The National Bank of Denmark published 2025 direct investment statistics showing that Danish direct investment abroad reached a record DKK 1,959 billion at year-end, supported by major foreign acquisitions. Foreign direct investment in Denmark stood at DKK 1,179 billion. Outward direct equity investment totaled DKK 2,014 billion and was highly concentrated. The 10 largest Danish groups held DKK 925 billion, or 46% of the total, and accounted for almost three-quarters of Danish investment in the United States. Outward investment was reduced by financing flows from foreign subsidiaries to Danish parent companies, including net lending of DKK 180 billion from subsidiaries in the Netherlands. The United States was also the largest ultimate source of foreign investment in Denmark, at DKK 190 billion. By immediate investor country, the United Kingdom ranked first at DKK 151 billion, reflecting the use of transit countries and intermediate holding companies.
National Bank of Denmark reports record DKK 1,959 billion in Danish direct investment abroad
Danish direct investment abroad reached a record DKK 1,959 billion at the end of 2025, driven partly by major foreign acquisitions. The 10 largest Danish groups held 46% of outward equity investment, while financing from Dutch subsidiaries reduced the overall outward position. Foreign direct investment in Denmark totaled DKK 1,179 billion, with the United States the largest ultimate investor.