Citi Private Bank: Asia-Pacific Family Offices Increase Investment in Stocks and Significantly Increase Direct Investments

Citibank's Global Family Office Group has released the "2024 Family Office Survey," showcasing new trends in family offices in the Asia Pacific region and globally. The report indicates that Asia Pacific family offices are leading the way in investing more funds in stocks, while also increasing direct investments. The survey shows that 68% of family offices in the region have increased their investments in stocks, a higher percentage than in other regions. 48% expressed optimism about the outlook of global developed stock markets, while 49% and 48% respectively showed confidence in the prospects of direct private equity and private equity funds. In terms of direct investments, the Asia Pacific region is the most active, with 69% of respondents in the region indicating that they have increased or significantly increased their direct investment activities. The report reveals that respondents are interested in participating in merger and acquisition activities: strategic acquisitions account for 20%, joint ventures for 23%, divestitures for 9%, and mergers for 14%. 63% of respondents in the region expect their investment portfolios to grow by 10% or more in the coming year, a higher percentage than in other regions. This report is the fifth annual survey report, covering the investment sentiment, investment portfolio positioning, family governance, and best practices of family office clients in 2024. This year's survey set a record in terms of the number of respondents, making it the most globally comprehensive survey of its kind, with 21% of respondents from the Asia Pacific region. Hannes Hofmann, Head of Global Family Office Business at Citibank Private Bank, said, "We are pleased to share this year's survey results with everyone, delving into the investment status and priorities of some of the most diverse and experienced family offices globally. Over the past two years, the number of global respondents has increased from 126 to 338, reflecting the need for insightful insights into the key challenges and opportunities that family offices are currently facing. The wide-ranging questions in the survey cover the most pressing global issues, showcasing the important shifts in the focus and interests of respondents. We look forward to continuing to work closely with family offices, providing comprehensive support from the Citigroup group to help some of the most globalized and experienced investors worldwide achieve their ambitious goals and meet their needs."