Hong Kong stocks decline as the Fed indicates a deceleration in easing for the upcoming year. The Federal Reserve's assertive prediction of only two rate reductions in the following year has subdued market enthusiasm.

Stocks in Hong Kong experienced a downturn after the US Federal Reserve surprisingly projected a stern outlook for interest rate reductions in the coming year.

The Hang Seng Index fell by 0.6 per cent, closing at 19,752.51 on Thursday, having dropped by as much as 1.4 per cent during the day. The Hang Seng Tech Index also decreased by 0.7 per cent. Meanwhile in the mainland, the CSI 300 Index saw a slight increase of 0.1 per cent, while the Shanghai Composite Index dropped by 0.4 per cent.

Jerome Powell, the Chairman of the Federal Reserve, stated that the reduced speed of rate decreases is a result of both the present inflation and the anticipated rise in inflation for the following year. The Federal Reserve's policy statement included modified forward-guidance phrasing, expressing that they are "evaluating the magnitude and schedule of further modifications." This suggests that there may be a temporary halt in rate reductions at the upcoming January meeting.

Jack McIntyre, a portfolio manager at the American investment company Brandywine Global, mentioned that the Federal Reserve is currently in a "standstill" with its monetary policy. He emphasized that the longer this situation continues, the more probable it is for the financial markets to balance the possibilities of a rate increase and a rate decrease equally. He also suggested that this uncertainty in policy could lead to more fluctuations in the financial markets in 2025.

The struggling autonomous truck company, TuSimple, has rebranded itself as CreateAI and unveiled a new AI model. Despite having been a promising name in the self-driving sector, TuSimple is now focusing on AI-powered video content following the dismissal of its CEO.

Hou has initiated legal proceedings calling for the immediate dissolution of TuSimple, now known as CreateAI, accusing the company of misusing shareholder funds. Hou insists that his former 29.7% voting influence should be restored from Chen, which would allow him to block the proposed plan at CreateAI's shareholder assembly this coming Friday. However, Chen has declined to give up control. A judgement is expected to be delivered in the first three months of 2025.

In a conversation with the Post, CreateAI's CEO, Lu Cheng, stated that self-driving technology, despite its high costs, wouldn't yield profits in the immediate future. He also projected that content created through artificial intelligence is estimated to provide substantial earnings for the company by 2025 and lead to profitability by 2026.

Despite the challenges, Lu emphasized that CreateAI remains committed to self-driving technology. Rather than independently managing a large number of vehicles or transporting goods, the company is actively seeking partnerships to license its technology and function as a provider.

Lu stated that the initial previews of the Three-Body Problem feature are expected to be released to the public by mid-next year. Furthermore, a preliminary version of the Heroes of Jin Yong game is anticipated to be available in 2026, with the complete edition projected for a 2027 release.

The struggling autonomous truck company, TuSimple, has rebranded itself as CreateAI and has introduced a new AI model. Previously known for its prominence in the field of self-driving vehicles, TuSimple has shifted its focus towards AI-produced video content after the dismissal of its CEO.

Hou has initiated legal proceedings calling for the immediate dissolution of TuSimple, currently known as CreateAI, on the grounds that the company misused investor funds. Hou claims he should regain his previous voting rights of 29.7%, which Chen currently holds. This would allow him to reject the proposal at CreateAI's shareholder meeting on this coming Friday. Chen, however, declined to give up his control. The court's decision is expected to be made in the first three months of 2025.

In a discussion with the Post, Lu Cheng, the CEO of CreateAI, mentioned that self-driving technology, despite its high expense, would not yield profits in the immediate future. However, he anticipates that content produced by artificial intelligence would start generating significant income for the company by 2025, leading it to become profitable by 2026.

Nevertheless, Lu stated that CreateAI is "not abandoning its pursuit of autonomous driving". Rather than directly managing a large vehicle fleet or transporting goods, the company is "vigorously seeking partners to license [its] technology" as a "provider".

