Companies: PMK   

OFEX operator PLUS Markets can boast bragging rights over the LSE this month, with independent research having quantified significant benefits to users of the PLUS trading service over AIM’s recently launched SETSmm trading platform.

In an Imperial College study it was found that when faced with a choice of execution platforms, data from both exchanges showed price improvement gains coming the way of PLUS platform users, at no significant variation in cost. The study analysed all trade execution data on PLUS during February compared with SETSmm data. 24,800 transactions in 348 companies were analysed on a variety of key issues.

According to PLUS Markets’ business development director Cyril Theret, the report provided ‘solid statistical evidence’ of the measurable benefits of PLUS’ quote driven system versus the LSE platform.

‘Not only are fees lower on our market,’ he chimed, ‘but the prices at which shares can be bought are generally better.’ His (very partial) advice: ‘investors should check that their broker is a member of PLUS to ensure they are getting the best service.’