HNWIs

High-net-worth individuals (HNWIs) are people with substantial financial assets who typically require specialized financial services. There is no universal threshold, but a common benchmark is investable assets of at least $1 million, excluding a primary residence. Definitions vary by country, institution, and market sector.

Ultra-high-net-worth individuals (UHNWIs) refer to a smaller, wealthier subset. Many organizations define UHNWIs as having investable assets of at least $30 million. The boundaries between HNWIs and broader wealth segments are not fixed and can differ depending on context and reporting standards.

HNWIs often use professional wealth-management services to manage and grow their assets. Core offerings include private banking, investment management, tax planning, estate planning, risk management, and fiduciary or succession advisory. Many HNWIs employ family offices or dedicated teams to coordinate complex financial affairs, philanthropy, and lifestyle needs. They may invest across a broad range of assets, including equities, fixed income, real estate, private equity, hedge funds, and other alternatives, with attention to liquidity, risk, and tax efficiency.

Geographic distribution and trends show that HNWIs are concentrated in developed economies, particularly in North America, Europe, and parts of Asia-Pacific. The number of HNWIs has grown in several emerging markets, driven by income growth, financial development, and increased access to wealth-management services. Data and thresholds are periodically revised by industry surveys and banks, reflecting evolving market definitions and asset classifications.