Dialogue at the University of Hong Kong: Exploring New Frontiers of Innovation and Investment from Encryption to AI

On June 19, 2025, at the University of Hong Kong, an engaging dialogue unfolded. The protagonist of the dialogue is a successful entrepreneur returning to campus, who shared his reflections on twenty years of entrepreneurial journey and his latest plans in the encryption and AI fields.

Systematic twenty years of entrepreneurial experience

This entrepreneur applied for a doctoral program at the University of Hong Kong in 2024, coinciding with the twentieth anniversary of his startup. Reflecting on the entrepreneurial beginnings in 2004, he admitted that most of the past twenty years were spent focusing on practical operations, with very few opportunities for systematic thinking. Now, he hopes to transform years of practical experience into a replicable knowledge system through the doctoral program.

"My goal is to distill the practical experience of entrepreneurship and investment into a methodology, forming a structured tool that I and my colleagues can use." He stated that this is not only a personal study but also a reflection and sublimation of past experiences. From an academic perspective, he hopes to build a replicable knowledge framework to provide guidance for future entrepreneurship and investment.

From Encryption to AI: Diversified Investment Strategies

As a seasoned participant in the encryption field, this entrepreneur's new project demonstrates a broader strategic vision. He elaborated on the differences in positioning, structure, and business direction between the two different projects.

One of the projects is a traditional first-level market fund that adopts a 5+2 investment cycle. The return pressure on external investors limits its ability to support long-term projects. "Some projects may take 8 years, 10 years, or even longer to succeed, and this investment cycle is difficult to fully match," he explained.

In contrast, his new project is more like a family office, with primary funding coming from himself and another core shareholder. This structure provides greater flexibility, without the pressure of short-term returns, allowing for a longer-term vision to support entrepreneurs. "Our funding is relatively long-term, it can be three years, five years, or even ten years." He emphasized that the goal of the new project is to be an "accompanying runner" for entrepreneurs.

In terms of investment direction, new projects are becoming more diversified, focusing on the AI field, especially application layer projects that can generate cash flow, improve efficiency, or optimize processes. "We do not invest in computing power or large models, as our funding scale and North American resources are insufficient to support these areas." He stated that he is more concerned with the application of AI in practical scenarios, such as AI security, AI talent recruitment, AI tax, and financial tools, aiming to capture the best return opportunities during the AI explosion period.

Hong Kong: A Strategic Hub for Encryption Finance

For the Hong Kong market, this entrepreneur has shown strong confidence. He believes that Hong Kong, as a "bridgehead" connecting the mainland with the global market, possesses unique advantages in terms of geographical location and policy environment. In recent years, Hong Kong has introduced a series of supportive policies, including a stablecoin regulatory framework and talent introduction programs, attracting the attention of global blockchain enterprises and talents.

"Hong Kong even surpasses the United States in the advancement and enforceability of regulations related to encryption currency." he commented. He pointed out that Hong Kong's stablecoin policy provides a clear compliance path for industry innovation and, combined with its international advantages, is expected to foster new business models.

His team established a presence in Hong Kong as early as 2022 through a listed company, and they have now set up an office and are actively applying for relevant licenses. Financial custody services are their core business direction in Hong Kong. He believes that, combined with Hong Kong's stablecoin policy, the custody business is expected to develop more innovative models, injecting new vitality into the encryption financial market.

Conclusion

From two decades of entrepreneurial practice to returning to campus for further study, this entrepreneur has demonstrated an unwavering pursuit of self-improvement. From focusing on the encryption field to expanding AI applications, he has not only broadened his horizons but also supported entrepreneurs with a more long-term perspective. As an active participant in the construction of the Hong Kong encryption market, his insights into local policies and business layout provide important references for the industry. "Keep learning, embrace change, and you can continue to lead in a rapidly evolving industry." This may be the most sincere advice given by this experienced industry expert.