A Maid Marian of sorts, I like the idea of taking from the rich to give to the poor, and I certainly believe in a low-carbon economy, so it’s pleasing to see momentum building for the causes behind a financial transaction tax in Europe and the UK. But I’m not convinced such a tax is a sustainable way to create a more equitable economy, nor that politicians can agree on its price and purpose.
Is this the beginning of real reform in NY?
New York Governor, Andrew Cuomo, has introduced a reform agenda for the $140 billion State Common Retirement Fund in a bid to reduce the burden of its liabilities on taxpayers, but there is no sign of fulfilling his election promise of changing the governance structure of the fund.
Columbia students solve governance problems
Financial studies students at one of New York’s most-respected business schools, Columbia Business School, are asked to suggest a new governance model for the State Common Retirement Fund, as its current model of a single trustee is held up to be “the worst example of governance” in a large pension fund in the developed world by Professor Andrew Ang.
Bespoke is the new black of risk management
Risk management is the new black – never out of fashion and always reliable. Russell Investments’ director of investment strategy, Canada, Bruce Curwood, explains why risk management is the cornerstone of investing and why now is the perfect time to talk to fiduciaries about their governance structures.
California dreamin’ of responsible funding
Relief for Californian state fund investment chiefs, their bosses and their members – with CalSTRS and CalPERS both returning 20+ per cent for the financial year – has been usurped by a reminder to politicians that the funds cannot invest their way to good health and a responsible funding strategy is required.
Manager selection a fortunate choice
Whether it involves skill, good judgment or just plain luck, choosing the right manager is never an exact science but recently published research reveals institutional investors can make better decisions by avoiding conventional wisdom around past performance.
