A TYPICAL stock market investor is more likely to be a middle-aged woman than a young male entrepreneur, according to a Malvern stockbroker.
According to research by WH Ireland, the most common owner of a share portfolio is female, over 55 years old, retired or self-employed and has an annual income of £20,000 to £40,000.
Richard Lee, managing director of WH Ireland, said the research "shattered" the traditional image of the investor.
"Although this may come as a surprise to many who imagine that share portfolios are mainly the reserve of very rich, entrepreneurial males, there is a simple explanation," he said.
Killing
"Many young investors saw the stock market as a way to make a quick killing during the dotcom boom and when these companies collapsed, having spent the money, a good deal of 'rookie' investors were cleaned out.
"The stock market should not really be used in this way. To make serious money it is necessary to take a longer-term view with any investment in shares.
"Middle-aged women have typically been more prudent with maintaining their share portfolios and are looking for a higher rate of return than banks are able to offer."
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