NEW research by Halifax Share Dealing has revealed that women are more successful at managing their share portfolios than men. And older investors are more likely to make money on the stock market than younger groups.

The research also shows that confidence in the FTSE remains strong and investors are predicting month- on-month increases in value.

As part of a new monthly survey into investors' attitudes and predictions of FTSE performance, Halifax Share Dealing questioned more than 500 regular investors on their views of FTSE performance, investment trends and topical issues. According to the survey, 72 per cent of women's portfolios stayed at the same value or rose, compared with 66 per cent of men's portfolios.

Overall, grey haired investors were more successful than younger groups, with 43 per cent of the 65-74 age group reporting their portfolio had risen in value compared with just 29 per cent of 25-34 year-olds.

Sue Concannon, managing director of Halifax Share Dealing, said: "The results suggest that women and older investors are generally more cautious which, in the current climate, seems to be a winning formula.

"It is encouraging that investors are optimistic in their predictions of the FTSE value and it will be interesting to see if their confidence will be proved right."