For many North American investors, Panama conjures images of a tropical getaway akin to Caribbean islands. That perception quickly dissolves upon landing in Panama City, according to CHORD Real Estate, a Nashville-based firm that has led two consecutive Invest Panama Summits. Participants arrive curious and leave with a starkly different understanding, says founder Steve Luther: “Everybody was just shocked. What is this place? How have we not heard about this?” The gap between Panama’s image and its reality is precisely what makes it a compelling market for those who visit.
The shock stems from scale and substance, not aesthetics. Panama City boasts a modern skyline, over 80 international banks, and more than 180 multinational regional headquarters operating under favorable tax conditions. Companies like Dell and Caterpillar have established significant operations. The economy is anchored by the Panama Canal, through which roughly five to six percent of global trade passes annually. Yet this profile remains largely unknown among North American buyers, as Panama has not historically invested in broad international marketing. That oversight creates an opportunity for investors who track markets before they become widely discussed.
Each zone visited during the summit reveals distinct indicators. Playa Caracol and Amador attract interest for tourism potential, coastal scarcity, and infrastructure investment including metro extensions, highway widening, and a new bridge connecting Panama City to the western province. Santa Maria appeals to buyers seeking long-term stability, anchored by an 18-hole Jack Nicklaus Signature golf course and a master-planned community of unmatched scale. Costa del Este draws attention from those watching nearshoring trends, as multinational companies position regional operations closer to North American time zones. Luther notes, “I don’t know of an area in Panama I don’t like right now. That’s the problem.”
The second summit in May 2026 attracted a diverse group: return-focused investors, a digital nomad seeking a home base, seasonal-use buyers, and those evaluating residency pathways. The variety of projects ensured each found something worth examining. Beyond specific properties, the summit provides relationship infrastructure. Meeting developers, walking construction sites, and sitting with attorneys and local agents builds confidence that online research cannot replicate. Luther advises, “I don’t suggest wiring a bunch of money from a Zoom call. Shake hands, meet the people, get a comfort level, build that trust.”
CHORD Real Estate has announced the third annual Invest Panama Summit, scheduled for January 21–24, 2027, in Panama City. The format includes a welcome reception, guided property tours across development zones, and an excursion to the Pacific coast, including Playa Caracol. Spots are limited. More information is available at chordrealestate.com/investpanamasummit. For details on the firm, visit CHORD Real Estate.
This article is intended for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or real estate advice. Readers should conduct their own research and consult qualified professionals before making any real estate or financial decisions.
