Despite strong rebounds last year, investors across Canada are still apprehensive about the market.
According to a national Angus Reid Public opinion poll released Thursday, 39% of investors described their investment personality as “suspicious” or “timid.”
This while 55% expect the stock markets will rise.
“The markets have recovered dramatically, but investor confidence has not,” said Don Reed, president and CEO of Franklin Templeton Investments Corp., which commissioned the survey. “We’ve spent two years studying investor’s attitudes toward the market and it’s clear that emotions dictate action.”
According to Franklin Templeton, many Canadians missed out on investing in stocks while they were at bargain prices, and investor sentiment remains low amid continued growth.
But there’s hope in emerging markets.
The survey found that 43% of respondents (1,020 were polled) believe emerging markets in China, Brazil and India represent the greatest investment opportunity over the next decade.
“While Canada’s markets have recovered smartly, global markets have a long way to go – and that’s why there’s so much opportunity,” said Reed. “Equities are on sale. A strong Canadian dollar means it’s a great time for investors to increase their exposure to global stocks because they can buy foreign assets at a discount.”