The United States, Canada and the United Kingdom led the economies that attract the most FDI according to a survey conducted by Kearney. 

The ranking is based on a January 2025 survey of 536 senior executives of companies with annual revenues of at least $500 million. From 30 countries and various sectors, the companies include 53% from the services sector, 35% from the industrial sector and 12% from the technology sector.

Economies that attract the most FDI

According to the survey, for investors, national economic performance and legal and regulatory efficiency are key factors when deciding where to place their foreign direct investment. In fact, economic performance is cited as the main reason for investing in 12 of the top 25 markets.

In addition, risks from rising commodity prices and geopolitical tensions reflect a growing concern about global uncertainty. Thirty-eight percent foresee a rise in commodity prices and 35% expect geopolitical tensions in 2025.

As for the European Union, more than two-thirds of investors have a favorable view, although those in Europe are more pessimistic about its competitiveness and power. Concerns persist over immigration, economic stagnation and the war in Ukraine.

Uncertainty

In 2025, the world is at a turning point. Trade tensions, tariffs and conflicts are on the rise, while the domestic policies of major economies are changing dramatically. 

Against this backdrop, investors are bracing for a more uncertain and volatile global environment, attentive to factors such as geopolitics, commodity prices and tighter regulations.

In response, they are looking to adapt and find new opportunities. The FDI Confidence Index 2025 shows a clear preference for developed markets, which occupy 19 of the top 25 spots. 

The two most important factors for investment are legal and regulatory efficiency and economic performance, cited as the main reason in almost half of the markets in the ranking.