The aggregate wealth of Hong Kong's top 50 wealthiest individuals has surged to $2,315.38 billion (US$301 billion) in 2025, up from $2,276.92 billion (US$296 billion) the previous year, despite ongoing challenges in the property market and trade tensions. This growth comes as Hong Kong's economy expanded by 2.5% in 2024, with China's economic stimulus measures boosting investor confidence and pushing the Hang Seng Index up by more than a third. The minimum net worth required to make the list increased significantly this year to $10.77 billion (US$1.4 billion), up from $8.46 billion (US$1.1 billion).

Top Fortunes Amid Market Volatility

Despite various economic headwinds, several of Hong Kong's richest individuals have seen their fortunes grow. Li Ka-shing retained his position as the city's wealthiest person, with his net worth increasing to $286.92 billion (US$37.3 billion). Although CK Asset Holdings faced challenges in the real estate sector, gains from other investments, including Zoom Communications, helped offset these losses. Lee Shau Kee maintained his second-place ranking, with his net worth rising to $224.62 billion (US$29.2 billion). Henderson Land Development, under his leadership, recently completed a significant office tower project.

In detail, Li Ka-shing's resilience is particularly noteworthy. His diversified investment portfolio played a crucial role in maintaining and even expanding his wealth. CK Asset Holdings' downturn in real estate was mitigated by strong performances in other sectors, such as technology and telecommunications. Meanwhile, Lee Shau Kee's strategic moves in property development, exemplified by the completion of The Henderson, a 36-story office tower valued at $25.38 billion (US$3.3 billion), underscored his continued influence in the market. Despite the challenges faced by both tycoons, their ability to adapt and diversify has been key to sustaining their positions among Hong Kong's elite.

New Entrants and Resilient Performers

This year saw the emergence of new faces on the list, alongside notable changes in fortune for existing members. Francis Lui, who assumed the chairmanship of Galaxy Entertainment Group following his father's passing, entered the list at ninth place with a net worth of $72.31 billion (US$9.4 billion). Yang Qiumei, ranked 48th with $11.54 billion (US$1.5 billion), inherited shares in AI company SenseTime after her husband's death. Zhuo Jun, who returned to the list at No. 49 with a net worth of $11.15 billion (US$1.45 billion), benefited from strong demand in automotive and server industries, nearly doubling his company's stock value over the past year.

Among the standout performers, Alibaba co-founder Joseph Tsai recorded the largest dollar gain, with his wealth increasing by $17.69 billion (US$2.3 billion) due to advancements in AI and the sale of a stake in BSE Global. Crystal International Group's co-founder Kenneth Lo saw his wealth rise by 64%, reaching $13.85 billion (US$1.8 billion), driven by growing demand for sportswear. These success stories highlight the dynamic nature of Hong Kong's wealth landscape, where innovation and adaptation continue to drive growth and prosperity, even in challenging times.