Author: Dominic Volek, CA(SA), FIMC, Group Head of Private Clients at Henley & Partners and a member of the Executive Committee.
The need for alternative residence and additional citizenships is at unprecedented levels as another tumultuous year draws to a close — with increased tensions in Europe and the Middle East and a bumper election year in many of the world’s largest economies. By the end of the third quarter of 2024, Henley & Partners had already received as many inquiries as in the entire preceding year, reflecting how wealthy individuals are re-evaluating their circumstances and using investment migration programs to better manage their risk.
Interest from American investors surged by 40% from the first to third quarter of 2024 compared to the same period in 2023, and by almost 400% during the week of the US elections and the announcement of the results. Enquiries from the UK spiked by an impressive 60% in the first three quarters of 2024 compared to 2023, while Canada and Australia also saw notable increases, up 26% and 24%, respectively. Americans currently top the list of applicants for investment migration programs at Henley & Partners, followed by investors from Türkiye and the Philippines. These statistics underscore a significant shift, as affluent families increasingly look to diversify their residence and citizenship portfolios, managing risk and securing their well-being amid global pressures.
| Event Title: | 18th Global Citizenship Conference |
| Dates: | 27–29 November 2024 |
| Venue: | Capella Singapore, Sentosa Island, Singapore |
| Bookings: | Booking Information |
This high demand for investment migration solutions aligns with the latest Gallup global migration data, which indicates that people’s desire to leave their home country is at an all-time high. Against this backdrop, the 18th Global Citizenship Conference, hosted by Henley & Partners, will take place from 27–29 November 2024 at Singapore’s prestigious Capella Resort on Sentosa Island. The event will bring together the world’s foremost minds in investment migration, wealth planning, and policy to explore the fast-evolving landscape of global citizenship and wealth migration as more affluent individuals seek stability, security, and flexibility through new residence and citizenship options.
Key insights on wealth and geopolitical shifts
A central theme of the conference is the need for a ‘smart citizenship’ approach in response to changing global dynamics. In the opening keynote, veteran investor Jim Rogers will analyse global economic trends and the shifts in financial and political power that impact wealth planning, providing insights into preparing for economic fluctuations and adopting flexible citizenship strategies.
In a panel discussion moderated by Henley & Partners CEO Dr. Juerg Steffen, Rogers will join the Hon. Mohamed Nasheed, Secretary-General of the Climate Vulnerable Forum, and Prof. Kishore Mahbubani, former President of the UN Security Council, to discuss how cities and countries are developing programs that offer stability amid political and environmental challenges. This session will prompt attendees to view citizenship as more than a legal affiliation — it is a forward-looking strategy for safeguarding personal and family well-being.
Emerging Global Cities and the Network State
This year’s conference will explore thought provoking concepts in global mobility, such as the rise of ‘Free Global Cities’ and the ‘Network State’. Tech entrepreneur Balaji Srinivasan will examine the concept of virtual cities and digital identity, with insights from Henley & Partners Chairman Dr. Christian H. Kaelin and Dr. Titus Gebel, CEO of Tipolis. Attendees will gain perspectives on how these emerging models could transform global mobility and wealth management as citizenship and residence programs adapt to a digital future.
Navigating climate finance for island states
One of the conference’s key sessions will be Henley & Partners Chief Economist Jean Paul Fabri’s presentation on navigating climate finance for Small Island Developing States following a government address about the newly launched Nauru Economic and Climate Resilience Citizenship Program. This groundbreaking initiative is the world’s first citizenship program designed to address climate change, reflecting a new model for integrating economic development and climate solutions. This innovative approach represents an emerging trend, where countries are using citizenship to attract investment and fund climate resilience efforts.
Addressing visa inequities and mobility barriers
While affluent individuals gain access to new citizenship options, obstacles remain for many others. In a timely session led by Prof. Mehari Taddele Maru of the European University Institute, he will examine biases in visa policies and their impact on global movement, highlighting how citizenship programs can serve as tools to bypass restrictive policies and expand mobility.
Recognising a responsible global citizen
On the evening of 28 November, the 2024 Global Citizen Award Gala Dinner will honour an individual dedicated to making an impact on a pressing global issue. Held in partnership with the Andan Foundation, a Swiss non-profit humanitarian organisation, the award celebrates responsible citizenship and the potential for wealth and mobility to create positive societal change.
Singapore: A hub for forward-thinking conversations
Hosting the Global Citizenship Conference in Singapore reflects the city-state’s unique position as a global hub for wealth, innovation, and cultural diversity. Known for its stability and world-class infrastructure, Singapore is an ideal setting for discussions on the future of citizenship and investment migration. The Lion City’s strong foundations and business-friendly policies exemplify the essence of global citizenship, making it an inspiring backdrop for exploring the future of global mobility and migration.
A pivotal moment for wealthy families
As investment migration takes centre stage, this year’s Global Citizenship Conference offers a timely forum for affluent individuals looking to protect their assets and enhance their mobility options. For advisors, policymakers, and wealth managers, the conference promises a rare opportunity to stay informed on strategies that are increasingly viewed as essential for preserving wealth and family security. The event will provide attendees with insights into leveraging citizenship as a flexible tool for global resilience, offering fresh perspectives on what it means to be a global citizen today.
Henley & Partners welcomes registration for this inspiring event, where a distinguished lineup of speakers and thought leaders will shape the conversation on global citizenship as a strategic asset for the future.
Biography
Dominic Volek, CA(SA), FIMC
Group Head of Private Clients, Henley & Partners
Dominic Volek is a global leader in residence and citizenship planning, serving as the Group Head of Private Clients at Henley & Partners and a member of the Executive Committee. Originally from South Africa, Dominic now splits his time between Henley & Partners’ offices across the Americas, Asia-Pacific, and Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. With a deep understanding of the needs of ultra-high-net-worth individuals, he advises clients on securing mobility, security, privacy, tax efficiency, estate planning, and lifestyle enhancements through strategic global investments.
Dominic is not only a private client specialist but also a trusted adviser to governments around the world. As part of Henley & Partners’ Government Advisory practice, he provides strategic counsel on the design, implementation, and promotion of investment migration programmes that attract top-tier investors.
A certified Chartered Accountant (CA(SA)) with a Bachelor of Commerce in Accounting with Honours and a Bachelor of Arts in Corporate Communication, Dominic is also a Fellow of the Investment Migration Council. Before joining Henley & Partners, he enjoyed a successful career with one of the big four accounting and advisory firms, working in senior management roles across Singapore, South Africa, and the USA.
Dominic is a highly sought-after speaker and thought leader in the field of global mobility. He regularly shares his insights on residence and citizenship planning and is frequently featured in top-tier media outlets such as the BBC, CNN, the Financial Times, Quartz, and Bloomberg. His expertise and leadership make him a key figure in helping clients and governments navigate the complex landscape of global citizenship and investment migration.
