At a time when the nation is hosting the World Cup, Barclays Stockbrokers has issued a reminder of the investment opportunities in South Africa .

The firm says that anyone wanting exposure to the country's economy may be interested in iShares MSCI South Africa, while investments with British companies with activities there is also a possibility.

Barbara-Ann King, head of investments at Barclays Stockbrokers, said that the transformations of South Africa over the past few decades have been incredible', although she insisted that the importance of the World Cup itself should not be overplayed.

In the world of investments, just like football, there is often background noise - short-term market movements, rumours and conjecture are all difficult to ignore, but it is important to remain focussed, she added.

If the fundamental reasons for making an investment remain solid, and investors find the case for South Africa compelling, then the noise should be ignored.

The end of the group stage of the World Cup is now approaching, although the tournament will continue until July 11th, when the final is held in Johannesburg .