For investors who remain uncertain about where to put their money in an uncertain world, Dolmen Securities suggests looking at the utility sector.

It believes that utility stocks offer a relatively safe investment in a year likely to be dogged by volatility.

The sector fared extremely well last year with all components including gas, electricity and water performing strongly.

"The outlook suggests that 1998 should prove another positive year for the sector and some of our favourites include National Power and Scottish Power," the brokers says.