. This Conjecture will ask whether absolute return strategies work in all major markets and asset classes. And how will the diverse swathe of ab... [read more]

Structured products could be about to face their biggest test since rising to prominence just after the turn of the century. The vehicles became a hit thanks to their stated aim of providing returns irrespective of prevailing falling market conditions, but now, as global investment markets enter a period of uncertainty, Structured Products must deliver the returns they promise. The market has quic... [read more]

UK equities have not escaped the global volatility of recent months. The small and mid cap areas of the market have been particularly badly hit but there have been some nasty surprises in the large cap space too. UK equity funds are traditionally core holdings for UK IFAs but they now seem a far less attractive option. We will be asking whether it is all doom and gloom for the UK market at the mom... [read more]

The current commodity boom is showing no signs of slowing with some of the largest monthly gains in history recorded in the past few months. Demand in China and the emerging markets have pushed prices through the roof, with oil and gold recently hitting all-time highs. While investors in mining companies revel in the surge of M&A activity, consumers on the ground are struggling as food and energy ... [read more]

The continued boom in China and its potential for future growth have been well documented, but while China has dominated the headlines, several of the region’s other ‘tiger economies’ also have the potential to provide high rates of return to investors prepared to embrace higher levels of risk. Economies such as South Korea, Thailand and even India present plenty of opportunity for the infor... [read more]

It’s one of the busiest periods in the calendar for financial advisers – so which areas are likely to be this year’s biggest sellers? The debate will also take a look back at which funds proved to the best performers of last year and examine the main economic factors that are likely to influence investors’ decisions.

Analysts claim it’s one of the most unpredictable starts to a year seen in the last couple of decades so just how should we be feeling going into 2008? Which economies look strong? Which look weak? What are the biggest issues facing global investors at the moment and what evidence can we glean from the key economic indicators?

The term ‘emerging markets’ is used to describe a host of different areas but the real question is this: which of them will make investors money? The aim of this debate is to establish exactly which of these markets will perform the best over the coming year and which are best left alone.

This sector has been one of the biggest sellers in recent years due to the confusion in world markets – but what does the future hold? This debate will analyse the prospects for the Cautious Managed sector, have a look at the main funds in the area, and discuss the likely benefits/problems of having exposure.

Equity income funds may not have enjoyed the same press as the likes of small-cap growth or emerging market offerings in recent years, but that is certainly not the case any longer. With the markets taking a turn for the worse during the middle of last year, large-caps have come into favour, with investors increasingly looking at stocks which can still generate returns in the unstable current clim... [read more]

Surely every investor wants their portfolios to produce absolute returns – but what are the best ways to achieve this goal? Is it worth considering specialist absolute return funds or can investors enjoy similar results from putting their money into long-established funds?

For the past three to four years, bonds have been unpopular against a backdrop of surging equity markets, but as the credit crunch has brought a touch of uncertainty, many investors are looking to turn back to the security that bonds offer. Blue chip companies have started to return to the debt market and, while new issues look expensive, gains should be available for shrewd investors. So is now t... [read more]

The 130/30 phenomenon has certainly arrived, but are there compelling reasons to invest in the strategy? JP Morgan, UBS and Threadneedle all launched 130/30 funds to UK investors near the end of 2007, while many houses intend to do the same in 2008. Positive news from across the Atlantic is only adding to the clamour, so should investors get involved now, or wait to see results first? This debate ... [read more]

Can we look forward to bumper returns or will it be a rocky ride next year? This debate will consider which will be the best-performing asset classes; what's likely to happen to global stock markets and the outlook for key economic indicators such as interest rates.

The term ‘emerging markets’ is used to describe a host of different areas but the real question is this: which of them will make investors money? The aim of this debate is to establish exactly which of these markets will perform the best over the coming year and which are best left alone.

We’ve all read about the prospects for China and India, but surely this is a story that’s already been told? Is there really much prospect of the region delivering stellar returns going forward and, if so, in which countries should we be investing?

They have been the gems of the investment world, but for how much longer? Small-cap managers regularly boast about the sector’s long-term returns, but what are the prospects for the next 12 months? Are small companies better equipped to ride the storm? Will it out-perform the large-cap arena? Is it best to opt for UK small companies or are there better opportunities overseas?

