HKUST Business School Magazine

“We need to continue to help young people to be successful,” Lo says. “I love the property business, but I think the younger generation should branch out and look more at technology. But they must know what they are doing, be totally into it, and get their hands dirty. I don’t see success coming in any other way.” For the handling and investment of private family assets, it is similarly important to keep up with the times. In essence, that means not just looking for regular returns, but also using available funds to do something more, whether through philanthropy, education, or supporting new ventures. “In this, I always emphasize the family values and culture,” Lo says. “You need to know what you are and what you want to be. I believe we, as a family, want to make progress, be ahead of the times, and help to shape what our industry will be like in 20 years in a very objective and systematic way.” A sense of pride The group’s main focus is still the China property market. With the major correction there dragging on, the pace of investment has slowed, though opportunities do exist to acquire prime sites in good locations with an eye to future development. “I believe China, a market we know well, will be the future,” Lo says. “But I will bring that view to the family council and the business council and see if they agree with me.” In other respects, there is an understandable sense of pride in knowing that the corporate mission statement he wrote around 40 years ago still holds true. It has shaped the way the group’s companies are run and has inspired a philosophy that aims at growth, improvement, doing one’s best, and leaving a positive legacy which goes beyond the confines of the current business. You need to know what you are and what you want to be Dr. Vincent Lo Chairman of Shui On Group Biz@HKUST 19