Among the globe's largest family-run enterprises, ten firms from Hong Kong have secured their spots in the prestigious 2025 EY and University of St. Gallen Global 500 Family Business Index. These organizations collectively generate a substantial revenue figure of $774 billion, demonstrating their economic significance on an international scale. The highest-ranked company hails from Hong Kong: Jardine Matheson Holdings Ltd., which boasts a revenue of $280.47 billion and employs over 443,000 individuals. Other notable mentions include WH Group Ltd., Chow Tai Fook Jewellery Group, Swire Pacific Ltd., and CLP Holdings Ltd.

The combined impact of these 500 family businesses worldwide is immense, with aggregate revenues reaching $68.46 trillion, marking a 10% increase from 2023 figures. Collectively, they provide employment to 25.1 million people globally. If treated as a single entity, the total revenue generated by these enterprises would position them as the world’s third-largest economy, only surpassed by the United States and China.

Hong Kong's Leading Family Businesses

A selection of Hong Kong-based family businesses has achieved remarkable recognition within the global business community. Notably, Jardine Matheson Holdings Ltd. leads the pack, followed closely by WH Group Ltd., Chow Tai Fook Jewellery Group, Swire Pacific Ltd., and CLP Holdings Ltd. Each enterprise contributes significantly to the local and global economies through its operations and workforce size.

Jardine Matheson Holdings Ltd. exemplifies success with a staggering annual income exceeding $280 billion and a workforce numbering more than 443,000 employees. WH Group Ltd., positioned second among Hong Kong entries, generates approximately $204 billion annually while employing around 101,000 workers. Further down the list, Chow Tai Fook Jewellery Group achieves impressive financial performance with roughly $108 billion in revenue supported by 28,000 staff members. Swire Pacific Ltd. also plays a vital role with about $94 billion in revenue and maintaining a team of 54,000 professionals. CLP Holdings Ltd., rounding out this group, manages an annual income close to $86 billion and provides jobs for 8,000 individuals.

Global Impact of Family-Run Enterprises

Beyond Hong Kong, the influence of family businesses extends across the globe, contributing significantly to economic growth and job creation. With a collective revenue surpassing $68 trillion, these enterprises exhibit robust expansion since the previous assessment in 2023. Their contribution to the labor market is equally noteworthy, supporting millions of livelihoods worldwide.

In comparison to national GDP figures, the cumulative revenue of these top-tier family businesses places them alongside some of the most economically powerful nations. Specifically, their economic output ranks just behind the United States and China, underscoring their pivotal role in shaping global commerce. This achievement highlights not only their financial prowess but also their ability to sustain extensive workforces, fostering stability and prosperity in various regions. As such, these family-led corporations continue to drive innovation and set benchmarks for corporate governance and sustainable development practices globally.