Hugh Chung, Endowus’ Chief Investment Officer, weighed in on the growing uncertainty around the 60/40 portfolio strategy. Traditionally seen as a balanced approach to investing, the allocation of 60% equities and 40% bonds has faced headwinds amid persistent inflation and rising geopolitical tensions. Chung noted that sticky inflation may prompt interest rate hikes, which can negatively impact bond values, while also warning that stagflation could pressure equities. With stock valuations already stretched, it is important for investors to build diversified portfolios across asset classes and geographies.

Hugh Chung, Chief Investment Advisory Officer at Endowus, shared that while private market investments can offer attractive long-term returns and diversification, retail investors need to be aware of the unique characteristics of these assets. These include longer investment horizons, less frequent liquidity, and greater complexity compared to public markets. In addition, it is important that retail investors should also seek independent financial advisers with strong credentials and aligned interests to ensure they receive high-quality, objective, and conflict-free advice. He further emphasised the importance of investor education, professional advice, and diversification across sectors and strategies to mitigate concentration and liquidity risks.

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.

Hugh Chung, Chief Investment Officer at Endowus, advises investors to focus on “time in the markets” rather than attempting to time the market amid current volatility triggered by US tariff developments. He notes that reacting emotionally—such as selling off risk assets or staying out of the market—can lead to missed opportunities. Instead, he encourages a disciplined, long-term approach to investing, especially during uncertain periods.

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.

CNA reports on how investors should remain cautious amid ongoing market volatility triggered by sweeping US tariffs. While markets remain under pressure, Hugh Chung, Chief Investment Officer at Endowus, highlights the importance of portfolio diversification. He notes that high-quality bonds are becoming increasingly valuable as a volatility dampener, especially with rising recession risks. Investors are encouraged to reassess their asset allocation and understand the trade-offs of different investment options—such as yield, lock-up periods, duration, minimum investment thresholds, and fees—before making decisions.

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.

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.

(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.

Endowus is transforming wealth management in Asia by offering independent, low-cost, and technology-driven investment solutions. Co-founder and Chairman Samuel Rhee, former CEO and CIO of Morgan Stanley Investment Asia, drives the firm’s mission to democratise institutional-grade investments, advocating for transparency in how advisors are remunerated. Endowus pioneered the 100% rebate on trailer fees to customers and encourages the fee-only advice model. With a mission to address the retirement adequacy gap, Endowus initially focused on CPF investments in Singapore, and has expanded to serve a broad client base, including high-net-worth individuals and institutions, with offerings ranging from cash management to private markets. Looking ahead, Rhee envisions a future of hyper-personalised, AI-driven wealth management as Endowus accelerates growth in Hong Kong and expands its presence across Asia.