Australian start-up Vow has initiated the sale of lab-produced meat in Hong Kong. Two dishes that include Vow's artificially cultivated Japanese quail, a product of Sydney, have been added to the menu at The Aubrey in the Mandarin Oriental.

Residents of Hong Kong will have their initial experience with cultured meat, otherwise referred to as lab-grown meat. This comes after an Australian food technology startup became the pioneer in initiating the sale of these kinds of products in the city.

The Aubrey, a Japanese eatery and bar located in the Mandarin Oriental, unveiled two new menu items on Tuesday that incorporate cultured Japanese quail from Vow, a company based in Sydney.

George Peppou, co-founder and CEO of Vow, stated that Hong Kong is the second global market to have access to their product, Forged, following its initial release in Singapore in April.

"He expressed assurance that the regulatory system in Hong Kong will persist in facilitating the secure launch of cultured meat."

Lab-grown meat, also referred to as cell-cultivated meat, cruelty-free meat or pure meat, among other names, is manufactured by cultivating animal cells rather than breeding animals. Despite not requiring animal slaughter, it is not considered vegetarian or vegan as it is genuine animal tissue.

Vow, established in 2019, received approval from the Singapore Food Agency in March 2024 to market its products in the nation, making it the third food-tech startup in the industry following American firms Upside Foods and Eat Just.

TSMC's decision to sever ties with Chinese chip companies has dampened the mood at the yearly Beijing semiconductor conference. At the 21st China International Semiconductor Expo, specialists from the sector discussed the upcoming hurdles and prospects for local chip manufacturers.

Many participants at the expo have expressed concerns about geopolitical issues, particularly as China prepares for potential instability due to changes in US policy after President Trump begins his second term in office in January. Trump has pledged to raise tariffs on goods manufactured in China by 60 per cent.

During a discussion at the Expo on Tuesday, He Weiwei, who is a co-founder and the general manager of BASiC Semiconductor, announced that the company has invested an additional 20 to 30 million yuan (equivalent to US$2.8 million to US$4.1 million) in the development of production facilities and materials in mainland China. This decision was motivated by concerns that sanctions from the United States could disrupt their supplies.

"He expressed that it's a significant strain for a new business like ours," He stated. "Previously, we would purchase American supplies and get the chips produced in Taiwan, before sending them back to China for packaging."

Real estate in China: Shenzhen follows Beijing and Shanghai in providing tax incentives to stimulate sales

Property owners won't be required to pay sales tax when reselling their property post two years.

Property owners won't be required to pay sales tax when reselling their property post two years.

Shenzhen is the most recent prominent city in mainland China, following Beijing and Shanghai, to declare tax reductions on large properties to boost sales. This move mirrors the government's appeal to stabilize the market using various strategies to curb a four-year decline.

Officials in Shenzhen, a prominent tech center in China and the base for large corporations like Tencent Holdings and BYD, announced late Tuesday that residents will no longer be required to pay a value-added tax if they sell their property after holding it for over two years.

The metropolis has also increased the minimum size for imposing property transfer tax on residences that are 140 square meters or larger, up from the former limit of 90 square meters.

Beijing and Shanghai took comparable measures on Monday. Additionally, all three cities declared the elimination of the categorization of "ordinary" and "non-ordinary" houses when imposing personal income tax on property resales.

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Ups and downs, debt and doubt: Is China's real estate market crashing?

In China, homes that are considered "non-standard" are those that are 140 square meters or larger, and these homes are subjected to higher taxes upon resale. These regulations will be implemented in three cities starting from December 1.

Explainer | Why are China's ultra-long 'special bonds' so unique?

China exclusively releases its ultra-long-term government bonds under unique conditions – here's why this year meets the criteria.

The dispersal of these bonds, the initial ones since 2020, started following Premier Li Qiang's announcement that the nation would utilize this tool for governmental financing during the yearly meeting of the National People's Congress, China's highest legislative body, on March 5.

What makes these bonds 'unique'?

The extended-duration special government bonds that were sold by the government this year offered a variety of investment periods – maturing after two decades, three decades, or a half-century – and interest rates varying between 2.19 percent and 2.57 percent.

As suggested by the title, these bonds are assigned for particular, or "unique" functions.

The initial instance occurred in 1998, aimed at aiding the restoration of state banks amidst the Asian economic meltdown. Then in 2007, funds amounting to 1.55 trillion yuan were amassed to assist in the creation of the China Investment Corporation. The latest bond issuance took place in 2020, intended for initiatives associated with the prevention and recuperation from the pandemic.

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China experiences its most sluggish economic expansion in more than a year, recording a 4.6% GDP in the third quarter.

US Senator insists Trump must not overlook TikTok prohibition, citing widespread cross-party support. Senator Richard Blumenthal stated that while Trump has the liberty to attempt to modify the law, there is a 'considerable inclination' towards supporting it in Congress.

