Mothers are 79% more likely to open a junior ISA (JISA) or ISA for their children, compared to fathers, Columbia Threadneedle has found.

The firm’s latest research revealed that while parents in the UK are keen to secure their children's financial futures, 44% experience stress about making the right investment decisions for their children.

Columbia Threadneedle also found that over a third (35%) of parents worry they haven’t saved enough for their children’s future, and 31% are unsure whether they’ve made the right investment decisions.

The group said that these concerns were "compounded by the complexities of investing", with 30% of parents feeling confused by the investment market and a lack of clear guidance.

It added that mothers are "bearing the brunt of the pressure" to secure their children’s financial futures, being 79% more likely to open at JISA compared to fathers.

However, this often comes with "heightened anxiety", with 50% of mothers stating that they feel stressed about getting their children’s investments, compared to 38% of fathers.

Head of investment trusts at Columbia Threadneedle, Marrack Tonkin, said: "With rising costs of education and living, it’s not surprising that many parents feel worried when it comes to investing for their children. It can feel like a big decision, especially if parents don’t feel confident about investing to start with.

"Adopting a habit of saving and investing can play an important role in helping children develop a better understanding about money and it’s encouraging to see in our research, the high proportion of parents who find ways talk to their children about investing.

"However, while every parent wants to help give their child the best start in life – including helping them financially – it shouldn’t be at the expense of their own finances. If this happens there is always the option to adjust the amount you save, rather than feel overwhelmed or financially stretched."

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