WALLACE
From Beijing classrooms to Hong Kong boardrooms, Wallace balances life as an investment banker with a passion for fitness, travel, and adventure — all while exploring the world on his own terms
I am Wallace.
I was born and raised in Beijing, the capital of China, where I lived until I finished college. Growing up in a fairly traditional Chinese family and society, my childhood was shaped by intense academic competition — especially in science and mathematics. And I had to go through multiple rounds of entrance exams for admission to top-ranked middle schools, high schools, and eventually university. That said, it wasn’t as stressful or monotonous as it may sound. I still found plenty of time for television, video games, and simply being a kid. Looking back, it was a structured but balanced upbringing that taught me discipline without completely taking away joy.
Although I majored in Computer Science for my bachelor’s degree, I never felt a strong passion for it — especially programming. Even though the tech industry was booming at the time, I chose not to pursue a professional track in that field after graduation. Instead, I took a gap year working in diplomatic services at the embassy of a Commonwealth nation in Beijing. That experience broadened my perspective and exposed me to international affairs in a very practical way. After that, I moved to New York to pursue a master’s degree in Statistics. If I’m being honest, this decision was driven more by pragmatism and personal capability than by pure interest. At that stage of my life, I was focused on building a solid foundation rather than chasing passion. In hindsight, I’m very grateful that I was a disciplined and capable student. The analytical training I received has deeply shaped both my career path and the way I think.
Upon graduation, I began working as an investment banker specializing in equity financing. Several years later, at the late stage of China’s strict COVID controls, I made the decision to relocate to Hong Kong, which has a unique energy — a fusion of East and West, and a crucial bridge between China and global financial markets. The efficiency of the city, free internet access, and its international connectivity suit me well. Of course, the cost of housing remains its biggest downside. But overall, it’s a place that aligns with both my professional needs and my global mindset.
Outside the office, fitness has long been a daily habit. I work out most evenings after work, something I’ve maintained for many years. Travel is another major passion of mine. Since my student days, I’ve loved exploring the world, and so far I’ve visited around 90 countries — from iconic destinations to remote corners of Africa and Oceania. Since the COVID era, my travel style has become more casual and frequent — weekend getaways or short trips centered around skiing, scuba diving, or music festivals. I consider myself naturally adventurous. I’m fascinated by cultural contrasts and genuinely enjoy meeting people from different backgrounds, to see and to feel things that are different from our quotidians.
Wallace by Danang Andiko Budiutomo
20 QUESTIONS FOR WALLACE BY GAYWOOF
1) Where are you from and where are you based now? Originally from Beijing, now based in Hong Kong.
2) What’s one of the best things about the city you live in? One of the most efficient cities in the world. Well internationally connected.
2) How would you describe yourself in three words? Adventurous, rational, lazy.
4) Are you a morning or evening person? Evening for sure.
5) What are 3 things you cannot live without? Liberty, health, money.
6) What’s inspiring you right now? The rules of nature.
7) Your guilty pleasure? Attending sleepless musical events.
8) Who are you listening to right now? Bad Bunny (a very boring answer nowadays)
9) What’s the last TV show or film you watched? Avatar: Fire & Ash.
10) Your favourite place to visit? Rio de Janeiro. Will be back!
11) City break, mountain hike or relaxing by the pool? City break.
12) Gym session or lazy Sunday in bed? Gym session.
13) Coffee or tea? Coffee, ice americano.
14) The food you cannot live without? Meat. Cannot be vegan/vegetarian.
15) What’s your favorite body part to train? Shoulders.
16) What body part do people compliment you on the most? Mind?
17) Briefs, trunks or jocks? Trunks.
18) Shaved or unshaved? Unshaved mostly.
19) One thing people would be surprised to know about you? I'm actually an introvert.
20) If GayWoof hosted a party, how would it look? Should be fun if the audience is like in its IG posts. Style would be like Macho/Pervert?