Lu announced that early previews of the Three-Body Problem feature are expected to be released by mid next year. Additionally, the initial edition of the Heroes of Jin Yong game is slated for release in 2026 and the complete version is anticipated to be launched by 2027.

FutureGEN Girls Leadership Conference 2024: Powering the Upcoming Wave of Leaders

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The FutureGEN Girls Leadership Summit 2024, held on November 9, saw more than 300 teenage girls gather at the Hong Kong Palace Museum for a day of motivation, education, and empowerment. Now in its third iteration, the JYC Girls Impact Foundation (JYCGIF) organized the summit and became an official member of youthfest@HK 2024. The Home and Youth Affairs Bureau (HYAB), Hang Seng Bank, CTF Education Group, Music Chaos Foundation, Digital Domain, Cupping Room, Eslite Culture HK Ltd., and 9 other organizations supported this vibrant initiative, which encourages youth development and achievement through teamwork. Over the past three years, JYCGIF has staged over 100 events, attracting more than 7,000 attendees.

The theme for this year's Summit was "Discover Your Strength: Encouraging Potential Leaders to Act". The event challenged participants to identify their special talents and maximize their abilities. The agenda was packed with inspiring sessions, including motivational talks and practical workshops, all aimed at instilling teenage girls with the self-assurance and expertise to shape their own future. Miss Alice Mak, SBS, JP, the Secretary for Home and Youth Affairs, stated that the Summit's focus closely aligns with the 2024 Policy Address of the HKSAR Chief Executive, which places a strong emphasis on the career advancement of women.

"Miss Mak announced during her introductory speech at the Bureau of Home and Youth Affairs that they are set to initiate a mentoring scheme. This will partner up female college students with mentors from the upper echelons of management. She further stated their dedication to fostering a diverse talent pool that 'supports half the world', thus enabling women to excel professionally."

Tencent forfeits Epic Games board positions following US antitrust investigation

The most affluent firm in China, which owns Riot Games – a competitor of Epic where it also holds a lesser share – had its board positions in both companies under possible violation of US legislation.

The most lucrative firm in China, which holds a partial ownership in Epic and a direct rival through its subsidiary, Riot Games, has raised antitrust violation fears, as per a Department of Justice (DOJ) statement on Wednesday. The statement also mentioned that Tencent has given up its board seats, along with its exclusive authority to nominate directors or observers.

Epic Games confirmed via email that David Wallerstein and Ben Feder are resigning from their directorial positions. Wallerstein, an executive at Tencent for many years, moved into a consulting capacity this year. On the other hand, Feder holds a leading role at Tirta Ventures.

The Justice Department announced that it has increased enforcement and monitoring for possible breaches of Section 8 of the Clayton Act. This law forbids board members from holding positions in rival companies such as Epic and Riot Games. Riot Games is notably known for developing online multiplayer games such as League of Legends.

"Inspection of overlapping board memberships remains a key focus for the Antitrust Division," said Deputy Director of Civil Enforcement, Miriam Vishio, in the statement from the DOJ. "Our heightened regulatory actions concerning Section 8 in the recent years have yielded significant outcomes."

In a progressively intricate landscape, Ultra-High Net Worth (UHNW) families in Asia are in search of customized wealth management strategies. J.P. Morgan Private Bank's international team is tackling the escalating intricacies of wealth across generations with experience, robustness, and flexibility.

Family offices are typically established to cater to the requirements of extremely wealthy individuals and their families. This can include a range of services from financial planning and tax strategy to safeguarding wealth and organizing inheritance plans.

Lately, the family office sector has been undergoing swift changes due to shifting family requirements, advancements in technology, and the necessity to adjust to a globally intricate financial environment. The "2024 Global Family Office Report" from J.P. Morgan Private Bank offers crucial understanding of how the needs and focuses of wealthy families have changed, and the kind of improved services and support they require. This is provided through the comprehensive, progressive strategy employed by J.P. Morgan Private Bank.

