Activity rises

SMALLER companies are becoming more active in the financial markets, prompting signs of a growing economic recovery. English Trust, a City corporate finance house, which was the subject of a management buyout 18 months ago, reports it is advising on a growing number of deals. 'Corporate development amongst the smaller companies had dwindled to almost nothing, but this increase in activity is a clear indicator of an improved trading climate. Recent demand within our specialist smaller company sector leads us to share the view of many other commentators that the recession is at last on the wane.'