63 per cent of UK private investors feel optimistic about the UK economy over the next 12 months, up from 47 per cent one year ago, according to a survey of over 1,000 investors by London Stock Exchange and research firm ONVA.
The "Investor Confidence Barometer", a measure of economic confidence developed as part of the survey, also saw a seven per cent annual increase to 52 per cent, demonstrating heightened optimism. Investors said they were most interested in investing in the natural resources, technology, healthcare and pharmaceutical sectors.
The results come on the eve of the annual London Investor Show which will be held at London's Olympia and which, with a record 5,000 registered attendees, is set to be the largest ever event of its kind in the UK.
To mark the day, participating experts and financial journalists will tomorrow join Alexander Justham, CEO at London Stock Exchange, to open trading on the UK markets.
Alexander Justham, CEO, London Stock Exchange, said:
"It is encouraging to see that private investors are optimistic on the economy. Their participation is crucial in providing funding to entrepreneurs and businesses, which in turn will help fuel long term economic recovery."
Nicolas Bertrand, Head of Equity and Derivatives Markets at London Stock Exchange Group, said:
"We are delighted with the record attendance at this year's London Investor Show, which demonstrates how active the retail community has become. In parallel, we have been working hard to make our markets more accessible to investors, developing our new retail bond market, ORB; organising interactive events around the UK; and working with partners on educational materials."
The London Investor Show is the largest private investor conference in the UK and offers unrivalled access to expert advice, interactive seminars, panel sessions, exhibitions and workshops. The show's exhibitors cover a full range of saving, investment and trading products available to private investors.
For more information visit www.londoninvestorshow.com.
