Flow of foreign direct investments into Europe reached its all-time high in 2013. Helsinki was Europe’s fastest growing city by new FDI projects.
According to the EY’s European Attractiveness Survey, 2013 turned out to be a record year for European FDI, with the number of inward investment decisions reaching an all-time high of 3,955. This represents a 5% gain over 2012.
Finland climbed three spots in 2013 rankings and became the ninth among the top investment destinations in Europe. Finland improved its appeal to international businesses and captured 108 investments in 2013, up by a remarkable 44% from last year. Helsinki was the fastest growing city in Europe with nearly 50% more projects.
The UK, Germany, France, Spain and Belgium continued to be the top five recipients of FDI projects on the continent. Together, their share of FDI increased from 59% in 2012 to 61% in 2013.
EY’s 2014 European Attractiveness Survey is based on EY’s European Investment Monitor (EIM). This database tracks FDI projects that have resulted in new facilities and/or the creation of new jobs. By excluding portfolio investments, mergers and acquisitions, it shows the reality of investment in manufacturing or services operations by foreign companies across the continent. Additionally, the report examines “perceived” attractiveness of Europe, based on interviews of 840 international decision-makers.
The full report can be downloaded from EY’s website at: www.ey.com/GL/en/Issues/Business-environment/european-attractiveness-survey.
