Five people have appeared in court in connection with an alleged 'boiler room' investment fraud, the FCA said today.

Just Retirement says the growing number of over-40s suffering a “mid-life pensions crisis” should seek help from a professional financial adviser.

Charles Stanley says it plans to become the “UK’s leading wealth manager” by 2020 and will launch a separate Financial Planning arm as part of this strategy.

There was a decline in optimism among financial services firms for the second consecutive quarter due to stronger competition, rising uncertainty about demand due to Brexit and other economic issues and slowing profits growth, according to the latest CBI/PwC Financial Services Survey.

The Glasgow-based SIPP provider @sipp has bought acquired Essex-based SSAS firm Alfa Trustees for a six figure sum as part of a drive to expand in the south of England.

Research into the investment buying decisions of UK millenials (those aged 18-35) has found that while many prefer to make their own decisions, 44% would consult a financial adviser - similar to their parents’ generation.

Old Mutual Wealth Private Client Advisers, an appointed representative of network Intrinsic, says it has reached agreement to acquire Devon-based Financial Planning firm DQS Financial Management.

Old Mutual Wealth has confirmed it will returning to membership of the Association of British Insurers (ABI).

Financial education provider the Institute of Financial Services - known as ifs University College - is to change its name to The London Institute of Banking & Finance from September, it announced today.

Zurich has appointed Anne Torry as head of its life business in the UK, and CEO of Zurich Assurance plc and Sterling Investment Managers Limited.