Volatility is back with a bang this year after a period of extraordinary calm. During the first quarter of 2018, the S&P 500 Index rose or fell by at least 1% in 23 trading sessions, compared to eight such sessions in all of 2017. The renewed turbulence, triggered by a confluence of growing concerns about rising rates, trade wars and regulation in the technology sector, will require a new mindset for investors.

The California Public Employees' Retirement System today announced that Elisabeth Bourqui has been selected as Chief Operating Investment Officer (COIO).

ETFGI, a leading independent research and consultancy firm on trends in the global ETF/ETP ecosystem, reported today that ETFs and ETPs listed globally gathered US$18.99 Bn in net inflows in March 2018. YTD 2018 net inflows are at US$137.12 Bn which is less than the US$197.28 Bn in net inflows at this point last year.

In a fast-concentrating industry, the deal would consolidate MFEX's position as an expert of international funds distribution, by reinforcing its market share in Europe and Asia and rounding out its existing offering with innovative and efficient solutions both for distributors and investment managers.

Last week, equity performance resulted mixed after major indices tested a technical support and after US put/call volatility spiked up, testifying a short term surge in risk aversion. The MSCI World index's total return fell by 0.6% (S&P 500 -1.4%) but the EMU index overperformed at +1.1%.