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The Alternative Investment Market (AIM) continues to flourish. Up to the end of November, the junior bourse of the London Stock Exchange (LSE: LSE) has this year experienced a record number of admissions (302), a record value of shares traded (£16b) and a record number of shares traded (91b). Indeed, the number of companies currently traded on AIM hit 1,000 last week following the admission of AEC Education (LSE: AEC). AEC, a provider of educational services in Singapore and Malaysia, emphasises the diversity of AIM. Other recent floats include Interactive Prospect Targeting (LSE: IPH) (Internet marketing), Goals Soccer Centres (LSE: GOAL) (indoor football), Careforce (LSE: CFG) (domiciliary care services), Healthstar (LSE: HSR) (medical helplines), Andor Technology (LSE: AND) (digital cameras) and Gatekeeper Systems (LSE: GKR) (shopping trolley anti-theft systems) AIM also has a growing reputation for international investors. Particularly exciting issues of late include China Wonder (LSE: CWO), a leading Chinese manufacturer of machinery for the country's pharmaceutical industry, and India Outsourcing (LSE: IOS), an investor in Indian firms providing call centres and the like. And of course, AIM continues to develop a rich seam of speculative mineral extractors. Equator Exploration (LSE: EEL), Falkland Gold & Mineral (LSE: FGML) and Circle Oil (LSE: COP) are some of the new names now drilling away in distant lands. Before parting with any money on new AIM shares, do remember the success of market is in part due to its less stringent regulations. Unlike those firms joining the Main Market, new AIM members do not need a past trading record and their admission documents are not pre-vetted by the London Stock Exchange or the UK Listing Authority. Beware also that there is no minimum size for AIM companies and the majority are valued at under £25m. Nevertheless, despite the greater risks, the influx of new companies is making AIM a fertile hunting ground for prospectors of small-cap gems -- or for those who just like a pure gamble! More: Shares AIM For Growth | Investors AIM For Growth | Buying AIM Shares Maynard owns shares in the London Stock Exchange.