Investors eye opportunities in market turmoil

As markets continue to react to the ongoing turmoil in the US and the Eurozone, Barclays Stockbrokers said it is seeing unprecedented levels of trading activity from its clients. While some investors are adopting a 'wait and see' approach (38%), many feel the current market conditions present buying opportunities and that there is value to be found in the market.

Four in ten (40%) of those surveyed said they were confident they could capitalise on current market conditions. As to where people are investing, around a third (32%) said developed equities present the best investment opportunities.

Traditional safe havens, such as gold, have historically proved attractive for investors in turbulent market conditions, and when asked, one sixth (14%) of investors said these sectors present the best opportunities at the moment.

Paul Inkster, head of product at Barclays Stockbrokers, said:

"While some investors continue to wait for events to unfold, many others are actively seeking investment opportunities, as evidenced by the majority weighting towards purchases.

"As is often the case in volatile markets, clients are also seeking out traditional 'safe havens', especially gold as it rose to a high on Tuesday above $1,750/oz.

"Developed equities also continue to be a popular choice with clients, even as markets fluctuate hugely."

The FTSE 100 has increased again this morning, having gained almost 2% yesterday.

The news that the US central bank is likely to hold interest rates until 2013 meant US shares had their best day for two years yesterday, closing up 4%.

The announcement has helped to bring to an end one of the biggest sell-offs in recent years.