Multi-asset funds are the latest craze to hit the world of investment but are they really suitable for everyone’s portfolios and can they honestly be relied upon to deliver decent returns regardless of the economic backdrop? This debate will look at the benefits of this style, analyse the relative merits of the specialist funds recently launched into this space and discuss the other ways of gett... [read more]

Having enjoyed an almost uninterrupted upward trend for the best part of four years, world stock markets have suddenly started to wobble on the back of the US sub-prime market’s collapse. But is the recent downturn anything more significant than a blip or will moves like the Fed’s decision to cut rates prove enough to paper over the cracks and keep the global economy booming? This debate will ... [read more]

At the halfway point of the year, have markets behaved as we were expecting? What are likely to be the factors shaping investment markets as we head towards 2008? This debate will focus on the possible outcomes and look at how investors can best position themselves in light of the current macroeconomic climate.

Commercial property investment has been one of the resounding investment success stories of the past five years. But as the sector is swelled by a spate of new entrants, how are property fund managers keeping ahead of the game? This debate will look at prospects for property at home and abroad, as well as addressing the new Real Estate Investment Trust (Reit) structure.

Closed-ended fund launches have been growing in number in recent years, boosted by favourable tax laws in jurisdictions such as the Channel Islands. The AITC has even become the AIC in recognition of the rise of the “investment company”. This Conjecture will consider the benefits of closed-ended versus open-ended funds, and will look at how innovation in the market is opening up opportunities ... [read more]

Historically low interest rates and a high risk appetite among investors has stamped down on bond yields in recent years. But bonds still form a massive part of the investment universe, so how have fund managers made the most of this hostile environment? And do rising rates and the recent bout of risk aversion spell better times ahead? This Conjecture will explore the ways that fixed income fund m... [read more]

With the European Union doubling in size in recent years as Central and Eastern European countries join, this debate will ask whether the traditional Europe ex UK equity universe still has relevance, or whether investors should embrace the opportunities brought by the new member states.

Equity income funds were the stars of the three-year bear market that followed the tech bubble, but lost out in the heady times before the crash. However, the average UK Equity Income fund is still ahead of the average UK All Companies fund over the past three years of broadly rising markets. This debate will ask whether income funds are really the “fund for all seasons” that should be held by... [read more]

While some commentators have predicted the FTSE 100 will close the year above the record 7000 mark, recent volatility may have dented their hopes. But is the key to success in today’s market getting the size bias right, choosing the right sectors or just good old-fashioned stockpicking? This debate will consider the best way forward for investors in UK equities.

Alternative asset classes may be growing in popularity, but they still get a rough ride from commentators who claim they are too risky for most people’s portfolios and that the potential upside is not worth the extra hassle involved. This debate, however, will present the case for hedge funds. The issues being discussed will include how these products actually work, the ways they can boost overa... [read more]

Most people believe equities will be the best place for investors during 2007, but which areas of the UK market are likely to outperform and which should be avoided at all costs? This Conjecture will examine the outlook for large, mid and small cap companies, discuss the most relevant macro issues and reveal exactly how the panellists construct and run their respective portfolios.

China is still being tipped to lead the Asia region onto great things over the coming years so this debate will bring everyone up to speed with what has happened over the past 12 months. How are companies in the region performing? What has happened to levels of foreign investment? Which sectors of the Asian economy are likely to be the best bets for investors over the next few years?

Why should investors be opting for high yield products? How risky are they in the current environment and should those people who are enthusiastic about their prospects stick to established UK names or look overseas? It will also look at the likely default rates for 2007, how high yield funds are managed and the key trends that could impact upon the level of returns achieved.

What role should corporate bonds play in an investor’s portfolio – particularly given the fact that even fixed income managers are predicting that equities will outperform again during 2007? This discussion will also compare UK-focussed with global products and analyse whether investment grade or high yield funds will deliver the best returns over the next few years.

Is now the right time to be investing in fixed income? What are the benefits? Isn’t it better to put all your money into equities? The aim of this Conjecture is to discuss the prospects of the entire fixed income sector, including a look at the fund choices facing investors, how portfolios are constructed and what issues are likely to make the most impact upon returns during 2007.

What are the prospects for Europe? Although it often gets classed as one region, Europe is effectively a patchwork quilt of different economies, political stances and views, which means it’s difficult to make sweeping generalisations. However, this debate will reveal what investors need to know about Europe as a region in 2007, how managers of European funds put their portfolios together and wha... [read more]

How does the introduction of Reit legislation into the UK affect the way we invest in property? This debate will take a detailed look at the situation in the wake of the changes introduced at the beginning of the year, compare and contrast equity-type funds with those investing directly in bricks and mortar, discuss the likely level of returns going forward and reveal the key threats to the overal... [read more]

Its the age-old debate: can you invest ethically and still make money? Investors weren't convinced when the Stewardship Growth fund made its debut in the early 1980s, but now hundreds of millions of pounds are being invested into the sector. This debate will take a close look at ethical investing and provide a unique insight into how the Stewardship range of funds is put together.

