From Kuala Lumpur to Hong Kong: The New Playground for Southeast Asia’s Ultra-Wealthy

Date:

Amid global economic and social uncertainties, Southeast Asia’s ultra-high-net-worth individuals (UHNWIs) and wealthy families are increasingly turning to Hong Kong as a strategic hub for wealth management, legacy planning, and risk diversification.

As one of Asia’s leading international financial centers and a key cross-border wealth management hub, Hong Kong offers a robust regulatory framework and diverse investment opportunities, making it the preferred destination for long-term wealth preservation.

Just a four-hour flight from Kuala Lumpur, Hong Kong continues to build on its century-long heritage as a trusted center for family legacy planning, adapting seamlessly to modern demands.

Diverse Wealth Management Environment

With over HK$35 trillion (RM19 trillion) in assets under management and a net fund inflow surge of 81 percent in 2024, Hong Kong remains attractive to global investors seeking a stable and high-performing market.

Its capital markets are also among the most dynamic worldwide. In the first half of 2025, the city raised HK$107.1 billion (RM58 billion) through IPOs, once again securing its place as one of the world’s top fundraising centers.

Chinese giants like Alibaba, Tencent, and Xiaomi have chosen Hong Kong for their listings, reinforcing the city’s role as a gateway to China’s high-growth sectors.

So far, 11 virtual asset trading platforms have been approved, while the introduction of the Stablecoin Bill to regulate fiat-backed tokens reflects Hong Kong’s commitment to safe financial innovation.

For Malaysian investors eyeing opportunities in AI, robotics, biotechnology, and digital infrastructure, Hong Kong offers a future-ready and well-regulated platform.

Stability and Predictability

The Hong Kong dollar has been pegged to the U.S. dollar since 1983, providing exchange rate stability rarely found elsewhere.

Its strong banking reserves, prudent fiscal policy, and Common Law system continue to position the territory among the world’s most competitive economies.

“I see Hong Kong as a city that offers stability, predictability, and a business-friendly environment—key elements for any family office seeking a strong foundation for long-term growth,” said Robert Buchbauer, Vice Chairman of Swarovski International Holding.

Equally significant, Hong Kong imposes no restrictions on foreign ownership or capital movement, while allowing free mobility of talent, goods, and information. This openness strengthens its status as one of the world’s most competitive economies. Supported by independent immigration, monetary, fiscal, and tax systems, its free-port status provides an ideal environment for international wealth management.

A Strategic Base for Long-Term Legacy

Hong Kong’s role as a global financial hub is reinforced by its transparent regulatory environment, solid market infrastructure, and continuous development in digital finance.

For UHNWIs, family business owners, and wealthy households, the biggest challenge lies in ensuring that assets, values, vision, and family legacies are successfully passed on to future generations.

Family offices play a central role here—offering customized wealth management services that go beyond financial planning. Structured family offices also provide estate planning, tax optimization, succession planning, philanthropy, lifestyle services, and education.

Today, Hong Kong has emerged as a global hub for family offices, attracting growing interest from ultra-wealthy families worldwide.

According to Deloitte’s 2023 report, more than 2,700 single-family offices have been established in the city. Since the 2022 Policy Address, InvestHK’s FamilyOfficeHK team has driven strong momentum in the sector, with Hong Kong on track to meet its targets ahead of schedule.

The Hong Kong government has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the growth of this sector and welcoming global asset owners.

As investors navigate volatile global markets, Hong Kong stands firm as a trusted and stable platform for long-term capital and cross-border wealth management.

Share post:

Popular

More like this
Related

BN Plans To Reintroduce GST After GE16, Says Zahid

Barisan Nasional (BN) plans to push for the reinstatement...

21–30 Age Group Most Targeted In Telecom Scams, Police Say

Young adults aged between 21 and 30 recorded the...

Zoo Negara Hints at Upcoming Unveiling of Chen Xing and Xiao Yue

Zoo Negara Malaysia has sparked excitement after hinting at...

Six Witnesses Questioned In Kampung Pandan School Assault Case Involving 11-Year-Old Boy

Police have recorded statements from six witnesses as part...