Hong Kong is pursuing its goal to become the world’s foremost hub for ultra-high-net-worth (UHNW) families. Shifting the perception of the family office from a simple wealth management function to a robust engine for intergenerational legacy and global impact. This ambitious push, designated as “Family Office 2.0,” is built upon a comprehensive policy framework. It is designed to attract capital, foster talent, and offer unparalleled connectivity.
Hong Kong’s position as a premier location is rooted in its status. As the #1 cross-border private wealth management centre in Asia, and home to Asia’s deepest international banking and capital markets. Furthermore, these strengths, combined with its unique advantage. A simple, low-tax system, a robust legal system, and the world’s freest economy with no capital controls. This consequently creates an unmatched ecosystem for global asset owners.
8 Pillars of the 2.0 Ecosystem: Creating a Conducive Environment
Following this commitment, in March 2023, the Hong Kong Government issued a landmark Policy Statement outlining eight key policy measures that form the foundation of the Family Office 2.0 strategy. These pillars provide comprehensive support and legal clarity for global asset owners.
| Pillar | Key Policy Measure | Impact on Family Offices |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Tax Incentives | Profits Tax Exemption (0% Rate): Provides a 0% profits tax rate for eligible Family-owned Investment Holding Vehicles (FIHV). | Maximum Tax Efficiency: Exempts investment profits from local tax. |
| 2. Residency & Capital | New Capital Investment Entrant Scheme (CIES): The revamped scheme (effective March 2024) allows eligible applicants to obtain residency by investing a minimum of HK$30 million. | Talent & Residency Pathway: Offers UHNW families a clear route to residency. |
| 3. Talent and Education | Hong Kong Academy for Wealth Legacy: A government-funded platform under the FSDC for professional development and training of the next generation. | Future-Proofing Legacy: Cultivates a broad talent pool. |
| 4. Regulatory Clarity | Market Facilitation Measures: The SFC has established quick reference guides and a dedicated communication channel. | Streamlined Compliance: Simplifies regulatory navigation. |
| 5. Global Access | Dedicated FamilyOfficeHK Team: Invest Hong Kong has expanded its role to facilitate philanthropic endeavours. | Specialized Comprehensive Service: Provides centralized, comprehensive services. |
| 6. Philanthropy and ESG | Development of a Philanthropic Centre: Measures to improve the processing of tax-exempt charity applications, establishing HK as a leading regional centre for philanthropy and sustainable finance. | Societal Impact: Encourages the deployment of charitable capital. |
| 7. Asset Ecosystem | Art Storage Facilities at the Airport: The Airport Authority is exploring options for establishing facilities for the storage of art and treasures. | Diversification: Supports family offices with capital allocation into non-standard assets. |
| 8. Industry Network | Network of Service Providers: Launching a new network to connect family offices with leading professional services. | Holistic Support: Creates a robust, two-way communication channel. |
Startupr Registration and Comprehensive Services for Global Entrepreneurs
Hong Kong is attractive not only for ultra-high-net-worth management but also as an ideal platform for founding and scaling startups. Thanks to a simple company registration process and a transparent regulatory environment, establishing a limited company takes only a few days.
Key Support for Global Entrepreneurs:
- Fast Company Registration: A limited company can be registered electronically, with minimal capital. Utilizing an authorized service provider guarantees a smooth process.
- One-Stop Shop Services (InvestHK): The government agency, Invest Hong Kong (InvestHK), provides free and confidential services to all global entrepreneurs and investors seeking to establish or expand their operations in HK.
- Low Corporate Taxation: Startups, like large corporations, benefit from a two-tiered profits tax rate, under which the first HK$2 million in profits is taxed at only 8.25%.
Our Specialized Services for Global Entrepreneurs:
To streamline your entry into the Hong Kong market and simultaneously ensure full compliance with local regulations. We offer comprehensive assistance:
- Complete Company Registration: Securing the entire company formation process (Company Registry), including the preparation of articles, account setup assistance, and initial licensing agenda.
- Mandatory Company Secretary Services: Providing the mandatory Company Secretary, who oversees corporate administration, minutes, and fulfillment of statutory deadlines with the Companies Registry.
- Annual Audit and Tax Advisory: Arranging the legally required annual audit (performed by a certified auditor) and the complete preparation of the Profits Tax Return (PTR), guaranteeing compliance with the IRD (Inland Revenue Department).
- Accounting and Monthly Summaries: Providing professional accounting services and reporting, which is key to the effective management of a company in Hong Kong.
Tangible Results and Future Trajectory
The Family Office 2.0 strategy has quickly delivered concrete results, underscoring Hong Kong’s commitment:
- Target Exceeded: Invest Hong Kong has successfully helped over 200 family offices to establish or expand their operations in the city, achieving its original target ahead of schedule.
- New Goal Set: The government has set a new, ambitious goal to attract an additional 220 family offices between 2026 and 2028.
- The Family Office Playbook: The official launch of this comprehensive guide provides practical advice on strategy, regulation, investment, and philanthropy.
Crucially, Hong Kong’s unique position, characterized by unparalleled connectivity to the world and simultaneously a unique gateway to Mainland China, makes it the ideal location for families and global entrepreneurs seeking a dynamic, institutionally supported environment to secure their multi-generational legacy.
