Billionaire Profile
W
Global Rank
#1561

Image: Unknown Author | Public domain | via Wikimedia Commons

Wee Ee Cheong

CEO, Banking
SINGAPORE
Real-Time Net Worth
$2.637B
Estimated based on Banking stock value as of March 6, 2026
+0.97% (24h)
Age
73
Source
Banking
Industry
Finance & Investments
Citizenship
SINGAPORE

Biography

Wee Ee Cheong, the Deputy Chairman and CEO of United Overseas Bank (UOB), is a prominent Singaporean banker and businessman. With over four decades in the financial sector, he transformed UOB into a leading regional financial powerhouse. His career began in 1979, rising to CEO in 2007. Wee holds a bachelor's degree in business administration and a master's degree in applied economics from American University. His leadership extends beyond banking, actively supporting education and community development through various philanthropic initiatives.

Fact Checked
Verified by Editorial Team
Live Data
Updated 3/6/2026

Wealth Over Time

In-Depth Profile

Early Life

Wee Ee Cheong was born in Singapore to Wee Cho Yaw. He is the eldest son of Wee Cho Yaw, the former chairman emeritus of UOB. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and a Master of Arts in Applied Economics from American University.

Rise to Success

Wee Ee Cheong joined United Overseas Bank (UOB) in 1979 and became the CEO in April 2007. He was appointed deputy chairman in March 2000. During his tenure as CEO, he spearheaded UOB's expansion, particularly in Southeast Asia. A key move was the acquisition of Citibank's consumer banking operations in several countries.

Key Business Strategies

Wee has focused on strengthening UOB's presence in Southeast Asia, emphasizing regional growth and technological advancements to attract a younger clientele. In 2022, UOB acquired Citibank's consumer banking businesses in Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, and Vietnam.

Philanthropy

Wee Ee Cheong is actively involved in philanthropy and community development. He is a director of the Wee Foundation. In April 2025, Wee and his family, through the Wee Foundation and UOB, donated S$110 million ($86 million) to Nanyang Technological University (NTU) to support student aid and mentorship programs.

Career Milestones

1979

Joined UOB

Began his career at United Overseas Bank.

2000

Deputy Chairman

Appointed Deputy Chairman of UOB.

2007

CEO of UOB

Became the Chief Executive Officer of UOB.

Philanthropy & Social Impact

Education

NTU Donation

$86M

The Wee family donated $86 million to Nanyang Technological University (NTU) through the Wee Foundation.

Healthcare

Nursing Academic Fund

$5.7M

Wee Foundation donation to the Nursing Academic Fund to support graduate studies and training to nurses.

Business Philosophy & Leadership

Notable Quotes

"“You know, we use chopsticks for our meals. Beyond banking infrastructure and systems, this sense of cultural familiarity is very important too.”"

Leadership Principles

Customer Centricity

Ensuring customer needs are at the forefront of decision-making processes.

Innovation

Promoting innovative practices.

Resilience

Embracing resilience in the face of challenges.

Integrity

Maintaining integrity in all operations.