Hong Kong’s new cash-for-residency scheme draws US$12 billion in first 2 years
South China Morning Post
by Peggy YeMarch 2, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Hong Kong’s cash-for-residency scheme has garnered significant attention, attracting approximately HK$95 billion (US$12 billion) from over 1,700 investors in just two years. Designed to attract high-net-worth individuals and bring capital and talent to the city, the program, known as the New Capital Investment Entrant Scheme (New CIES), has seen a surge in applications, particularly in its second year, with a 145% increase compared to the first year. By February 2025, nearly HK$55.6 billion had been deployed, with a substantial portion allocated to authorized funds, equities, and debt securities.
The scheme, launched in March 2024 by InvestHK, has received 3,166 applications so far, with 1,762 investors completing their commitments and receiving formal approval from the Immigration Department. The majority of the investments—around HK$21.4 billion or 39%—flowed into professionally managed funds approved by the Securities and Futures Commission. Equities followed closely, attracting HK$16.1 billion or 29% of the total, while debt securities accounted for HK$5.3 billion or 9.5%. Other investment vehicles, such as insurance schemes and the New CIES portfolio, collectively received HK$11 billion or roughly 20%.
This influx of capital underscores Hong Kong’s efforts to establish itself as a global financial hub, particularly amid challenges faced by other regions. The program’s success highlights the city’s ability to attract high-net-worth individuals and their investments, reinforcing its position as a desirable destination for both talent and capital. As the scheme continues to evolve, it not only boosts Hong Kong’s economy but also sets an example for other regions looking to enhance their competitiveness in the global market.
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Originally published on South China Morning Post on 3/2/2026