Singapore Tops Southeast Asia in High-Net-Worth Individuals

According to The Wealth Report 2025 by Knight Frank, Singapore boasts 9,674 high-net-worth individuals, making up 0.4% of the global total. This impressive figure is largely attributed to the government's pro-business policies, which have significantly contributed to the wealth accumulation among its citizens.

Global Perspective on Wealth

Kallum Pickering, chief economist at U.K. investment bank Peel Hunt, highlights the contrast between Europe's regulatory environment and Singapore's business-friendly approach, which attracts investors seeking better returns. Singapore is also a preferred location for family offices, alongside cities like London, New York, and Hong Kong.

Investment Hotspots and Wealth Distribution

Singapore ranks fourth globally for cross-border investment, attracting $5 billion in overseas private capital. In Southeast Asia, Thailand and Indonesia follow Singapore, with 9,192 and 8,120 high-net-worth individuals respectively. Globally, the U.S. leads with 905,400 high-net-worth individuals, showcasing its unparalleled ability to generate and attract wealth.

The mobility of wealth is increasing, with significant impacts on housing markets in cities like Miami, Palm Beach, and Aspen in the U.S., indicating a trend towards concentrated wealth in specific global hotspots.