Financial

London and Channel Islands based Schroders Private Banking won two of the eleven categories at the 2009 Private Asset Management (PAM) Awards: High Net Worth (HNW) Image and Reputation; and Ultra High Net Worth (UHNW) Overall Client Service Quality. Schroders was also the only firm to win more than one award category in an eclectic list of contenders.

“During these turbulent times commendable client service is of significant importance. First-rate client communications, counselling and advice can all help diminish the impact of falling markets”, said Channel Islands CEO Julian Winser.

Published: 11 March 2009

Core Facts

first direct is to launch its first social media campaign this month. Focused on the theme of ‘those little things', the bank will look to engage with influencers and stimulate conversation and word of mouth online.

The campaign, developed by newly-launched online PR agency OnVisible, a division of Brahm, supports first direct's current TV ad and reflects a new direction to the bank's marketing strategy.

first direct's current TV ads, created by JWT, highlight its success as the UK's number one bank in the 2009 UK Customer Satisfaction Index.

Published: 10 March 2009

February 2009 Index Highlights:

· The UK Index rose by six points in February as online recruitment activity showed a degree of expansion following three months of contraction

· Year-on-year, the Index fell by 39%, or 75 points. This is the steepest annual decline on record and the fourth straight month that the Index has fallen on a yearly basis

· In February, growth was driven by significant increases in job opportunities in the education, training and library; and management and consulting sectors

· Online recruitment activity eased the most for healthcare workers, although the sector showed the largest annual gain

Published: 09 March 2009

Eighty-two percent believe that the rate change was not a good idea; ninety-eight percent believe that the rate change will not result in any material increase to business

Colchester, UK – 24 February 2009 – 82% of SMEs feel that the Chancellor’s VAT rate cut was not a good idea, according to a survey released today. The findings of the survey, conducted by mid-market business software house Access Accounting, will make difficult reading for the government as it looks at ways to stimulate the suffering economy.

The Chancellor’s 2.5% VAT rate cut has been in effect for almost three months, yet 51% of businesses say that the change is not doing enough to stimulate the economy. 27% believe that it was a good start, but that the Chancellor needs to do more. Overwhelmingly, 98% feel that the rate change will not result in any material increase to their business.

Published: 23 February 2009

Visa Appeals expert and legal service UK Visa Appeal has this week launched its brand new website to help people who have been refused visas to enter the United Kingdom.

This website gives up-to-date information on every type of appeal UK Visa Appeal specialise in; from spouse visa appeals to indefinite leave to remain refusals.

The appeals process can be extremely confusing, not to mention stressful. UK Visa Appeal’s dedicated service aims to make the visa appeal process as simple and stress-free as possible. Each appeal is dealt with as swiftly as possible and in a professional and personal manner.

Published: 19 February 2009

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Schroders Private Banking Succeeds At 2009 PAM Awards

first direct launches its first social media campaign

Core Facts

Online Recruitment in the UK Shows Signs of Recovery in February, According to Monster Employment Index UK

VAT Rate Change Not Helping SMEs

UK Visa Appeal Unveils Brand New Website