The report indicates that ultra-high net worth (UHNW) families are significantly interested in having a wider range of options in their total investment portfolio. The movement towards varied investment approaches stems from the desire for increased adaptability, which could mean maintaining a robust stance in sectors such as real estate, while also broadening their investments into innovative technologies and developing markets.

The report underscores a notable trend where there's a preference to delegate certain wealth management tasks to financial experts on an optional basis, yet continuing steady discussions with family members and particularly with upcoming family leaders.

The report further highlights how family offices are developing, with a growing focus on enhancing family ties, backing philanthropic objectives, and aiding the passing of wealth across generations.

"Various aspects need to be taken into account, which makes the situation intricate," explains Harshika Patel, the Chief Executive Officer at J.P. Morgan Private Bank in Asia. "Frequently, our clientele consists of large business proprietors, and there's a noticeable shift from a conventional domestic strategy to embracing a more international investment aspect. Therefore, during strategizing, it becomes necessary for us to create a worldwide diversified structure for managing their wealth and to constantly remind them about the complexity involved in such large-scale operations."

HKEX aims to draw in new listings with the implementation of new regulations and reforms. Alterations to listing guidelines and board representation have been initiated with the intent of making Hong Kong a more appealing location for listings, according to HKEX.

The Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing (HKEX), operator of the world's fourth-largest stock market, has announced a series of amendments to its listing and governance regulations. The aim of these changes is to find a balance between the needs of issuers and investors, thereby enhancing the quality of the market. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to reestablish the city as a top choice for new listings.

Starting from July next year, each independent non-executive director (INED) will be limited to serving on just six boards, as announced by the HKEX on Thursday. This comes as the HKEX moves forward with the contentious plan first suggested in June. Companies exceeding this limit will be granted a three-year window to correct the issue. Currently, 23 INEDs are serving on more than six boards, based on data from the HKEX.

The trading platform, nonetheless, has chosen to postpone the phase-out period for prohibiting firms from employing an INED who has served on a board of directors for nine years. The enforcement of the nine-year restriction has been pushed back to 2032 from the initial 2028, it further stated.

The modifications were intended to improve corporate governance, according to CEO Bonnie Chan Yiting who stated this in June.

The updated regulations regarding INEDs "will introduce fresh and varied viewpoints in the boardroom, consequently bolstering the board's overall efficiency, autonomy, and diversity," stated Katherine Ng, the chief of listing. "These improvements are in tune with the increased global investor anticipations for governance standards."

Alibaba partitions its AI division to enhance focus on consumers and businesses. This move mirrors those made by ByteDance and Baidu, who have also segregated their AI research and application departments to better navigate a competitive marketplace.

The team responsible for the AI chatbot will move to the Intelligent Information Platform, mainly in charge of consumer-focused products like the UC Browser and Quark search engine.

In the meantime, the research and development section of LLM, known as Tongyi Lab, will continue to be a part of Alibaba Cloud. Their focus will be on basic research and backing certain products, as stated in Wednesday's report.

Thursday's request for a comment from Alibaba, the proprietor of the South China Morning Post, didn't receive an instant response.

This action is a result of China's major tech corporations competing to convert the technology into real products. Alibaba's Tongyi Qianwen, also referred to as Qianwen, is among the top generative AI models in China.

Ant, the colossal Chinese financial technology firm, has dismissed rumors of an impending relaunch of its Initial Public Offering (IPO) process. In the face of widespread conjecture, the company asserts that it presently has no intentions of becoming publicly traded or seeking a reverse takeover.

Ant dismissed such conjectures outright. The firm announced on its Weibo page on Thursday that at present, it has no intentions of becoming a public entity and there is no strategy in place for a supposed 'back-door listing.' A back-door listing is a term for launching assets via a previously listed entity.

The corporation recently discovered that "several organizations have asserted across various platforms that Ant Group is on the verge of becoming a public company via an indirect listing". It cautioned online users to be vigilant against these "stock suggestion frauds".

