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Global investment in water set to surge as sector enters new era of growth

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96% of senior leaders plan to maintain or increase water investment in 2025

Chicago, May 13, 2025

A new study from Roland Berger, in partnership with global law firm White & Case LLP, reveals global investment in water is on the rise, marking a pivotal moment for the sector. The 2025 Currents of Capital Report finds that 96% of senior decision-makers across the water value chain expect to maintain or increase investment in the water sector this year, with nearly 40% identifying investment opportunities as their top priority.

Despite being among the most developed markets, North America and Western Europe are seen as the primary growth regions, signaling that foundational infrastructure modernization, climate resilience, and new technologies are driving continued momentum.

“The water sector faces unprecedented challenges: escalating water scarcity, deteriorating infrastructure and increasing demand,” said Bill Malarkey , Partner at Roland Berger and a leader in the firm’s Global Water Team. “These pressures have elevated water from a niche concern to a strategic priority for governments, corporations, and institutional investors.”

The report, which surveyed over 300 senior leaders from infrastructure, utilities, investment, and public sectors, highlights both optimism and complexity. While climate risk, aging systems, and population growth are driving capital inflows, regulatory and geopolitical uncertainty were cited as key barriers by one-third of respondents. Water scarcity, in particular, was noted as a significant concern for almost 90% of participants.

“Water is becoming a defining infrastructure asset class for the future,” said Joanne Emerson Taqi, Water Industry Lead at White & Case. “This report shows that capital is mobilizing fast, but smart structuring, technology adoption, and policy alignment will be critical for long-term success.”

The study also points to technological innovation as a transformative force:

92% of respondents cited advancements like smart water management and desalination as significant opportunities
Specifically, more than 60% highlighted AI’s transformative potential for the sector

The Currents of Capital report offers in-depth insights into investment strategies, regional dynamics, and funding preferences that are shaping the global water economy, guiding investors, operators, and policymakers through a sector in transformation.

Download the full study here .