For decades, Western markets have largely embraced foreign capital flows, allowing Chinese firms to acquire stakes in strategic industries across the US and Europe. But the tide is turning. Policy makers in Washington and Brussels are increasingly asserting control over what they call the 'means of production'—critical infrastructure, advanced manufacturing, and key technologies. The shift signals a fundamental change in how developed economies view foreign ownership and strategic assets. This protectionist turn reflects growing concerns about supply chain vulnerabilities and technological dependency. Whether through tightened M&A reviews, foreign investment screening, or sector-specific restrictions, the West is recalibrating its stance on capital flows. For investors and traders watching global markets, this reconfiguration of trade relationships could reshape capital allocation strategies and cross-border investment patterns in the years ahead.