Quantum Focus shows that technology, talent and tolerance are the key to success in Europe's top 15 metropolises

"Human capital is the key to the success of companies, cities and regions in our modern knowledge society. The list of the most successful cities in the global competition for capital and expertise includes European metropolises with targeted future strategies that create incentives for companies and employees in the knowledge economy," says Dr André Scharmanski, Head of Quantum Research. But what exactly is on the future agenda of these cities and regions and what role does the property industry play in this?

Success factor: Technology

Innovative technologies have always been crucial for regional growth in a knowledge-based world. The introduction of AI and other automated technologies will continue to create new opportunities for economic development in the future. Metropolises that promote the establishment of companies and employees in the high-tech sector as well as the promotion of research and development activities will benefit most from this. The top European cities in this area include London, Munich, Berlin, Stockholm and Amsterdam. The rapidly expanding AI ecosystem in tech locations and its supporting infrastructure will drive demand for suitable property. This primarily includes inner-city, integrated office space designed for new work and ESG compliance, and data centres as the backbone of the digital infrastructure.

Success factor: Talents

Highly qualified employees are the basis for innovation and competitiveness. Companies and business locations can only grow where they can be found in large numbers. The age structure of cities provides an indication of their talent pool. Attractive European metropolises are on average significantly younger than rural regions or less attractive cities. This is also shown by the migration patterns of students and graduates, which contribute to high levels of education in cities such as Copenhagen, Munich, Berlin, Zurich and Stockholm. In order to attract and retain talent, cities need adequate housing options. Above all, there is a need for small, high-quality flats and flexible, temporary and affordable forms of housing.

Success factor: Tolerance

Creative work flourishes in particular where openness to new ideas and influences and a productive approach to different perspectives and skills can be found. European metropolises with a strong welcoming culture and tolerance towards people of different origins, sexual orientation and different lifestyles or ways of working are successful. Cities such as London, Amsterdam, Madrid and Berlin are home to a wide variety of nationalities and are considered to be particularly LGBTQ-friendly. An attractive nightlife is also a location factor that should not be ignored and plays an important role in metropolises with a future agenda. These have vibrant, contrasting and hip urban landscapes that offer space for creative working and living despite tight property markets.

Quantum Focus in a new format

The entire publication with further details, background information, graphics and statistics can be found in a completely new format at the following link:

The Quantum Research team will be glad to answer any questions and give presentations.