"Blumenthal asserted that he cannot disregard the law. He added that if he is interested in altering the law, he can attempt to do so. However, Blumenthal cautioned him and the public that there is significant support for the current law."

In a different context, Blumenthal expressed unease over the relationship between China and US tech firms such as Musk's Tesla and SpaceX. Musk plays a significant role in Trump's transition process. Blumenthal pointed out that Tesla manufactures approximately 50% of its vehicles in China and highlighted the US Defense Department's substantial dependence on SpaceX.

Stocks in Hong Kong surge following an experienced fund manager's optimistic outlook on the Chinese market. Howard Marks of Oaktree Capital reveals that the investment company is currently seeking out deals in the domestic market.

The Hang Seng Index concluded with a 0.2 per cent increase, standing at 19,705.01, bouncing back from a 0.4 per cent dip following China's choice to hold steady a crucial lending standard. The Hang Seng Tech Index also saw a rise, moving up by 0.4 per cent.

Mainland benchmarks concluded with an increase. The CSI 300 Index saw a rise of 0.2 per cent, while the Shanghai Composite Index experienced a growth of 0.7 per cent.

Clothing manufacturer Shenzhou International Group Holdings and Hansoh Pharmaceutical Group spearheaded the increases. Baidu, a search engine company, saw a rise ahead of its profit report due later on Thursday.

The Chinese administration is striving to find the correct balance of incentives to boost their economy without becoming overly dependent on it, according to Howard Marks, co-chairman and co-founder of Oaktree Capital Management. He mentioned that the company is seeking value-for-money deals in the domestic market, and dismissed notions of China being an unattractive investment destination as a pleasing prospect to him.

'Financial movement' is the topic as leading financiers debate diversification at a summit in Hong Kong. The Global Financial Leaders' Investment Summit is set to return for its fourth year in the coming November, as stated by HKMA CEO, Eddie Yue.

Top financial experts at a forum advised that investors should start mobilizing their money and strategize for the future, given the world is undergoing major transformations due to decreasing interest rates, the rise of new technologies, and shifts in population distribution.

Money managers at the forum hosted by the HKMA conveyed that varied asset distribution approaches provide the most favourable opportunities.

"Money has been actively circulating," stated Andrew Schlossberg, the head of Invesco. He pointed out that the flow of cash started this year due to shifts in interest rates, a sense of stability returning to markets, and individuals' increased readiness to acquire riskier assets.

Schlossberg stated that the global alterations to stimulus, policy, and retirement markets have led to a significant change in investment strategies for different generations. According to him, these modifications have increased the appeal of capital markets for investors. In addition, he pointed out that there has been a rise in clear investment prospects and opportunities.

Over 300 influential figures in finance, such as executives from State Street Global Advisors, Invesco, and Bridgewater, convened in Hong Kong for a three-day conference to deliberate on industry transformations and exchange knowledge.

At an online forum, China's Xi promotes a 'collective future in the digital world' amidst worries of separation.

Through a video message addressed to the yearly World Internet Conference, Xi Jinping advocated for 'comprehensive' advancement in cyberspace as the gap between US-China relations grows.

The progression of AI technology has enhanced the human capacity to transform the world, albeit introducing a range of unforeseen risks and complications, as indicated by Xi in a video speech presented at the World Internet Conference on Wednesday. According to a summary by the government-operated Xinhua News Agency, Xi stated that China is committed to fostering a secure and "inclusive" growth of cyberspace. Furthermore, the country is open to collaborating with other nations to "establish a collective future in the digital realm".

The address was released a day following the recommendation by the US-China Economic and Security Review Commission, a body that delivers reports to the US Congress, for a funding initiative similar to the "Manhattan Project". This is in reference to the World War II US project that led to the creation of the initial atomic bombs. However, Xi did not refer to the US in his address.

Deputy Prime Minister Ding Xuexiang emphasized the need for worldwide cooperation in managing the internet during Wednesday's event. Ding pointed out that technologies such as AI, the internet, big data, and cloud computing are driving economic and societal progress. However, he warned that the gap in digital access continues to grow and the state of online security remains concerning. He further stressed the importance of global participation in shaping a collective future in the digital world, as per a video recording of his address.

Amid concerns of disconnection, China's Xi advocates for a 'collective future in the digital world' at an internet forum.

In a recorded address to the yearly World Internet Conference, Xi Jinping urged for a 'comprehensive' growth in cyberspace as tensions between the US and China continue to escalate.

Progress in AI technology has enhanced our capacity to transform the world, however, it has also introduced a slew of unforeseen risks and hurdles, stated Xi in a speech presented through a video at the World Internet Conference on Wednesday. China is committed to fostering secure and "comprehensive" growth in cyberspace and is prepared to collaborate with other nations to "establish a collective future in cyberspace", he stated, as reported by the government-controlled Xinhua News Agency.

