More than three-quarters (77 per cent) of Canadian investors feel that market volatility is the “new normal” and is here to stay for the foreseeable future.

That’s according to a study issued Thursday by BMO Global Asset Management (BMO GAM).

When asked to identify their top priorities when deciding how to invest their money in the current market environment, almost all (96 per cent) said that balancing risk in their investments is critical. Other factors included: the long-term rate of return (95 per cent); diversification (86 per cent) and the short-term rate of return (72 per cent)/

“Factors such as stretched but still reasonable equity market valuations, the withdrawal of monetary policy support and ongoing liquidity strains in emerging markets lead us to believe that volatility will continue to characterize the financial markets for the next 12 to 24 months,” says Paul Taylor, chief investment officer, fundamental equities, BMO GAM.

Taylor notes that investors should be aware that returns are likely to moderate through 2014 and there will be further volatility in fixed income markets as the U.S. Federal Reserve’s quantitative easing (QE) tapering program unfolds throughout the rest of this year.

“Navigating volatile markets can be challenging, so it’s critical that Canadians seek out investing solutions that help them diversify their portfolios and effectively manage risk,” says Robert Armstrong, vice president and head of managed solutions, BMO GAM.

Armstrong adds that as an increasing number of Baby Boomers – defined as those born between 1945 and 1964 – approach retirement, it is important for them to focus on reducing risk and take a more conservative investing approach to preserve their nest egg.

The study also examined if investors feel that they require help with selecting investments given current market conditions: 80 per cent said they could use assistance finding their ideal investment risk level; and 85 per cent reported needing help finding investments well suited for their risk level.

Not surprisingly given these findings, 86 per cent stated that they would use an investment portfolio designed specifically to maximize returns for their given risk level.

The Pollara online survey was completed between January 31 and February 4, with a sample of 1,002 Canadian investors.