The world of family offices is inherently discreet, focused on the long-term preservation and growth of generational wealth. Choosing a base of operations is one of the most critical decisions a family can make, as it impacts everything from investment opportunities and talent acquisition to regulatory burdens and lifestyle.
While the ‘best’ city can be subjective based on a family’s specific needs, origins, and goals, several global hubs consistently rise to the top due to a powerful combination of financial infrastructure, legal stability, and strategic advantages.
Based on the key criteria for family offices — financial ecosystem & access, regulatory & tax environment, professional talent pool, connectivity & lifestyle, and political & economic stability — here are the top five cities in the world for family offices.
1. Singapore: The Asian Powerhouse
Singapore has aggressively positioned itself as the premier family office hub in Asia and a leading contender globally. Its rise is no accident; it is the result of deliberate government policy designed to attract ultra-high-net-worth individuals (UHNWIs).
- Why it ranks #1: Singapore offers a compelling package of political stability, a robust common law legal system, and an extremely favorable tax environment. Specifically, family offices can often obtain exemption from Singapore’s fund tax regime, leading to tax efficiency on investment income.
- Key Advantages:
- Strategic Gateway: It serves as the perfect gateway for families looking to access the growth opportunities and markets across Southeast Asia and China.
- Talent and Infrastructure: The city-state boasts a deep pool of experienced bankers, lawyers, and investment professionals specializing in wealth management. Its financial infrastructure is world-class.
- Safety and Liveability: Consistently ranked one of the safest cities in the world with an exceptional quality of life, it is an attractive place for families to reside.
2. London: The Established European Titan
A long-standing center of global finance, London remains a powerhouse for family offices due to its profound depth and history.
- Why it ranks #2: London’s primary strength is the sheer scale and sophistication of its financial ecosystem. It offers unrivalled access to a vast array of asset managers, private equity, venture capital, and alternative investments.
- Key Advantages:
- Deep Talent Pool: It is home to the largest concentration of family office professionals in Europe, with expertise in everything from legacy planning to impact investing.
- Global Connectivity: Excellent flight links to the Americas, Middle East, and Asia make it a perfectly connected hub for globally-minded families.
- Cultural & Educational Offerings: World-class universities, arts, culture, and healthcare make it a desirable long-term base for families.
3. Zurich: The Epitome of Stability and Discretion
The heart of the Swiss banking tradition, Zurich embodies the private, stable, and service-oriented environment that family offices cherish.
- Why it ranks #3: Zurich is synonymous with political and economic stability, banking discretion, and a highly predictable regulatory framework. For families prioritizing capital preservation above all, it is a top choice.
- Key Advantages:
- Private Banking Expertise: It offers unparalleled expertise in private banking and wealth management, built over centuries.
- High Quality of Life: Nestled by a lake and the Alps, it offers a pristine environment with a very high standard of living.
- Multilingual Talent: The professional workforce is highly educated and fluent in multiple languages, facilitating international business.
4. New York: The Epicenter of Capital and Innovation
As the financial capital of the world’s largest economy, New York is an undeniable magnet for family offices seeking direct access to deal flow and innovation.
- Why it ranks #4: New York is unmatched for direct access to capital markets, venture capital, private equity, and hedge funds. It is the ideal base for families with an aggressive, investment-focused strategy.
- Key Advantages:
- Deal Flow: Proximity to Wall Street and Silicon Alley provides unparalleled access to investment opportunities and innovators.
- Advisor Network: It hosts the largest concentration of legal, accounting, and consulting firms with dedicated family office practices.
- Diversity of Assets: From real estate and art to tech startups and philanthropy, the range of asset classes and experts is immense.
5. Hong Kong: The Gateway to China (Amidst Evolution)
Despite recent geopolitical challenges, Hong Kong retains its vital role as a financial gateway and a hub for family offices, particularly those with interests in Greater China.
- Why it ranks #5: Hong Kong’s key strength remains its unique position as a bridge between international capital and Chinese markets. It maintains a low-tax regime, a common law legal system, and free flow of capital.
- Key Advantages:
- China Access: Its proximity and deep ties to mainland China are its most significant and unique advantage for certain families.
- Established Infrastructure: It possesses a mature and sophisticated financial infrastructure with deep liquidity.
- Wealth Concentration: A high density of UHNWIs in the region creates a natural ecosystem for family office services.