A significant survey conducted by Scottish Widows has uncovered a notable trend among UK investors during the first quarter of 2026. Despite facing considerable market uncertainties and geopolitical tensions, three in ten investors, equivalent to 30%, chose to increase their contributions to investment portfolios beyond their usual levels.
Investment Patterns in a Volatile Quarter
The research, which involved over 2,000 non-advised investors across the United Kingdom, provides a detailed snapshot of financial behaviour during a period of economic flux. While 41% of respondents maintained their standard investment levels, approximately 19% reported investing less than normal. A small but notable segment, just over 3%, opted to withdraw all funds from their investments entirely.
Contributions and Returns
Investors who increased their contributions during this quarter demonstrated a degree of confidence, with half of this group, or 50%, experiencing positive returns on their portfolios. On average, investors contributed £2,413 to their investments in the first three months of 2026, highlighting a continued commitment to market participation despite external pressures.
Factors Influencing Investment Decisions
The survey identified several key factors driving changes in investment strategies. Rising living costs and alterations in personal circumstances were cited as common influences over the past three months. Additionally, global events, such as the conflict in the Middle East, have introduced volatility into financial markets, raising concerns over inflation and price stability.
Asset Allocation Shifts
Investors exhibited diverse approaches to asset management during this period. While 21% made minimal or no adjustments to their portfolios, 15% moved some investments into cash, seeking safer havens. Conversely, 14% increased their holdings in individual shares, and 13% allocated more funds to cryptocurrency. A further 11% bolstered their investments in gold, reflecting a search for alternative assets amid uncertainty.
Future Investment Intentions
Looking ahead, the Scottish Widows "investment pulse" survey indicates a cautiously optimistic outlook among investors. Approximately 30% plan to increase their investment amounts over the next three months, nearly double the proportion, 14%, who intend to reduce their contributions. This suggests a resilience in investor sentiment, with many focusing on long-term financial goals.
Expert Commentary on Market Confidence
Manuel Pardavila-Gonzalez, managing director of investments at Scottish Widows, commented on the findings. "Despite a volatile market, investors demonstrated confidence in the first quarter of 2026 – increasing their investments even with geopolitical headwinds threatening international markets and potential returns," he stated.
Pardavila-Gonzalez further elaborated, "While uncertainty looks set to continue, more bullish investors are driven by their own financial motivations, not just global shocks – looking to increase the amount they invest to grow their wealth, support retirement savings or mitigate the cost of living."
Survey Methodology and Scope
The data was collected by Censuswide in March 2026, surveying more than 2,000 non-advised UK investors. The study specifically excluded private and personal pensions, focusing instead on direct investment behaviours and attitudes in a challenging economic climate.
