Brexit was a strange decision but still offers UK opportunities

We all know it isn’t perfect, but few of us this side of the Channel realised the depth of dissatisfaction there is for the European Union in the UK.

To the majority of Europeans, the positive side of the ledger outweighs the imperfections and niggles as well as bigger questions such as immigration.

The ability to work in different countries across the continent gives wider career opportunities for individuals, and a larger pool from which companies can draw talent.

In continental Europe, we concern ourselves less with national borders, and this predates the EU.

Companies easily trade within the single market. Even the cumbersome environmental and working practices regulations have their merits as buyers around the world seek reassurance that their suppliers aren’t damaging the environment or mistreating their workers.

So this big decision by our British chums made us think. What a difference a few percentage points makes!

A 52%-48% win for Remain would have reflected a similar degree of rejection but would have triggered a lot less soul-searching.

But this time, no one can ignore the result. When Britain leaves, it will remove not only a major economy but also one of the world’s biggest and best financial centres from the union.

Anyone with a global investment perspective and awareness of history knows that economic activity knows no loyalty. Trade is done where it is most easily done. When the environment changes, so do opportunities.

In 1900, Argentina and adjacent South American nations were linchpins in the global economy but, within a few decades, the United States had become the world’s powerhouse.

This is worth remembering — particularly given that the growth of Europe (including the UK) is anaemic compared to Asia and many emerging economies.

If the EU were less bureaucratic, more efficient and more business friendly, its economy would be stronger.