This PortfolioPick discusses what in Lonsec's view is a common error being made in the Australian equities sector of portfolios - a gravitation to extremes.

Just after I write on the improved economic news in China and the US, it turns less constructive. But not as bad as Japan. The outlook for the Yen is highly asymmetric.

Earlier this month, Tony Vidler called for SOAs to be no longer than four pages. But others see no problem with quite lengthy statements, as financialalert found out when it surveyed some advisers on how they interpret Code Standard 6's requirement to communicate "clearly, concisely, and effectively."

Top 10 concerns amongst advisers; AIS appoints new investment manager; Adviser summer school; William Blair enters Australia and NZ; Court ruling against S&P opens door for CDO lawsuits.

We recommend moving to neutral risk weightings in portfolios until a favourable resolution of the US fiscal cliff becomes more likely. A malign outcome is a clear possibility.

I question whether anything has materially changed as a result of the US election and Chinese leadership handover. I feared a US status quo, but perhaps things are different.

The FMA has indicated it could bring the first disciplinary proceedings against advisers before year's end, likely around Code Standard 8 regarding suitability of advice. financialalert asked some AFAs, a lawyer, a researcher and a Disciplinary Committee member what the test for suitability should be and whether it should be applied at a product or portfolio level.

The US election is over but the US economic crisis is so severe that the outcome barely mattered while both sides deny reality.

This month, a younger and better educated generation take power in China.

Obama is back in, attention has turned to the fiscal cliff. Can we just ignore the economy and get on with investing?

Reading is a basic tool of serious investing - but only if done in an engaged and critical way. Here is an exercise in critical reading.

The current financial advice model serving retirees is suboptimal.

Despite a sluggish US economy, drift toward recession in Europe, and China slowdown, global monetary policy means equities will continue to outshine bonds.

How good are Chinese policymakers? US data creeping better. A pick up in global momentum...

Are investors being paid enough to take on risk in the current market? Are systemic risks just as bad as in 2007? What is the best risk mitigator?

Volatility is a risk for any portfolio that has cash flows, irrespective of investment time horizon. The culprit is sequencing risk, the risk of returns occurring in an adverse order.

Dynamic asset allocation, MPT, risk premia, and how to get the regulator on board with a DAA approach.

How governments will reduce debt is the subject of considerable debate. One option seems most likely.

Germany will not consider leaving the Eurozone unless the Euro threatens price stability. But this is a real risk.

The US is exporting coal, the West citizens is falling out of love with autos. Still bullish oil prices?