Edward Kevis

Huge demand for the processing chips and memory that power artificial intelligence has driven semiconductor valuations sharply higher.

A volatile week saw concern about artificial intelligence (AI), rising oil prices and European political uncertainty collide, but beneath the headline market moves there were encouraging signs of resilience.

Money market funds (MMFs) are a critical cash solution. Valued for their stability and liquidity, they play a fundamental role in portfolio construction. That role is becoming even more prominent as we enter a new phase of technological change in financial markets.

Three years into our Climate Stewardship 2030 programme, we are seeing corporate climate strategies being tested for their ability to attract capital, withstand disruption and deliver through changing economic and political conditions. 

Climate change and nature degradation are widely recognised as a source of potentially material financial risks, which will increase in the long term. Tackling them requires international cooperation, such as at the Conferences of Parties (COPs) and effective domestic implementation.

Electric and self-driving cars, batteries and robotics are progressing in leaps and bounds. Our experts discuss the investment implications.

Securitisation offers insurers diversification, varied collateral pools and attractive spreads, yet remains underrepresented as allocations depend on more than returns and capital charges.

With government deficits under the spotlight, fixed income investors need to think globally and take an active approach to allocations.

Dr Andrés Gvirtz of King’s Business School shows how AI can help advisers meet their Consumer Duty obligations and boost their business.

In the second of four articles, we explain how environmental importance does not automatically translate into investment readiness. Investor confidence in future revenues depends on market evidence, contractual certainty and a track record of delivery.

Dr Ylva Baeckström of King’s Business School highlights how regulations can help close the advice gap in terms of clients’ sustainability preferences.

In our latest case study, we look at Glen Dye Moor, a 6,300-hectare site in Aberdeenshire, Scotland. We intend to rejuvenate the land, simultaneously removing carbon from the atmosphere, and delivering financial outcomes for investors and social benefits for local communities.

Global bond markets remain under pressure due to renewed inflation concerns and a general shift to tighter monetary policy.

The challenge facing local government pension schemes is no longer simply about maximising returns, but how to preserve funding gains, generate resilient cashflows and support long-term pension obligations, all while supporting UK productive finance. Aviva Investors fund manager Renos Booth says Real Estate Long Income has much to offer.

Sustainability-related regulation is becoming an increasingly material driver of real estate investment decision-making, rather than just a compliance requirement. Jeremy Ho analyses the implications.

Whether the endgame is buyout, run-on or just keeping all the options open, a capital-backed solution can help DB pension schemes make the journey with confidence.