Jimmy Lai Net Worth (Updated 2026).

Jimmy Lai, a prominent figure in Hong Kong’s publishing and media industry, began his career in an unconventional manner. Born in mainland China, Lai moved to Hong Kong in his late teens, where he started working as a factory hand, sewing clothes for a meager wage. His journey took a significant turn when he decided to pursue entrepreneurship, using his savings to start a clothing business. This initial venture, though small, laid the foundation for his future success.

Lai’s foray into the publishing world was sparked by a personal incident. In 1981, he was arrested for participating in an illegal protest, an experience that ignited his passion for freedom of speech and democracy. Following his release, he used his business acumen to establish Next Magazine, a publication that catered to Hong Kong’s younger generation with its bold and investigative journalism. This marked the beginning of his rise to fame, as Next Magazine became a significant voice in Hong Kong’s media landscape.

Jimmy Lai’s Current Net Worth (2025)

As of 2025, Jimmy Lai’s current net worth is estimated to be around $2.5 billion, according to Forbes. This makes him one of the wealthiest individuals in Hong Kong.

Jimmy Lai’s Career

Jimmy Lai, born in 1947, is a Hong Kong entrepreneur and media proprietor. He founded Giordano, a global clothing retailer, in 1981. In 1989, he established Next Media, which owns several publications including Apple Daily, a pro-democracy newspaper. Lai is also known for his political activism and advocacy for democracy in Hong Kong.

Other Ventures

Besides Giordano and Next Media, Jimmy Lai has invested in various other businesses. He co-founded the online groceries platform, Ztore, in 2015. He also has interests in real estate and has invested in several properties in Hong Kong and mainland China.

Assets

Jimmy Lai’s assets include a significant stake in Giordano and Next Media. He also owns several properties in Hong Kong, including his residence on The Peak. According to Forbes, his primary residence is valued at around $15 million. Additionally, he owns a luxury apartment in Beijing, valued at approximately $5 million.

Annual Income

Jimmy Lai’s annual income varies significantly from year to year, depending on the performance of his businesses. In 2020, his annual income was estimated to be around $300 million, primarily from Giordano and Next Media. However, his income can fluctuate due to changes in the market and political climate.

Frequently Asked Questions about  Jimmy Lai

**Frequently Asked Questions: Jimmy Lai Net Worth**

1. **Who is Jimmy Lai?**

Jimmy Lai is a Hong Kong businessman, media tycoon, and pro-democracy activist. He is the founder of Next Media and Apple Daily, a popular tabloid newspaper in Hong Kong.

2. **What is Jimmy Lai’s net worth?**

Jimmy Lai’s net worth is estimated to be around $1 billion.

3. **How did Jimmy Lai make his fortune?**

Lai made his fortune primarily through his clothing manufacturing business, Giordano, which he founded in the 1980s. He later sold his stake in Giordano and ventured into the media industry, founding Next Media and Apple Daily.

4. **What is Jimmy Lai’s political stance?**

Jimmy Lai is a prominent pro-democracy activist in Hong Kong. He has been a vocal critic of the Chinese government and has supported the pro-democracy protests in Hong Kong.

5. **Why was Jimmy Lai arrested?**

Jimmy Lai was arrested in August 2020 under the Hong Kong national security law for alleged collusion with foreign forces. He was later charged with fraud and conspiracy in relation to the leasing of office space for Apple Daily.

6. **What happened to Apple Daily?**

Apple Daily ceased operations in June 2021 after its assets were frozen by Hong Kong authorities, citing violations of the national security law. The newspaper had been a strong critic of the Chinese government and the Hong Kong authorities.

7. **How old is Jimmy Lai?**

Jimmy Lai was born on December 8, 1947, making him 74 years old.

8. **Where was Jimmy Lai born?**

Jimmy Lai was born in mainland China, in a village near Guangzhou. He immigrated to Hong Kong with his family at the age of 12.

9. **What is Jimmy Lai’s education background?**

Lai has no formal education beyond primary school. He left school at the age of 12 to work and support his family.

10. **What are some of Jimmy Lai’s awards and recognitions?**

Jimmy Lai has received several awards and recognitions for his business and political activism, including the Sakharov Prize for Freedom of Thought by the European Parliament in 2019, and the PEN America Freedom of Expression Courage Award in 2020.