Logic might suggest that all ETFs replicating the same market index are themselves the same. And yet, you do not have to be an experienced ETF investor to know that this is clearly a misconception. In practice, performance can vary. It is necessary to know which objective criteria to use when selecting an ETF.

This year however, it is not credit fundamentals that matter. It is all about central bank policy. As a rising tide lifts all boats, central bank liquidity injections are supporting all financial assets, from risk-free Treasuries to stocks.

There has been a substantial increase in volatility over recent weeks caused by a number of different factors which have significantly impacted investor sentiment. European equities have declined by almost 15% since mid-September and we would like to highlight this setback as a buying opportunity.

Overall, the Lyxor Hedge Fund index is down 1.2% during the period under review, while the S&P 500 is down almost 2%. The sophisticated risk management practices of hedge funds are now being tested. Some funds are actually doing well in the current environment.

New research from ING Investment Management (ING IM) amongst institutional investors reveals that between now and 2016, 61% believe the number of emerging market stocks paying these will increase – 14% anticipate a “dramatic” rise here. The corresponding figures for the next five years are 68% and 18%...