Cross-Border Investment Clients Doubled Since 2023
Retail investors across the EU and EEA are increasingly using cross-border services to manage their portfolios.
Updated on Oct. 14, 2026 in Investing
Live Poll
Do you trust financial firms based outside your country to manage your retail investments?
In 2025, investment firms served 15.5 million retail clients through cross-border services across the European Union and European Economic Area. This figure represents a significant expansion in the reach of international investment firms, with the client total nearly doubling since 2023.
Why it matters
The growth in cross-border activity suggests that retail investors are increasingly seeking diverse investment options beyond their national borders. This shift reflects a broader integration of financial services that allows households to access products from firms based in jurisdictions like Cyprus, Luxembourg, and Germany.
Regulatory data shows 15.5 million retail clients were served via cross-border services in 2025, a 47% increase over 2024 figures. While the number of firms providing these services rose only 2% to 379, consumer complaints fell by 0.2% compared to the prior year.
The details
Investment firms have leveraged regulatory frameworks across 30 EU and EEA jurisdictions to offer services beyond their home base. By operating cross-border, firms in hubs like Cyprus or Luxembourg can reach retail households in major markets like France, Italy, and Spain. This access model allows households to tap into international expertise and specialized investment products that may not be offered by local retail banks.
Timeline
2023 served as the baseline year for total retail clients.
2024 provided the comparative benchmark for yearly growth.
2025 marked the period of tracked cross-border activity.
2027 is the scheduled year for the next data collection.
Money Landscape
This growth follows the framework established by the EU Markets in Financial Instruments Directive, which enables firms to passport services across member states. The expansion marks a shift toward a more unified European investment market for household retail participants.
Retail investors can now access a wider array of international investment providers, which may offer more competitive fees or specialized financial products. Before choosing a cross-border firm, discuss the potential tax and regulatory implications with a qualified tax professional.
The takeaway
The rise in cross-border retail investing signals that European households are increasingly comfortable looking beyond their home markets for financial services. Consider tracking your investment firm's home jurisdiction to understand the regulatory environment governing your account.
What happens next
The next comprehensive data collection on cross-border investment activity is scheduled for 2027.
Further reading
Learn more about managing your portfolio by visiting our Investing section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by TokenPost.
Live Poll
Do you trust financial firms based outside your country to manage your retail investments?