How is the world looking from an investors standpoins been a rather topsy-turvy year so far, so what should we be making of it all? Which countries, asset classes and sectors are standing out from the crowd? As well as recapping on what has been happening across global markets, this debate will discuss the outlook for the coming year by discussing issues such as interest rates, import/export figur... [read more]

What are the arguments for having exposure to UK Gilts in your investment portfolio at the moment? After all, buying gilts is arguably best done when interest rates are high and look likely to fall. This Conjecture will discuss how the price of UK Gilts, how they compare to other asset classes and which type of investor would currently be best suited to them.

How important is the United States to the rest of the world? Despite suggestions to the contrary, it seems that even slight changes to US economic and foreign policy has huge ramifications for the rest of us. This debate will give panellists a chance to assess Ben Bernanke's first months at the Fed, discuss their views on the economic health of the US and what is likely to happen to US-based stock... [read more]

What is the priority for most UK equity investors these days? Is it buying into growth stocks or pursuing income and which is currently the most suitable approach? How should investors put together long-term equity portfolios? Should they be buying funds or choosing a handful of individual stocks instead?

Soaring stock markets made emerging markets the hot topic of conversation within the investment community earlier this year, but the subsequently fall-back has left more questions than answers. On this Conjecture, panellists will explain the best ways to play these regions, reveal what they look for in stocks and discuss the principal threats and opportunities they are expecting to face.

Where does the stock market performance of the past 12 months leave fixed income products? Is now the right time to be buying them? In a world where people are once again embracing the stock market, what role should they play in the average investment portfolio. This Conjecture will also feature a debate on the pros and cons of the asset class and whether UK or international names offer the best v... [read more]

What are the benefits to the investor of boutique-style houses and how successful have they been? Its an often-discussed term, but how effective are these products and what are the investment houses behind them doing to build for the future? This debate will also discuss the pros and cons of the approach, such as the impact of not having teams of analysts spread across the world.

Is the Asia (ex-Japan) region fulfilling its promise? Have the levels of GDP growth achieved matched expectations? Which countries have delivered the goods and which have come up short? This Conjecture will provide a frank analysis of how the region has performed over recent months and what the future is likely to hold.

They have been one of the most talked about asset classes of the year, but how should hedge funds be viewed? This topic will look at the pros and cons of the different structures, as well as examining the past returns, the fees, future prospects, how managers can add value and when its suitable to go for funds of hedge funds.

The options available to people interested in this asset class are vast as there are now over 300 investment trusts responsible for the management of billions of pounds worth of assets on behalf of investors but where does the industry go from here?

The face of Europe has changed dramatically over the past decade, but how should it be regarded by investors now? Is it right to view old and new Europe as separate entities? How has the region as a whole improved in recent years? Panellists will also explain what they look for in potential stocks and give an insight into their portfolio management techniques.

Millions of pounds have been ploughed into the property sector over recent months - but why could this be a good move in the current environment? This debate will look at the recent trends, analyse which area - office, industrial or retail is looking most attractive and reveal the key factors investors need to know about the subject.

Where should people who want decent exposure to the UK market be investing their money? The FTSE 100 index is now very overweight in a handful of sectors so should investors be turning their attention to the FTSE 250 instead and what are the implications of that decision?

The benefits of playing the S&P 500 and why so few UK-based fund managers appear to be able to outperform this index will be two key questions of this debate, which will also cover the best ways of getting exposure to this market, the potential pitfalls along the way and the likely returns that can be generated.

Countries such as China and India may be hogging the newspaper headlines, but what are the prospects for other emerging markets? This Conjecture will throw the spotlight on potentially attractive areas which are yet to bask in the glow of publicity and reveal why they should be considered by investors.

*CANCELLED* Due to unforeseen circumstances this week's Investment Week Conjecture has been cancelled. This Conjecture debate will look at the new-look Europe and ask just what it offers to investors. Topics that will be covered include the impact of the region made by the EU enlargement, what regulatory changes have already taken place and what needs to be done within individual countries to i... [read more]

Its an area which doesn't enjoy as much attention as other regions, but is full of potential - particularly within countries such as Brazil, Mexico and Chile. Panellists at this debate will provide a detailed introduction to the region, examine which sectors are most prominent and give an insight into their portfolio construction methods.

