Arden Partners said on Thursday the group has been encouraged at the level of equity commission business in the last few weeks.The stockbroker said that, despite broker commissions "undoubtedly" under pressure, its business continued to be fertile.It also announced the appointment of Luke Johnson to the board.Non-executive chairman Peter Moon said the appointment aims to "broaden the range and depth of advisory services we offer to our clients."We are well placed to deliver the growing number of transactions the firm is mandated on," he added.Shares were up 0.98% to 51.5p on Thursday at 12:32.