Investors' Skepticism About Economy Doesn't Dull Market Outlook

The number of Americans who believe the economy will deteriorate over the next year has doubled from January to 31%, a Wall Street Journal/NBC News poll of 1,007 people found. Nonetheless, 46% of those who have $5,000 or more invested in the market believe the market will rise in value over the next 12 months, while a third believe it will hold steady, The Wall Street Journal reports. Only 16% foresee it falling. The numbers are important, as the poll was conducted March 2-5, just after the wild turbulence in the markets. However, in January, 55% said they believe the market will rise.

People “don’t appear to be particularly shaken,” said Democratic pollster Peter Hart, who conducted the survey with Republican Neil Newhouse.