Weekend Long Read: Tycoon Li Ka-Shing Explains Why Looking Ahead Is Key to Success

Caixin celebrated its 15th anniversary by republishing several interviews with influential figures in China, offering insights into critical issues such as economic transformation and the China-U.S. rivalry. Among these interviews was a two-part conversation with Hong Kong tycoon Li Ka-shing. The first part occurred at the end of 2013 when Li faced public scrutiny over withdrawing investments from the Chinese mainland, while the second occurred in March 2018 when Li retired at age 90.[para. 1][para. 2]

During the four years leading up to his retirement, Li shifted his investment focus overseas, successfully expanding his business empire through cross-border mergers and acquisitions. Upon retiring, Li handed leadership of CK Hutchison Holdings Ltd. to his eldest son, Victor, and largely retreated from the public eye.[para. 3][para. 4][para. 5]

In reflecting on his life and career, Li emphasized that the complexities of global and social issues require regions like Hong Kong and Singapore to carefully determine their growth strategies. Li also noted that despite witnessing increased populist sentiments, which he likened to "a wild horse," the focus should remain on mitigating the wealth gap and reforming education to encourage upward mobility.[para. 6][para. 9][para. 10]

Li cautioned against politicians exploiting public sentiment for self-interest, suggesting that societal discord could hurt economic vitality. Instead, he advocated for reforms in education and technological development as pivotal to bridging the wealth gap, urging the Hong Kong government to create conditions conducive to technological advancement.[para. 11][para. 12][para. 13]

With Hong Kong experiencing changes in governance over the years, Li emphasized the importance of the rule of law and nurturing human capital to maintain competitiveness. Citing the example of Israel's commitment to innovation, he encouraged looking at policies that support both local and international investments.[para. 19][para. 20][para. 21]

Li held a complex outlook of Hong Kong's relationship with mainland China and the Shanghai Free Trade Zone. He saw the Free Trade Zone as a potential boon for Hong Kong, stressing the need for adaptive strategies concerning opportunities abroad.[para. 32][para. 33][para. 34]

Addressing the future of global business, Li was optimistic about synthetic biology and noted his investments in this area, predicting that DNA could be as transformative in the 21st century as synthetic chemistry was in the 20th. He discussed the need for countries to plan for future technological advancements and address fundamental shifts in industries and employment brought by such changes.[para. 47][para. 48][para. 49]

Li's investment philosophy appeared guided by a blend of strategic foresight and pragmatism, highlighting a need for diversified global investments to manage risks. He also stressed the importance of governance and economic environments that support investment, countries' roles in fostering economic prosperity, and the critical role of continuous investment in human capital.[para. 43][para. 44][para. 57]

Despite his retirement, Li continues to hold influential views on Hong Kong's evolving place in the broader global economy, urging for broadening economic bases beyond real estate and finance for sustainable development. His life story is a tale of diligence and resilience, with significant contributions to business and society being hallmarks of his long-lasting legacy.[para. 52][para. 53][para. 67]

Ultimately, Li's reflections on his career and strategies revealed profound insights into the mechanics and philosophies driving one of the most successful business leaders of his generation, offering guidance for future generations on adaptability, responsibility, and societal contributions.[para. 78]