*"Asia-Pacific’s HNWIs are increasingly focused on preserving wealth across generations, rather than merely accumulating it. Our goal is to provide the infrastructure and expertise they need to achieve this," said James Ardent, CEO of Ardent Family Office, during the announcement of the firm's new regional headquarters in Singapore.*
Ardent Family Office, a leading provider of bespoke family office services, has officially established its Asia-Pacific regional headquarters in Singapore, a move designed to cater to the region's burgeoning population of ultra-high-net-worth individuals (UHNWIs). The firm, headquartered in Zurich, cited the city-state’s robust regulatory framework, strategic location, and growing appeal among wealthy families as key factors behind the decision.
The expansion marks a strategic pivot for Ardent, reflecting the firm’s recognition of Asia’s rapidly growing wealth. According to the Knight Frank Wealth Report, the number of UHNWIs in Asia is projected to surpass that of North America by 2026, with Singapore emerging as a preferred hub for wealth management due to its favorable tax regime, political stability, and advanced financial ecosystem.
Founded in 1968, Ardent Family Office has built a reputation for providing tailored solutions that go beyond traditional wealth management. The firm specializes in multi-generational wealth preservation, governance structures, philanthropy advising, and cross-border tax optimization. By setting up operations in Singapore, Ardent aims to offer its Asian clients localized expertise, including navigating regional tax laws, cultural nuances, and estate planning challenges unique to the region.
*"Singapore is not just a gateway to Asia; it is a hub for innovation in wealth management,"* Ardent said, underscoring the strategic importance of the new office. The firm plans to hire a team of regional experts fluent in Mandarin, Cantonese, and Bahasa Indonesia, signaling its commitment to understanding and addressing the specific needs of its diverse clientele.
The announcement also highlights a broader trend of global family offices expanding their footprints in Asia. Over the past decade, Singapore has introduced initiatives such as the Variable Capital Company (VCC) structure and tax incentives under the Global Investor Programme (GIP) to cement its position as a global wealth hub. Ardent Family Office’s move is likely to further bolster Singapore’s reputation as a magnet for global wealth managers.
As Asia-Pacific’s UHNWIs increasingly prioritize wealth transfer and legacy planning, the demand for personalized and holistic family office services is expected to grow. By aligning its offerings with these needs, Ardent Family Office aims to strengthen its foothold in the region while forging long-term partnerships with Asia’s wealthiest families.
In closing, Ardent remarked, *"The values of trust, discretion, and innovation that have defined our success in Europe remain the foundation of our expansion into Asia. We see this as the beginning of a transformative journey, both for us and for the families we serve."*
The establishment of its Singapore hub positions Ardent Family Office as a key player in the evolving wealth management landscape of Asia-Pacific, underscoring the global shift in economic power towards the East.
(Editors: admin)