Just what place should high alpha funds have in an average investor’s portfolio? This debate will also reveal which stocks and sectors are likely to provide the most alpha over the coming months.

What’s next for Japan? In defiance of its critics who claimed the recovery would be short-lived, the country has continued to deliver the numbers. This debate will bring together experts on the region who will reveal the best ways of playing Japan, discuss potential threats and highlight which stocks and sectors they expect to outperform.

What are the benefits of investing in this asset class - particularly given the turnaround in fortunes enjoyed by equity stocks? The debate will look at the prospects for the UK corporate bond sector and what prominence it should have in the average person?s investment portfolio. Panellists will also discuss the impact on the sector of a retail slowdown, lacklustre property market and pension fund... [read more]

Equity markets have bounced back to four-and-a-half-year highs in recent months, but what does this mean for fixed income products? In a world where people are once again embracing the stock market, what role should they play in the average investment portfolio. This Conjecture will also feature a debate on the pros and cons of the asset class, a discussion about the recent changes managers have m... [read more]

What is the priority for most UK equity investors these days? Is it buying into growth stocks or simply generating a decent level of income? Recent reports suggest we are very much living in an ageing society with people resigned to working well into their 80s. If that?s going to be the case, what do they want from their equity investments? Is it still true that you eventually reap handsome reward... [read more]

In recent years Asia has become one of the most impressive regions as far as GDP growth is concerned. Most of the attention is still focussed on China, but is that the only story? This Conjecture will evaluate the opportunities across the entire region, reveal which countries have the best prospects and attempt to answer the nagging doubts many investors still have about the Asia story. It will al... [read more]

Every investor is interested in improving their absolute returns - but what is the best way of making that become a reality in the current economic climate? This debate will reveal to investors and advisers the best ways of positioning investment portfolios to maximise these returns, while taking into account wider macro-economic issues. What funds and strategies are best suited for this aim? How ... [read more]

It has been one of the real boom areas of the past decade - but how long can the good times last? What is a realistic rate of return to expect from the asset class over the coming years and which area - office, retail or warehouse space - should investors be focussing their attention. The debate will also look at the increasing number of specialist property funds and the important differences betw... [read more]

What are the prospects for UK equities during 2006? and which areas of the market are likely to be the most lucrative for investors? This debate will analyse the key factors that could affect the performance of the asset class, discuss the type of companies expected to do well and debate whether, small, mid or large cap stocks will emerge victorious. The discussion will also focus in on a number o... [read more]

Can you find good value in the United States by moving down the market cap scale? This debate will reveal the hidden gems within the bustling small and mid-cap arena that have the ability to provide better returns than the major names in the S&P 500. Panellists will reveal the best ways for investors to gain exposure to these marketplaces, give some examples of companies which have impressed them ... [read more]

Europe is a mass of contradictions. On the one hand you have the lacklustre GDP growth levels and outdated labour laws of so-called Old Europe? Then you have the ambitious Eastern European countries and their outsourcing opportunities. This debate will attempt to paint an overall picture of the new-look Europe. What are the best ways for investors to get exposure? How significant are the threats t... [read more]

Is now the right time to be investing in fixed income? What are the benefits? Isn?t it a bit of an overly-cautious approach to take? The aim of this Conjecture is to generate debate about the past performance and future prospects of the fixed income sector. It will cover the definition of the asset class, the fund choices facing investors, how portfolios are being positioned and the returns possib... [read more]

Large caps enjoyed a good run during 2005 with the bluechip FTSE 100 index climbing up from the lows of 4,551 to over 5,500 points as investors regained their confidence. Attractive stock prices, decent dividend yields and lucrative share buyback programmes have been the principle driving forces, but does the asset class still look so appealing? What issues do investors need to consider?

From the start of the year wealth managers and discretionary managers are expected to have a view for the year ahead. This Conjecture debate gives them the opportunity to hear the views of a selection of the UK?s leading fund managers, economists, CIOs strategists and asset allocators. The panel will debate the outlook for the world?s main markets and asset classes, with a particular focus on the ... [read more]

It is proving to be an increasingly popular asset class with institutions in search of yield, but is it one discretionary fund managers should be looking at? The critics argue why buy the debt in an emerging market as the upside is capped but the advocates argue it is an under-researched sector and its overall credit rating is far higher than most people realise: in other words there is far more r... [read more]

