Investment gold retailers move into vacant Hong Kong high-street shops
South China Morning Post
by Peggy YeFebruary 22, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
The demand for investment gold in Hong Kong has surged, prompting a wave of new bullion retailers to occupy prime high-street locations. These businesses, which specialize in selling gold coins and bars rather than ornamental jewelry, have filled vacancies left during the city’s post-pandemic recovery. This shift reflects a growing preference among consumers for investment-focused products over traditional jewelry, driven by rising gold prices and economic uncertainty.
San Gold Coins, a mainland Chinese bullion retailer, has been at the forefront of this expansion. The company, which operates around 100 stores in China, has rapidly expanded its presence in Hong Kong, opening three stores in Central, Causeway Bay, and Tsim Sha Tsui over the past year and a half. Sophia Chen, the sixth-generation heir and general manager overseeing overseas operations, attributes this growth to overwhelming demand for investment gold products.
The arrival of these retailers has not only revitalized empty storefronts but also contributed to stabilizing rents in some of Hong Kong’s most expensive districts. This development comes as high-end jewelry vendors return to the market, further signaling a rebound in consumer confidence and economic activity. Unlike traditional jewelers, which are common in both Hong Kong and mainland China, investment gold retailers like San Gold Coins remain relatively rare, highlighting a distinct shift in consumer behavior.
This trend underscores broader global shifts toward alternative investments amid economic instability. The rise of investment-focused bullion retail in Hong Kong reflects changing preferences among investors seeking safe-haven assets during uncertain times. As gold prices continue to climb and demand for these products grows, the expansion of such retailers is likely to persist, offering new opportunities for both investors and businesses in the region.
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Originally published on South China Morning Post on 2/22/2026