The recent Gibraltar Day in London was a key event for Gibraltar’s business community. It highlighted the enduring and growing ties between Gibraltar and the UK. Hosted by Gibraltar Finance, the three-day event allowed Gibraltar to position itself as a leading jurisdiction for financial services, insurance, and emerging digital sectors.

Addressing the Financial Services Lunch during the event, Nigel Feetham, Gibraltar’s Minister for Financial Services and Gaming, spoke passionately about the strength of Gibraltar’s relationship with the UK. He emphasised that this relationship is not only historical but remains pivotal in a post-Brexit world, where Gibraltar is the only jurisdiction with continued access to the UK financial services market. "It is through all your collective efforts," Feetham stated, "that Gibraltar’s share of the UK Motor Insurance market now stands at over 35%, and our share of the UK Online Gaming Industry remains at over 50% and still growing."

Key Takeaways from Gibraltar Day

One of the most significant aspects of Minister Feetham’s address was the confidence and transparency Gibraltar offers to businesses, as a well-regulated jurisdiction prioritising good governance and the rule of law. With access to the UK market post-Brexit, Gibraltar stands out as an attractive choice for companies in banking, insurance, FinTech, and the rapidly expanding blockchain sector.

Feetham also announced new legislation that will modernise Gibraltar’s regulatory framework in line with the UK’s evolving policies. This includes a new Gambling Bill, a Financial Services Bill, and the introduction of Unexplained Wealth Orders, all designed to ensure Gibraltar remains aligned with the highest international standards.

For international businesses, these reforms enhance Gibraltar's appeal as a jurisdiction that fosters innovation while maintaining a robust legal structure. Minister Feetham stressed that Gibraltar’s business environment is designed to support entrepreneurial firms, making it an ideal base for companies seeking access to both the UK and global markets.

A Place for Innovation and Growth

As Minister Feetham pointed out, Gibraltar’s success is built on its regulatory environment and people. The government remains committed to investing in education and training to ensure the workforce is equipped to handle the demands of a global business environment. With a 15% corporate tax rate that meets international standards, Gibraltar offers businesses a resilient framework in the face of evolving global tax policies.

Gibraltar is an outstanding choice for business leaders seeking a reliable, well-regulated jurisdiction with direct access to the UK market. As Feetham concluded, "For any business leader in the UK seeking a jurisdiction to partner with, Gibraltar should be a first choice."

The success of Gibraltar Day reinforces Gibraltar’s standing as a top destination for businesses across sectors, from traditional financial services to cutting-edge technologies like blockchain. With its strong ties to the UK and ongoing commitment to regulatory excellence, Gibraltar continues to be a hub for innovation, opportunity, and growth.

A Partner of Choice

Interest in Gibraltar was not exclusive to UK businesses. Vikram Doraiswami, India's High Commissioner to the UK, highlighted Gibraltar’s unique advantages as a jurisdiction for international business during an event hosted by the Indian High Commission. He recognised Gibraltar’s financial services sector as a potential hub for managing financial flows to and from the vast Indian diaspora. This aligns with Gibraltar's regulatory environment, ensuring that financial transfers are efficient and transparent.

Mr Doraiswami also emphasised Gibraltar’s tech sector as a partner of choice for Indian companies, particularly in supporting financial and gaming businesses. He expressed interest in collaborating in the maritime sector, noting that Gibraltar’s expertise in this field could complement India’s investments in modernising its ports.

Ashesh Jani, CEO of Ribbon, a Gibraltar-based multi-currency platform, said he hoped to establish a Gibraltar-India Business Council to help bridge the gap between the two countries. Speaking to GBC News, he said Gibraltar presented “a huge opportunity for Indian firms with global aspirations to come to Gibraltar to access capital and the UK market.”

Vikram Doraiswami, praised Gibraltar’s regulatory environment and financial expertise, positioning it as a strong hub for managing financial flows for Indian communities worldwide. He noted that Gibraltar’s role in fintech, gaming, and maritime services offers unique opportunities for Indian businesses seeking to expand globally. Mr Doraiswami also highlighted Gibraltar's strategic location and regulatory strengths, suggesting it could serve as a key gateway for Indian companies to access both UK and European markets, making it a valuable jurisdiction for future business collaborations.