Advances in communication technologies are redefining the practice of investor relations. Cyber IR contents that analysts and institutional investors are regularly using the internet and corporate website as first port of call and a primary source of financial and company information on listed firms. It finds that while many listed companies have responded on the whole fast and, in some cases, imaginatively, to the new online environment, the majority seriously underestimates use of their sites by these key audiences.

Today's IR websites also do little to address the fast evolving online needs of retail investors. We argue that the retail investor should not be ignored. The internet enables IR professionals to serve these individuals better, to do so more efficiently and cost-effectively.

Already, use of the internet as an interactive and transactional tool is well advanced amongst leading companies in the US and these capabilities are recognized and being adopted by forward thinking firms in the UK and the rest of Europe. Now it's your turn!