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On 22 May 2026, our Partner, Calvin Lo, was invited by AIA’s Vendici Family to act as the keynote speaker for a seminar titled “Hong Kong Trusts and Wealth Succession Planning”, held in Guangzhou. Mr Lo is a Trust and Estate Practitioner (TEP) of the Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners (STEP) and a Certified Trust Practitioner (CTP) of the Hong Kong Trustees’ Association.
Addressing the core requirements of high-net-worth individuals, the seminar provided attendees with a comprehensive analysis of modern wealth succession instruments and cutting-edge regulatory policies.
During the session, Mr Lo introduced key succession planning tools—including wills, enduring powers of attorney, and trusts—highlighting the distinct advantages of trusts in asset protection and family wealth preservation. He broke down the pivotal roles within trust structures and offered practical insights into trust deeds, letters of wishes, structural design, and the selection of jurisdictions. The presentation also covered ongoing administration and the definition of family offices, concluding with a detailed look at the zero-tax concession for Family Investment Holding Vehicles (FIHVs) under Schedule 16E of the Hong Kong Inland Revenue Ordinance.
Using the famous Zhang Lan case as a lesson, Mr Lo explained how improper administration of trust and excessive reserved powers and control would adversely impact the asset protection functions of a trust. Mr Lo also used practical case studies to highlight the risks of neglecting succession planning, such as severe probate complications, financial strain on surviving family members, and legal disputes triggered by forced heirship regimes in Mainland China and Europe.
The event was attended by high-net-worth individuals, family business owners, and wealth management professionals and was well-received by the full-house audience.
