The United Kingdoms (UK) economy is built on a free enterprise system. Historically, the basis of the strength of the UK economy was the manufacturing industry; however, this balance has shifted towards the provision of services. The economy is overwhelmingly dependent on international trade, being one of the world's largest exporters of goods and services. The UK is one of the largest economies in the world. Foreign investment is essential to UK economy. Some of the advantages that foreign investors can benefit from can be summarised as follows:
The currency of the United Kingdom is the Sterling Pound (GBP).
The United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland incorporates three legal jurisdictions: England and Wales, Northern Ireland and Scotland and is a Common law country.
As a widely recognised international finance centre, the England and Wales (as part of the UK) is attractive for the following services: