FAMILY OFFICE PROFILE

FAMILY OFFICE FAMILY OFFICE PROFILE PROFILE

A N I N T E R V I E W W I T H ARADHNA GUPTA DAYAL

CIO, Regal Ford Asia Family Office and Founder & CEO, Access Alts Asia

Please tell us about your family business.

I am the fourth-generation family member of one of the oldest landowning families in northern India, with operations in agriculture, gas, logistics and construction. My grandfather, Dr Sriram Gupta, was a well-known philanthropist who gave away 80% of his wealth to his people and lobbied for girl education, eradication of dowry and innovation in tech.

I got married rather early, at the age of 20, and moved to Hong Kong, which is where I set up my family office, Regal Ford Asia, in the late 1990s. This made us one of the first family offices out of Greater China and as the first female CIO, I truly had to earn my stripes in what was a highly male dominated world. Fortunately, we discovered a niche in property investing very early on, took risks and invested during every Asian financial crisis including SARS, thereby building a solid portfolio spanning high-end residential, agriculture, commercial and industrial real estate across Asia and Middle East.

Four years back, after my kids left for boarding school, I began my entrepreneurial journey by setting up Access Alts Asia, the first Asia-focused, cross-border investment club, which has now grown to over 300 thoughtful global investors with collective investible assets of over $1 trillion. As a group we are 4 a.m. buddies, and actively look at unique investment opportunities all the way from Shanghai to Silicon Valley.

“At the end of impossible lies the possible.”

- Family Dayal

Please tell us about your family members and any special areas of interest.

My father, a highly progressive and wise man, and who I was very close to, groomed me in many ways to take forward the family values, ethics and legacy. Humility, excellence in everything, integrity and giving back were high on the agenda, and I am thrilled to see those values passed on to my kids. Both my kids, Prady (20) and Pankhuri (17) are highly intelligent, independentminded Gen Next, who are passionate about making a difference. Between them, they run Move4Migrants and Modern Migrants, two aid organizations to empower migrant and minority communities. Their efforts have touched the lives of over 5,000 people since launch.

A quick word on my husband who is one of the most progressive men I’ve met, and who has been the wind beneath my wings. He remains a perfect Yang to my Yin with his unique calmness. As a seasoned private equity investor, he acts as a wise council for my ideas and investments. As a family, we are slightly crazy and thrill/adventure seekers. When not debating world topics, we enjoy hikes in the Great Hong Kong Outdoors and traveling through old digs and ancient Civilizations. All of this gives us a great perspective on where the world is going next and where we can make the biggest difference. How important is philanthropy and impact investing to your family?

We were one of the first families to think about Industrial Buildings Revitalization in Hong Kong, converting disused industrial buildings into usable, low-cost offices for small businesses that could not afford the exorbitant rents in Hong Kong’s pricey CBD area. What started out 10 years back as an experiment has turned into a huge success story, both for our family office as well as for our tenants, which include start-ups, designers, bakers, writers, educators and even yoga practitioners. We have combined this huge impact footprint with over 18% annualized returns for 25 years, debunking the notion that impact needs to be sacrificed to make money.

As a family we remain committed to philanthropy in areas of children, education and healthcare. I have served on charity committees for Teach for China, Youth Diabetes Association etc. Another area of great concern to us is rehabilitation of work force post COVID-19, particularly in vulnerable communities of migrants and minorities that will be ravaged by joblessness, hunger and poverty under the “new normal”. To address this, we have just started Modern Migrants, a specialized aid organization that will upskill workers and prepare them for the rapidly digitalizing industries of tomorrow, including education, healthcare and even the government.

What have been your best (and worst) investments?

The worst: We decided to go into Indian commercial real estate in mid-2000s, probably at the top of the cycle and just ahead of the country going into a decade of policy paralysis, choking all business activity. To add to that, we got hit by currency depreciation, a lack of corporate governance, delays in construction and finally (and as a rude shock) the local developer skipping town. Around the same time, we had a similar experience with a portfolio of apartments we tried acquiring in the then recession-hit Detroit. Both these incidents taught us a valuable lesson: stick to our core geographies and skill set, and to only invest in well-regulated, dollar-denominated markets.

The best: Driving around New Zealand on a family vacation 17 years back, I was struck not just by the sheer natural beauty but by the large contingent of immigrants and farms up North. We invested in our first farmland in New Zealand shortly afterwards and have never looked back since then. Three key factors underpinned our investments: a. See the big picture (New Zealand was having a huge influx of immigrants and therefore a revision in property prices) b. Impact (New Zealand had the fairest farming practices) and c. Grassroot level due diligence (we realized that Food would be a scarce commodity). Today, farmlands are sexy to own by families; but we were ahead of the curve.

How do you work with other family offices?

