Locate Guernsey at STEP Asia: Jo Stoddart reflects on Hong Kong visit
In November 2025, Locate Guernsey’s Director, Jo Stoddart, joined the Guernsey delegation and Gold sponsors Guernsey Finance at the STEP Asia Conference in Hong Kong. Here, Jo shares her thoughts on the trip and why promoting Guernsey as a relocation destination remains a priority in Hong Kong.
As Gold Sponsor of the STEP Asia Conference, Guernsey Finance once again had a strong presence. The delegation hosted a very busy exhibition stand and attended a packed schedule of events before and during the conference. The event attracts leading advisers from across Asia and beyond, making it an ideal platform to showcase Guernsey’s strengths not only as a financial centre but also as a safe, attractive place to live.
In addition to various meetings with prospective relocators and connecting with a host of international private client, tax and fiduciary specialists, Locate Guernsey hosted its own reception, attracting an audience of private client advisors and potential relocators. In addition to sharing information about the many benefits of relocation to Guernsey I also shared our recently produced promotional videos which were warmly received. Jacob Cockcroft of Butterfield Bank and Dan Fletcher of Summit Group also took to the stage to talk about the strength of banking and trust services in Guernsey.
Why Hong Kong Matters for Guernsey
Over recent years, Locate Guernsey has seen a steady flow of British expats choosing to make a new home in Guernsey, as well as others who divide their time between Hong Kong and Europe. Stability, security and proximity to the UK and Europe are just some of the things we often take for granted, but they are increasingly important for families and individuals wanting a base in Europe which is close to the UK.
For many expats, Guernsey ticks all the boxes:
- Convenient location – just a 35-minute flight to London
- Favourable tax environment compared to the UK
- English-speaking community and education system
- Safe, welcoming island lifestyle
Connecting with Clients and Advisers
During my time in Hong Kong, I met with clients who are part of the way through their relocation journey. Visiting them in their current environment was invaluable and allowed me to answer questions, understand their motivation for relocation, and reinforce why Guernsey is the right choice for their families.
The conference also provided opportunities to engage with professional advisers from across Asia and to catch up with Guernsey residents living and working in Hong Kong. These conversations gave fresh insight into the region’s business climate and the factors influencing relocation decisions.
Opportunities Ahead
It’s clear there is strong interest in Guernsey’s financial products and lifestyle offering. This trip reinforced the value of collaboration between Locate Guernsey and Guernsey Finance. While our objectives differ - relocation versus financial services, the overlap is significant. By sharing contacts, knowledge, and experience, we present a strong “Team Guernsey” approach, which benefits our organisations, our clients, and ultimately the island.
Key Takeaways
- Hong Kong remains an important market for Guernsey, both for financial services and relocation.
- Stability, safety, quality of life and proximity to the UK and Europe are major drivers for expats considering Guernsey.
- Direct engagement with clients and advisers in Asia is essential to build trust and awareness.
If you are considering relocating to the island, the team at Locate Guernsey are on hand to provide confidential guidance throughout your relocation journey free of charge. If you would like to understand how Guernsey could work for you, please get in touch on 01481 220011 or email enquiries@locateguernsey.com.
