Diversifying wealth: Real estate as a hedge for London entrepreneurs

In 2025, London entrepreneurs face a perfect storm: UK inflation at 2.5% (ONS) erodes profits, sterling fluctuates, and global markets wobble. Relying solely on business revenue or local investments exposes wealth to risk. London’s high-net-worth individuals and startups need a resilient strategy to protect and grow capital amid uncertainty.

Real estate: A smart move

International real estate is a powerful hedge, offering inflation resistance, passive income, and currency advantages. Global properties yield 5-7% annually (CBRE, 2024), outpacing UK inflation. A reliable source of cash flow, rental income helps businesses stay afloat. The volatility of the British pound can be reduced by diversifying into stable currencies such as the euro or the UAE dirham. Entrepreneurs can protect their capital and take advantage of growth opportunities by investing in markets with a high yield.

Global case studies

Dubai stands out for its tax-free, high-yield market. Off-plan apartments in Dubai Marina, from £150,000, deliver 6-8% yields (Knight Frank, 2024). Demand will be driven by a 5.9% increase in GDP in 2025, thanks to the dirham’s USD peg and the UAE Federal Tax Authority’s 0% capital gains tax. Entrepreneurs can invest in off-plan properties in Dubai but must verify escrow compliance via RERA to secure investments.

New Zealand offers resilience in Auckland’s off-plan condos, starting at NZD 400,000 ($240,000) with 4-6% yields (Colliers, 2024). A 15% capital gains tax applies (IRD), but a 2.8% GDP projection (OECD, 2025) supports long-term gains. Foreigners face no restrictions on off-plan purchases, though titles must be checked via LINZ.

Portugal provides Eurozone stability, with Lisbon’s off-plan condos at €200,000 yielding 4-6% (JLL, 2024). A 28% capital gains tax is offset by deductions (Portuguese Tax Authority), and a 3.2% GDP forecast (ECB, 2025) fuels growth. Notary-verified titles ensure legal clarity for investors.

Morocco is a budget-friendly gem, with Marrakech apartments from $100,000 offering 5-7% yields (CBRE, 2024). A 20% capital gains tax kicks in after five years (Moroccan Tax Code), but a 4.0% GDP projection (World Bank, 2025) and tourism boom add value. Land Registry checks are essential.

Implementation blueprint

1. Assess Inflation Resistance: Prioritize markets where yields beat inflation—Dubai’s 6-8% and Morocco’s 5-7% outstrip the UK’s 2.5%, per 2024 Savills data.
2. Secure Passive Income: Target rental properties for cash flow. Portugal’s tourism rentals and New Zealand’s urban condos complement Dubai’s tax-free returns.
3. Leverage Currency Advantages: Diversify into stable currencies like Dubai’s dirham, Portugal’s euro, or Morocco’s dirham to hedge sterling, per 2025 IMF forecasts.
4. Conduct Due Diligence: Verify titles via Dubai’s RERA, New Zealand’s LINZ, Portugal’s notaries, or Morocco’s Land Registry. Engage local experts to navigate regulations.
5. Diversify Strategically: Spread investments across markets to balance risk, using platforms with vetted listings.
6. Analyze Data: Use CBRE or JLL reports to confirm yields and growth potential, ensuring informed decisions.

London entrepreneurs can transform economic challenges into opportunities. Gaining wealth in the ever-changing world of 2025 is made possible by the security, income, and growth offered by international real estate.