Since the start of 2013, seven of the top traded stocks by clients on the Barclays Stockbrokers trader platform have had a technology focus, according to a survey by Barclays Stockbrokers.

The research revealed that despite a recently announced drop in profits for the first time in a decade, Apple was the most commonly traded international stock by clients, accounting for almost 7 per cent of all international trades placed between 1 January and 30 April this year.

“Despite a mixed set of first quarter results announced by some of the leading technology brands, demand for the technology sector is strong among our clients and has also been a popular choice for our international trader clients in the first four months of the year. Investor focus is on the sector once again as Facebook approaches the first anniversary of its IPO, and we expect to see further developments in the sector as brands continue to innovate,” said Paul Inkster, head of product, Barclays Stockbrokers.

Meanwhile, social networking site Facebook ranked as the second most commonly traded international stock in the Barclays Stockbrokers international trader platform, followed by search giant Google in third place.

Barclays Stockbrokers also polled its clients on their appetite for investing in the technology sector, and found that 81 per cent were interested in technology as an investment opportunity. This includes two fifths (40 per cent) who already invest in technology and aim to seek further opportunities in the sector. Almost a fifth (17 per cent) of investors don’t currently invest in technology but were considering it for their portfolio, while a further 24 per cent will monitor the sector for investment opportunities, the bank said.

The Barclays Stockbrokers web poll survey was conducted with 390 respondents and ran between 29 April and 14 May 2013.