Despite its modesty, TS would be the first to point out that this column is the best informed, wittiest and most insightful gossip column on the planet.

But we were surprised last week when, in the wake of the M&S verdict, a major investment bank (that shall, to spare blushes, remain nameless) rang up to ask us what the potential significance of the case would be to European exchequers.

TS blagged it like the best of them, but it prompted a thought. Perhaps your friendly gossip chum could move into the lucrative world of investment banking? Anyone looking for M&A advice, a broker, or perhaps a nice juicy IPO or share placing, you know who to call.