The average stocks & shares ISA fund has recorded a growth of 11.9% over the last 12 months, according to new analysis from Moneyfacts.

This is for the period between February 2024 and February 2025 and compares to a rise of 2.8% in the 12 months going back to February 2023, and a negative return of -3.3% going back to February 2022.

Moneyfacts was highlighting how stocks & shares ISAs had performed over the last year compared to the average cash ISA rate.

By contrast, the Moneyfacts average cash ISA rate returned 3.8% between February 2024 and February 2025. This year’s returns were not too dissimilar from the previous year of 3.7% recorded between February 2023 and February 2024, and higher than the average cash ISA rate of 1.7% between February 2022 and February 2023.

“Savers may be intrigued to know that stocks & shares ISA growth outpaced cash ISAs over the past 12 months, which is a turn of events from the previous year of poor returns overall,” finance expert at Moneyfacts, Rachel Springall, said.

“Those who have not felt confident enough to invest in the stock market may then feel more inclined. However, it is worth pointing out that cash ISAs previously outpaced stocks & shares ISA growth for two consecutive years overall, amid stock market turmoil. Cash ISAs still have their part to play for customers, particularly the more risk averse.

“A stocks & shares ISA is suitable for those who intend to invest over the longer-term, as fund performance can fluctuate over shorter-term timescales. This makes it vital for investors to regularly check the performance of their pot and seek advice if they need to review their risk profile.”

---