Alternatives
Bitcoin Could Replace Gold as a Refuge, BlackRock Says
The yellow metal now is in a funk, as the cryptocurrency keeps gaining.
News
Regulation
How Carbon Pricing Could Get a Boost in Biden’s Washington
Sustainability advocates argue that financial markets are not properly pricing in climate risk. That could change as Democrats take over the executive branch.
Asset Management Culture
Canadian Pension CEOs Call for Increased ESG Disclosure
The eight funds, which represent $1.23 trillion in assets, said it is ‘vital’ that companies report standardized ESG data.
Risk
Pension Fund Sues Cigna over Failed Anthem Merger
Lawsuit alleges Cigna’s CEO tried to sabotage the $54 billion merger when he found out he wouldn’t lead the new company.
Asset Allocation
If You Think the Dollar Has Lost Value Now—Just Wait
The buck, off almost 5% in 2020, could dive another 20%, Citigroup warns.
Asset Allocation
Why It’s Time to Make a Standalone China Allocation, Willis Says
Investors tend to invest there only as part of an emerging market strategy, which dilutes the potential return, the consulting firm concludes.
Alternatives
Europe’s ‘Ambitious Plans’ for ESG Disclosure Rules
New requirements for financial sector firms in Europe take effect in March.
Market Moves
3Q Corporate Earnings Look Better and Better, Yardeni Says
S&P 500 profits should be down just 7.1%, a big upgrade from more dire previous calls.
Research
Institutional Investors Find Calm Amid Post-Election Chaos
The markets see stability ahead, despite a delayed election result, Senate runoff races, and voter fraud claims from the president.
Risk
Northern Trust Sued for Allegedly Loading 401(K) with Proprietary Duds
Lawsuit claims default retirement plan investments have underperformed up to 90% of peers for nearly a decade.
Regulation
DOL Sends Fiduciary Rule Update to OMB
Experts believe the White House will conduct a quick review of the ‘middle-of-the-way’ proposal.
Market Moves
2021 Economy Won’t Start Off Well, but Last Half Will Be Good, BofA Predicts
Problems like the virus and high joblessness will continue for a while, the bank’s strategists declare.
Asset Management Culture
Will Cutting Down on External Managers Make a Difference?
Sure, it can help lower investment fees. But those after-fee returns? Researchers say that’s a mixed bag.
Alternatives
Private Equity Fundraising Down But Not Out, Despite Pandemic
Deal-making is bouncing back after being shut down earlier in the year due to the COVID-19 outbreak.
Regulation
UK High Court Equalization Ruling to Burden Pension Trustees
Legal experts expect court decision will add ‘significant difficulties’ for defined benefit trustees and could take years to complete.