First State set to use algos and dark pools

First State Investments is moving to electronically access dark pools and other sources of alternative liquidity. Other changes aimed at improving execution efficiency are also under way at the international arm of Australia’s Colonial First State Global Asset Management. The firm already uses buy-side crossing network Liquidnet, but has not otherwise traded electronically, says Todd Prado, global head of equity dealing in Singapore. He joined in July from rival asset manager Janu…