The research from Axa Wealth International shows the overall percentage of new offshore portfolio bonds by premium sold in the UK that have been written on-platform to have risen from 18% in September 2012 to 36% in September 2013.
Axa says the findings show a developing trend of advisers and their clients diversifying their investment strategy.
Managing director Mike Foy said: “The findings from our research highlight a new direction of travel in the international market.
“The increased ease and efficiency by which advisers can write offshore portfolio bonds on platform and the predicted lowering of the pension funding cap have contributed to the growth in sales through platforms.”
The research, conducted by The Platforum, follows strong full year financial results from Axa Wealth International.
The Isle of Man-domiciled company saw a sales growth of more than 10% despite anticipated headwinds caused by the introduction of the new Retail Distribution Review (RDR) legislation in the UK.
Foy said: “While the increase can in part be attributed to the wider adoption of platforms following the introduction of the RDR at the beginning of 2013, even if the ‘RDR effect’ is removed the adjusted full year growth figure increases to nearly 25%.
“Over the last five quarters Axa has seen the sales of offshore portfolio bonds on platforms increasing as advisers and investors seek greater asset diversity and efficient tax management.”
