2 of 5 Malaysian consumers investing via various channels

A Nielsen report showed that 2 out of 5 Malaysians are investing in various channels from mutual funds to precious metals.

Among thoses urveyed, 67 percent of Malaysian prefer mutual fund/unit trust, 49 percent prefer stocks, 27 percent invest in gold, silver and other precious metals, one-fourth in structured investment products, 15 percent in foreign currencies, 10 percent in bonds and eight percent in derivatives.

Malaysians are generally on the list of the top ten savers in the world according to the Survey.

"Knowing consumers' attitudes towards wealth management while creating relevant opportunities to engage with consumers and manage their needs, is still a challenging task for financial planners and investment institutions, especially when four in ten consumers do not trust others when making financial decisions," said Head of Customised Research, Nielsen Malaysia, Luca Griseri.

When measuring the perception on risk taking, 24 percent of investing consumers said they are concerned about any volatility. One-fourth of investors consider themselves conservative investors, but can accept some minor fluctuation in their portfolio value.

Moderate investors who can accept potential for higher returns make up another 21 per cent, followed by those who aim for long-term capital appreciation atg 20 percent.

Ten percent indicate that they are higher risk takers who seek for highest possible returns.

"With the global economic circumstances remaining uncertain, risk taking is another important consideration in closing the gap with personal investors," said Griseri.

"Overall, there emerges a sense that Malaysian consumers tend to err on the side of caution, which is perhaps not surprising in view of the negative economic outlook worldwide," he added.

The Nielsen survey is based on the behavior of respondents with online access only.

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