Texas is expanding its global economic reach with the opening of a new office in London aimed at attracting international companies, investment and jobs to the state.
State officials say the London outpost will serve as a hub to recruit European businesses — particularly in finance and manufacturing — looking to establish or expand operations in the United States. The effort is part of a broader push to position Texas as a leading destination for global commerce.
The office will be operated by Vianovo, an Austin-based advisory firm, and led by James Taylor. A delegation of Texas officials and business leaders is expected to travel to the United Kingdom for the official launch.
Texas leaders are pitching the state’s business-friendly environment, including no state corporate or personal income tax, streamlined regulations and access to incentive programs. The state is also highlighting its specialized business courts and relatively low cost of doing business compared to coastal U.S. markets and parts of Europe.
The move comes as Texas intensifies efforts to grow its financial sector, particularly in the Dallas area, which officials have promoted as an emerging rival to Wall Street — a vision sometimes referred to as “Y’all Street.” Central to that strategy is the planned Texas Stock Exchange, which aims to attract listings and capital from companies seeking alternatives to traditional U.S. exchanges.
Officials say London was a natural choice for the new office due to its status as a global financial center and its longstanding economic ties with Texas. Trade between Texas and the United Kingdom reached billions of dollars in recent years, and U.K.-based companies have invested heavily in the state, supporting thousands of jobs.
The timing also reflects shifting dynamics in global finance. London markets have faced increasing competition in recent years, with some companies opting to list elsewhere or go private. Texas officials see an opportunity to draw those firms toward U.S. markets — and specifically to Texas.
The London office adds to Texas’ growing network of international economic development outposts, which includes locations in Mexico and Asia. State leaders say the expansion underscores a more aggressive approach to recruiting business from abroad.
By establishing a permanent presence in Europe, Texas is seeking not only to sustain its rapid economic growth but also to elevate its role in global finance and trade.
“This is about taking Texas to the world,” officials said, framing the initiative as a long-term investment in the state’s economic future.