UBS launches digital hub in Hong Kong to help link tech start-ups with its high-net-worth clients
The facility plans to host client tours and industry tech events, and even start-up speed dating
UBS, the Swiss global financial services company, has opened a new digital centre in Hong Kong to try and help link up tech start-ups with some of its most successful high-net-worth clients, potentially as investors.
Amy Lo, chairman and head of Greater China at UBS Wealth Management, called the new venture “a platform for engagement, networking and knowledge sharing among our clients and the tech start-ups”.
“It can allow them to explore what technologies are affecting their industries, which could disrupt the way people do business, and live their personal lives in future”, referring to the use of so called “disruptive technology”, or technology that significantly alters the way that a business operates. The most recognised examples include smartphones and e-commerce retailing.
UBS’ “The Digital Hub” plans to host client tours and industry tech events, and even start-up speed dating, “bringing clients and start-ups closer together to forge collaborations”, as well as “exploring cutting-edge technologies to identify opportunities and address challenges” faced by UBS itself.
It is based Tsim Sha Tsui in Kowloon and has so far mainly targeted clients in the retail, manufacturing, and property sectors. It has also hosted tech events related to the fintech and logistics industries.
UBS said its main clients have net worth ranging between US$2 million and US$50 million.