Networks are the new currency, and through Access Alts, we have created that first East to West bridge through which we connect families and institutional investors from US, Middle East and Europe to the likes of Tencent, JD.com and Baidu in Asia. I also have a Gen Next club that I enjoy mentoring and learning from (they keep me feeling young) and a Deal Platform where we share ideas. Most importantly, COVID-19 has the potential to destroy family businesses that have taken generations to build. Amidst this, we are working with other business owners and family offices to best adapt our businesses to the new normal, and strategically enter new business lines such as virtual desktops, drone deliveries and no-touch ID checks.

Future goals?

I am passionate about women on boards and as my daughter becomes a young adult, my next endevour would be to advocate for more women in senior, decision making roles. This is also an excellent time to acquire strategic assets at great valuations in industries that will be key post COVID-19. As a family office, we will keep an eye on that. Finally, I am keen to see an integrated, diverse society and a world without borders, and I hope the current pandemic acts as a catalyst for us to build that.

A LOOK INSIDE A LOOK INSIDE MOTORYACHT MI SUENO MOTORYACHT MI SUENO

PHOTOS BY JIM RAYCROFT, DESIGNS BY PATRICK KNOWLES

MOTORYACHT MI SUENO MI SUENO

A profile shot of one of designer Patrick Knowles’ favorite projects, Motoryacht Mi Sueno. At 182’ in length, she sports ample interior volume, generous deck spaces for sun lounging or swimming in her 2 pools and a host of locations to enjoy al fresco dining.

The dining salon itself is quite impressive! It seats 14 comfortably around a table of walnut and wenge wood with a high gloss finish - a sharp contrast to the surrounding millwork donning a low sheen satin finish. The overhead light fixtures and wall sconces echoe the circular detailing carried as part of the design DNA throughout the vessel. Underfoot are 2 species of natural stone with satin nickel perimeter inlays to add the perfect finishing touch.

The impressive staircase makes a very strong impression upon all who enter the vessel via her formal starboard companionway foyer. Spanning 3 decks, this entry hall also accommodates an elevator sufficient enough for 4 persons, decked out in all of the design features as that of the interior - a ride in her cab is an impressive experience! Not to be overlooked is the perfect accent of a single piece of art, the incredible, delicate vase by Daum crystal out of Paris.

The amber tones of the crystal appears to have been blown out of the mahogany wood itself !

Mi Sueno’s main salon is tailored and clean in muted tones of olive and sand. Her dramatic millwork detailing includes Honduras Mahogany in both ribbon cut and quarter cut configurations, which underscores the strong architectural statement of her core design character, further enhanced by accents of redwood burl. Forward of the main salon seating arrangement is the dining salon and aft is a very unique wine cellar environment unlike any other.

Termed the Resort Deck this space features many entertainment elements such as an adult pool, a smaller wading or “kiddie” pool for the little ones, dual staircases leading to dual sun beds and to the pool with sky tables placed between both pools for refreshments while the owner and his quests enjoy the aquatic experience all day. Of course a forward facing riding seat to watch the horizon uninterrupted makes the perfect spot for sunrise or sunset, and a full service bar makes it certain no one will ever want to retreat from this incredibly detailed teak oasis!

BY VICTORIA L. HOFFMAN

Thirty, twenty, and even just ten years ago, the thought of spending a week in nature under the stars surrounded by mountains, clifftops, jungles, and lakes seemed like a lovely notion for a postcard and perhaps for a handful of adventure seekers who found it somewhat appealing for a couple of nights.

Nowadays travelers can broaden their comfort zone by experiencing some of the rarest and most exotic settings – gazing at the aurora borealis (Northern Lights) from a heated glass igloo in the Arctic Circle, sleeping in a bubble in the middle of a jungle while elephants walk by in Thailand, cozying up to a fireplace in a log cabin deep in the woods of the Tennessee mountains, and much more. What makes all of this unique is the luxury factor. Luxury in these immersive experiences allows guests to connect to nature and the local community in a safe environment by creating a five-star setting – with over-the-top accommodations, amenities, and activities. And given some of the hotels have farflung destinations some of which are difficult to reach, there are less accommodations and capacity which make the experience that much more appealing and special to visitors. Who doesn’t like exclusivity and isolation? You can still get butler service 24/7 even in the middle of a jungle!

Essentially, glamping offers luxury in seclusion for those who wish to reconnect with loved ones- whether romantic, familial, or friend-wise. While glamping as has been trending for the past few years, five-star hotels are finding this to be the ideal solution for travelers who want to get away, but enjoy isolation away from the crowds. What better way than by creating

BY VICTORIA L. HOFFMAN

You don’t need to wait for the world to resume to make glamping a part of your next WOW experience.

