The poll found that 65% of investors using Barclays online execution only trading platform were looking at investments as a long term strategy rather than the ‘short-termism’ generally attributed to online investors.

Barclays say that 34% who likened their investment approach to a heptathlon – utilising a long-term investment strategy which is underpinned by several different approaches – and 31% who likened their investment strategy to a marathon; buying and holding for the long-term.

In a separate poll, Barclays asked these investors in which parts of the world that they thought were the best investment returns.

The UK came away as a top place to invest with 56% of the votes, followed by China with 16%. The US came third in the investor poll with 14% of the vote.

Paul Inkster, head of product at Barclays Stockbrokers, said: “It comes as no surprise that investors are taking a long-term approach to their investment strategy in the search for returns.

“Particularly in times of challenging market conditions, our clients see the importance of keeping long-term goals in mind to ensure that their investment portfolio has the breadth to deliver returns and protect against short-term volatility.