In the fast-paced Automobile Industry, success hinges on aligning with top Market Trends and innovations in Vehicle Manufacturing, Automotive Sales, and services like Aftermarket Parts, Car Dealerships, Vehicle Maintenance, Automotive Repair, and Car Rental Services. Key trends include a shift towards electric vehicles, enhanced by advancements in Automotive Technology like autonomous driving and AI, alongside a focus on sustainable Supply Chain Management and Regulatory Compliance. The adoption of 3D printing and the rise of online sales and car-sharing platforms reflect changing Consumer Preferences and the importance of a robust online presence for Automotive Marketing. Businesses must prioritize industry innovation, strategic planning, and customer satisfaction to navigate the complexities of the Automobile Industry effectively.

In the fast-paced world of transportation, the automotive business stands as a crucial pillar, driving not only vehicles but also economies forward. From the bustling production lines of vehicle manufacturing to the personalized service bays of automotive repair, this sector encompasses a wide range of activities including distribution, sales, maintenance, and the provision of aftermarket parts. Car dealerships, aftermarket parts suppliers, car rental services, and repair shops all play integral roles in keeping the wheels of society turning, offering a variety of transportation solutions to meet the diverse needs of individuals and organizations alike.

As we shift gears into the future, the automotive industry faces a road filled with both challenges and opportunities, shaped by technological advancements, changing consumer preferences, economic fluctuations, and a landscape of regulatory compliance. Success in this dynamic and competitive market demands a comprehensive understanding of market trends, industry innovation, and the implementation of effective automotive marketing strategies. It also requires an unwavering commitment to quality products and services, customer satisfaction, and the agility to adapt to evolving market demands.

In this feature, we delve into the heart of the automotive business, exploring the latest top trends and innovations steering the automobile industry forward. From the cutting-edge developments in automotive technology that are redefining what vehicles can do, to the strategic insights that propel vehicle manufacturing and automotive sales to new heights, we cover the essential components that businesses need to navigate the road ahead. Additionally, we examine the importance of aftermarket parts, car dealerships, vehicle maintenance, and car rental services in creating a comprehensive automotive ecosystem that caters to every consumer need.

Join us as we rev up our engines and embark on a journey through "Navigating the Road Ahead: Top Trends and Innovations in the Automobile Industry" and "Revving Up Success: Strategies for Vehicle Manufacturing, Automotive Sales, and Beyond." Whether you're involved in supply chain management, keen on industry innovation, or simply fascinated by the latest in automotive marketing, this article promises insights into how to drive success in the ever-evolving world of automotive business.

• 1. "Navigating the Road Ahead: Top Trends and Innovations in the Automobile Industry"
• 2. "Revving Up Success: Strategies for Vehicle Manufacturing, Automotive Sales, and Beyond"

1. "Navigating the Road Ahead: Top Trends and Innovations in the Automobile Industry"

In the ever-evolving landscape of the automobile industry, businesses are continuously adapting to stay ahead of the curve. Understanding the top trends and innovations is critical for stakeholders across vehicle manufacturing, automotive sales, aftermarket parts, car dealerships, vehicle maintenance, automotive repair, and car rental services. The fusion of automotive technology with market trends is reshaping consumer preferences and dictating the pace of industry innovation.

One of the most significant trends is the shift towards electric vehicles (EVs), driven by increasing environmental concerns and regulatory compliance aimed at reducing carbon emissions. This evolution demands a reconfiguration of the supply chain management, focusing on sourcing sustainable materials and components. Vehicle manufacturing companies are investing heavily in research and development to produce efficient battery technologies and extend EV ranges, addressing one of the primary consumer concerns.

The digital transformation within the automobile industry has led to the integration of advanced technologies such as autonomous driving, connected vehicles, and Artificial Intelligence (AI)-powered interfaces. These advancements not only enhance the driving experience but also open new avenues for automotive marketing, allowing businesses to offer personalized services and promotions directly to the consumer’s digital devices.

