The Manulife Investor Sentiment Index (MISI) rose four points to 15 in Q2. It is the index's highest level since the survey was launched in the first quarter of 2013.
SINGAPORE: Investor sentiment in Singapore got a boost in the second quarter of this year. Canada-based financial group Manulife in its latest survey findings attributed this to a more positive view of the property, fixed income and mutual fund sectors in the city state.
The Manulife Investor Sentiment Index (MISI) rose four points to 15 in the three months between April and June 2014. It is also the index's highest level since the survey was launched in the first quarter of 2013.
Manulife said improved sentiment towards property was the main reason. Sentiment towards residential properties edged up 10 points to 23, while investment property moved back up to positive territory over the quarter.
Manulife Singapore President and CEO Naveed Irshad said in a statement: "Clearly Singapore investors have recently regained quite a bit of confidence but it's important not to lose sight of the fundamentals and still take a measured approach. It's crucial to actively manage a diversified portfolio to guard against risk and maximise returns."
In the mutual funds sector, Manulife said market stability and higher returns in fixed income are among the reasons for the increased optimism in this asset class. There was also increased interest in mutual funds propelled by the low interest rates and the improving employment situation in the country.
- CNA/by
News Source:http://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/business/singapore/singapore-investor/1331062.html