Hong Kong-based Value Partners has hired a senior executive to oversee the institutional, China and exchange-traded fund businesses.

Value Partners has appointed Clare Zhao as head of institutional business, APAC, head of China business and head of exchange-traded fund (ETF) business, according to a statement. Based in Hong Kong, she reports to the firm’s leadership committee.

Zhao has extensive experience in the financial industry, most recently as managing director and head of China business at Amundi. Prior to that, she was also head of distribution for mainland China and Hong Kong at Vanguard. She rejoins Value Partners after holding a role as ETF sales manager at the Hong Kong-based asset manager earlier in her career.

Crypto ETFs

Zhao joins to lead the ETF business at a timely juncture as Value Partners recently entered a tie-up with Venture Smart Financial Holdings (VSFG) to launch a spot Bitcoin ETF. Last week, Hong Kong furthered its digital asset hub ambitions with the debut of multiple crypto ETFs by Harvest, Bosera and China AMC.

«Clare brings with her a wealth of experience that will be invaluable in driving our growth and enhancing our offering across the APAC region. Her leadership and strategic vision align perfectly with our goals for expansion and innovation,» said Value Partners co-chair and co-chief investment officer Louis So.