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.

U.S. Regulatory Climate Attracts Nearly Half Of Israeli Startups For Incorporation

Overview Of A Shifting Landscape

The Israel Advanced Technology Industries Association (IATI) has revealed a striking trend: nearly 45 percent of startups in 2025 are incorporating outside Israel. This marks a significant departure from 2022, when approximately 80 percent of new companies registered domestically. The shift is largely attributed to the relatively easier regulatory environment in the United States, with Delaware emerging as a preferred hub.

Government Policy And Economic Ripple Effects

The tide began to turn in 2023 when an anticipated overhaul of Israel’s judicial system prompted many startups to look abroad. Although the controversial reforms were set aside following the October 7, 2023 attacks and the subsequent conflict, the momentum for U.S. incorporation has persisted. Industry leaders have raised alarms about these trends, warning that the relocation of economic activity abroad could undermine the strong global reputation of Israel’s high-tech sector, which is a critical driver of national economic performance.

Industry Voices And Strategic Concerns

Dan Shamgar, chair of the IATI’s lawyers and accountants committee and partner at the Meitar law firm, emphasized, “Incorporation abroad gradually shifts economic activity out of Israel and erodes the brand of Israeli high-tech.” Shamgar highlighted that while U.S. policies in the past year have actively encouraged companies to register and operate domestically, economic policymakers in Israel have yet to implement comparable incentives. The absence of robust governmental support raises questions about maintaining the nation’s competitive edge in high technology, which encompasses roughly 20 percent of the country’s economic activity, 15 percent of its jobs, and more than half of its exports.

Challenges And The Road Ahead

Further concerns at the IATI conference include the sector’s reliance on foreign capital, with domestic investment lagging behind, and the critical need for renewed focus on health technology—a market segment that has recently experienced a downturn. These issues underscore the imperative for state intervention to ensure that Israeli high-tech companies continue to thrive on home soil.

Conclusion

The current trend of startups incorporating in the United States is symptomatic of broader regulatory and economic challenges facing the Israeli high-tech industry. As global competition intensifies, the call for policy reforms and strategic incentives in Israel becomes ever more urgent. How the government responds in the coming months will be pivotal for preserving the nation’s high-tech legacy and securing the future of its economic ecosystem.

The Future Forbes Realty Global Properties

Become a Speaker

Become a Speaker

Become a Partner

Subscribe for our weekly newsletter