Essential Insights
- Jamaica must turn economic stability into stronger productivity, business growth and job creation.
- Available investment capital must support viable projects that deliver long-term economic growth.
- Geopolitical tensions and changing trade relationships increasingly influence investment decisions.
- Effective policy implementation helps Jamaica attract investment and unlock economic opportunities.
- Export competitiveness is essential for Jamaica to strengthen industries and achieve sustainable growth.
- Investor education helps Jamaicans navigate global uncertainty and make informed financial decisions.
Investing in Jamaica: Sterling Investor Briefing 2026 Calls for Economic Growth Beyond Stability
Kingston, Jamaica: Economic stability has laid an important foundation for Jamaica’s future, but stronger productivity, business development and sustainable growth are needed to translate that progress into meaningful opportunities for Jamaicans.
This was a central message at Sterling Asset Management’s Investor Briefing 2026, held on 29 September 2026 at the Jamaica Pegasus Hotel in Kingston.
Under the theme “Small States. Big Shifts. How the Caribbean Can Respond to the New Global Geopolitics,” the event brought together more than 100 investors, economists and financial experts to examine the global factors affecting investment, Jamaica’s economic outlook and the changing landscape for investing in Jamaica.
The discussion formed part of Sterling Asset Management’s 25th anniversary celebrations, highlighting the importance of informed investment decisions during periods of global economic uncertainty.
What Is the Sterling Investor Briefing?
The Sterling Investor Briefing is an annual forum that brings together leading financial experts, economists and investors to explore economic trends, global market developments and investment opportunities.
Through expert discussions and practical insights, the event helps Jamaican investors navigate uncertainty and make more informed financial decisions.
As one of Sterling’s flagship investor education initiatives, the briefing reinforces the company’s commitment to global investing, economic analysis and wealth management. It also provides an opportunity for investors to understand how international developments may influence their portfolios and Jamaica’s financial future.
Why Economic Investment Must Move Beyond Stability in Jamaica
A key discussion at the briefing centred on the distinction between achieving macroeconomic stability and generating meaningful economic growth.
Karisa Maia Ribeiro, Chief Operating Officer, IDB Jamaica and the Caribbean, acknowledged Jamaica’s progress in reducing public debt and strengthening international investor confidence.
She highlighted Jamaica’s US$1 billion sovereign bond issued in September 2026 as an example of the country’s standing in international financial markets.
However, she cautioned that economic stability alone does not automatically translate into stronger productivity, expanding businesses or new employment opportunities.
“Macroeconomic stability is a necessary condition for growth, but not a sufficient one.” –Karisa Maia Ribeiro, Chief Operating Officer, IDB Jamaica
For Jamaica, the next challenge is turning stronger economic fundamentals into productive economic investment that supports business expansion, innovation and sustainable employment.
Ribeiro also emphasised the importance of developing talent to meet industry needs, noting that Jamaica already has capital available through banks, pension funds and asset managers.
The discussion highlighted the need to connect available capital with viable projects capable of delivering long-term economic value.
Global Factors Affecting Investment in Jamaica and the Caribbean
Professor Justin Robinson, Pro Vice-Chancellor at The University of the West Indies, examined how changes in international power and trade relationships are reshaping investment decisions.
He explained that businesses are increasingly considering geopolitical tensions, national security and supply-chain resilience alongside traditional factors such as production costs and operational efficiency.
“Geopolitics is no longer background noise. It’s actually now at the centre of investment decisions.” –Professor Justin Robinson, The University of the West Indies
For smaller economies such as Jamaica, these developments create additional challenges.
International competition, changing trade relationships and global financial uncertainty can influence capital flows, borrowing conditions and business confidence.
Robinson encouraged Caribbean countries to advocate for development financing that recognises their vulnerability to economic shocks rather than relying exclusively on per capita income.
Understanding these factors affecting investment is increasingly important for businesses, policymakers and individuals evaluating international market exposure.
Strengthening Investment Opportunities Through Better Policy Execution
Applied economist Joseph Cox, Chief Strategy Adviser, highlighted the gap between economic policy development and effective implementation.
He described challenges involving procurement processes, public-sector capacity and continuity between administrations.
According to Cox, delays in implementing economic policies can prevent Jamaica from capitalising on emerging investment opportunities.
He also called for tax incentives to be connected to measurable economic outcomes rather than supporting activities that would have occurred without additional incentives.
The discussion reinforced the importance of effective institutions and timely policy execution in encouraging productive investment.
For Jamaica, creating the right conditions for growth requires more than attracting capital. It also means ensuring that available resources can be directed towards commercially viable projects and competitive industries.
Investing in Jamaica: Why Export-Led Growth Matters
Charles Ross, President and CEO of Sterling Asset Management, argued that Jamaica’s growth strategy should place greater emphasis on export competitiveness.
He highlighted the importance of low inflation and market conditions that encourage investment in productive sectors.
Ross referenced Jamaica’s business process outsourcing (BPO) industry, noting that rising domestic costs have weakened its competitiveness against countries such as the Philippines and the Dominican Republic.
“If we’re talking about growth, it’s got to be externally focused.” –Charles Ross, President and CEO, Sterling Asset Management
His remarks emphasised the need for Jamaica to compete more effectively in international markets.
By improving competitiveness and supporting export-oriented industries, Jamaica can work towards creating stronger business activity, employment and long-term economic opportunities.
Sterling Asset Management Continues Its Commitment to Investor Education
The 2026 Investor Briefing reinforced Sterling Asset Management’s commitment to helping Jamaican investors understand global financial developments and their implications for local investment strategies.
Over its 25-year history, the company has made investor education an important part of its client relationships, using market insights and expert discussions to support more informed financial decisions.
As Jamaica works to translate economic stability into stronger growth, understanding international markets, investment risks and emerging opportunities will remain essential.
Explore Sterling Asset Management’s investment insights and financial services to learn more about navigating global markets and building a strategy aligned with your financial goals.
FAQS
What is the Sterling Investor Briefing?
The Sterling Investor Briefing is an annual event bringing together economists, financial experts and investors to discuss economic trends, global markets and investment opportunities. It helps Jamaican investors make more informed financial decisions.
Why is economic stability important for investing in Jamaica?
Economic stability can improve investor confidence and create a stronger foundation for growth. However, sustainable economic investment also requires improved productivity, competitive industries and effective policies that support business expansion.
What factors affecting investment in Jamaica were discussed at the briefing?
Experts highlighted geopolitical uncertainty, inflation, international trade, business competitiveness and policy implementation as key factors affecting investment. These developments can influence economic growth, investor confidence and access to capital.
How does investment risk management help Jamaican investors?
Investment risk management helps investors assess market volatility, interest-rate changes, credit risks and liquidity needs. Sterling emphasised maintaining liquidity and monitoring bond market opportunities to support informed investment decisions.
How does Sterling Asset Management support investors through financial services and education?
Sterling Asset Management provides investment management services, market insights and investor education. Its annual Investor Briefing helps clients understand economic developments, assess investment opportunities and make financial decisions aligned with their long-term goals.