Global investors say there has never been a more opportune time to invest in Australia: Citi A50 Australian Economic Forum

1 July, 2024: Global investors who collectively manage over AU $27 trillion in assets under management have travelled to Sydney to hear the Australian Treasurer and other senior government ministers, the RBA Deputy Governor, regulators and Australian CEOs showcase key investment opportunities in Australia.

Hosted on Friday by Citi in collaboration with the Australian Government, the 2024 Citi A50 Australian Economic Forum welcomed almost 100 senior participants.

Attendees included representatives from some of the world’s largest fund managers from the US, Canada, Europe, Japan, Malaysia and Singapore and top domestic investors including the largest superannuation funds and asset managers.

Panels chaired by ministers, and including CEOs of Australian companies, discussed investment opportunities in the following key sectors: energy transition and climate change, housing, manufacturing and technology, and critical minerals.

The forum also delivered an update on the regulatory state of play from the Chairs of the ACCC, ASIC, APRA and FIRB.

“Global investors want transparency and certainty on the investment environment in Australia. This includes clarity on regulation and policy stability,” said Citi Australia CEO Mark Woodruff.

“Investors are also calling for proactive government and regulatory engagement to help mitigate challenges around regulatory settings, skills shortages, greenfield expansion and geopolitical risk,” Mark continued.

“At the A50 forum, government addressed these concerns directly. It was clear across all discussions that given the right framework and government support there is significant appetite for long term investment in Australia.

“Australian business leaders need to ensure we highlight the tremendous opportunity for long term growth in Australia, in an outright and relative sense,” Mr Woodruff added.

The forum featured keynote addresses from Australian Treasurer, The Hon Dr Jim Chalmers MP on why Australia is a compelling and essential investment destination, particularly in an uncertain and unstable world, and recently appointed Deputy Governor of the Reserve Bank of Australia Andrew Hauser.

Other government representatives contributing to the event included Minister for Climate Change and Energy the Hon Chris Bowen MP, Minister for Industry and Science the Hon Ed Husic MP, Minister for International Development and The Pacific The Hon Pat Conroy MP, Chair of the House Economics Committee Dr Daniel Mulino MP and Assistant Minister for Regional Development Anthony Chisolm.

Also in attendance was Australia's Consul-General in New York, Heather Ridout AO. Commenting on the forum Ms Ridout said, “Australia stands out as an investment destination, with a robust economy, strong governance structures and a highly skilled workforce that can serve as a fantastic gateway to Asia.

“By directly connecting investors with government, and facilitating frank conversations, the A50 forum is helping to catalyse investment opportunities in Australia.”