Although expectations for government bond yields continue to be near historic lows and concerns about low growth persist

European asset managers are set to rationalise further, but a widespread M&A spree is unlikely, Fitch Ratings says. Most managers may opt for less intrusive strategies, such as a reduction in the number of funds and cost-cutting, to tackle margin pressure in a fragmented and competitive market rather than face M&A challenges.

Global institutional pension fund assets in the 13 major markets grew by 9.5% during 2013 (compared to 6.9% in 2012) to reach a new high of almost US$32 trillion, according to Towers Watson's Global Pension Assets Study released today.

European corporate treasurers are concerned by decreasing bank credit quality, global banking and European money market fund (MMF) regulation, according to a live survey of 90 delegates at Fitch Ratings' third annual cash management conference in London last week.

The report also analyses the important role employers, advisers and intermediaries have to play in a changing financial services landscape.