International companies remain optimistic about the European market, and Spain is among the destinations they are considering for future investment, according to the Deutsche Bank Global Sentiment Survey on Europe 2026.
The survey gathered responses from 1,200 senior executives and decision-makers in 13 non-European markets. Their companies already operate in Europe or are considering entering the market.
Europe remains the leading region for investment
More than a third of respondents, or 35%, named Europe as the world’s most attractive region for business. It ranked ahead of Asia-Pacific excluding China (24%), North America (19%), the Middle East (10%), China (6%) and Latin America (5%).
Spain was among the five most frequently considered European destinations for future investment. It was named by 20% of respondents, the same share as Italy. The Netherlands scored 22%. Germany (56%), the United Kingdom (47%) and France (35%) ranked ahead.
The report notes that multinational companies already have a presence in Spain or are considering increasing their investment there. Read more about the regional distribution of foreign direct investment in Spain in our article on investment in Madrid.
Companies see growth and innovation potential
Respondents linked Europe’s appeal to more than its legal and institutional stability. Growth opportunities in the European market were cited by 74% of those surveyed, while 71% highlighted its innovation potential, particularly in adopting artificial intelligence. Another 71% viewed Europe as an economically resilient region capable of withstanding global geopolitical challenges.
The survey also points to plans for further expansion. Some 61% of respondents already invest in Europe and intend to expand their operations there over the next five years. A further 33% do not yet operate in Europe but are planning or considering entering the market during that period. Only 6% of companies already present in Europe have no plans to expand.
Challenges facing the European market
Despite the positive outlook, cross-border barriers continue to weigh on Europe’s appeal. Some 43% of respondents said these barriers reduce the region’s attractiveness significantly or very significantly, while 42% described the impact as moderate. The remaining 15% considered it limited or nonexistent.
Executives also identified areas where Europe has yet to gain a clear advantage over other regions: labour cost competitiveness (42%), the tax environment (44%), and energy costs and the speed of approval and permitting procedures (47% each).
Read more about the Deutsche Bank Global Sentiment Survey on Europe 2026.
