Money raised on AIM set to equal main market

The money raised on the AIM (alternative investment markets) in London this year will be almost equal as the amount raised on the main UK stock exchange, with companies seeking to exploit the junior market's lower costs and lighter regulation.

British and overseas companies raised £1.4bn (€1.99bn) on AIM, which was established in 1995, in the first ten months of the year through initial public offerings and rights issues.

Over the same period, companies raised £1.46bn (€2.80bn) through the main stock exchange.

Irish companies have taken advantage of the lighter regulation requirements.Those listed include pharmaceutical company Alltracel and recruitment company CPL resources.