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More than two-thirds of the approved investment were directed to authorized funds and equities, according to the latest data from InvestHK, the government’s investment promotion agency, as reported by South China Morning Post.

The New Capital Investment Entrant Scheme (New CIES), launched in March 2024, aims to attract high-net-worth individuals to invest in the city, bringing in both capital and professional expertise.

Applications for the scheme surged 145% year on year to 2,248 in 2025, following what officials described as an initial phase focused on laying foundations and raising awareness, reflecting rising investor interest.

By the end of February, HKD55.6 billion has been deployed, with 39% of it allocated to professionally managed funds authorized by the Securities and Futures Commission.

Equities ranked as the second most favored asset class, drawing HKD16.1 billion, or 29% of the total.

The inflows coincided with a strong performance in Hong Kong’s stock market, which rose 28% last year, marking its best annual showing since a 36% gain in 2017.

Under New CIES, applicants must commit a minimum of HKD30 million, including HKD3 million designated for the scheme’s investment portfolio.

“Together with other admission schemes, these programs attract talent and capital from around the world, supporting Hong Kong’s sustainable development and long-term competitiveness,” Director of Immigration Benson Kwok Joon-fung said.

Alpha Lau Hai-suen, director-general of InvestHK, said capital inflows under the New CIES had created spillover benefits across property, retail, dining, education and professional services, strengthening domestic consumption and innovation.

The scheme also works in tandem with broader family office initiatives introduced in March 2023, reinforcing Hong Kong’s position as a global hub for wealth management and innovation.