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Business Leader of the Week: Meet Lee Shau-kee, Hong Kong’s real estate giant

IFM_Lee Shau-kee
Lee Shau-kee is known as 'Uncle Four,' one of the very few fourth-born children in the world to have become a multi-billionaire

Henderson Land Development Company Limited has become one of Hong Kong’s top real estate developers, significantly impacting the dynamic property market of the city. Operating as a multifaceted real estate conglomerate, the company is involved in residential, commercial, and industrial property development, investment, and management. Hong Kong’s urban landscape has been significantly shaped by Henderson Land.

The International Finance Centre, a famous commercial complex located in the centre of Hong Kong’s Central District, is essential to Henderson Land’s history.

The International Finance Centre, which consists of two skyscrapers, is evidence of the business’ dedication to excellence and innovation in the built environment. In addition to changing Hong Kong’s skyline, this flagship project has strengthened Henderson Land’s standing as a major force in the international real estate market.

Henderson Land has made significant contributions to the residential sector in addition to its commercial endeavours. The business has played a significant role in creating high-quality housing projects that meet the various housing needs of the people living in Hong Kong. These developments frequently incorporate cutting-edge amenities, eco-friendly design principles, and community-focused elements, demonstrating Henderson Land’s adaptability to changing market conditions.

Henderson Land has demonstrated strong financial performance by skilfully navigating the intricacies of the real estate market and economic fluctuations. The company has a global presence that goes beyond Hong Kong as a result of its deliberate international market expansion, which highlights its resilience and strength on a large scale.

Recognising the importance of sustainable development, Henderson Land places a strong emphasis on incorporating green and energy-efficient elements into its projects. This company’s dedication to environmentally responsible practices is reflected in its commitment to sustainability, which sets a standard for the industry and aligns with global trends.

Henderson Land actively participates in the community through corporate social responsibility and charitable endeavours in addition to its commercial activities. The business donates to numerous charitable causes, educational initiatives, and community development projects because it understands its place in the larger social context. This commitment to community well-being strengthens Henderson Land’s positive reputation and fosters a sense of shared responsibility.

Henderson Land Development Company Limited is a pillar of the real estate sector, defined by its iconic projects, visionary leadership, and dedication to sustainability, and involvement in the community. Henderson Land’s legacy is deeply ingrained in the architectural fabric of Hong Kong, reflecting its enduring impact on the city’s urban development, as it continues to navigate the constantly changing real estate landscape.

The brain behind this successful venture is 95-year-old Lee Shau-kee, Business magnate and investor. He is the founder of Henderson Land Development Company Limited.

    Who is Lee Shau-kee?

  • Lee Shau-kee was born on 7 March 1928 in Shunde, Guangdong, China
  • He was the Chairman and Managing Director of the Company since 1976
  • In 2019, Lee Shau-kee stepped down from the post in favour of two of his sons, Peter and Martin Lee
  • He now retains a role as an executive director
  • The real estate giant is one of the main sponsors of the ‘HKICC Lee Shau Kee School of Creativity’, having donated more than HK$20 million through the Lee Shau Kee Foundation
  • Lee Shau-kee was awarded the honorary degree of Doctor of Social Science by the Chinese University
  • In July 2021, his wealth is estimated to be USD 33.0 billion, making him the second wealthiest man in Hong Kong (behind Li Ka-shing), and the 43rd richest in the world
  • Since 2006, Lee Shau-kee has accrued profits from his holdings of Mainland-controlled stocks
  • Lee Shau-kee is also known as ‘Uncle Four,’ one of the very few fourth-born children in the world to have become a multi-billionaire

Henderson Faces Cost Quandary

As per a Lands Tribunal ruling, Hong Kong developer Henderson Land has been granted permission to sell one of the two blocks in the renowned Champagne Court, located in the centre of the Tsim Sha Tsui district of Hong Kong, on a compulsory basis.

The developer plans to renovate the ageing property into a 23-story commercial building with retail stores, offices, and a restaurant on the top floor. These plans were submitted with the application for the compulsory sale.

The developer is unsure of the advantages of going ahead and buying the remaining portions of a property that was valued at HK$1.73 billion (USD 220 million) in October 2022, though, given the continuous decline in Hong Kong commercial real estate values.

Over the following year, costs have increased and valuations have fallen.

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