Aftermarket parts and vehicle maintenance services are also seeing a revolution with the advent of 3D printing technology, allowing for the cost-effective production of parts and reducing the dependency on traditional supply chains. This technology enables quicker turnaround times for automotive repair services, significantly improving customer satisfaction.

Additionally, the rise of car rental services and car-sharing platforms reflects a change in consumer preferences towards mobility solutions over vehicle ownership. This trend is particularly pronounced in urban areas, where parking and traffic congestion issues make car ownership less appealing.

For car dealerships and automotive sales, the digitalization trend has led to an increase in online sales and virtual showrooms. Consumers are increasingly comfortable with purchasing vehicles online, necessitating automotive businesses to enhance their online presence and digital sales capabilities.

In conclusion, navigating the road ahead in the automobile industry requires a keen understanding of automotive technology, market trends, and consumer preferences. Businesses must prioritize industry innovation, regulatory compliance, and supply chain management while developing robust automotive marketing strategies. Adapting to these changes will not only ensure survival but also pave the way for success in a highly competitive market.

2. "Revving Up Success: Strategies for Vehicle Manufacturing, Automotive Sales, and Beyond"

In the fast-paced realm of the Automobile Industry, achieving success demands more than just a passion for vehicles. For entities engaged in Vehicle Manufacturing, Automotive Sales, and the broader spectrum of automotive operations, the roadmap to prosperity is paved with strategic planning, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. At the heart of this journey lies a multifaceted approach that encompasses top-notch Automotive Marketing, a keen understanding of Market Trends, and a steadfast adherence to Regulatory Compliance.

For manufacturers, the essence of triumph in Vehicle Manufacturing lies in mastering Supply Chain Management and Industry Innovation. In an era where Automotive Technology evolves at breakneck speed, staying ahead means integrating the latest advancements into vehicle production, from electric drivetrains to autonomous driving features. This not only meets the Consumer Preferences for more efficient, safer, and smarter vehicles but also positions a manufacturer as a leader in Automotive Innovation.

The pathway to success in Automotive Sales and Car Dealerships is equally challenging and rewarding. Today's consumers are well-informed and expect a seamless purchasing experience. Dealerships that leverage cutting-edge Automotive Marketing strategies, such as digital showrooms and personalized online interactions, are more likely to captivate and convert potential buyers. Furthermore, understanding Consumer Preferences and offering a wide range of Aftermarket Parts and customization options can significantly enhance customer satisfaction and loyalty.

Beyond the sale of new vehicles, the automotive ecosystem includes essential services that ensure the longevity and performance of a vehicle. Automotive Repair, Vehicle Maintenance, and Car Rental Services are integral components of the industry, each requiring a unique set of strategies to flourish. For instance, repair shops that specialize in the latest Automotive Technology can offer more sophisticated diagnostics and solutions, setting them apart from competitors. Similarly, Car Rental Services that offer a diverse fleet and flexible rental terms are more likely to meet the varied needs of today’s consumers.

In conclusion, navigating the complexities of the Automobile Industry requires a holistic and adaptable approach. From Vehicle Manufacturing to Automotive Sales and the myriad services that follow, businesses that stay informed about Market Trends, invest in Industry Innovation, and prioritize Customer Satisfaction are best positioned for long-term success. In this ever-evolving marketplace, the ability to anticipate changes and adapt strategies accordingly is not just an advantage—it's a necessity for revving up success.

In conclusion, the automotive business landscape is as diverse and expansive as the road networks that crisscross our nations. From vehicle manufacturing to automotive sales, aftermarket parts to car dealerships, and vehicle maintenance to automotive repair, each component plays a pivotal role in keeping the wheels of the automobile industry turning. As we've explored, staying ahead in this competitive sector demands not only an awareness of the top market trends and consumer preferences but also a commitment to industry innovation, regulatory compliance, and supply chain management.

The future of automotive businesses will undoubtedly be shaped by advances in automotive technology, including the rise of electric vehicles, autonomous driving, and connected car features. These innovations, coupled with dynamic marketing strategies and a focus on customer satisfaction, are key to revving up success in vehicle manufacturing, automotive sales, and beyond.

