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Asia’s Wealthy Families Are Betting Big On AI

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

April 2, 2025

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.

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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.

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Bank Of England Holds Rates At 3.75% In Split Vote As Inflation Risks Rise

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

September 17, 2026

The Bank of England kept its benchmark interest rate at 3.75% on Thursday, but the decision was not unanimous. In a 6-3 vote, the Monetary Policy Committee kept rates unchanged, while three members backed a 25-basis-point increase to 4%. Renewed energy price pressures have added to concerns that inflation could remain elevated.

Inflation Pressures Remain

Policymakers said inflation “is likely to rise further over coming quarters,” citing higher and more volatile crude oil and refined energy prices since the conflict began.

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So far, there has been “little evidence” of significant second-round effects, such as broader wage and price increases. Inflation risks, however, are now “tilted to the upside” and have increased since the July Monetary Policy Report.

Energy Prices Add To Inflation Risks

Brent crude has risen 36% since July, reaching $106 a barrel on Sept. 14, while UK wholesale gas prices increased 78% to 207 pence per therm.

Higher energy costs can feed into transport, production and household expenses, raising costs across supply chains. Refinery pressures have also pushed crack spreads, the difference between refined fuel and crude prices, well above pre-conflict levels.

Economy Shows Resilience

Despite the inflation risks, UK economic activity has held up slightly better than the Bank expected. A softer labor market and higher borrowing costs are expected to help reduce inflation over time.

Previous monetary tightening is still working through the economy, according to policymakers. So far, the latest energy shock has not produced clear evidence of a broader wage-price spiral.

Major Central Banks Take Different Paths

The decision comes during a busy period for global monetary policy. The Federal Reserve raised rates Wednesday to 3.75%-4% in its first increase since 2023, while the European Central Bank recently lifted its deposit rate to 2.5%.

The Bank of Japan is due to announce its decision Friday, with markets expecting a rate increase. Thursday’s split vote shows that pressure for tighter policy remains within the Bank of England’s Monetary Policy Committee.