May 14 2008
The value of stocks across the European Union (EU) has risen sharply since 2003, according to a report from Halifax.
Over the course of the past five years, equity prices have increased by a total of almost 118 per cent, which has been good news for anyone who have been saving for children through stock-linked investments.
Stock prices have taken a considerable hit over the course of this year but over the past five years equity-linked individual saving accounts (Isas) have performed very well indeed, Halifax maintains.
Investments made into the newest EU countries and most notably those in the east of the continent have been the most productive in recent times, the new data makes clear.
"Despite the recent financial market difficulties, the long-term performance of stock markets across the EU has been strong," said Martin Ellis, Halifax Financial Services chief economist.
Earlier this week, Prudential reported that many Isa investors are adopting a more cautious approach to allocating their assets in light of the recent turmoil in financial markets worldwide.
