Despite the FTSE dipping in and out of bear market territory in recent weeks, research from Barclays Stockbrokers reveals investors are retaining their confidence in the market.

Almost half have faith in the FTSE and believe it will rise over the next three months. A further 12% believe it will stay the same.

However, the poll also revealed just over two fifths of respondents (41%) do not share this optimism – saying they believed the FTSE would drop in the next three months.

Des Byrne, head of Barclays Stockbrokers, said: “It is encouraging to see investors remaining bullish despite recent market volatility.

“While we would expect our clients to become more cautious there are bargains to be had and investors shouldn’t lose faith now. However, the findings do reveal that two-fifths are still wary and if market volatility continues this level of caution is likely to persist.”