Global Millionaire Exodus Fuels $40B Investment‑Migration Industry

In 2025 a record 140,000+ high‑net‑worth individuals left their country of residence, a surge driven by wars, political instability and fiscal uncertainty. The move feeds a fast‑growing investment‑migration sector now valued at about $40 billion a year, with more than 1,200 operators offering residency or citizenship in exchange for capital. The most sought‑after destinations include Dubai, Caribbean states and several European economies, while the U.S. EB‑5 visa program remains in strong demand despite rising investment thresholds. Europe shows a mixed picture: France and Germany posted negative balances, Spain scrapped its €500,000 scheme, Portugal extended its citizenship timeline, and the EU Court of Justice ruled Malta’s program incompatible with EU law.

A separate Wealth Report released by Capgemini shows that the global count of millionaires reached a historic 25.3 million in 2025, a 7.9 % rise year‑on‑year, with total wealth amounting to $98.3 trillion. Growth was led by the Asia‑Pacific region (9.4 % increase) and North America (9.1 % increase), with the United States adding over 736 000 new millionaires. Europe also rebounded, driven by Luxembourg, Germany and modest gains in France and the United Kingdom. The ultra‑rich (those with at least $30 million) rose to roughly 250 000 individuals worldwide.