Even during challenging times of economical crisis, the Amsterdam Metropolitan Area remains a popular destination for international companies due to the opportunities the region has to offer. In 2009, 105 international firms moved to the Amsterdam Area.

In 2009, after years of American dominance, Asia has taken the lead as the biggest source making up more than a third of all new international companies in the region. Most Asian companies setting up shop in the Amsterdam Area have their roots in India and China. They were joined by 35 firms from elsewhere in Europe and 33 from the USA.

As for the type of organisation, the ICT sector dominates, totalling 25 percent of the new companies. 
The second biggest sector was Financial Services with 16 percent of all newcomers, which reflects the strength of the Amsterdam Area as a Financial centre even during challenging circumstances.

The region also attracted more European Headquarters. Last year, 17 percent set up their European headquarters in the Amsterdam Area compared to 14 percent in 2008.