Burford Capital's top shareholder Invesco refutes "improper" behaviour claims

Burford Capital's top shareholder Invesco Asset Management said it "categorically" refuted any accusation of "improper or unethical behavior" after short-seller Muddy Waters pointed accounting misdemeanors in Burford.

Invesco, which owns about a 14% stake in Burford, added: "Invesco's legal advisers are reviewing the accusations and we expect we will be able to make a broader statement in due course."

Burford Capital shares fell 60% on Wednesday following Muddy Waters report. Responding to the "short attack" document, the company earlier in the day said its returns were "robust".