Hong Kong’s finance sector has billions in disposable income. Why is investing a struggle?

Hong Kong's financial sector generates billions in annual investable income, yet many professionals struggle to invest due to strict Personal Account Dealing (PAD) restrictions. A report by Endowus and Quinlan & Associates reveals that nearly 237,000 finance professionals are restricted from investing, despite earning an average of HK$66,245 monthly, more than triple the city's median income.

The report cites three primary challenges: limited investment options, heightened risk, and an inferior investing experience. Benjamin Quinlan, CEO of Quinlan & Associates, notes that these restrictions can push professionals to abandon investing altogether. Samuel Rhee, chairman and group chief investment officer of Endowus, emphasizes that keeping savings in cash is a costly mistake, as time in the market is crucial for investors.

Only 30% of finance professionals in Hong Kong feel secure about their retirement planning, while 33% believe their employers should support their long-term planning more. The report suggests employee investment programs, where employers partner with regulated funds platforms to offer pre-approved investment options, as a potential solution to unlock Hong Kong's HK$35.8 billion in investible income.

Endowus offers such solutions, and regulators in Hong Kong continue to stress the importance of tapping into untapped liquidity within the city's capital markets. The financial sector in Hong Kong contributes about 26% of the city's GDP, making it the largest contributor.