Entrepreneurs ramp up AI investment as 58% expect hiring growth

More than half expect integration to add employees over the next two years.

Nearly seven in 10 Hong Kong entrepreneurs plan to invest 11% to 30% of their annual revenue in artificial intelligence (AI) technologies over the next 12 months, compared with 61% globally, according to HSBC Private Bank.

Its Global Entrepreneurial Wealth Report 2026 also found that 58% of the city’s entrepreneurs expect AI integration to increase employee headcount, compared with 44% globally.

A further 55% of the city’s entrepreneurs believe AI will improve productivity, versus 43% globally, whilst 46% expect to spend significantly more on AI than they did last year.

The report, which surveyed more than 3,000 high net worth and ultra-high net worth entrepreneurs and founders worldwide, found that 98% of Hong Kong entrepreneurs have already adjusted, or plan to adjust, their business operations in response to AI.

Another 39% of the city’s entrepreneurs believe AI will help identify new markets and business opportunities.

Despite embracing AI, the city’s entrepreneurs remain concerned about implementation, with 42% citing the integration of AI into legacy systems and 41% citing employee resistance as key challenges.

“AI is a key driver of confidence, as business owners invest in technology to stay ahead of disruption. But technology alone can’t deliver sustained success,” said Lok Yim, Regional Head of HSBC Private Bank, Asia Pacific.

Yim added that entrepreneurs best placed to thrive will combine investment with the right connections, foresight, and sound risk strategy to turn opportunity into enduring growth.