Hugh Chung, Chief Investment Officer at Endowus, shared how the firm is redefining wealth management by combining institutional-grade investment strategies with digital innovation. Speaking at the Hubbis Independent Wealth Management Forum, he highlighted how Endowus uses technology to lower costs and improve access, especially for the underserved mass affluent segment. The platform offers curated, transparent portfolios without commissions, ensuring true alignment with client interests. Endowus has also gained traction with private market GPs, thanks to its growing scale and independent model. Chung emphasised the firm's commitment to client education, independence, and building high-integrity portfolios through a blend of tech and advisory expertise.

In her latest column for the Hong Kong Economic Times, Steffanie Yuen, Endowus’ Head of Hong Kong, offers five key strategies for investors navigating global market volatility amid escalating tariff tensions. She emphasises diversification across regions, industries, and asset classes to cushion against market shocks. Emotional discipline is critical, as panic-driven decisions often harm long-term returns. Yuen also encourages incorporating alternative assets and goal-based investing, even in retirement, to enhance portfolio resilience. Finally, she underscores the importance of consistent, long-term investing over market timing, urging investors to stay the course despite short-term uncertainty.

Samuel Rhee, co-founder and Chairman at Endowus, commented on the shift toward alternative investments amid heightened US-China trade tensions and market volatility. As traditional markets face increasing uncertainty, investors are turning to alternatives such as private credit, private equity, and hedge funds for stability and diversification. Private credit, in particular, offers lower correlation to public markets and is backed by strong collateral, making it a resilient option in uncertain times. Rhee highlighted that diversification is thriving, with investors recalibrating strategies as confidence in US exceptionalism begins to wane.

Endowus tripled its investments in alternatives in 2024, surpassing US$350 million, with strong interest from high-net-worth clients. To meet this demand, Endowus launched Private Credit and Private Equity solutions, giving accredited investors in Singapore and professional investors in Hong Kong access to top-tier managers like Apollo, Ares, Blackstone, and Carlyle through a single, semi-liquid vehicle. These offerings are made available via a partnership with iCapital. As private markets gain traction for their diversification benefits, Endowus aims to address the accessibility and education gaps for investors seeking new sources of return.

Samuel Rhee, co-founder and Chairman of Endowus, highlighted the recent shift in investor behaviour amid heightened market volatility, noting that more clients are reallocating their funds into safer, uncorrelated strategies such as money market funds, high-quality fixed income, and private credit. He emphasised that in uncertain environments, adopting resilient investment approaches can help preserve capital while maintaining long-term financial stability.

Gregory Van, Endowus’ CEO, shared insights on the firm’s expanding footprint in Asia following its US$35 million fundraising round. Beyond fueling growth, Endowus is focused on boosting brand awareness, advancing its AI capabilities, and exploring potential acquisition opportunities —particularly as it strengthens its presence in Hong Kong. As its client base continues to grow, Endowus has also introduced an AI-powered chatbot designed to assist with operational queries, complementing the support traditionally provided by its advisers.

Hugh Chung, Endowus’ Chief Investment Officer, shared insights on the firm’s strategic approach to goal-based investing. Unlike traditional private banks that prioritize product sales and commissions, Endowus focuses on aligning investment solutions with clients’ financial goals. By curating diversified, cost-effective portfolios and expanding private market offerings—including hedge funds, private credit, and private equity—the firm empowers investors with holistic, risk-adjusted strategies.

Gregory Van, CEO of Endowus, shared key tips on how to make the most of your bonus this season. The first step is to assess the type of bonus received—whether it’s a one-time windfall or a recurring incentive. From there, balance between immediate gratification and long-term growth by considering how compounding can help achieve future financial goals.

Endowus partnered with Twilio to enhance platform security and protect its 250,000+ clients in Singapore and Hong Kong. Twilio Verify adds SMS and WhatsApp OTP authentication to prevent bot sign-ups and fraud, while Fraud Guard detects suspicious activity early. Since implementation, Endowus has achieved a 98% WhatsApp verification success rate and minimized false positives. Deepak Sarda, Endowus’ Chief Technology Officer, emphasised the firm's commitment to safeguarding client data and ensuring secure transactions.

Endowus Hong Kong saw strong capital inflows in early 2025, continuing January’s momentum. Clients favour a “barbell” investment strategy, balancing conservative assets like bonds with alternative investments. While there is limited demand for Hong Kong stock-focused funds, the industry remains optimistic about tech fund launches. Endowus also sees strong interest in fixed-income products and is increasing investment education efforts for women in Hong Kong.

According to Endowus' 2023 Wealth Insights Report, 45% of women seek third-party financial advice, compared to 28% of men, reflecting a more deliberate approach to investing. By fostering financial transparency, setting shared goals, and prioritising long-term investments, couples can strengthen their financial security. Women, who typically live longer but save less for retirement, should focus on building wealth early to ensure long-term independence and stability.

(From 54:41) Hugh Chung, Endowus’ Chief Investment Officer, discusses market reactions amid ongoing volatility. Recent trade tensions and shifting economic policies have weakened U.S. growth expectations, leading to a softer dollar and increased market uncertainty. He highlighted the importance of diversification and exposure to global markets during these times.