As the world advances in a fragmented manner, amid shifting geopolitical balances, multi-speed economies and continents following contrasting trajectories, the IMF forecasts global growth for 2026 at a level close to that of 2025, around +3.1%. This stabilization dynamic is driven by entrepreneurship, technology and the globalization of talent.
Business and consumer confidence is expected to improve in 2026, fiscal stimulus measures should gain momentum in major advanced economies, and the impact of tariffs should gradually diminish. In this context, prestige residential real estate continues to demonstrate its structural resilience.
United States: a billionaire nursery under pressure
The United States remains the world's number-one prestige real estate market, with UHNWI population growth driven by the technology sector (Florida, Utah and Texas posting strong gains). President Trump's trade policies introduce uncertainties, but fundamentals remain solid: favourable taxation in several states, depth of financial markets and unmatched entrepreneurial appeal.
Europe: resilience and opportunity
Europe advanced on the back of interest rate cuts, euro appreciation and a considerably expanded fiscal programme in defence and infrastructure spending. European prestige real estate markets are recording contrasting performances depending on country and city.
Spain, Italy and Portugal dominate the European ranking of the most attractive prestige real estate destinations, driven by their climatic, cultural and fiscal advantages. France and Germany hold their ground despite more demanding tax environments. Central European markets (Hungary, Bulgaria) are emerging as alternative destinations for price-sensitive investors.
Ranking of the world's most attractive cities for UHNWI expatriates
Geneva ranks No.1 as a destination for wealthy expatriates, ahead of Dubai, Singapore, Zurich and London. These cities combine the attributes sought by mobile UHNWIs: political and legal stability, competitive taxation, quality medical and educational services, a dense international community and excellent air connectivity.
Asia-Pacific: between strength and uncertainty
Asia remains the world's second pole of UHNWI wealth, anchored by Hong Kong, Singapore, Tokyo and Sydney. The Chinese slowdown weighs on overall sentiment, but investment flows into Asian prestige real estate remain sustained—particularly from the Chinese diaspora and major fortunes from Southeast Asia.