High FX costs drag on returns

Higher than expected foreign exchange transaction costs can result in a long-term return drag on a portfolio of up to 2 per cent over 40 years according to new research by Russell Investments, which urges investors to review and measure foreign exchange costs.

Do managers walk the talk?

Research by Mercer and the IRCC Institute looks at the investment horizon of active long-only equity managers across different geographies and styles, examining the mismatch between the time-horizon over which managers think and say they invest and how they actually invest. It gives some insight into the causes, consequences and possible solutions to short-termism.

Diversity is power, says Zink

A typical pension fund portfolio is so dominated by equity risk that returns will fluctuate widely according to economic conditions which affect equity markets. Amanda White spoke to Rob Zink, portfolio strategist and now consultant for Bridgewater Associates about why most investors have a flawed approach to asset allocation.