Net retail sales soar 45% on previous high in 2009

Last year, sales grew to £25.8bn, beating the previous best year's performance of £17.7bn in 2000. It was also more than six times the £3.8bn achieved in 2008. Funds under management also reached their highest volume in 2009, up to £480.8bn from 2008's £361.7bn. ISA sales too recorded their best year since 2001, reaching £2.8bn in 2009. This is in stark contrast to the previous five years which all saw net outflows. Bonds were the biggest selling asset class, with net retail sales of £9.9bn, followed by equities on £7.3bn. The top selling sector amongst retail investors was £ Corpo...