Moreover, the importance of adaptability cannot be overstated. Whether it's navigating changes in regulatory environments, adjusting to shifts in consumer demand, or exploring new opportunities in car rental services, businesses that can pivot and evolve will drive forward, leaving competitors in the rearview mirror.

As we accelerate into the future, the roadmap for automotive businesses will continue to be influenced by these critical factors. Embracing automotive technology, understanding the market, and delivering quality products and services are not just strategies for growth—they are essential for survival in the fast-paced world of the automobile industry.

Geely's CEO believes the company's financial success hinges on gasoline-powered vehicles despite the rising popularity of electric vehicles. "Without the production of petrol cars, automakers risk losing a significant source of profit growth," says CEO Gui Shengyue in an interview.

Geely Auto, the second biggest automobile manufacturer in China, has called for a return to fundamental business principles with a focus on profitability. It is relying on petrol-fueled cars to drive its earnings, even though electric vehicles (EVs) are selling strongly.

Traditional vehicles fueled by internal combustion engines (ICEs) are projected to account for 30 per cent of global car sales due to diverse consumer preferences and driving routines, coupled with inadequate electric vehicle charging infrastructure.

"Electric vehicles are not the sole representation of the automotive industry's transformation," stated CEO Gui Shengyue in a discussion with the Post. "As an auto manufacturer, if you don't produce gasoline vehicles, you'll miss out on a key source of profit growth."

The remarks contradict the widespread belief that electric vehicles (EVs) will take over the car industry as more nations commit to worldwide goals of lowering carbon emissions by 2030 and 2050. Just last week, William Li, the head of Nio, a high-end EV manufacturer based in Shanghai, predicted that the acceptance of EVs in China will exceed 90% by 2027.

He forecasts that hybrid vehicles, capable of operating on battery power for brief journeys and transitioning to gasoline for extended trips, would make up 40% of worldwide car sales. Meanwhile, solely electric vehicles are expected to account for the rest of the 30% market share. Both hybrid and purely electric vehicles are classified under the electric vehicle (EV) segment.

"Essentially, future models of internal combustion engine (ICE) cars will not consume excessive amounts of oil as they have been known to. They will need to be designed with fuel efficiency in mind to aid in the worldwide initiative to lower emissions," stated Gui. "They will also incorporate more smart technology, similar to their electric counterparts."

Hopewell, the leading property owner in Wan Chai, is venturing into the hotel industry, banking on the demand for tourism and conferences. Gordon Wu, the founder, anticipates retiring in two years following the renovation of Nam Koo Terrace, otherwise known as the Wan Chai Haunted House.

Hopewell Holdings, a significant commercial property owner in the Wan Chai district, is counting on its newest hotel business to thrive through an increase in tourists from mainland China and Southeast Asia, along with a growing need for large-scale conferences in the city.

The Hopewell Hotel, situated adjacent to the Hopewell Centre on Kennedy Road, plans to offer 1,000 rooms in addition to more than 70,000 square feet of open meeting and convention areas, as announced during a press conference on Tuesday. The hotel expects to draw a larger crowd from the mainland, thanks to recent government actions such as the implementation of multi-entry visas for residents of Shenzhen.

Gordon Wu Ying-sheung, the group chairman, disclosed that this hotel is poised to become the city's next destination for global conferences, thanks to its variety of auditoriums and venues of different sizes. He noted that there is a significant need for new, large-scale conference amenities in Hong Kong.

At the age of 89, Wu is optimistic about the future prospects of the city's hotel industry. He expects an increase in visitors from two specific regions due to a rise in national income. However, he acknowledges that it will be a challenging journey, indicating that it could take over ten years for the hotel business to start making a profit.

Wu stated that the total price for the property and building expenses equaled approximately HK$15 billion (US$1.9 billion). Given an annual interest rate of 5%, the project would need around 11 to 12 years before it begins to generate profit. Therefore, it could be excessively expensive for other potential competitors.