The address was made public only a day following when the US-China Economic and Security Review Commission, which is accountable to the US Congress, suggested a scheme similar to the "Manhattan Project" to finance the creation of AI technologies, alluding to the US endeavor in World War II that led to the invention of the initial atomic bombs. Xi did not reference the US in his discourse.

Deputy Premier Ding Xuexiang emphasized the necessity for worldwide collaboration in overseeing internet activities during Wednesday's event. According to Ding, artificial intelligence, in conjunction with the internet, vast quantities of data, and cloud computing, is bolstering both economic and societal progress. However, he pointed out that the gap in digital access continues to grow, and the state of online security is still dire. Ding also underscored the importance of global involvement in fostering a "collective cyberspace future," as per a recording of his address.

China's Xi proposes a 'collective future in the digital world' at an internet forum amidst separation concerns. In a video address given at the yearly World Internet Conference, Xi Jinping argued for 'comprehensive' cyber development as the gap between the US and China escalates.

The progression of AI technologies has enhanced human capability to transform the world, though it has also introduced a range of unforeseen risks and difficulties, as stated by Xi in a video speech presented at the World Internet Conference on Wednesday. Xi further stated that China is committed to promoting secure and "inclusive" growth in the digital sphere and is prepared to collaborate with other nations to "establish a collective future in the digital world," as per a report featuring his comments by the government-controlled Xinhua News Agency.

The address was released a day following the suggestion of a "Manhattan Project"-like funding program for AI development by the US-China Economic and Security Review Commission, a body that reports to the US Congress. This refers to the wartime initiative by the US that led to the creation of the first nuclear weapons during the Second World War. However, Xi did not reference the US in his announcement.

Deputy Prime Minister Ding Xuexiang emphasized the need for worldwide collaboration in regulating the internet at Wednesday's event. He recognized the significant role of AI, the internet, big data, and cloud computing in advancing economic and societal growth. However, he noted the ongoing expansion of the digital divide and the concerning state of cybersecurity. In a video of his speech, he also highlighted the importance of global cooperation towards a collectively secured future in cyberspace.

Analysts suggest that China's superiority in electric vehicles and clean energy supports the maritime sector's shift towards sustainability. China leads the world in terms of electric vehicles, renewable energy, and battery supply chains, giving it an edge in the industry.

"New construction in shipbuilding is predominantly conducted here, with it accounting for 95 percent of the total," stated Subajan Sivandran, a director at the French ship-verification firm Bureau Veritas, during a Shenzhen industry forum on Friday. "Innovation is taking place here, whether it pertains to ship design or the necessary equipment for supporting various new fuel types."

Undoubtedly, this is the setting that nurtures all that creativity and where we observe the origin of that demand.

Kelly Zhou, the director of China market development at Methanex, the world’s largest methanol producer and supplier, has suggested that China is on track to become the global leader in the production of green methanol. This eco-friendly shipping fuel, created from clean sources such as sustainable biomass and green hydrogen, is expected to be produced by China at the lowest cost globally. Zhou, however, did not specify a timeline for this development.

Last year, China constructed over half of the global merchant ships. Now, in response to the European Union's recent implementation of the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism, China plans to reduce carbon emissions in its shipping industry. This move also anticipates a forthcoming plan from the International Maritime Organisation to promote decarbonisation, which is likely to be announced next year.

Hong Kong's initial public offerings (IPOs) are seeing a surge as tycoons from Sino Land and New World support SF Holding's listing. This marks the first instance of these billionaires investing in an IPO in the city since 2022, with SF Holding's IPO valued at US$793 million.

For the first time in several years, real estate moguls are backing the Hong Kong initial public offering (IPO) market. This action could potentially stimulate a budding revival.

Sino Land, owned by billionaire Robert Ng Chee Siong, is a significant investor in the nearly $793 million Hong Kong public offering of courier company SF Holding, which began this week. An investment entity supported by the family of New World Development chairman Henry Cheng Kar-shun is also one of the 10 groups that have pledged to purchase shares in the offering in exchange for a certain allocation.

Previously, businesses aiming to go public in Hong Kong often sought support from local real estate moguls, who were highly respected for their investment acumen in a city whose prosperity was founded on property. However, this trend has seen a decline in recent years as Chinese state-owned companies started to become more dominant – no Hong Kong-based billionaires have been key investors in any significant public offerings in the city since the beginning of 2022, as per Bloomberg's data collection.

"The presence of magnates in such an agreement signifies their dedication to Hong Kong, their faith in the Chinese economy, and their belief in the medium to long term," conveyed Andy Maynard, the chief of equities at China Renaissance Securities, during a phone conversation on Wednesday. "It essentially represents a seal of approval."

The quantity of stock listings in Hong Kong has seen a surge in recent times following a subdued 2023, with capital raising volumes experiencing a 92 per cent increase to US$9.1 billion this year, according to statistics collated by Bloomberg. SF, often referred to as China's FedEx, could be classified as the city's second most substantial offering this year if it is priced at the maximum of the proposed range.