The value of regulated fund assets serviced in Jersey rose by close to £39bn over the course of 2022 while the corporate and banking sectors also posted positive figures, according to the latest industry statistics.
According to the most recent quarterly figures to be collated by the Jersey Financial Services Commission (JFSC) for the period ending 31 December 2022, the value of regulated funds under administration increased by £38.6bn (8.6%) compared to 31 December 2021 to stand at a new record level of £488.8bn.
Across the core alternative asset classes – which now make up 78% of total funds business in Jersey – the hedge fund sector in particular contributed to growth, increasing by some 24% over the twelve months.
In addition, a total of 638 Jersey Private Funds (JPFs) have now been registered in Jersey since the structure was launched in 2017, according to the JFSC – an increase of 107 (20%) over the past twelve months. The value of assets held in JPFs is now £61.7bn and is in addition to the headline funds figure.
Meanwhile, the total value of deposits in Jersey banks increased by £14.8bn (11%) over 2022 to stand at £148.3bn – the highest level since 2013 – with 58% held in foreign currencies.
Corporate activity also remained positive with a total of 35,028 companies on the register at the end of the year, increasing marginally (1.5%) year-on-year to an all-time high.
In addition, 79 Jersey company vehicles are now listed on global exchanges around the world, including the London Stock, New York and Hong Kong Stock Exchanges, with a combined total market capitalisation of £167.4bn.
Commenting on the figures, Jersey Finance CEO, Joe Moynihan (pictured), said: “These are strong year-end figures that paint a sustained positive picture of our finance sector, particularly against the backdrop of global economic flux. The consistent growth of our funds sector confirms the appeal of our offering, cementing our position as a leading alternative funds hub in Europe.
“Meanwhile, our banking sector remains resilient, providing sought-after stability in uncertain times, and our corporate sector continues to see steady growth, reflecting a healthy holistic platform supporting investors, families and businesses around the world.
“This equates to a strong message, and one that will be hugely positive as we maintain our expansion and growth in global markets, including the US and South-East Asia.”
Mike Johnson, Chair, Jersey Funds Association, added: “Jersey’s funds sector is clearly continuing to appeal to both managers and investors, and that is thanks to the high standard of our offering, which combines a depth of expertise, flexibility, certainty and a stable outlook rarely found in other jurisdictions. Of particular note in these figures is the ongoing march of the JPF, with more than 100 established over the year. It has firmly established itself as a go-to vehicle for alternative fund structuring, adding considerably to our reputation as a premiere funds jurisdiction.”