The Global Entrepreneurial Wealth Report 2025: Opportunity (and Challenge)

HSBC have recently published their annual report on 'Global Entrepreneurial Wealth', surveying nearly 3,000 entrepreneurs across 15 markets. The report reveals a combination of opportunity and challenge for entrepreneurs navigating global markets.

The report indicates (perhaps surprisingly) widespread optimism amongst global investors, with just 1% of entrepreneurs believing that their business prospects will worsen in the coming few years.  The major talking points amongst these optimistic entrepreneurs were:

• Technology: 62% of entrepreneurs cited technology or artificial intelligence as the top factors driving positivity for their business prospects. Continuous innovation has left entrepreneurs tussling with a rapidly evolving business climate, and in greater need than ever of sound legal advice.
• International mobility: 56% of the entrepreneurs surveyed reported that they were multi-resident, whilst 59% said they were considering moving their wealth to a new location. Immigration can be complex and nuanced; however, entrepreneurs clearly recognise the value of mobility for the success of their business ventures.
• Legacy: Whilst 77% of entrepreneurs expressed a desire to keep the business in the family and preserve its legacy, nearly half reported that they needed help structuring their business succession. It is unsurprising that entrepreneurs are considering the long-term impact of their decisions and looking towards future generations to continue their work. These are important decisions and require careful consideration and meticulous planning.
• Expansion to new markets: 49% of entrepreneurs say they are considering expanding to a new market or territory for their business over the next 12 months. The emergence of new markets presents an excellent opportunity for ambitious entrepreneurs looking to capitalise on the flow of goods and services across borders, however tapping into this opportunity can be difficult.

James McWilliams adds: "I have recently embarked on my training contract at Boodle Hatfield, and in my first seat in the Corporate Department, I have witnessed just how important all these themes are for entrepreneurs. Making plans around immigration, taxation and succession can be complex, however the right choices can help entrepreneurs to grow and preserve their wealth.  

There are certainly a lot of hurdles facing entrepreneurs; however, the takeaway seems to be that immense opportunity lies amidst the challenge. Winston Churchill is quoted as saying ‘a pessimist sees the difficulty in every opportunity; an optimist sees the opportunity in every difficulty’. It would seem that the entrepreneurs navigating global markets share this sentiment. "

Explore how Boodle Hatfield supports entrepreneurs navigating these global challenges and opportunities:

• Digital Asset Lawyers in London
• UK Immigration Law
• Lessons in Legacy
• International Lawyers in London