Hong Kong’s Lui family strengthens control over $12 billion casino empire, report says

February 17, 2025

Hong Kong’s Lui family strengthens control over $12 billion casino empire, report says

The Lui family, one of the wealthiest in Asia, has moved forward with the succession of their casino empire following the passing of patriarch Lui Che Woo in November. Bloomberg reported that Francis Lui, the eldest son, has taken control of $1.6 billion in shares previously held by his father and family foundations, according to recent filings.

Francis Lui has been an integral part of the family business since 1979 and currently serves as chairman of K Wah Group, the key holding entity. His leadership cements the smooth transition of control within the family, ensuring continuity in the casino, property, and hospitality businesses.

A structured transition across generations

The Lui family has long prepared for succession, a practice common among Hong Kong’s wealthiest clans. Unlike other business dynasties that have faced internal conflicts over inheritance, the Lui succession appears well-planned.

Francis Lui’s siblings also hold roles within the family business. Paddy Lui is an executive director at Galaxy Entertainment Group and K Wah International, while Alexander and Lawrence Lui oversee aspects of the real estate and hospitality divisions. Eileen Lui, the youngest sibling, manages human resources at Galaxy.

The third generation is gradually taking on responsibilities within the empire. Francis Lui’s daughter, Joanna, plays a leadership role at the Galaxy Entertainment Group Foundation, while Paddy Lui’s son and Eileen Lui’s daughter contribute to the family’s real estate and philanthropic ventures.

Galaxy Entertainment’s position in Macau’s gaming sector

Galaxy Entertainment Group is one of six casino operators licensed in Macau. Under Lui Che Woo’s leadership, the company became a major player in the global gaming industry. The group won a gaming concession in Macau in the early 2000s and opened its first casino, StarWorld, in 2006. Galaxy Macau, an integrated resort (IR) on the Cotai Strip, launched in 2011 and has since expanded with multiple development phases.

Galaxy Macau is among the largest casino resorts in the world, featuring eight hotels, thousands of gaming tables and slot machines, and a vast entertainment complex. The company also operates Broadway Macau, a boutique hotel and entertainment venue on the Cotai Strip.

Contrast with other Hong Kong business dynasties

The Lui family’s succession strategy stands in contrast to other high-profile Hong Kong business families that have struggled with leadership transitions. The Cheng family, for instance, saw an abrupt change when Adrian Cheng stepped down as CEO of New World Development. Other business dynasties, such as the Kwok and Fok families, have also faced disputes over control.

According to the report, Lui Che Woo’s foresight in planning the transition has helped the family avoid such conflicts. The succession process began in 2012, allowing Francis Lui to assume control over the business gradually. This approach ensures stability as the family empire moves forward under the next generation’s leadership.