Breaking news

Asia’s Wealthy Families Are Betting Big On AI

Artificial intelligence is rapidly emerging as the top investment theme for ultra-wealthy families across Asia, with family offices increasingly focusing their attention—and their capital—on the sector.

AI has captured the interest of family offices in Singapore and throughout the region. According to LH Koh, managing director at UBS, AI is now seen as one of the most significant and exciting sectors for investment. UBS’ 2024 survey found that over 75% of family offices plan to invest in generative AI within the next two to three years, signaling a clear trend toward prioritizing this space.

Shifting Investment Focus

Family offices are not just following a trend; they’re strategically positioning themselves in key segments of the AI market. One area of keen interest is AI-driven data classification. Family offices are investing in companies such as Cognaize, an Armenian software firm focused on financial data analytics, and Consai, a construction technology company with a presence in Qatar and Poland. These investments highlight a growing recognition of AI’s potential across diverse industries.

China’s AI Potential

Despite recent challenges in the Chinese economy, family offices are revisiting investment opportunities in China’s AI sector. The rise of DeepSeek and other domestic tech companies has shown that China is making significant strides in AI, often with fewer resources compared to its Western counterparts.

This shift is notable, especially after a period of decreased investment in China due to economic concerns and political uncertainties. However, with Beijing’s new stimulus measures aimed at revitalizing the economy and the tech sector, family offices are beginning to reconsider their positions.

For some, China is once again becoming an attractive market, especially in public markets and technology.

The Takeaway

AI is no longer a niche interest—it’s becoming a mainstream investment priority for Asia’s wealthiest families. While the U.S. and India continue to be key investment destinations, China’s increasing focus on AI presents a new opportunity for investors willing to take a fresh look at the region. As AI’s potential continues to unfold, family offices across Asia are positioning themselves to lead in this emerging sector.

The Transformative Potential Of AI: Could It Shape The Global Economy By 2035?

AI: A Game Changer for the Global Economy by 2035

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is poised to revolutionize the world economy. According to PwC Cyprus, AI could enhance the global gross domestic product (GDP) by as much as 15% by 2035. Cyprus’s AI Taskforce is already envisioning a future deeply integrated with these technologies.

Path to Economic Growth

PwC’s report, Value in Motion, suggests AI might contribute a 1% annual growth, mimicking the industrial revolution’s impact. However, this growth isn’t predestined. It hinges on technological success, responsible AI implementation, governance, and public trust.

Under scenarios of lower trust, projected growth might only reach 8%, or even drop to a mere 1%. Therefore, widespread collaboration is essential.

Industry Transformation and Climate Considerations

Industries are already realigning. PwC forecasts a shift of $7.1 trillion in revenues among companies by 2025, without even considering tariff impacts. For instance, the healthcare sector in Cyprus might benefit as cross-sector collaborations redefine market landscapes.

Climate change, however, poses a counterbalance. It could contract the global economy by nearly 7% in 2035. Yet, modest improvements in AI’s energy efficiency could negate this impact. A 1% boost in AI adoption need only spark a 0.1% drop in energy use to stay climate-neutral.

PwC’s Strategy for the Future

PwC plans to ride this AI wave through initiatives like launching agent OS, which streamlines AI agent workflows by up to tenfold. Training and expanding partnerships with tech giants such as AWS and Microsoft further bolster their AI endeavors.

Their Network AI Academy now trains over 291,000 individuals. By incorporating tools like ChatPwC and updating their Industry Edge portfolio, PwC is prepared for the AI-driven future.

As Mohamed Kande, PwC’s Global Chairman, states, “Transformative growth will come from tapping into evolving needs and reshaping business operations through technology.” PwC’s newest brand identity echoes this commitment, embodying progress through its redesigned logo and visual style.

The Future Forbes Realty Global Properties

Become a Speaker

Become a Speaker

Become a Partner

Subscribe for our weekly newsletter