^{Photo: The Guardian}

London Rebrands as a Global Business Magnet

In a bold statement to international investors and entrepreneurs, London Mayor Sadiq Khan declared, “London is back,” reinforcing the city’s position as a global financial and innovation hub. Speaking to CNBC on Wednesday, Khan emphasized that the British capital is an attractive alternative for businesses and individuals facing increasing uncertainty in the United States.

“In an era of geopolitical instability and political volatility — particularly across the Atlantic — London stands out as a rare constant: stable, open, and forward-thinking,” Khan said.

The comments come amid growing concerns from international businesses and professionals about a potential second term for U.S. President Donald Trump, often referred to as the "Trump 2.0 era." Khan’s pitch is clear: for those seeking a dependable, inclusive, and business-friendly environment, London offers a compelling alternative.

U.S. Policy Concerns Drive Interest in London

According to recent reports from Tech Nation UK and London & Partners, foreign investment into London tech firms surged by 28% in the first half of 2025, with over $6.1 billion USD funneled into the sector — a significant portion of it from U.S. investors.

This trend, Khan notes, reflects increasing discomfort among U.S.-based firms with shifting policies around immigration, trade, and education.

“We’re seeing rising interest from American companies — from fintech to health tech, and from creative industries to academia. Many are evaluating London not just as an option, but as a strategic base to weather political uncertainty at home,” Khan added.

He also cited the 36% increase in U.S. student inquiries to British universities post-2024, according to UCAS (Universities and Colleges Admissions Service), attributing the trend to London’s welcoming academic environment and streamlined visa policies.

Navigating a Trump-Influenced Global Economy

Khan's remarks highlight the ongoing political tension between himself and Donald Trump. The two have publicly clashed in the past, with Trump calling Khan a “stone cold loser” in 2019, and Khan referring to Trump as a “poster boy for the far right.” Despite their history, the Labour mayor now takes a more measured tone, acknowledging the need for diplomatic relations.

“When it comes to national interest, personal politics must take a back seat,” said Khan. “We’ll continue to speak up when needed — whether in agreement or dissent — but engagement is crucial.”

While Trump’s policies on immigration, student visas, and tech sector regulation continue to cause unease in Silicon Valley and Wall Street alike, London is stepping in with the kind of long-term assurances international stakeholders are craving.

Labour Government Builds U.S. Trade Bridges

Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s Labour government, despite its ideological differences with Trump, has made significant strides in U.K.-U.S. relations. A recent bilateral trade deal, finalized last month, preserved favorable conditions for British exports and avoided harsh tariffs that hit other U.S. allies.

Sources from the Department for Business and Trade report the deal could boost U.K. exports by up to £3.2 billion over five years, offering fresh incentives for American companies to use London as a springboard into European and global markets.

Why London Now?

According to Khan, what makes London uniquely positioned right now is a combination of:

• Political stability under the Labour government
• A highly educated, multilingual workforce
• Global financial infrastructure with access to both U.S. and EU markets
• Time zone advantages for transatlantic operations
• An ecosystem of over 40 accelerators and incubators in central London alone

“Whether you're a Fortune 500 company or a rising tech startup, London has the talent, infrastructure, and values you’re looking for,” Khan told CNBC.

Final Word

As the 2025 U.S. presidential landscape continues to shift and uncertainty grows around Trump’s policy direction, Sadiq Khan is seizing the moment. With an open-door message to American investors, professionals, and students, London is aiming to not just bounce back — but to lead forward.

“We’re not just open for business. We’re open for the future.”