CEO Insight is proud to present the Cook Islands Special Report, an in-depth look at one of the world’s most trusted and forward-thinking international financial centres. This new edition features exclusive insights from Cook Islands Finance CEO Tony Fe’ao and Legal & Technical Advisor Alan Taylor on regulatory strength, global market shifts, and the evolving priorities of wealth planners in an age of uncertainty. With expert analysis on trust law, compliance, asset protection and the jurisdiction’s modernisation agenda, the report highlights why the Cook Islands continues to set the global standard for resilience, transparency, and long-term wealth security.
Explore thefull reportand discover why investors, advisers and family offices are increasingly turning to the Cook Islands as a stable, credible and future-ready financial partner.
Countries around the world are adjusting their policies to attract skilled professionals, entrepreneurs and innovators. There is a growing recognition that human capital drives sustainable economic growth, innovation and long-term competitiveness.
Corporate mobility is undergoing a clear transformation. The traditional model of a single headquarters has been replaced by distributed teams, cross-border operations and structures built around regulatory efficiency rather than geography. This shift is driven by technology, global competition and the need for organisations to operate with greater flexibility.
Companies now evaluate jurisdictions based on digital infrastructure, regulatory transparency, access to talent and the ease of establishing operations. This increases the appeal of international financial centres and specialised zones that offer streamlined procedures and modern digital services.
“Borderless companies are prioritising flexibility, digital access and regulatory clarity.”
In recent years, the global investment landscape has become more decentralised, with mid-sized and smaller jurisdictions gaining visibility among international investors. This shift is driven by a combination of regulatory agility, strategic economic positioning and the ability to create targeted policy frameworks faster than larger economies.
Countries such as Malta, Mauritius, the Isle of Man and several Caribbean jurisdictions have increasingly positioned themselves as focused, innovation-friendly destinations. Investors often find transparent regulation, specialised support agencies and streamlined procedures that make cross-border activity more efficient.
“Agile economies are leveraging speed, stability and strategic focus to compete globally.”
A major advantage for these economies is adaptability. Smaller states can adjust incentives, update frameworks and introduce new digital processes quickly. This responsiveness appeals to investors seeking predictability and speed, particularly in sectors such as financial services, technology and fund administration.
Another factor is sector specialisation. Many mid-sized economies choose specific areas to lead in rather than attempting broad coverage. This includes digital residency programmes, fintech licensing tracks, aviation registries and investment migration frameworks. By focusing on niches that attract high-value cross-border business, these jurisdictions continue to expand sustainably.
The trend is likely to continue into 2026 as organisations diversify geographically to reduce exposure to political or regulatory uncertainty. Choosing a responsive and stable smaller jurisdiction is increasingly becoming a strategic decision rather than an alternative option.
