In recent years Italy has launched a new season of important structural reforms involving economic, financial and administrative initiatives in order to deeply renew the country. In this context, the ambitious new “industrial plan 4.0” 2017 deserves to be mentioned, as a new “tool” aimed to support and attract both foreign and domestic investment.
Alongside these institutional instruments we are witness to the spontaneous, increasing and overwhelming growth of a new private-investment-age, in which a main role is played by, among others, APAC-region companies.
Both venture capital and corporate consolidations are utilized to facilitate foreign investment
In particular, investors from the East seem to move in two directions: on the one hand allocating resources to the “new economy” businesses by means of venture capital, on the other hand still using the classic and chartered path of corporate consolidation.
The first way runs through accelerators, incubators, technology parks and advanced legal solutions in support of the new initiatives including venture equity investment, crowdfunding and work for equity.
The second way is strongly related to mergers and acquisitions. Never before have Italian companies – rich in technology and renowned for the quality of their products – so often used strategic links with Asian Pacific partners to increase the value of their assets. What is increasingly happening now instead: Efficient resource rationalization powered by equity operations.
The symbol of Italy’s economic Renaissance is the city of Milan
Milan represents an Italy that is projecting itself into the third millennium conscious of its long tradition and excellence in the productive and technological sectors, not forgetting its ancient global vocation.
Notably, Turin, Rome, Florence, Naples and Genova, to name a few, are also taking up the challenge to contest the primacy of Milan.
The important role being played by massive investment from APAC
Chinese investment in Italy has risen from 5.5 bln USD in 2010 to 18 bln USD in 2015, but outstanding deals also come from Japan, Indonesia, Australia and India.
Interestingly enough, Italy represents the second European country target for Chinese investments in 2015: from energy to banking, food and beverage to automotive and sports, the areas covered by this new “gold investment age” are very different.
Italy’s solid legal system is helping to attract foreign investment
A solid Italian legal system is proving to be a crucial actor in helping investors avoid significant risks to their businesses. In particular, the rule of law and the freedom of contract provide respectively significant and adaptable tools for investors to operate optimally and profitably. To complete the picture, it is worth mentioning the great expertise of the Specialized Corporate Courts which proactively apply the principles of economic freedom and competition in compliance with EU and international treaty rules.
Overall — something very good is happening in Italy’s economy — and APAC is confirming itself a key player.
