Pansy Ho: an influential figure in Hong Kong’s gambling industry
Pansy Ho is one of the most influential people in Hong Kong. Her father, casino owner Stanley Ho, laid the foundation for her billion-dollar fortune. However, Pansy achieved business success and multiplied her capital through her efforts and strategic thinking. She has transcended the image of a socialite to build a career in the corporate sector.
The businesswoman was born in 1962. She studied marketing and business in the USA. In 1981, aged 19, she returned to Hong Kong and tried her hand at acting. Thanks to her father’s connections, she met local celebrities and enjoyed a lavish social life. Pansy made a cameo appearance in a film, but her career did not progress further in this direction. She then concentrated on another sphere, starting her own business.
The beginning of the professional path
As early as 1987, Ho founded her own PR company, Occasions, specialising in promotion and communications. One of her first clients was her sister, the popular singer Josie Ho. Running her own company provided Pansy with valuable experience. She subsequently used this experience on large-scale corporate projects. It is worth noting that Stanley Ho involved all his children in family affairs in one way or another. Pansy has three siblings and one brother, as well as twelve first cousins on her father’s side.
Over time, Pansy became a director of Shun Tak Holding Company, which expanded into real estate, transport, and investment. Thanks to Pansy, the company realised a large-scale project: the Hong Kong–Macau ferry service. Furthermore, Ho managed to take Shun Tak to new heights and increase profits significantly.
Pansy also owns significant stakes in Macau’s gaming sector:
1. She owns a 29% stake in MGM Grand Macau.
2. Ho has a significant stake in her father’s holding company, SJM.
3. Pansy oversees strategic partnerships in the gaming sector.
As of early 2025, her fortune is worth an estimated US$3.9 billion.
Social activities
In addition to her business activities, Pansy is involved in social projects. She is an art connoisseur and supports high-profile organisations. In 2013, she became the Chinese ambassador to the Louvre. Her duties included organising restoration programmes and educational initiatives in China. Pansy also serves as chairperson of the Hong Kong Women’s Federation. She is also a member of the UN Committee on Peace and Development.
She is active in philanthropy and is an honorary professor at several prestigious universities. In 2009, she received the Order of Merit from the French Government. She earned this honour for her contribution to the relationship between France and Hong Kong.
