Growing uncertainty caused by the Covid-19 crisis has led to an increase in nervousness among some of the world's largest investors, with most straying into private markets in an attempt to find attractive sources of return.

According to a Schroders poll of 650 institutional investors, overseeing $25.9tn in assets, 79% said a global economic slowdown would have the biggest impact on investments over the next 12 months — up from 49% 12 months ago.