Are we seeing the end of the free investment market?
It is becoming more and more evident that the UK government would like to take a more hands-on approach with regards to UK investment markets. Indeed Lord Mandelson has today put forward a number of proposals regarding changes to the takeover code and other suggestions which could impact upon investment strategies and fund managers in the UK. So are we seeing the end of the free investment market?
Whether the UK government is attempting to grab the headlines as we approach the next general election or indeed determined to change the way fund managers invest our money and the takeover code, remains to be seen. However, it seems that the Cadbury takeover by Kraft Foods has hit a nerve with the UK authorities with the immediate closure of one factory and concerns about other job losses.
If political interference continues in UK investment markets, there is no doubt that the City of London will lose its position as "top dog" in the world of investment. This would be a crazy move by the UK authorities although very public suggestions regarding changes to the takeover code, investment strategies and disclosures is a dangerous game to play.
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