Chevalier Inheritance Case: 189M Shares at Stake, May 28

Chevalier Group founder Zhou Yiqing left a 46 billion HKD estate when he died in 2018. His 2015 will gave 189 million Chevalier shares to his fifth daughter Zhou Huihui, married to actor Wu Jiahao. His eldest daughter Zhou Lili now challenges the will in Hong Kong High Court, claiming it does not reflect his true wishes. The case centres on whether a 2009 will should apply instead.

What the 2015 Will Says

Zhou Yiqing’s final will, signed in 2015, transfers 189 million Chevalier shares (62% of the company) to fifth daughter Zhou Huihui. The remaining estate goes to his wife and other five daughters. His youngest son receives nothing. Lawyers for Zhou Huihui argue the 2015 will was signed when Zhou Yiqing was mentally sound and his wishes were clear.

Why the Eldest Daughter Objects

Zhou Lili claims the 2015 will contradicts her father’s true intent. She argues Zhou Yiqing wanted to place all shares into a trust that would preserve company control, not hand them directly to one daughter. She seeks the court to declare the 2015 will invalid and apply the 2009 will instead, which stated assets should be split 80 years after his death among living heirs.

Court Delays as Plaintiff Misses Hearing

Zhou Lili was due to testify on May 27 but did not appear in court. Her legal team revealed she is undergoing chemotherapy for breast cancer. The judge adjourned the case to May 28, noting Zhou Lili attended court the previous day and should have notified the court earlier. Her lawyers said they had not yet contacted her to confirm whether she can appear on May 28.

Family Tensions Over Executor Roles

If the 2015 will is upheld, three sisters would share executor duties: Zhou Lili, Zhou Huihui, and sixth daughter Zhou Weiwei. Lawyers for Zhou Huihui warned the court that three sisters managing the estate together could worsen family conflict. Zhou Yiqing’s widow and third daughter have already stepped down as executors, leaving only the three daughters to manage the 46 billion HKD estate.

Final Thoughts

The High Court must decide which of four wills reflects Zhou Yiqing’s true intent. A ruling on the 2015 will’s validity could determine whether his fifth daughter keeps 189 million shares or whether assets split under the 2009 framework.

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