Just six months after the relaunch of Hong Kong’s Capital Investment Entrant Scheme (CIES), the program has pulled in a substantial HK$10.5 billion through 341 approved applications. Yet in a revealing trend, not a single investor has opted for the real estate track—despite its inclusion as a new luxury investment option.
Where the Money Is Going
Most applicants are placing their capital into market-linked financial instruments, such as equities, bonds, and approved funds. This preference reflects:
- Flexibility and liquidity
- Avoidance of Hong Kong’s overheated property sector
- Faster approval timelines with non-real estate options
What This Signals for Investors
The trend suggests a growing sophistication among global HNWIs prioritizing mobility with capital efficiency, rather than tying up funds in illiquid real estate assets.
Globalia Consulting’s View
At Globalia Consulting partner of Globevisa Group, we see Hong Kong’s CIES as a competitive mobility product for Asia-focused investors seeking:
- A secure, Tier 1 financial jurisdiction
- Strong legal framework and market access
- Residency through transparent, financial asset-based routes
We continue to monitor policy shifts and investor behavior across Asia to align clients with low-friction, high-impact residency options.