The emphasis here is on the quality of the managers and the content will be very stock specific and put together by talking to the managers in advance of the programme. The aim is to allow the audience to hear top managers debating the merits of individual stocks and how these fit in to portfolio construction. This should give the listeners valuable insights into two key areas where fund managers... [read more]

Oil is one of the largest sectors in the UK market: if Shell and BP do well then so does the sector and the chances are so too does the FTSE. At the same time the oil price has an impact on the cost of transport and production across the economy. So what is the outlook for the oil price and the sector, especially as Shell looks to streamline its corporate structure, with a significant effect on it... [read more]

The outlook for the region is apparently rosy - it is producing more and more goods and services, economies have reformed since the difficulties of the late 1990s, what could possibly go wrong? This Conjecture will focus on how optimistic fund mangers are on the region and how they are structuring their portfolios to take account of any possible downside event.

Many well known long only managers are now running long/short equity funds alongside their other portfolio, it is the business model being pursued by a diverse range of groups from boutiques such as Thames River through to large asset managers such as Threadneedle. But just how easy is it to make the switch from long only to long/short? What rules should groups have in place to make sure that one ... [read more]

Mortgage backed securities market, eg stocks such as Fannie Mae, is huge in North America but exactly what is it and how does it operate? These are large stocks held by many US fund managers and a type of fixed interest investing used by many bond managers. These stocks are also a big play on the US consumer and on the ability of management to run a loan book effectively.

Those companies that have thrown off cash to investors and taken part in share buybacks have proved to be the darlings of the stock market but is this trend about to come to an end? - What happens when companies throw off cash rather than invest for the future? Are they fulfilling their role properly? Is giving shareholders what they want a good idea? It certainly hindered M&S in the late 1990s. ... [read more]

The US consumer has been given the unenviable responsibility by the UK fund management industry of ensuring they save enough to pay down debt and spend enough to keep the global economy on the road for the benefit of investors around the world. This Conjecture will look at: 1) Just how important is the US consumer for the global economy? 2) What is the state of the US consumer? 3) What sectors/sto... [read more]

The asset class is characterised as one providing steady total returns with much of the gain coming from income, not from capital appreciation. At the same time it is the tenant who carries much of the risk and cost -from long term leases to having to provide buildings insurance. This programme will ask: If the story for commercial property is so compelling then why not gear up?

These vehicles are proving one of the most popular ways for investors to gain access to the alternative investment industry but are they adding value to client portfolios or just adding cost? Feedback from Conjecture's first piece of research into fund of hedge funds suggested discretionaries want to know more about the cost of FOHFs vs. the supposed benefits. What is a realistic level of ret... [read more]

There is a sharp division of opinion among fund managers on whether the sector is a buy or a sell in the current environment. Yet banks form one of the largest parts of FTSE and upon their fate rests a sizeable part of the UK market?s fortunes.

Asian growth has been one of the key themes enthusiastically pursued by investors. The big picture story is compelling: demographics, productivity, an ever more powerful middle class, the development of value added products, but is this still on offer at a price that is worth buying? This Conjecture will focus not so much on the macro story for Asia which is well known but the issue of how to a... [read more]

Europe is rarely out of the headlines - but what does it really mean for the average investor? This debate will examine the impact on investment markets of the EU constitution debacle and the likelihood of it ever being ratified. In addition, the panel will discuss the changing face of Europe over the past couple of years, which countries offer the most potential to investors and the best ways ... [read more]

How will Ucits III alter the investment landscape over the next couple of years? The panel will give a definition of the new regulations, discuss the likely impact on fund offerings of the changes taking place, explain what investors need to know and reveal how the increased powers are already being put to good use by investment houses.

What are the prospects for the UK corporate bond sector? Is it still the best option for investors disillusioned with equity returns - or do the potential downsides now outweigh the positives? The debate will examine the likelihood of an environment of moderate economic growth being shattered by higher inflation over the coming months, as well as the implications of slowing retail demand and pensi... [read more]

What is likely to be in store for investors over the next year? The panel will discuss a broad range of topics, including the outlook for the US, the oil price, the growth prospects of China, inflation and the best asset classes in which to invest.

It has undoubtedly been one of the star performers of the past decade, but why should investors continue to put their money into property? The panel will analyse which parts of the sector look most attractive and discuss key themes for the coming year.

It?s seen as a key exporter to the rest of the world, but how fast is intra-regional trade developing? The debate will examine communication links, internal investment levels and whether Asia is finally becoming less dependent on the US.