TRAVEL TIPS: ASK ABOUT EXCLUSIVE BUY-OUTS. MANY PROPERTIES NEED AT LEAST EIGHT-MONTHS NOTICE. INQUIRE ABOUT HEALTH POLICIES AND SAFETY PRACTICES AT ANY HOTEL YOU DECIDE TO VISIT.

accommodations that reflect the indigenous environment. It’s no surprise upscale hotel brands such as Belmond, Four Seasons, Six Senses, Aman, and others are capitalizing on this concept. From bubbled domes and safari tents to treetop houses and igloos and other unusual structures, there are plenty of options for those who want to connect with nature anywhere in the world including Africa, Antarctica, Asia, Latin America, and the United States.

For instance, the Aman hotel recently launched Camp Sarika at their Utah property. The tents sit among slot canyons and sandy red stones in the middle of a desert. The pop-up is an offshoot of their well-known Amangiri resort which is situated nearby. These fully insulated luxury tents offer complete amenities yet have a camp feel. Each tent features a private terrace, plunge pool and fire pit, and of course, access to the swimming pool, restaurant, and spa. Rates at Camp Sarika start at about $3,500 per night for a One-Bedroom Mesa Pavilion, including all meals and based on double occupancy. In Costa Rica, guests flock to the adult-only bungalow style Nayara Tented Camp, which is part of the luxurious Nayara Resorts and overlooks the Arenal Volcano which is within the national park. Visitors can sip sunset cocktails from their rooftop accommodations while gazing at a lush rainforest looking for wildlife. Guests have the opportunity to explore the nearby sloth sanctuary and enjoy daily yoga and meditation as well as excursions to the Arenal Volcano. Additional accommodations include air-conditioned tents which have plush canopy beds, plunge pools fed by natural springs, and double-headed outdoor showers. Pick your own coffee beans, zip line, water raft among other activities. Rates at Nayara Tented Camp start at $1,200 per night, including daily breakfast and morning yoga. Luxury hotel brand, Anantara, is on the fast track to opening a series of glamping sites. Camp Nujum located in Abu Dhabi in the Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort allows guests to sleep in a traditional Bedouin tent. Part of the experience is riding a camel and learning

about the Arabian culture. In Chiang Rai, Thailand the Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort opened Jungle Bubble accommodations. The inflatable bubbles are transparent and offer a king bed and a non-transparent en suite bathroom. The accommodations are elephant proof and include air conditioning.

The Resort at Paws Up, the luxury ranch in Montana, is building The Green O, a new adults-only woodland retreat set on 37,000 acres. It is expected to open September 1. The resort-within-aresort is situated along a river and will have 12 accommodations — from an elevated Tree Haus to a Green Haus with a living roof —all with floor-to-ceiling windows. The accommodations will be scattered throughout the woodlands with focus on a central Social Haus, which will have open-fire cooking. Among new safety guidelines include bringing activities to guests — i.e. dropping off an ATV or e-bike, arranging socially distant guides, leaving a sanitized Lexus at the airport for guests to drive to the resort (following a bellman in a separate vehicle). The award-winning Lodge & Spa at Brush Creek Ranch in Saratoga, Wyoming issituated on 30,000 acres of natural solitude and wilderness. Located in the southcentral part of the state in North Platte River Valley, the enormous property is surrounded by dramatic mountain backdrops, lush green forests and rolling hills.Visitors can enjoy an array of accommodations from rooms to cabin suites and homes. An additional rustic glamping experience can be found in a yurt high in the mountains. during the guest’s stay there is much to indulge in - a spa with an outdoor pool, a grotto soaking pool, hot tub, sauna and steam room and three-meal dining services. Staying here is a luxury adventure as there are guides for many activities including fly-fishing, shooting, archery, horseback riding, and more.

In the vast Alaskan wilderness is Ultima Thule Lodge – a once-ina-lifetime experience where your senses are lost in amazement with a vista of a remote landscape like no other is situated in a world far from civilization lies Wrangell St. Elias National Park, the largest

U.S. national park and its span is equal to at least six Yellowstones. Imagine seeing or stepping foot on a glacier that no one else has before or hiking a mountain that you cannot believe actually exists and spending idyllic time at a stream or river where the salmon is abundant and the grizzly bears play with their cubs. While this family-owned lodge is merely your basecamp the adventures and this canvas-come-to-life environment leave guests breathless with anticipation. On a daily basis visitors embark on safari treks off the beaten path and literally land via plane wherever they want to go. Dine on the largest glacier on earth, taste wild berries, fish for dinner, and watch the abundant wildlife. Guests can expect plush glamping-style cabins – there are five in total – consisting of a large sitting room, two bedrooms and a full bath with plenty of cozy antique décor. While there is no cell service which is a great way to decompress from the rest of the world, there is Wi-Fi. You don’t need to wait for the world to resume to make glamping a part of your next WOW experience.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Victoria L. Hoffman is the owner of the luxury agency Concierge & Events by Victoria that provides one-of-a-kind WOW experiences, luxury Virtuoso travel programs, and event planning.