Global investors are more optimistic about the economy during the next year. The Bank of America Merrill Lynch Survey of Fund Managers reports that only 3 percent of fund managers surveyed in January believe the global economy will experience a slowdown in 2012, compared to 27 percent in December.

Denver-based 361 Capital has launched a new managed futures index that offers a counter-trend equity strategy.

Prudential Investments named a new president. Stuart Parker succeeded Judy Rice in the position. Rice has assumed the role of chairman of the company until her retirement at the end of 2012. Prudential Investments is the mutual fund and wealth management business of Prudential Financial Inc.

Chad Parks founded his company in 1999 with one goal in mind, to make 401(k) plans accessible to small businesses. As the industry enters 2012, the CEO of The Online 401(k) believes there are five changes afoot in the 401(k) marketplace that will play a pivotal role in the industry...

The American Society of Pension Professionals & Actuaries is changing its ASPPA Journal to Plan Consultant magazine.

Small retirement plans cost an average 1.30 percent, while the average total cost for a large retirement plan is 1.08 percent, according to the 12th edition of the 401k Averages Book.

Mercer has released its 2012 Guide to Social Security and 2012 Medicare booklets. The publications help retirees understand both social programs so they can better plan for retirement.

E*Trade Securities LLC has agreed to return up to $20 million to California investors over allegations that the company misrepresented auction rate securities to investors as safe, cash-equivalent products, even though the products faced increasing liquidity risk.