In Spain, international venture capital and property investments are rising, driven by supportive local governments. The U.S. sees strong public markets led by technology, with notable investments in vacation-related industries and cautious private market optimism. Israel’s high-tech sector thrives with significant AI and data center growth despite geopolitical challenges. The UK venture capital market faces tight liquidity, yet strategic collaborations offer opportunities. In Canada, the mining sector is booming amid the global energy transition, emphasizing the need for minerals like copper. The GCC region experiences an energy sector slowdown but shows strong performance in non-energy industries and technological advancements, including a government-backed crypto exchange in the UAE.
What is happening in Spain?
Marta Albert, Principal at QG Family Office, reports a surge in venture capital and property investments in Spain, driven by international interest. Despite broader governmental challenges, local governments in Madrid and other areas are supportive and protective of their businesses, fostering a positive investment climate. Investors are increasingly looking towards the Middle East and Asia, indicating a growing openness and hunger for new opportunities. Marta is set to gather more insights at upcoming events, but early indicators point to a bright future for Spain’s investment landscape.
What is happening in the US?
Todd Johnson and Michael Willis, Co-Founders of ONEFUND, report that the company has experienced steady growth since relocating its headquarters to Oahu, Hawaii. Johnson emphasizes the favorable business environment Hawaii offers, which has proven beneficial for their operations and overall company growth. He encourages exploring the business and lifestyle opportunities available on the island. Michael Willis adds that in addition to the benefits found in Hawaii, they have strategically decided to relocate certain operations to Florida. This move aims to better align with the East Coast time zone and meet the demands of the technology sector more effectively. Willis highlights that this adjustment has enhanced their operations, especially with the sync to Wall Street’s business hours and notes St. Petersburg, Florida, as an emerging tech hub that is attracting significant industry attention.
Additionally, Emanuel Pleitez, Co-Founder at East Los Capital, highlights the cautious investment climate in Silicon Valley, particularly within the FinTech sector. Despite a significant amount of available capital, investors remain hesitant to deploy funds, favoring companies demonstrating responsible cash management and sustainable growth. The growth-stage companies, especially those in series C, D and E rounds, have potential access to larger investments, though the market remains selective. Notably, companies associated with AI are seeing higher valuation premiums, as investors seek to capitalize on the burgeoning AI trend
Ramesh Kumar, Founder of Rockfort Ventures, echoes the sentiment of ample available capital in the market but notes the ongoing uncertainty about its deployment. He mentions that with inflation showing signs of easing, the economic outlook appears slightly more positive. Ramesh humorously adds that he hopes some of this “dry powder” finds its way to his ventures. He also highlights the anticipation surrounding the upcoming presidential debate, expecting it to be an entertaining and significant event. Beyond these points, he notes that not much else is currently stirring in the investment landscape.
Anthony Jarrin, CEO of The Cannaregio Group, reports that the U.S. public markets remain strong, driven by robust earnings and balance sheets, particularly in the technology sector. However, regional banks face potential bankruptcies due to their exposure to commercial real estate, especially office spaces. The U.S. dollar continues to strengthen, leading a significant rally against Asian currencies, reflecting strong global confidence. In contrast, the private markets are experiencing complexity, with inflation and interest rate concerns causing delays in investment decisions. As the nation anticipates today’s presidential debate, market participants are largely on the sidelines, awaiting clearer indications of future economic and political directions. Jarrin notes a stagnant position in private investments, with decisions deferred to the next quarter, reflecting the current economic uncertainties.
What is happening in Australia?
Craig Astill, CEO of the Caason Group, highlights significant developments in Australia amidst the chaotic end of the financial year and school holidays. The country is experiencing a political clash over energy policies, with the current government favoring wind and solar energy, while the opposition advocates for a shift towards nuclear energy. This debate is expected to shape the upcoming elections.
Additionally, James Caine, CEO of Manse Medical, notes significant government policy changes impacting various industries in Australia. He emphasizes a growing trend of foreign investment in local startups, with many companies securing at least one international investor in the past year. This trend is expected to continue, presenting opportunities to find undervalued high-value companies amid current market uncertainties and financial pressures. James, with his extensive experience in healthcare and advisory roles across tech startups, underscores the potential for strategic investments in this evolving landscape.
What is happening in the UAE?
Hatem Goucha, Founder of NewEra Consult LLC, reports a notable slowdown in the energy sector across the GCC, with OPEC+ cutting output through the third quarter of 2024. This has led to a projected shrinkage of 2.6% in the oil and gas sector, contrasting with a healthier performance in the non-energy sectors. Consequently, the GCC’s GDP growth forecast for 2024 has been revised down from 2.7% to 2.2%. Despite this, the World Bank maintains a positive long-term outlook for the region. Bahrain and Qatar show strong growth in non-energy sectors, while the UAE remains robust. Additionally, the anticipated introduction of a GCC visa will facilitate easier travel between member countries. On the technology front, Hatem is closely monitoring the development of the M2 exchange, a government-backed cryptocurrency platform in the UAE, particularly supported by Abu Dhabi funds.
What is happening in Israel?
Oran Dror, CEO of Dror Investments Ltd., reports that despite ongoing geopolitical challenges, Israel’s stock market remains robust. Since October 7th, the growth reported was 35%, with the exchange rate holding steady. The tech sector is particularly vibrant, with notable exits such as Nvidia’s $700 million acquisition of Run AI and another $300 million acquisition, signaling strong investor confidence. Dror, deeply involved in data center technologies and cybersecurity, notes increased funding for Israeli tech companies. Despite conflicts in the south and north, Israel’s high-tech export economy, particularly in AI and data centers, continues to thrive.
What is happening in the UK?
Binesh Balan, Founder of Arkstons Investments Ltd, reports from Bahrain that the venture capital market in the UK is experiencing tight liquidity, making capital raising challenging. Despite these difficulties, Balan remains optimistic about the potential for collaboration and strategic alliances. He is actively seeking to connect with interesting partners to explore opportunities that can help navigate the current market conditions and drive future growth.
What is happening in Canada?
Ned Nadima, Founder of Rosa Ventures, shares that Canada’s mining sector is experiencing a positive shift in sentiment driven by the global energy transition. As the tech sector rides the AI wave, the demand for essential minerals like copper has increased, emphasizing the critical role of mining in supporting these advancements. Rosa Ventures is actively working to expedite the mining license process in Canada while also expanding activities in South America, Africa and soon Australia. Nadima highlights that this is an opportune time for both operators and investors to explore mining opportunities, given the sector’s growing importance in the energy transition and technological development.
The 180th G.I.L.C. Summit united leading investment professionals worldwide, exploring shifting economic landscapes in different nations. Stay ahead in the dynamic realm of global finance by securing your spot at upcoming Club events.
