Markets are seldom efficient at learning lessons. Peter Lynn takes stock of the extraordinary year, so far, for investment markets.  And he shares some perspectives on what the remainder of the year holds in store for investors.

Much has been written about the global "credit crunch" and the flow-on economic effects.  This month, Andrew Hunt describes the credit boom well underway in China.  This is much hyped and causing China's economy to pickup.  Sound familiar?  A time for caution.

Pyne Gould  has named former Macquarie Group executive John Duncan as head of its newly created asset management arm, Perpetual Asset Management.

First payment this week for Orange investors; Allied Nationwide looks for long-term deposits, F&P Finance cuts back rates; Fortress Notes gather momentum

Fidelity Life has appointed Tony Vidler as professional development manager to help the company prepare to meet incoming legislation for financial advisers.

AIG Life's American chief executive, David Pierce, has announced he is leaving the company.

ING has named the new managing director for its life business, who takes over from Naomi Ballantyne on Monday.

The following two graphs show you what has been happening to swap rates recently. Swap rates are important as they indicate the cost banks are paying for money to fund their home loans.

Wellington