With market conditions continuing to be tough, the Association of Investment Companies (AIC) has identified the most consistent performing investment companies.

Based on share price performance data over one, three, five and 10 years, JPMorgan Russian Securities led the field as the most consistently out-performing company and also has the best 10 year performance record, with a £100 investment growing to a stellar £4,854.

In many companies the relationship between consistency and past performance is closely linked.  For example, Black Rock World Mining is the fifth most consistently out-performing company and has the second best performance over 10 years, with a £100 investment increasing to an impressive £875.  

But, as the research shows, this isn’t always the case. JPMorgan Indian, for example, comes 20th in terms of consistent out-performance but is the third best performer over 10 years, with a £100 investment growing to £728.

Annabel Brodie-Smith, communications director of the AIC, says, ‘Clearly traditional past performance is still an important criteria when considering an investment but also looking at discrete figures gives you a better understanding of a potential investment.  

‘Of course there is no guarantee that good and consistent past performance will continue into the future but it’s worth doing your homework thoroughly before making an investment.  It’s also important to look at a range of criteria such as the objectives of the company, its major holdings, gearing, discount and charges before you decide to invest.’