Investors may be investing smaller amounts, but since the GFC they are more cautious about where their money is put.
The 2012 ASX Share Ownership Survey released yesterday shows that as self-reliance continue to grow through the use of online brokers, investors seek more information about the market and the companies they invest in.
Of those who own shares directly, 76% feel that it is a good time to both buy and hold shares, a similar sentiment to 2010. However, in 2012 (33%) less people felt it was a good time to buy compared to 2010 (39%). This is not surprising given the plethora of bargains that were to be had in that time period.
Most shareholders (61%) believe they will maintain the same level of investment in the next 12 months but fewer say they would increase. In recent months we have seen shares in our favourite blue chips like Telstra (ASX: TLS), Westpac (ASX: WBC) and Wesfarmers (ASX: WES) skyrocket as investors flocked to the market in search of bigger returns than their term deposits. Maybe now it's time to sell these stocks rather than hold them?
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The Motley Fool's purpose is to help the world invest, better. Click here now for your free subscription to Take Stock, The Motley Fool's free investing newsletter. Packed with stock ideas and investing advice, it is essential reading for anyone looking to build and grow their wealth in the years ahead. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Bruce Jackson. Motley Fool contributor Owen Raskiewicz does not own any shares in the mentioned companies.
