A new survey has found that UK investors are looking to buy British in 2026. If you are investment planning in Cheshire or Oswestry, more than 50% of those polled expressed a keen interest in backing homegrown shares.
The news will please the Chancellor, Rachel Reeves, who has been actively encouraging investments in British stocks, as well as more London Stock Exchange (LSE) flotations. The research, by AJ Bell, found that whilst UK stocks haven’t always been the most popular or fashionable, some 57% of retail investors are now paying close attention. Head of Markets, Dan Coatsworth, said there are very good reasons to back British.
UK stocks have been hitting record highs. The FTSE 100 not only broke the 9000 barrier, but remains on course to achieve its best year since the 2009 financial crisis. In the year to date, it has beaten Nasdaq and the S&P 500, enjoying a 22% total return. Stock market analysts believe this offers evidence that British stocks still have much to offer, with solid earnings growth and generous dividends.
Whilst the UK has lagged behind the US in AI investment, the volatility of the tech market and the widespread rumours of a bubble, have put the FTSE in a good position to benefit from those investors who gravitate to safer, if less spectacular, stocks. These sectors include household name brands and cover areas such as utilities, insurance and consumer goods. By offering predictable earnings, they offer more security in a turbulent world.
