Charles Schwab today released new survey data showing that active traders are expressing renewed faith in the stock market, despite continued volatility.

The latest Charles Schwab Active Trader Sentiment survey polled nearly 260 individual investors who trade frequently. Findings include:

8 in 10 respondents (81 percent) report a neutral or bullish outlook for the market in the next six months, virtually unchanged from the last survey in February 2009.

53 percent expect the economy to show clear signs of recovery within the next 12 months.

63 percent plan to increase their trading activity in the next six months, up from 49 percent in the February 2009 survey.

Despite the recent market volatility, a majority of traders (57 percent) currently hold 30 percent or less of their long-term portfolio in cash or cash investments.

Exactly half (50 percent) of respondents believe the U.S. market is currently most attractive, followed by Emerging markets (32 percent) and Asian markets (18 percent).

Traders believe that when the financial markets start to recover, financials (40 percent) and technology (32 percent) will lead the rally.

"The latest survey results show that trader sentiment is relatively positive despite volatility in the financial markets," noted Kelli Keough, vice president, Schwab Investor Services. "We're seeing continued confidence in active investing as traders further educate themselves, employ increased risk management and use more sophisticated trading strategies across a diverse range of investment vehicles."

Despite the survey results from San Francisco-based Schwab, the stock market contracted again this morning, with decliners outnumbering advancers. The largest local decliners this morning were A.O. Smith Corp. (down $1.24 to $32.19) and Manpower Inc. (down 64 cents to $24.53).

The largest local advancers this morning were Weyco Group Inc. (up 72 cents to $22.98) and Johnson Outdoors Inc. (up 53 cents to $5.92).

The stock for Kohl's Corp. rose 16 cents per share to trade at $42.82), as the stock was upgraded by Goldman Sachs to "buy."

Iconix Brand Group, Inc. announced today it will continue its partnership with singer Britney Spears for its Candie's brand, which is exclusively sold at Kohl's Department Stores.

Julie Gardner, Kohl's executive vice president and chief marketing officer, said, "We are very excited that Britney Spears will continue to appear in the fall 2009 Candie's Only at Kohl's advertising campaign. After a successful launch in spring, we know Spears has a strong connection with our young shoppers who want great style at exceptional value."