The real estate sector took a pounding in 2013, with record lows forecast for foreign investment on a global scale. But on a regional level, the Asia-Pacific is seeing increased investment in the sector in what is thought to be an emerging trend.  

Tourism is one of the largest industries in the world, attracting high levels of investment and creating millions of jobs. But what does it take to become a tourist hub, and is big investment alone enough to attract a mass influx of visitors?

There is nothing like the buzz of a major sporting event to spark the feel-good factor in a host location. But is it possible to capitalise on this positive mood and turn it into something more sustainable that can encourage inward investment?

The Russian city of Volgograd has traditionally shied away from promoting itself as an investment hotspot, despite boasting a large, educated workforce and being abundant in natural resources. However, this state of inertia is about to change.

Why are profit margins among unlisted Chinese and Russian firms so low, particularly when compared with those of fellow BRIC economies India and Brazil? A study from the Institute for Emerging Market Studies highlights the perils of moving from a communist to a market economy.