Joseph Lau's Biography

Joseph Lau Luen-hung is a renowned Hong Kong billionaire and real estate magnate, best known as the former chairman and CEO of Chinese Estates Holdings. Born on July 21, 1951, Lau has played a pivotal role in shaping Hong Kong’s property landscape since acquiring Chinese Estates in 1986. Under his leadership, the company expanded aggressively, amassing a vast portfolio of commercial and residential properties in one of the world’s most competitive markets. Lau is also famous for his extravagant lifestyle, including record-breaking purchases of art, wine, and jewelry—most notably, buying two rare diamonds for his daughter. Despite his business successes, Lau's reputation has been marred by legal controversies, especially his 2014 conviction in Macau for bribery and money laundering. Nevertheless, he remains an influential figure in Asian business circles and is known for his philanthropic contributions. As of 2024, Lau's estimated net worth stands at $13 billion, reflecting both the volatility and resilience of his investments. His story exemplifies the highs and lows of modern entrepreneurship in Asia’s financial hub.