Leadership in Action: Personal Bonds: Whether Serving Rich or Poor, Trust is the Key

RAGS AND RICHES

All Coutts clients have different backgrounds and requirements; the one thing they have in common is wealth. Investable assets of at least $1 million are a prerequisite. Some of Asia's wealthiest individuals started with almost nothing, however. Take Lim Goh Tong, the recently retired founder, director, and chairman of Malaysia's Genting Berhad Group. In 1964, Lim, a contractor and high school dropout, saw potential in creating a mountaintop resort for Malaysians who wanted to escape the tropical heat of the cities for the cool air of the mountains. Through tenacity, risk taking, and shrewd investments, he went on to build a business empire that includes cruise ships, casinos, resorts, and hotels. Lim was listed as number 209 ...