Despite recognition from the majority of investors (88%) that there are significant investment opportunities in the current environment, the majority of these (68%) are shying away from them because they believe the risk of further price falls is too high.

That's one of the findings of a new survey of 2100 high net worth investors from around the globe by Barclay's Wealth and Economist Intelligence Unit called, "New Horizon, New Behavior."

"Investment often involves striking a balance between financial and emotional considerations. The findings show that investors are currently constrained by a fear of regret and not only are they turning a blind eye to the opportunities they know are out there, but they are sticking with safe options," according to Rory Gilbert, Head of UK & Ireland Private Bank at Barclays Wealth.

The report finds a "state of inertia" currently taking hold of investors. Simply put, they are not changing their portfolios. When questioned about allocations to 12 different asset classes, more than half of the respondents said that they would not be making adjustments to each of the asset classes.

Some 53% indicate they would only invest in what they know. Where people do plan on making adjustments, they are sticking with  familiar and simple investments. The most significant portion plan to increase their allocation to real estate (25%), with government bonds (22%) and commodities (21%) the next most popular asset classes.