Google logs into live share prices with the LSE

Google has signed a deal with the London Stock Exchange to become the first major website offering private punters real-time rather than delayed share prices.

Under the deal, Google Finance will publish live prices of any share on the London Stock Exchange and the Borsa Italiana.

Up until now most websites targeting private investors have opted to use 15-minute delayed share prices, which costs considerably less than real-time prices.

Neither Google nor the London Stock Exchange would reveal what the annual licence would cost the search engine.

Jarod Hillman, the head of real-time data at the LSE, said: "This partnership is great news for retail investors across the globe. For the first time Google users will have access to free, real-time last-trade prices, allowing them to make more informed investment decisions.

"LSE is committed to making the group's markets as accessible as possible to the retail investor."

Maxim Edelman, the head of strategic partnerships at Google, said: "Since the launch of Google Finance in 2006, we have worked hard to provide Google users with the best financial information.

"Real-time quotes from the London Stock Exchange and Borsa Italiana will enable our users to better monitor market changes, manage their portfolios and track developments in Europe."