It seems money can buy happiness, according to a new survey
.
Researchers from the Economic Intelligence Unit found a direct correlation between the size of a person's bank balance and their level of contentment.
Based on interviews with 600 high-fliers from around the globe, the study found that as much as 80 per cent of women with more than £475,000 in their bank accounts felt that money had brought them greater personal happiness, compared to 78 per cent of men.
The report also found that while men spend their money on personal trainers, chauffeurs and chefs, women are more likely to invest in personal shoppers, bodyguards, stylists and private doctors.
However, these findings contradict those of another recent study conducted in Australia.
A survey by AC Nielson found that children, friends, family and nature were all more likely to raise a smile than a wad of cash.
Some 91 per cent of the 1,471 participants rated factors other than money as those which made them happy.