Aim, London's "junior market" was first established in 1995 by the London Stock Exchange. Originally called the Alternative Investment Market, it was a way for newer firms to gain access to public funds. It has less demanding entry criteria than those applied to companies wanting to join the LSE Official List.
An Aim 'quotation' is often used as a stepping-stone for firms planning a full listing in the future. The main benefits of joining Aim for new firms are the ability to raise finance and make acquisitions more easily. Aim is becoming increasingly popular with non-UK firms seeking an international listing, as a result of its low regulatory requirements compared with equivalent markets in the US.
See Tim Bennett's video tutorial: What is a stock exchange?
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Lloyds, Halifax and Bank of Scotland to shut another 45 branchesLloyds Banking Group, which includes Halifax and Bank of Scotland, is set to close a further 45 branches in 2024 - find out if a branch near you is closing.
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US stock trading app Robinhood launches in the UK
The low-cost trading platform has opened another waiting list for British investors - following two failed attempts to launch in this country - and is hoping to be fully operational next year.
