Living in HK as Analyst

Based on the most helpful WSO content, here are some insights and recommendations for living in Hong Kong as an analyst:

1. Housing

• Popular Options:
  • Apps and Websites: 28hse is a popular app for finding housing in Hong Kong. Other options include Spacious and Squarefoot.
  • Areas to Consider: Central and Western District, Wan Chai, and Causeway Bay are popular among expats and professionals due to their proximity to business districts.
• Approach:
  • Early Arrival: It’s advisable to arrive in Hong Kong early to explore housing options in person. This allows you to get a feel for different neighborhoods and find a place that suits your needs.
  • Temporary Accommodation: Consider booking temporary accommodation for the first few weeks. This gives you a base while you search for a more permanent place.

2. Living Expenses

• Monthly Budget:
  • Rent: Expect to spend a significant portion of your salary on rent. Depending on the area and size, rent can range from HKD 15,000 to HKD 30,000 per month for a one-bedroom apartment.
  • Utilities and Internet: Around HKD 1,000 to HKD 2,000 per month.
  • Food: Eating out can be relatively affordable, with local meals costing around HKD 50 to HKD 100. Groceries might cost around HKD 3,000 to HKD 5,000 per month.
  • Transportation: The MTR (subway) is efficient and affordable, costing around HKD 500 to HKD 1,000 per month depending on your commute.
  • Miscellaneous: Entertainment, gym memberships, and other personal expenses can add up to HKD 2,000 to HKD 5,000 per month.

Daily Life

• Schedule and Work Hours:
  • Work Hours: As an analyst, expect long hours. Normal hours for most analysts and associates are around 85 to 90 hours a week. Face time is a big issue, especially at junior levels.
  • Daily Routine: Your day might start early and end late, with a significant amount of time spent on marketing and pitching.
• Hobbies and Leisure:
  • Outdoor Activities: Hong Kong offers some amazing beaches and hiking trails. Taking advantage of these can be a great way to unwind.
  • Social Life: The expat community is vibrant, and there are plenty of social events and networking opportunities.

Tips and Recommendations

• Adaptation:
  • Tiny Living Spaces: Be prepared for smaller living spaces compared to what you might be used to.
  • Learning Chinese: While not mandatory, learning some basic Chinese can be very helpful for both work and daily life.
• Career Direction:
  • Job Roles: Think clearly about your career direction. Hong Kong has many China-related job roles and regional roles in both Asset Management (AM) and Investment Banking Division (IBD). Consider what edge you can build to stand out.

Feel free to reach out if you have more specific questions or need further details!

Sources: How’s working in Hong Kong?, Q&A: 2nd Year Equities L/S HF Analyst in Hong Kong, What you need to know about IBD in Asia, Q&A: 2nd Year Equities L/S HF Analyst in Hong Kong, I Need You, WSO + Its Time To Move - Asia Job Search