Portfolio

Among large-cap indexes, the Dow Jones Industrial average was the top performer in a decidedly bad month for equities, but still shed 4.36% of its total value in August.

Even though the stock market has been extraordinarily volatile over the past month, most investors are not changing their allocations to stocks and bonds, according to the RCB Consumer Outlook Index.

Janus has launched the Janus Aspen Moderate Allocation Portfolio, specifically designed for the insurance channel. The portfolio is a fund-of-funds that will invest in other Janus products with a target of 60% of its underlying holdings in stocks and 40% in fixed income.

PIMCO has launched the PIMCO Credit Absolute Return Fund, a go-anywhere type of fixed income fund that will employ some hedging strategies, including shorting and credit default swap derivatives, and be managed by Mark Kiesel.

IBM agreed to acquire risk analytics firm Algorithmics for an estimated $387 million. Its risk analytics software, content and advisory services are used by banking, investment and insurance businesses to help assess risk, address regulatory requirements and assist decision-making.

The Securities and Exchange Commission is seeking public comment on the use of derivatives by mutual funds over the next 60 days after publication in the Federal Register. If it determines that new regulations to protect investors are necessary, the SEC will consider passing and enforcing them.

Local revenues are on the rise—the first quarter of 2011 market the sixth consecutive period in which state and city revenues have increased.

For love or money, art as an alternative investment can enhance your clients' portfolios.

Estate planning is a critical part of the planning process and ideally should be a group effort, involving attorneys and accountants as well as planners.

An unexpected windfall is welcome, but stressful. Here's a plan for helping clients cope.