As succession planning and entrepreneurship gain importance for affluent families in Southeast Asia, OCBC has enhanced its GENesis programme to better prepare the next generation of high-net-worth clients for business leadership. This year, the programme reflects a stronger entrepreneurial focus and broader regional inclusion, with participants from Indonesia joining for the first time.
The programme aims to equip children of select OCBC Premier Private Client (PPC) customers with the mindset, tools, and networks needed to lead family enterprises or build their own ventures. Nearly 40% of OCBC PPC customers are business owners. This year's edition featured three sessions with business leaders, up from two last year, offering insights into scaling businesses and managing legacy transitions.
Speakers included Mr Lim Chun Seng of MoneyMax Group, who shared his vision of transforming his family's pawnshop business into a multi-segmented financial services provider. Chef-owner Dave Pynt of Burnt Ends discussed challenges in scaling a hospitality brand across different regions. Winnie Chan and James Quan of Bynd Artisan highlighted strategic brand positioning in elevating niche craft businesses.
Held from July 9 to 11 in Singapore, the programme brought together 21 participants aged 18 to 25. Sessions covered entrepreneurship, personal profiling, investing, legacy planning, and design thinking. Participants also visited Samsung’s Business Experience Studio.
The decision to hold the event in Singapore underscores its status as an international financial hub. OCBC plans 'alumni' events over the next year to strengthen peer networks among GENesis cohorts.
Indonesian participant Cathelia Elisabeth found the programme valuable for her roles as a research manager and co-founder: “Continuing a business and starting one from scratch require completely different set of skills.” Tan Yong Long also appreciated connecting with diverse backgrounds: “It’s always helpful to connect with people... They can offer insights.”
Mr Sunny Quek, Head of Global Consumer Financial Services at OCBC said: “The intergenerational wealth transfer is a megatrend... One way we support them is through OCBC GENesis.” He emphasized inviting diverse business owners while retaining rigorous wealth management workshops.
OCBC GENesis is part of a long-term strategy to engage children of high-net-worth customers while deepening relationships with their parents.
OCBC PPC was launched in 2018 to serve high-net-worth individuals similar to private banking models. In Singapore, customers must have at least S$1.5 million Assets Under Management; in Malaysia, RM3 million is required.