Austria's super rich rely on sustainability: a new era of investing!

Austria's super rich rely on sustainability: a new era of investing!

Österreich - The investment strategies of wealthy families in Austria are subject to profound change. A current Analysis of PwC shows that the number of millionaires in the country last year has dropped by around 8,000, while the super-rich had an increase. This development is part of a global trend that makes it clear that Family Offices, the administrative units for wealthy families, are increasingly focusing on their investment strategies.

As part of the analysis based on data from over 11,000 family offices worldwide, it becomes clear that capital flows more into selected large investments with social or ecological claim. The total value of the investments in Austria rose impressively from $ 3.5 billion in 2023 to $ 5.3 billion in 2024.

changes in asset allocation

Family Offices in Austria are increasingly showing long -term perspectives and acting increasingly after a clear attitude. Over half of the funds invested, specifically 59%, still flow into real estate, although the proportion of investments in start-ups has been almost doubled to 36% since 2015. This reflects the global trend, in which 54% of global investments go into start-ups, while 30% are invested in real estate.

A remarkable increase was also noticed by the Impact Investments: In 2024, they achieved a record 58% in Austria. Family offices are particularly involved in healthcare, followed by educational and energy projects. The focus on impact investing is part of a broader movement that tries to combine capital with positive social and ecological effects.

optimism despite challenges

Despite global uncertainties, family offices show an optimistic attitude. According to a current Study by Roland Berger , who asked about 100 family officers and employees, the sector remains optimistic. 78% of Family Offices see the greatest risk in the increased interest rates, followed by geopolitical faults, which are concerned about 65% of those surveyed.

The change in asset allocations is also important. Real estate remain important for 92% of family offices, but only 44% are planning to increase their allocation. Private equity in particular is becoming more important; 87% of Family Offices consider it important, and 57% plan to increase the allocation.

sustainability in focus

A central aspect of current investment strategies is the topic of sustainability. According to All about Family Offices , the focus is on a long-term environmental and social impact. Family offices are increasingly willing to invest in green technologies and sustainable projects in order to actively address social and ecological challenges.

Examples are investments in renewable energies and initiatives to reduce plastic waste in oceans. The support of Impact funds shows that Family Offices are willing to assume social responsibility and at the same time to secure their portfolio against emerging risks. Strategies such as the attitude of experts in sustainability are increasingly being implemented to ensure that their investments are not only financially but also ecologically sensible.

Developments in Austria reflect the global trends of the family offices that are actively working on the formation of a sustainable future. Through targeted investments in relevant sectors, they not only contribute to their own prosperity, but also to improve society as a whole.