A survey commissioned by the Financial Planning Institute (IFP), in association with asset manager Liontrust, found just 10% of consumers are likely or very likely to consider equities to achieve higher returns than bank accounts.
Some 59% of people are very unlikely to consider investing in the stock market in 2013 while another 14% are unlikely to invest. In addition, 53% of people aged between 18 and 24 and 66% of those aged 55 and above are very unlikely to consider investing in the stock market.
Liontrust chief executive John Ions said: "It is worrying that despite low interest rates from banks and building societies so many people are unlikely to invest in stock markets in the next year.
“Whilst investing comes with risks, the fact that people are prepared to let the spending power of their money diminish and be eroded by inflation is a cause for concern.”
Nick Cann, chief executive of the IFP, said the survey shows that UK adults still need professional help when it comes to planning their finances.
“A plan of action is required to determine what short, medium and long-term goals exist so that effective savings and investment strategies can be used which will be mindful of the individual’s attitude to risk and loss, and give the chance of them maintaining the value of their capital over the longer term,” he added.
