Nation

Unlocking Wealth: 4 Essential Lessons for Young People from Hong Kong’s Real Estate Tycoon

2025-03-27

Author: Lok

In a noteworthy speech delivered at Fudan University in 2018, the late Hong Kong tycoon Lee Shau Kee imparted invaluable wisdom on wealth-building to young audiences. His insights continue to resonate, especially as young people navigate the complexities of today's economic landscape.

1. Prioritize Your Career Before Marriage

One of Lee’s standout pieces of advice emphasizes the importance of establishing a stable career before marrying. Entering the real estate sector at the age of 30, Lee rapidly earned a reputation and found success. It was only a year later that he married his wife, the beauty queen Lau Wai Kuen, at the luxurious Majestic Hotel in Hong Kong’s Central District. By focusing first on his career, Lee was able to build a secure foundation that benefited both his professional and personal life.

2. Choose the Right Career Path

Lee believed that selecting the right industry is crucial for success. He referenced a popular Chinese saying, stating, "A man’s greatest fear is establishing a career in the wrong industry while a woman’s greatest fear is choosing the wrong husband." This highlights the importance of strategic decision-making in both career and personal life.

3. Embrace Hard Work and Determination

A key takeaway from Lee's experiences is the relentless pursuit of hard work. In his autobiography published in 2010, Lee, even at the age of 82, indicated his disinterest in retirement, expressing that the inability to work was a source of significant distress. He remained committed to his professional endeavors until the age of 91, demonstrating that diligence is a vital component of achieving one’s goals.

4. Invest Wisely and Start Small

Lee's final lesson focuses on the principle of using money to generate more wealth. He advised starting small with savings and recognized the first asset as the most critical stepping stone to success. He underscored that wealth should not be left to chance but rather cultivated through diligence, frugality, and the ability to adapt to circumstances. In his autobiography, he shared a thought-provoking anecdote, expressing a willingness to trade a significant portion of his wealth for youth, showcasing his belief that time and opportunity are priceless.

Lee Shau Kee's life story is one of determination, resilience, and success. Born in Guangdong, China, and flourishing in Hong Kong, he became known as “Asia’s god of stocks” or “Hong Kong’s Warren Buffett.” As the founder of Henderson Land Development, he eventually built one of the largest real estate empires in the city.

As we reflect on his life and teachings, young people today can draw guidance from Lee's experiences. By prioritizing their careers, embracing hard work, making informed financial decisions, and understanding the value of time, they can lay the groundwork for enduring success in their financial journeys.

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