FDI surged in developed economies but declined in developing countries, becoming increasingly concentrated in capital-intensive sectors such as data centres.

Global foreign direct investment (FDI) rose 14% in 2025 to $1.6 trillion, based on preliminary estimates published on 20 January in a report by UN Trade and Development. The increase marks a rebound after two years of decline. But the report highlights that the headline growth overstates the recovery. A large share of the increase came from flows through global financial centres, while real investment activity remained fragile. Investment patterns point to widening divides between developed and developing economies, growing concentration in a small number of strategic sectors, and persistent weakness in projects most critical for sustainable development.

To read the full article, please visit Global foreign investment up 14% in 2025, with growth concentrated in developed economies | UN Trade and Development (UNCTAD). Published on January 23, 2026.