Introduction

Li Ka Shing stands as the sole survivor of Hong Kong's illustrious 'big four' tycoon families, a group that includes fellow magnates Lee Shau Kee, Kwok Tak Seng, and Cheng Yu Tung. Each of these tycoons began their ventures from modest beginnings and climbed the ladder of success during the 20th century, reshaping the city's economic landscape.

The Kwok Family

The Kwok family is known for co-founding Sun Hung Kai Properties in 1963, which has since become a key player in Hong Kong's real estate sector. Kwok Tak Seng, who hailed from Macau, started his career in a family-run grocery business. His entrepreneurial journey in Hong Kong saw him opening a grocery store that expanded into a wholesaler. In 1952, he founded Hung Cheong Import & Export, gaining acclaim in the import-export industry and earning the title the "King of Foreign Goods." However, his passing in 1990 at age 79 brought internal strife within the family, driven by competition among his three sons.

Cheng Yu Tung

Cheng Yu Tung, born in 1925, is notable for founding Chow Tai Fook, one of Asia's largest jewelry brands, as well as the property development company New World Development. Despite having only primary school education, Cheng's determination saw him rise from apprentice to one of Hong Kong's wealthiest individuals. He breathed his last in late 2016 at the age of 91, leaving behind a legacy of resilience and entrepreneurial spirit.

Lee Shau Kee

Lee Shau Kee, born in 1928 in Guangdong province, made his mark by shifting from gold and currency trading to real estate, where he achieved remarkable success with Henderson Land Development. Retiring in 2019, he passed the reins to his sons, leaving them and his daughters with a significant inheritance. Known widely as "Hong Kong's Warren Buffett," he lived until the age of 97, passing away on March 17.

Li Ka Shing: The Last Tycoon

This brings us to Li Ka Shing, now 96, who is not just the last of the big four, but a figure synonymous with economic growth in Hong Kong. He began his career selling plastic flowers after dropping out of school at a young age. His investments in real estate paved the way for immense wealth, qualifying him as Hong Kong’s richest man for more than two decades, according to Forbes.

Challenges and Legacy

In recent years, Li’s health has waned, necessitating the use of a wheelchair. He stepped back from his business operations in 2018, entrusting the family empire to his eldest son, Victor Li Tzar Kuoi. Despite the challenges of aging, Li Ka Shing's legacy and influence on Hong Kong's history remain robust, making him a living emblem of ambition and resilience in the face of adversity.

Conclusion

As Hong Kong navigates its future amidst rapid changes, the story of Li Ka Shing serves as a powerful reminder of the relentless drive that can create monumental legacies. Will he be remembered as the last titan of Hong Kong's golden age, or will his successors continue to carry his legacy forward? Only time will tell!