Early Life and Education
Richard Li Tzar-kai was born in 1966 in Hong Kong. He is the youngest son of Li Ka-shing, one of Hong Kong's wealthiest individuals. Richard attended St. Paul's Co-educational College in Hong Kong and later studied computer engineering at Stanford University, though he withdrew after three years. During his education, he gained some early work experience at McDonald's and as a caddy.
Rise to Success
Richard Li's career began in the 1990s with the founding of STAR TV, a pan-Asian satellite-television network. He sold STAR TV to Rupert Murdoch's News Corp in 1993 and 1995. Following the sale, Li founded the Pacific Century Group (PCG) in 1993, an investment firm with diverse interests, including financial services, technology, and telecommunications. PCG acquired PCCW in 2000, and under his leadership, PCCW developed groundbreaking services. In 2010, PCG acquired the asset management business of AIG Investments, which was renamed PineBridge Investments. Additionally, in 2013, PCG founded FWD Group, an insurance company that has expanded throughout Asia.
Key Business Strategies
Richard Li's business strategy focuses on investment and expansion across several sectors. A core strategy has been the acquisition of companies and assets, such as AIG Investments and the insurance business of ING Groep N.V.. Under his leadership, PCG has invested in telecommunications, media, and technology, creating a diversified portfolio. Li has overseen the development of innovative services, including the launch of the first major IPTV service.
Philanthropy
Richard Li is known for his philanthropic efforts, with a particular focus on education and healthcare. He has made donations to support various causes, including relief efforts during the SARS outbreak and the COVID-19 pandemic. Richard has also donated to the Canadian National Arts Centre Foundation.