Why is it so difficult for UK-based managers of US funds to consistently beat the S&P 500? This topic will discuss the structure of the index, the options open to investors, the influence of currencies and what managers should do to outperform.

Share buybacks and bumper dividends are proving popular with investors, but what does it mean in the longer-term? The debate will examine the impact on UK companies and how equity income investors are likely to be affected.

Is the development of Eastern Europe really standing up to the hype? The panel will discuss the benefits ? and threats ? of having exposure to this region, as well as analysing the impact on companies of the differing financial and political landscapes.

How should a fund of hedge funds fit into a client?s portfolio? This topic will look at the pros and cons of the different structures, as well as examining the past returns, the fees, future prospects and how managers can add value.

This debate will pose the question: can you still make money and be socially responsible? The panel will discuss how the sector works, analyse the track record of ethical funds and discuss how the screening process affects portfolio construction.

Is it really worth investing in Japan? The debate will analyse whether the land of the rising sun is really on the up after numerous false dawns. It will also take a close look at government reforms, its demographics and the potential of its global brands.

European smaller companies have been the star performers over the past year but can this continue? Our panellists will discuss this point by analysing the prospects of some key stocks and discussing whether managers can truly claim to be stock pickers.

Commodity prices are on the rise again, but do they pose a big enough threat to tip the world into recession? The panel will also discuss how quickly natural resources are being used up and reveal the impact of political issues on the sector.

Featuring which stocks and sectors are likely to provide the most alpha during the rest of 2005 ? and whether the FTSE 100 recovery will last. The debate will also look at the future prospects for the small and mid-cap names.

A look at how the major bond markets are doing in the US, Europe, Japan, UK. Now more and more emerging markets are reaching investment grade status, where do they fit into portfolios? What is the inflation and interest rate environment for the year? Valuations on global government bonds. A look at what funds can do around the edges e.g. covered calls, playing currencies, using directional bond ... [read more]

What impact are share buybacks having? Are these for the good of shareholders or the good of companies? With growing concentration in the market, eg Shell, how do managers counter this? Are managers with FTSE 100 or All Share benchmarks being too constrained by having to quasi index hug (at least in the four largest sectors).

Lots of companies have been taken private over the years, some are trickling back to market, but who will make the money, the venture capitalists or the shareholders? What is coming up in the IPO pipeline and will the panel be buyers? Lots of VCTs coming to market with an AIM focus, will these be able to find enough stock? What are the dynamics of the research in this market? No big firms are real... [read more]

The market is known for producing some of the best known global brands and companies in the world from Louis Vuitton and BMW to Nestle. But are these stocks well run or just high profile? Are they cheap against their global competitors or expensive? What are their future prospects? What are they doing about outsourcing? Outside of the high profile names what about businesses having success at a mo... [read more]

Korea, Taiwan, Thailand, Singapore, Hong Kong and Malaysia. The region has been overshadowed by China in recent times but it does produce dynamic companies, have a reputation for economic growth, and has an increasingly powerful middle class. The panel will look at stock and sector specific opportunities in the market as well as discussing more macro-concerns, such as the effect of the dollar, the... [read more]

The sector has proved popular with investors disillusioned with equities and looking for income, but have they been buying it for the wrong reasons? How are corporate bonds priced? Are they trading above or below par? Is a fall in capital built in or not? Are yields on their way up or down for 2005? Risk vs return - should you go for good credits or lower grade credits with higher yield? Can ... [read more]

A look at exactly how top managers are taking yield into account when putting together portfolios: The problem of dividend cuts (eg Pru late 2004). Utilites - good source of income but no capital growth? a sector being regulated into oblivion? Can equities produce enough income or should managers be looking at bonds as well (whatever happened to the barbell equity - bond approach of the late 19... [read more]

The UK high yield sector has proved to be a wise investment over the last three years, up 34.1% over three years to 13 December, far better than the 14.1% gain for UK government bond funds over the same period or the 14.1% gain from UK equity income. But can such outperformance continue or is the high yield sector dangerously close to its peak?

Managers will look to discuss the pros and cons of various stock specific investments on offer (could be from Canary Wharf through to the Green Park development on the M4 near Reading or Bluewater in Kent) to show their investment process works. This can cover: rental agreement, mix of tenants, the importance of getting the right anchor tenants. Talk will also look at direction of rental and cap... [read more]

What are the main themes for 2005? Where are interest rates heading? Will a weak dollar and high oil prices mean global economic slowdown? Is the US better able to bounce back than some had thought? Can China and India maintain their growth? What does this mean will be the right mix of asset classes?