This quarter's results go some way to proving the old adage that 'size really matters', at least in the world of UK stockbroking. However, if Cazenove is the clear winner in terms of sheer size, Warburgs can console itself somewhat with the knowledge that it is the better overall performer. For only Warburgs can boast a place in all four stockbrokers rankings this quarter.

Cazenove continues to dominate the 'size' tables, even as the podium places in both tables experience a shuffling of some of the runners-up positions. The rankings of stockbrokers by number of listed company clients sees no change, last quarter's runner-up UBS Warburg holding off HSBC despite the latter's new client gains. In the rankings by aggregate client pre-tax profit, however, Warburgs gains a place to number two, relegating Hoare Govett to third position ahead of the ever-consistent HSBC, whose been in fourth position in that table for so long now its name must be inscribed on that particular rung of the ladder.

HSBC continues to dominate the rankings of stockbrokers whose clients have the fastest increasing earnings, ahead of runner-up Brewin Dolphin Securities and the ubiquitous Warburgs. In the other 'growth' table, however, HSBC succumbs to a challenge from Brewin Dolphin, but keeps Warburgs in third place for the second successive quarter.

Warburg's consistency wins it the overall award for the best average placing across all four tables, ahead of HSBC and Brewin Dolphin in second and third place respectively.