Global investment is recovering unevenly. UN Trade and Development’s Global Investment Trends Monitor No. 51, released on 25 October, reports a rise in foreign direct investment alongside a contraction in new project activity.
1. Higher values, fewer transactions
Cross-border merger and acquisition values increased 57% to US$494 billion in the first nine months of 2026, while deal numbers fell 23%. Global FDI rose 37% in the first half of 2026 against the average half-year level in 2025. This comparison is not a conventional year-on-year growth rate. Large transactions and financial flows helped lift the headline figures.
2. New investment remains under pressure
Greenfield project announcements fell 15%, and international project finance deals declined 11%. The figures point to a narrower recovery rather than a broad expansion in investment activity.
3. MIAA perspective: execution matters
For cross-border investors and project owners, stronger aggregate flows should not replace project-level analysis. MIAA’s editorial view is that credible approvals, realistic funding, capable local partners and clear delivery plans remain central to turning international interest into completed investment.
For Australian businesses seeking overseas capital or international partnerships, the practical priority is to present a clear investment case supported by verifiable information, transparent governance and a workable execution pathway. These are editorial observations, not forecasts from UNCTAD.
Source: UN Trade and Development (UNCTAD), Global Investment Trends Monitor No. 51, 25 October 2026.
https://unctad.org/publication/global-investment-trends-monitor-no-51
MIAA News Centre | Andy & Winnie
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