Bitcoin's Potential Inclusion in Hong Kong's Investment Immigration Program Sparks Interest

Amidst the surging popularity of Bitcoin (BTC) and the broader adoption of cryptocurrencies worldwide, the Hong Kong government is strategically positioning itself as a prominent hub for Web3 and crypto activities. In a bid to attract family offices, the government has introduced the “Capital Investor Entry Scheme,” with an entry threshold of NT$30 million, targeting high-net-worth individuals to catalyze financial activity and investments within the region.

Family offices, serving as private wealth management firms for affluent individuals and families, offer services such as investment management and financial planning. Hong Kong’s objective is to entice these offices, fostering financial growth and investment within the region.

The Capital Investor Entry Scheme, unveiled in March, has garnered global interest, evidenced by inquiries from clients worldwide. Despite the appeal of tax incentives, concerns raised by lawmakers regarding potential asset movements due to political considerations pose challenges to the initiative.

The surge in demand for such initiatives is driven by factors such as the potential approval of BlackRock’s spot Bitcoin ETFs/Ethereum ETFs and the breakthrough of Bitcoin prices surpassing the significant $31,000 level. Notably, major financial institutions, technology giants, and several prominent firms globally are embracing blockchain technology and gearing up for cryptocurrency adoption.

On November 13, 2023, Hong Kong resumed its investment immigration program, excluding real estate and mainlanders. PwC notes client interest in the program due to low tax rates and the absence of inheritance tax. While the entry threshold may increase to NT$30 million, the seven-year timeline for permanent residence is expected to attract high-end clientele.

Lawmakers are contemplating clarifications on asset classifications, including the consideration of Bitcoin as a financial product. Debates surrounding property purchases aim to stimulate the real estate market, and there are suggestions for tax relief to broaden eligible asset classes beyond traditional investments, acknowledging family offices’ interest in alternative products like art, wine, and virtual assets.

Despite the aspirations to have 200 family offices settled or expanded in the city by 2025, official statistics on current family office numbers are not available. Experts emphasize the importance of attracting family offices from the Middle East, underscoring the need to establish trust and build connections in that region.

Challenges persist, such as the exclusion of certain investment categories from the current preferential tax system, requiring optimization to accommodate the structures of family offices, often holding interest-earning assets.