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ETFs are the tool of choice for investors
Investors are capitalising on tax-efficient opportunities with half of investors holding exchange-traded funds (ETFs) within investment ISAs.
According to Barclays Stockbrokers, trading activity increased significantly in the fourth quarter of 2008, with October experiencing the highest volumes of trading for the whole year.
Figures suggest that trading in ETFs increased by 162 per cent from October to December 2008, compared with the third quarter.
In addition, the number of accounts holding ETFs increased by 23 per cent, assets held by investors increased by 31 per cent, and individual holdings were up by 20 per cent.
Barbara-Ann King, head of proposition at Barclays Stockbrokers, says, ‘As the end of this tax year looms, it is encouraging to see savvy investors combining simple and transparent investments like ETFs with the tax benefits of investing through their ISA.’
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Latest news
L&G chief says insurers can play greater role in pension reform 1 July 2010
Legal & General group chief executive Tim Breedon has backed government ministers Iain Duncan-Smith and Steve Webb’s plans to reform the state pension system.
- Scottish Widows finds pensions saving at lowest since 2006 29 June 2010
- 'Nest' pensions may fail over high and complex charges 19 April 2010
- Pension incomes plummet for third consecutive year 31 March 2010
More Pensions news
Top Ten Life Funds
| Fund | Offer | 1y | 3y | 5y |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| UBS Life Structured Credit A | 91.43 | 294.1 | n/a | n/a |
| Skandia Finland FIM Russia | 11.14 | 70.1 | -11.0 | 66.2 |
| Zurich American Property AL G4 | 43.20 | 67.9 | 22.9 | 28.7 |
| Skandia Finland Alfred Berg Ryssland | 0.87 | 63.2 | -21.3 | n/a |
| Skandia Finland JPM New European | 2.11 | 57.6 | -18.2 | 61.1 |
| Merch Inv Sanlam Global Financial S6 | 109.40 | 56.1 | n/a | n/a |
| Skandia Norway Alfred Berg Ryssland | 0.87 | 50.7 | n/a | n/a |
| AXA Jupiter Emerging European Opportunities | 221.10 | 50.7 | -10.3 | n/a |
| Winterthur JPM New Europe | 193.50 | 50.4 | n/a | n/a |
| AXA Jupiter Emerging European Opportunities PSB | 2.21 | 49.2 | -5.1 | 58.5 |
Pensions in depth
Protection as standard 31 May 2010
Jenny Lowe weighs up the potential for products with unit-linked guarantees in the current market climate.
- SSAS or SIPP - you decide 17 April 2010
- The Pre-Budget Report: A policy of scorched earth
17 December 2009 - Make your child a millionaire 24 November 2009
Guides
Income drawdown 1 March 2010
When preparing for retirement, the various options on offer can seem daunting. Jenny Lowe considers the benefits and drawbacks of opting for income drawdown.
- Make your child a millionaire 8 December 2009
- WEBCHAT: Women and pensions 23 November 2009
- You’re on your own 6 October 2009
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