Asymptotically convex Banach spaces and The Index of Rotundity Problem

The Index of Rotundity Problem asks whether a Banach space which admits equivalent renormings with index of rotundity as small as desired also admits an equivalent rotund renorming. In this paper we continue the ongoing search for a negative answer to this question by making use of a new concept: asymptotically convex Banach spaces. Some applications to The Approximation Hyperplane Series Property are given.