Leading Securities

Leading Securities, formerly, CRIC Securities, a Hong Kong-based financial services firm, has undergone a remarkable transformation over the past three years. Once a dominant player in China's real estate investment banking sector, the company has adapted to evolving market dynamics by shifting its focus to asset management and later expanding to the burgeoning Japanese market.

“We help clients diversify their investments in the Japanese market, providing opportunities in real estate, mergers, acquisitions, and stable income assets,” states Laurence Hu, executive president at Leading Securities.

As CRIC Securities, the firm's traditional strengths lay in the real estate underwriting business, which experienced a major setback amidst the unpredictable shifts in Chinese real estate policies and market slowdown. However, it had been wisely investing in new capabilities and business portfolio that allowed it to smoothly reincarnate in this turmoil, transforming into the current ever-more-robust business model with fund management and Japan at its core, specializing in hedge funds with long-short arbitrage techniques, under its new name – Leading Securities. Drawing on its extensive research expertise in the real asset market, Leading Securities offers clients multiple investment opportunities while expertly navigating through market fluctuations to maintain consistent returns.

The firm offers a comprehensive suite of services that caters to various client segments. It uses its extensive database to provide valuable insights into the real estate market, particularly in mainland China. In addition, the company’s expertise in underwriting IPOs and high-yield bonds in Hong Kong makes it a trusted partner for raising capital. However, Leading Securities’ main focus at present is its robust fund management division which caters primarily to high-net-worth individuals and families. Serving as a multi-family office, Leading Securities manages its assets abroad and facilitates investments through avenues such as qualified domestic institutional investors (QDII), ensuring adherence to regulations.

Leading Securities’ commitment to client success is evident in its work with a prominent private equity (PE) fund. The market downturn prompted the fund to shift its focus from the equity market to seeking stable returns in alternative geographies. The firm, however, had the vision of building up its Japan presence in 2016, way ahead of the latest market trend, through the acquisition or majority investment in Japan’s “full-licensed” broker, Leading Securities. It facilitated a co-investment opportunity for the PE fund, as well as multiple family offices in Hong Kong. This visionary move has demonstrated its long-term ambition and strategy of moving into a full-service financial institution navigating clients’ diversified and evolving needs under the current geopolitical environment. The investment involved a group of hotels in Osaka, offering a steady income stream and exposure to the potential appreciation of the Japanese yen. Through this prosperous collaboration, Leading Securities has demonstrated its ability to provide clients with lucrative opportunities beyond traditional markets.
The firm's determination to uphold client-centricity is further exemplified by its highly qualified team with experience at leading global institutions, such as UBS, Deutsche Bank, Goldman Sachs, and JP Morgan. Their expertise in investment banking, asset management, and compliance enables them to have a thorough understanding of the market and adhere to the highest regulatory standards. “Our team, comprising professionals with global experience, ensures efficient cross-border transactions and personalized financial services,” adds Hu.

Besides, Leading Securities’ operating team demonstrates its fidelity to a culturally sensitive ethos. The firm recruits operating executives from universities in Hong Kong and China, as well as professionals with international experience and local knowledge, to ensure effective communication and seamless connections with both cross-border and local clients. Looking ahead, Leading Securities is well-positioned to capitalize on the growing economic ties between China and Japan. The firm aims to leverage its presence in both countries as a bridge that facilitates the flow of capital from China and Hong Kong to Japan. This strategic move aligns with the current market dynamics, exposing investors to the potential for stable returns and currency appreciation in Japan. Backed by adaptability, diversified service offerings, and an exceptional team, Leading Securities is poised to continue its successful journey, guiding clients toward unprecedented financial security and prosperity.