INVESTORS have been advised by a leading investment strategist to "don't just do something; stand there" when it comes to managing their assets despite the volatile market conditions.

Speaking to TheBusinessDesk.com, Kevin Gardiner, managing director and head of investment strategy for the Europe, Middle East and Africa region at wealth manager Barclays Wealth, said a desire for action in times of turmoil could often result in investors over trading and buying high and selling low.

Mr Gardiner also advised investors: "Don't put all your eggs into a safe haven basket as it's not as safe as you think."  

Mr Gardiner was in the region to meet clients and businesses - he addressed them during an event entitled 'Is there life after debt? Markets as we see them' - and get a flavour of market sentiment in Yorkshire.

He told TheBusinessDesk.com he had been heartened by the positive outlook of many businesses, especially those he spoke to in the manufacturing sector.

"It's been encouraging to hear that in some areas the bad news has been overstated," he said.

He said the media had had a part to play in creating uncertainty but urged businesses to concentrate on their own position and try not to worry about the wider macroeconomic picture.

Mr Gardiner (pictured right) said: "I do think the authorities are doing all they can to stabilise things. I don't think things are quite as parlous as the market seems to believe."

The visit coincided with new regional research undertaken by Barclays Wealth into behavioural finance amongst wealthy investors.

Barclays Wealth found that despite their net-worth, a third (33%) of wealthy individuals in the UK wish they had more self-control over their financial behaviour.

The study found that in Yorkshire, the region is home to the most 'composed' investors, who are less likely to get stressed when making financial decisions.

Martin Cuthbert, regional centre head for Barclays Wealth's Leeds office, said: "We have been advising clients to stay away from riskier assets and we still favour the large cap equity environment to a degree."

Source: The Business Desk