The Asia-Pacific region has become the largest market for high net worth individuals (HNWIs) globally, and is primarily driven by the increasing HNWI population in Japan, China and India. Economic growth and rising realty prices were the main reason for growth of HNWI numbers between 2008 and 2012 in this region.
Growing wealth in this region and the emergence of Singapore and Hong Kong as offshore hubs have attracted a large number of wealth management companies to set up branches in the region. Additionally, tax advantages and opportunities for global diversification have made offshore banking an attractive option for foreign banks.
Most wealth management companies are entering the highly lucrative market either through joint ventures, partnerships or by acquiring a domestic firm. The entry of international wealth management firms has made the market competitive, and wealth management firms now offer premium services and sophisticated products to counter the fierce competition.
Most HNWI’s in the Asia-Pacific region are either first-generation HNWIs or inheritors of family wealth. These HNWIs, especially from emerging economies such as India and China, are skeptical about having their assets managed by asset management companies or private banks. They also lack knowledge of the various products and services offered by wealth management firms. Private banks are increasingly introducing family office services to meet the needs of wealthy families in search of expert financial planning advice.
Target audience