This was followed by capital growth at 48 per cent, capital preservation at 45 per cent, liquidity at 42 per cent and product costs at 41 per cent.

BT head of adviser distribution Jo Moxey said while advisers see their ability to offer well diversified portfolio construction as a key part of their value proposition, only 73 per cent are confident that their SMSF clients hold well diversified investments.

The survey also found that 62 per cent find it difficult to diversify their SMSF client portfolios, compared with their non-SMSF client portfolios.

Around nine in 10 (89 per cent) consider a portfolio of managed funds, direct shares and property to be diversified, while 87 per cent believe investments across four or more asset classes is ideal.

“Diversification can be achieved in a variety of ways, but having access to a broad range of investment options is vital,” said Ms Moxey.