Big Four clinch dramatic rise in M&A rankings
The Big Four accounting firms generated 50% more fees from M&A advice last year than previously thought, highlighting the increased competition facing large investment banks that have long dominated the lucrative sector. (FN)

Blackstone and Carlyle woo wealthy retail investors
Blackstone is planning to offer retail investors with $1m to $5m in liquid assets direct access to some of its newest products. The move comes with rival Carlyle Group set to announce a tie-up with OppenheimerFunds regarding private-credit investments for high-net-worth customers. (WSJ)