Portugal and Other EU Nations Thrive as U.S. Markets Face Turmoil

International investors are increasingly moving away from American stocks, instead turning their attention to European markets at an unprecedented rate.

This shift is largely attributed to economic uncertainty in the U.S., where concerns over inflation, the possibility of a recession, and unpredictable policy decisions have significantly diminished investor confidence.

Market volatility in the U.S. has been exacerbated by factors such as tariffs, fiscal policy instability, and a heavy concentration of capital in a few large equities. In response, investors are seeking stability and diversification, with European stocks offering an attractive alternative.

The Appeal of European Markets

European equities provide a number of advantages, including appealing valuations, lower reliance on mega-cap stocks, and exposure to global growth sectors such as defence and green energy.

Furthermore, European economies have demonstrated resilience against U.S. economic slowdowns and tariff-related disruptions.

One country experiencing a significant economic and investment boom is Portugal. With strong GDP growth, declining inflation, and a rise in investor confidence, Portugal has emerged as a prime destination for both capital inflows and relocation.

Portugal’s Economic Strength

Portugal’s economy is thriving, with inflation trending downward and GDP growth on the rise. In recognition of its economic stability, the Japan Credit Rating Agency (JCR) upgraded Portugal’s sovereign risk rating from ‘A’ to ‘A+’ in 2025. This reflects Portugal’s diversified economy, structural reforms, and sound fiscal management.

In January 2025, consumer price inflation in Portugal fell to 2.5%, down from 3.0% in December 2024, reinforcing confidence in the country’s economic policies. The Portuguese government has projected GDP growth of 1.8% in 2024 and 2.1% in 2025, further cementing its economic progress.

Paul Stannard, chairman and founder of Portugal Pathways and the Portugal Investment Owners Club (P Club), highlighted this shift, stating:

“U.S. investors are flocking to Portugal, with a significant upturn in interest following November’s election and due to the speed of change and volatility created by the U.S. administration, which has created this market downturn and uncertainty.

“We speak to U.S. clients every day who are fearful of being so heavily invested in U.S. markets amidst this period of instability. Once familiar global brands from the U.S. have seen the biggest declines in their brand and stock value, sparked by the isolationist narrative.

“This is particularly notable when contrasted with investor confidence in Portugal, which is at an all-time high, according to a report by Ernst & Young (EY) on Portugal’s attractiveness.”

Capital Reallocation to Europe

A Bank of America survey found that fund managers are reallocating capital from the U.S. to European markets at the fastest pace in 25 years. The U.S. stock market has suffered, with the S&P 500 experiencing a 10% decline from its peak, signalling a market correction that could foreshadow further economic downturns. Historical trends indicate that only 12 instances since 1990 have seen U.S. stock market recessions not lead to broader economic declines.

Meanwhile, UK investors are also seeking greater diversification due to domestic policy changes, including amendments to inheritance tax (IHT) and capital gains tax, set to take effect in April 2027. These regulatory shifts, combined with market uncertainties, are driving a movement towards diversified European portfolios that rely less on U.S. and UK assets.

Portugal’s Investment Appeal

Portugal continues to attract investors, thanks to its favourable financial environment and investor-friendly regulations. The country’s Golden Visa programme, which offers residency in exchange for investment, has been a key driver of foreign interest. Under the Golden Visa residency by investment programme, investors who commit at least €500,000 to an alternative investment fund regulated by CMVM gain residency rights, with minimal stay requirements and the potential for EU citizenship after five years.

David Vacani, chairman at Beacon Global Wealth Management, observed:

“We have seen a significant flow of U.S. people in 2025 selling down their US stock holdings (reflected in stock market performance this year) and looking to expand and diversify into European stocks and European assets like property and alternative investments, such as the ones offered under the Golden Visa programme. We have seen this particularly in Portugal, but also in France, as well.

“And, it’s not just US citizens – the effect of the UK budget in October 2024 with onerous increases in CGT and Inheritance Tax, for example, have seen many wealthy UK tax residents looking to leave the UK and diversifying into Europe.”

Portugal as a Strategic Investment Location

Portugal’s investor-friendly policies extend beyond the Golden Visa programme. The newly introduced IFICI (NHR 2.0) tax regime offers 0% tax on non-Portugal-derived income, including capital gains and dividends. The country also does not impose inheritance or gift taxes, and its approach to digital assets such as cryptocurrencies remains accommodating.

Paul Sheedy, special advisor to the Portugal Future Fund, an alternative investment fund approved for Golden Visa in Portugal, said:

“We had already seen a huge uplift in investor interest from the U.S., but in the last few weeks since the tariffs and other narratives that were coming out of America, we have seen a wall of new investors wanting to take advantage of Portugal’s growing reputation as well as the chance to secure a Golden Visa and European citizenship after five years and a dual passport.”

A Changing International Investment Landscape

As the U.S. grapples with economic uncertainty, European markets, particularly Portugal, are emerging as stable investment destinations. Declining Eurozone interest rates and strong economic growth in countries like Portugal are attracting foreign capital.

With foreign investment in Portugal rising to €13.2 billion—a 19% increase from the previous year—the country is proving its ability to attract high-net-worth individuals and institutional investors alike.

While U.S. growth projections decline and European markets surge, smaller countries like Portugal’s economic resilience and welcoming approach to investment and relocation stand as a testament to strategic governance and investor confidence.

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About Portugal Pathways

Portugal Pathways has supported hundreds of Golden Visa residency-by-investment applications and provides expert guidance through its professional supply chain network on luxury property, wealth management, and tax optimisation, including post-NHR tax regime planning, as well as private healthcare, IFICI tax incentive applications, money transfers and bespoke relocation solutions to enhance life and investments in Portugal.

About Portugal Future Fund

The Portugal Future Fund strategically invests in key sectors, driving growth and innovation across Portugal. Approved for Portugal’s Golden Visa residency-by-investment, it offers a unique opportunity for impactful and rewarding participation.

About Portugal Investment Owners Club

The Portugal Investment Owners Club, or P Club for short, is a unique investor membership community designed for discerning individuals, families, and organisations committed to exploring and capitalising on life in Portugal and enjoying money-can't-buy experiences and exclusive events.

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Disclaimer: The information on the Portugal Pathways and Portugal Investment Owners Club (P Club for short) websites and in email communications is for general informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal, tax, or financial advice. You should consult and check with a qualified professional advisor before relying on any information provided on this website or in email communications. As it relates to investments in Golden Visas or other wealth management solutions offered by regulated and professional advisors, it is important to note that past performance is no guarantee of future returns. Private equities can be highly illiquid and come with risk and should always be under professional independent advice.

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