HSICDATA
HSIC V2.0Subclass

661901Investment advisory services

投資顧問服務

Why 6 digits?

HSIC subclasses are 6 digits. The first four match the international ISIC class; Hong Kong adds a two-digit local suffix for finer detail, especially across its import and export trade, so a code steps from a 4-digit class straight to a 6-digit subclass. More on the HSIC structure.

This activity involves providing advice and guidance to clients on investment decisions, including the selection of securities and portfolio management. It encompasses the services of security analysts who analyze financial data and market trends to inform investment strategies.

This classification includes

  • investment advisory services
  • security analysts

Licences and approvals

What this activity needs to operate

Activities under this code trigger the following licensing regimes. Emerhub prepares and files each application on your behalf.

SFC Licence for Type 4 Regulated Activity (Advising on Securities)

Securities and Futures Commission (SFC)

Required for corporations giving advice or issuing research and analyses on the acquisition or disposal of securities, such as investment advisers and research houses. Firms that do not hold client assets can operate under a licensing condition with reduced financial requirements.

Capital requirement
No paid-up capital requirement + HKD 100K liquid capital if subject to the licensing condition not to hold client assets; otherwise HKD 5M paid-up + HKD 3M liquid capital
Processing time
Approximately 15 weeks for a licensed corporation application (SFC published estimate)

Official sourceVerified 2026-07-14

Offshore profits claim feasibility

Medium

Investment advisory services often involve client interactions and contract negotiations that take place in Hong Kong. While some advisory services can be provided remotely, the nature of the business typically requires a local presence and engagement with Hong Kong clients.

Business registration wording

Suggested business nature for this activity

English

INVESTMENT ADVISORY SERVICES SECURITY ANALYSTS

46/60 characters

Chinese 中文

投資顧問服務

6/30 characters

Test your own wording in the checker

Companies

Licensed operators

Verified registry

2,399 on the SFC Register; a sample below.

Search all 2,399

Standard compliance

Compliance every Hong Kong company shares

Beyond anything specific to this activity, every Hong Kong company handles two-tiered profits tax, the annual return (Form NAR1) within 42 days of its incorporation anniversary, audited accounts, MPF enrolment for staff, and a company secretary. Emerhub runs all of it on your behalf.

See the full Hong Kong compliance calendar

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a license for investment advisory services?

Yes, you need to obtain a license from the Securities and Futures Commission to provide investment advisory services in Hong Kong.

What are the tax implications for my advisory business?

If your business is conducted in Hong Kong, profits are subject to Hong Kong profits tax. Offshore profits may be exempt if services are delivered entirely outside HK.

Can I operate this business from outside Hong Kong?

You can, but you must ensure that your contracts and client interactions comply with Hong Kong regulations to avoid tax liabilities.

Incorporate in Hong Kong

Starting a investment advisory services business in Hong Kong?

Emerhub incorporates your company, registers the business nature above with the IRD, files every licence application, and runs your company secretary and compliance calendar. You provide the documents; Emerhub handles every government interaction.

Start incorporation with Emerhub