Financial markets closer to fair value. Asia is the most economically dynamic global region. Short-term interest rates to stay low. Inflation is not the problem: inflation expectations could be. Downside macroeconomic risks should not be totally dismissed.

Major global survey of 2,100 investors sheds light on investor behaviour amid the downturn. Almost 90 per cent of investors can see opportunities – but 68 per cent ignore them. UK investors lead the way globally in pursuit of risk. Retreat to familiar and simple asset classes sees real estate resurgence.

The new multi-asset-class index-based fund series added £200m under management in a challenging market environment.

As the largest commercial employer on the Isle of Man with around 800 employees, these appointments further reinforce the company’s commitment to the Island.

Barclays Wealth has appointed Mark Cooke as Managing Director and Global Chief Risk Officer.

Chief executive’s choice of books may give an insight into his ambitions, writes David Bain.

The latest edition of Compass, our monthly investment strategy publication, looks at the economic and investment environment and its implications across the asset classes.

Sponsorship of the Ernst & Young Entrepreneur Of The Year awards in line with strategic business focus despite current economic downturn.

In reaction to market volatility, 32% of SIPP investors are increasing their exposure to equities. Only one in ten (9%) of SIPP investors are moving away from equities. Investors in general remain bullish with almost two thirds (63%) seeing market volatility as a buying opportunity.

Almost two thirds (62%) of investors believe the price of oil will rise.

Barclays Wealth, the global wealth manager, has appointed Craig Lewis as Managing Director and Head of Investment Advisory within its Investment & Product Office (I&PO).

Nine out of ten (89%) SIPP investors believe they can outperform a professional pension fund manager. Over half (54%) of SIPP investors want to take control of investment decisions. Nearly a fifth (17%) say the tax relief is too good an opportunity to pass up.

We are starting to see clear evidence that the current severe, global economic downturn will not evolve into a depression.

85% of investors plan to invest in an Investment ISA in this tax year*. Two thirds (66%) of investors had invested in an Investment ISA in the last tax year, and of those almost half (45%) had invested the full £7,200 allowance.

Trading activity in iShares and other ETFs up 31% in March 2009 – income based ETFs dominate the top ten. Income funds accounted for 49% of all assets invested in March. Best selling fund for March - M&G Corporate Bond.

Emma Turner will be responsible for engaging, educating and supporting our high net worth clients in their philanthropic journey.

Barclays Stockbrokers has seen growth in FX trading volumes week on week. 29% of total trades have been in GBP vs. USD. Average trade size has risen approximately 23%¹.

After an exceptionally cold year for investors there are, at last, the ‘first signs of a thaw’.

Barclays Wealth today announces two senior appointments to its Wealth Advisory business. Rob Withecombe has been named the new Head of Wealth Advisory, and Paul James will be joining as Head of Wealth Structuring.

On Thursday 26 March, Barclays Wealth won Environmental Initiative of the Year at the Financial Sector Technology (FST) Awards for its managed print service.