Sovereign Wealth Funds (SWFs) are like giant savings accounts owned by governments. These funds help countries invest money from things like oil, gas or other resources to make their economies stronger and secure a better future. In 2025 SWFs manage over $12 trillion globally and some countries have much bigger funds than others.
10 Countries with the Largest Sovereign Wealth Funds-
1. Norway: Government Pension Fund Global ($1.74 Trillion)
Norway has the world’s largest SWF called the Government Pension Fund Global with about $1.74 trillion in assets. This fund started in 1990 uses money from Norway’s oil and gas exports. It invests in stocks (70.9%) bonds (27.1%) real estate (1.9%) and renewable energy (0.1%) across 9000 companies worldwide. The goal is to save for future generations when oil runs out. Norway uses up to 3% of the fund yearly for social programs like schools and healthcare which helps keep the economy strong and stable. In 2023 it earned a 16.1% return thanks to tech companies like Microsoft and Apple.
2. China: China Investment Corporation ($1.33 Trillion)
China’s biggest SWF the China Investment Corporation (CIC) manages $1.33 trillion. Started in 2007 it uses China’s foreign currency reserves to invest globally. CIC focuses on infrastructure manufacturing and tech especially in the United States where 57% of its money is invested. It supports projects like the Belt and Road Initiative building roads and railways in Africa and Asia. CIC’s strategy is to diversify China’s economy and gain global influence. By investing in stable and growing sectors China ensures longterm financial security.
3. United Arab Emirates: Abu Dhabi Investment Authority ($1.06 Trillion)
The Abu Dhabi Investment Authority (ADIA) in the UAE manages around $1.06 trillion making it the largest SWF in the Middle East. Started in 1976 it uses oil money to invest in stocks (32-42%) bonds (10-20%) real estate (5-10%) and cash (10%). ADIA’s investments are spread across North America (35-50%) Europe (20-35%) and emerging markets (15-25%). The fund aims for steady longterm returns (6.5% over 20 years) to reduce UAE’s reliance on oil and build wealth for future generations.
4. Kuwait: Kuwait Investment Authority ($801 Billion)
Kuwait’s SWF the Kuwait Investment Authority (KIA) has $801 billion in assets. Founded in 1953 it’s one of the oldest SWFs using oil revenues to invest in global stocks real estate and companies like Citi and Merrill Lynch. KIA’s strategy is to diversify Kuwait’s economy by investing in stable and growing industries. It earned a $1.1 billion profit from a Citi investment in 2008. The fund acts as a safety net for Kuwait ensuring financial stability even during crises like the Gulf War.
5. Saudi Arabia: Public Investment Fund ($925 Billion)
Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF) manages $925 billion. It focuses on both domestic (77% of assets) and international investments, like Uber, Nintendo and sports streaming service DAZN. PIF supports Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 plan to diversify from oil by investing in clean energy, tech and sports. Its international investments aim to build global partnerships and influence while domestic projects create jobs and boost the economy. In 2022 PIF’s assets grew from $600 billion to $700 billion.
6. Singapore: GIC Private Limited ($690 Billion)
Singapore’s GIC Private Limited with $690 billion invests in stocks bonds real estate and private equity. Started in 1981 it aims to protect Singapore’s financial future by earning steady returns. GIC focuses on longterm investments in stable markets like North America and Europe but also explores emerging markets. Its strategy helps Singapore stay a global financial hub and ensures money for future needs like pensions or infrastructure.
7. Singapore: Temasek Holdings ($492 Billion)
Singapore has another big SWF Temasek Holdings with $492 billion. Founded in 1974 Temasek invests in tech startups like Xiaomi renewable energy like Bloom Energy and global companies. It focuses on innovation and sustainability supporting Singapore’s goal to be a leader in green and tech industries. Temasek’s investments create jobs and help the economy grow ensuring longterm prosperity.
8. Qatar: Qatar Investment Authority ($501 Billion)
The Qatar Investment Authority (QIA), with $501 billion uses oil and gas money to invest in real estate, stocks and companies like Volkswagen and Barclays. Started in 2005 QIA’s strategy is to diversify Qatar’s economy and build global influence. It made a $35 billion investment in U.S. assets from 2015 to 2020. QIA’s focus on long-term returns ensures Qatar’s wealth grows for future generations.
9. China: National Council for Social Security Fund ($414 Billion)
China’s National Council for Social Security Fund (NSSF) manages $414 billion. Founded in 2000 it supports China’s pension system by investing in stocks, bonds and infrastructure. NSSF’s strategy balances safety and growth ensuring money for retirees while contributing to China’s economic stability. It plays a key role in managing the challenges of an aging population.
10. United Arab Emirates: Investment Corporation of Dubai ($341 Billion)
The Investment Corporation of Dubai (ICD) manages $341 billion. It invests in local and global assets like real estate, airlines and banks. ICD’s goal is to diversify Dubai’s economy and support growth in key industries like tourism and finance. By investing wisely ICD ensures Dubai remains a global business hub with wealth for the future.
Why SWFs Matter
SWFs are crucial because they help countries save and grow their wealth. Nations like Norway and UAE use oil money to prepare for a future without fossil fuels. China and Singapore invest to stay global leaders in finance and tech. These funds create jobs, fund schools and build infrastructure making economies stronger. They also act as a safety net during tough times like wars or economic crises. By investing in diverse assets like stocks, real estate and green energy SWFs ensure longterm prosperity for their people.
In 2025 SWFs are also focusing on sustainability. Funds like Saudi Arabia’s PIF and Singapore’s Temasek invest in renewable energy and follow environmental, social and governance (ESG) principles. This helps fight climate change and supports global development goals. As SWFs grow they shape the world’s economy by investing in innovation, infrastructure and sustainable projects.
Conclusion
The top 10 SWFs in 2025 show how countries plan for the future. Norway leads with its massive oil-funded fund while China and UAE use their wealth to gain global influence. Each country has a unique strategy from investing in tech and real estate to supporting green energy and infrastructure. These funds don’t just save money—they create jobs, boost economies and ensure a brighter future for generations to come.