Institute of Sovereign Wealth
Data Hub

Geographic Distribution

How $11.4 trillion in sovereign capital is distributed across regions, and the geopolitical implications of that concentration.

The Dominance of MENA and Asia

The vast majority of sovereign wealth is generated by two distinct economic engines: the hydrocarbon exports of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and the persistent trade surpluses of East Asia (principally China and Singapore).

North America and Europe (excluding Norway) are notable laggards in sovereign wealth accumulation, primarily because they operate deficit-driven fiscal policies and rely on private capital markets or public pension systems (which are distinct from SWFs) for long-term investment.

AUM by Region (2024 Estimates)
Region Total AUM ($B) % of Global Key Funds
Middle East (MENA) 4,550 39.9% ADIA, PIF, KIA
Asia 4,200 36.8% CIC, GIC, Temasek
Europe 1,900 16.6% NBIM
Americas 450 3.9% Alaska Perm.
Rest of World 300 2.8% Nigeria, Libya