It led to a restructuring of its investment team, with Ilario Di Bon being appointed to a new role of head of equities, supported by a global equity team.

BBC: Alliance Trust in direct equity move

At least 100 companies have adopted a new plan since January 2012, while another 175 have amended their existing plans, says Kelly Crean, the governance, shareholder and equity team leader at benefits consultant Mercer.

WSJ: Getting Going: Buying Stock From the Boss

In Russia, Thomson Reuters ranks it as the leading brokerage firm, equity sales team, and research team in the country.

FORBES: Russian Bank Heads To New York