For investors looking for overseas blue-chip stocks, Coca-Cola, remains one of the firm favourites. Coca-Cola is one of the five biggest companies in the world, controlling more than 44 per cent of the soft beverages market in the US and 48 per cent in the rest of the world.

The group believes there is still enormous scope for expansion globally, particularly in the emerging markets. It is currently using the uncertainty in Asia to accelerate investment plans in that region.

Meanwhile in the computer sector, BCP Stockbrokers suggests that Microsoft offers good potential for investors.

The brokers say the group continues to dominate the global software industry with its Windows operating system and has been quick to adapt its strategy to the rapidly-evolving information technology sector.

Microsoft is on an acquisition spree at the moment as part of its efforts to guarantee the company access to cable TV, telephony and Internet infrastructures globally. Although Microsoft has now drawn the attention of regulators both in the US and Europe, the software giant just keeps growing and is forecast to remain a prime force in these sectors for the foreseeable future.