Point of View - January 2007 Issue - Global Investment Solutions from Northern Trust

A review of current activity in global financial markets, with an emphasis on U.S. markets.


		The Evolution of Responsible Investing Next-generation socially responsible investment strategies allow investors to evaluate the impact of social and environmental factors on financial performance.

		New Tactics for Investors of Balance Sheet Asset Pools Often found on an organization’s balance sheet, taxable asset pools are being invested in innovative ways.

		Relaxing the Long-Only Constraint Active extension strategies are a natural next step for institutional investors seeking a risk-efficient method of capturing alpha while maintaining beta exposure.

		Implementing LDI in Pension Plans Tougher funding and disclosure requirements are spurring pension plan sponsors around the globe to reconsider the context of how they view their assets and liabilities.


		Voices Steven A. Schoenfeld: Why emerging markets have finally grown up.

		Global Megatrends The move toward DC plans: Defined contribution plans gain favor with employers around the globe.

		Ahead of the Curve A starting point for a discussion of the issues that affect the institutional investment community.

Past performance is not necessarily a guide to the future. Index performance returns do not reflect any management fees, transaction costs or expenses. One cannot invest directly in an index. Index performance is based upon information provided by the index providers. There are risks involved with investing, including possible loss of principal. There is no guarantee that the investment objectives of any fund or strategy will be met. Risk controls and asset allocation models do not promise any level of performance or guarantee against loss of principal.

Northern Trust Global Investments (NTGI) comprises Northern Trust Investments, N.A., Northern Trust Global Investments Limited, Northern Trust Global Investments Japan, K.K., the investment advisor division of The Northern Trust Company and Northern Trust Global Advisors, Inc., and its subsidiaries.

This material is directed to market counterparties and intermediate investors only, it should not be relied upon by private investors. This information is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute a recommendation for investment strategy or any product described herein. Opinions expressed herein are subject to change at any time without notice. Information has been obtained from sources believed to be reliable but its accuracy and interpretation are not guaranteed.

To ensure compliance with requirements imposed by the Internal Revenue Service, we inform you that any tax information in this magazine is not intended or written to be used, and cannot be used, for the purpose of (i) avoiding penalties under the Internal Revenue Code or (ii) promoting, marketing or recommending to another party any transaction or matter addressed herein.