This issue’s discussions highlight significant developments across key regions. Switzerland is witnessing growth in the AI sector, driven by enterprise adoption and innovation in defensible technologies. The UK sees strong demand in real estate and financial B2B services, with notable cash flow shifts to international markets. The Middle East advances with major investments in AI, ICT and startups, while Liberia focuses on building a cross-regional startup ecosystem to foster innovation. In the United States, the climate investment sector remains robust and biotechnology is poised for recovery, with public financing expected to accelerate by late 2025. Stay informed on these and other global investment trends in our comprehensive overview.
What is happening in Germany?
Felix Meyer-Horn, President of Corporate Affairs at Aerzen, shared that a significant new law passed in Europe six weeks ago will impact 77,000 wastewater treatment plants by mandating extended recycling activities. This development aligns with increasing energy and water demands driven by industrial activities like electric vehicles (EVs), artificial intelligence and data centers. Felix noted similar trends in Africa, where there is growing interest in energy and water infrastructure investments. Companies are also exploring opportunities to establish operations in these regions, partly due to their proximity to Europe and the focus on energy supply improvements.
What is happening in the United States?
Colby Kash, CEO & Co-Founder at Camelot BioCapital, shared that the biotechnology sector is gradually recovering, with improving sentiment in public market financing. While IPO activity remains slow, major M&A deals could drive momentum and public financing is expected to accelerate by late 2025. Private investments continue to play a crucial role in advancing therapeutics for cancer, autoimmune and rare neurodiseases.
What is happening in the Nordics?
Pasi Pohjala, Founder and CEO at ATG Consulting, Finland, shared that security concerns have been a central focus in the region, highlighted by a severe incident on Christmas Day in the Gulf of Finland. A tanker carrying Russian oil accidentally dragged an anchor for over 100 kilometers, cutting a main power line between Finland and Estonia, as well as two data cables. Finnish authorities responded swiftly by seizing the tanker and NATO has since committed to regular escorts to prevent similar occurrences. On the investment front, Pasi noted a growing acceptance and importance of funding early-stage startups focused on defense and dual-use technologies. While the market climate for early-stage investments remains challenging, promising projects continue to attract interest from LPs, with fundraising efforts progressing steadily. Despite hurdles, there is optimism about closing ongoing funds as scheduled.
What is happening in the UK?
Guido Contesso, CEO at Limitless Earth PLC, shared that the UK is witnessing significant shifts in financial B2B services and real estate investments. A notable movement of cash flow is being observed, with UK-based investors reallocating funds to international markets like Dubai and parts of Europe. The real estate sector continues to experience high demand, with investors pursuing premium assets, particularly in trophy locations. While market volatility remains a concern, Guido highlighted the cautious optimism among investors exploring new opportunities amidst the evolving financial landscape.
What is happening in Singapore?
Annabelle Lin, Managing Partner at DAC Equity, shared that Singapore is solidifying its role as a global investment hub in 2025, with key opportunities emerging in AI solutions, blockchain technologies and advanced analytics. Over $30 billion was invested in AI and cloud infrastructure last year, reflecting the country’s focus on digital transformation. She emphasized Singapore’s leadership in renewable energy and ESG-compliant projects, including solar, wind and green hydrogen, while highlighting the growing importance of sustainable infrastructure and carbon credit markets. Annabelle also pointed to the rise of family offices, driven by Singapore’s stability, tax benefits and regulatory ease, alongside continued investment in fintech, deep tech and health tech startups across the region.
What is happening in the Middle East?
Mustafa Hasan, Founding Partner at Valu.vc, Bahrain, shared that Saudi Arabia has launched transformative investment initiatives, including a $100 billion allocation for AI development and $40 billion dedicated to ICT projects. These efforts aim to create a robust ecosystem and position the region as a leader in emerging technologies. Additionally, major funds are channeling $500 billion into startups, with a focus on fintech, robotics, edutech and health tech, signaling strong government and private sector collaboration. While blockchain currently faces regulatory restrictions, licensing updates are anticipated in the coming months, which could unlock new opportunities in this sector. The region’s venture capital landscape is rapidly evolving, with increased investments and support for innovative technologies driving significant growth across key industries.
What is happening in Liberia?
Alois Monger, Managing Director at Skynet, shared that efforts to build the country’s startup ecosystem are gaining momentum, supported by development finance institutions. These institutions are addressing gaps caused by reduced venture funding across the continent by providing catalytic capital for regional hubs, accelerators and incubators. To strengthen the ecosystem, he’s leading the adoption of a cross-regional approach spanning neighboring Mano River Union countries Sierra Leone, Guinea and Côte d’Ivoire to source and develop startups innovating to address challenges in the West Africa subregion. This strategy aims to overcome the challenges of smaller markets by fostering broader regional integration and creating opportunities for innovation and entrepreneurship.
The 205th Global Investment Leaders Club Summit brought together top investment professionals from around the world to discuss evolving economic landscapes across various countries. Stay updated on the constantly changing investment scene by checking our schedule and registering for one of our upcoming events.
