Fund investors seek increased security and growth potential

Fund investors have revealed their cautious side, according to Barclays Stockbrokers Funds Market. Investment levels in funds for June reflected a dip in confidence compared to growth seen in the rest of the second quarter as assets fell 42 per cent in June vs. May, and 24 per cent compared to April.
This is in contrast to the positive inflows seen following this year's ISA season, as assets invested in funds increased by 27 per cent in May compared to April.

Investors are seeking increased security combined with growth potential for their investments as Money Market and Absolute Return top the tables as the most popular sectors. The Money Market sector continues to prove most popular by assets invested in Barclays Stockbrokers Funds Market in June taking the top slot for the third month running3; 34 per cent of total assets. In contrast to May the Barclays Global Investors Liquidity First Fund was the most popular by assets in June pushing Fidelity's Cash fund into third place; the Blackrock UK Absolute Alpha fund took second place.

But some investors continue to seek opportunities in more diverse sectors. The Specialist sector continues to be popular, taking second place in the second quarter. In particular Latin America and commodity funds took high inflows, with the JP Morgan Natural Resources fund ranking highest in its sector. Threadneedle's Latin America Fund and JP Morgan's New Europe Fund also proved popular.

Chris Stevenson, Associate Director, Funds Market, Barclays Stockbrokers comments: "Market volatility has continued to dominate the headlines so a cautious approach from investors comes as no surprise. We saw Money Market funds dominate assets invested over the second quarter - confirming investor need for protecting investments. Looking at specific funds it is clear to see cash funds are key, with our latest offering - the Barclays Global Investors Liquidity First Fund - increasing in popularity and taking the number one slot for June."