Naomi Osaka shares personal experiences at Women Aces in Leadership gathering

The renowned tennis player teamed up with other female sportspersons and worldwide executives at the discussion event, which took place alongside the Prudential Hong Kong Tennis Open.

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Naomi Osaka is set to be one of the speakers at the Women Aces in Leadership event.

In both the sporting and corporate world, women have tirelessly battled for upper echelon positions. This made the Prudential Hong Kong Tennis Open an appropriate occasion to gather a renowned group of international tennis athletes and high-ranking executives from across the globe for a special event celebrating the achievements of women leaders.

Last month, Prudential hosted the Women Aces in Leadership event in Hong Kong. This event was linked with the women's tennis tournament that Prudential has been sponsoring since 2014, as a part of their initiative to emphasize the significance of resilience to the younger generations. Additionally, Prudential aims to promote diversity, equality, and inclusivity in both the sports and business sectors.

At the commencement of the event, Angel Ng, the Regional Chief Executive Officer for Greater China's customer and wealth division at Prudential Group, stated: "Promoting a healthy and active lifestyle among individuals is one of Prudential's key objectives. This is why we are intensely dedicated to backing women in the field of sports."

Over 120 attendees convened to listen to two panel debates where seven women achievers from the spheres of sports and business, featuring four-time Grand Slam tennis winner Naomi Osaka, recounted their individual paths to triumph in their respective industries.

The initial conversation, named "Emerging Talents: Guidance and Psychological Strength for Future Leaders", showcased Osaka as well as Lilian Ng, the director in charge of the Strategic Business Group at Prudential Group, and Mary Huen, the Chief Executive Officer for Hong Kong, Greater China, and North Asia at Standard Chartered Bank.

The founder of Chinese retail company Miniso has criticized Douyin, owned by ByteDance, for its excessive charges. This represents the second major public criticism of Douyin in recent days, with some of China's richest people being involved.

Quoting statistics from the video, Ye mentioned that in 2023, Douyin reported a total trade value of 2 trillion yuan (approximately US$276 billion). Out of this, 40% was given back as refunds. Concurrently, the total income from advertisements hit 400 billion yuan during the same timeframe.

Reacting to the posts on social media, a spokesperson from Douyin stated, "The statistics mentioned are incorrect."

Neither Miniso nor the internet personality promptly replied to a plea for their input. By Thursday midday, the WeChat posts from Ye and the influencer that were aimed at Douyin had been removed from the internet.

Miniso's critical message represents the second notable criticism of Douyin in recent days, coming from some of the most affluent people in mainland China.

BOC Life provides insurance policies for those in Hong Kong who wish to spend their retirement years in cities on the mainland. In 2022, it's estimated that about 88,000 individuals from Hong Kong, aged 65 and older, resided in the southern region of Guangdong. This represents an increase of 11% compared to the numbers from 2017.

BOC Life has announced a strategy to provide insurance protection for Hong Kong retirees intending to reside in mainland China, citing the city's aging population as a rising business prospect.

The company, a subsidiary of China's third largest bank, Bank of China, plans to provide cheaper insurance packages for its approximately 150,000 current clients who are considering residing in 18 major cities in mainland China. These cities include nine from the southern Guangdong province, which is part of the Greater Bay Area, as well as Hangzhou, Chengdu, Dali, and Qingdao.

Through their RetireCation plan, policyholders have the option to utilize their cash value to cover the cost of accommodations offered by the company's business associates, stated CEO Wilson Tang. The insurance company also provides guidance on transportation logistics, as well as cultural, medical, and other social events. Policyholders have the flexibility to choose a stay duration of a week or more, he further explained.

"Hong Kong is witnessing a surge in its elderly population, leading to a high need for retirement services," Tang stated during a press conference on Thursday. "Given the steep living expenses, numerous retirees are looking at more affordable living alternatives elsewhere. This is predicted to give rise to fresh business prospects in the future."

In 2023, approximately 22 per cent of Hong Kong's population of 7.5 million were individuals aged 65 and older, as per the data from the statistics department. Life expectancy in Hong Kong has seen a significant rise since 1971, going up to 82.5 years from 67.8 for males and increasing to 88.1 from 75.3 for females. Government records revealed that in 2022, about 88,000 Hong Kong inhabitants aged 65 and above resided in Guangdong, indicating an 11 per cent increase compared to 2017.

BOC Life isn't the only company capitalizing on this market sector. Other firms like Ping An Insurance, HSBC Life and Manulife have also launched retirement-focused products and services to secure a part of the market share. To cope with increasing living expenses, many Hong Kong residents are choosing to spend their money across the border where they can get more value for their money on necessities such as food, leisure activities, and housing.

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People from Hong Kong are searching for deals on items like roast chicken and soap at an American warehouse retailer located in mainland China.

As an illustration, Ping An provides in-home elderly care services to their policyholders and is in the process of establishing three luxury elderly care facilities in Shenzhen, Guangzhou, and Foshan, according to co-CEO Michael Guo Xiaotao's statement in August. Meanwhile, HSBC Life and Manulife have recently introduced services to assist retirees in Hong Kong in managing their wealth.

Mexico hastens to soothe concerns of Chinese investors in light of Donald Trump's tariff warnings. There's a growing concern among several Chinese individuals that Mexico might yield to the US's coercion to suppress Chinese-backed factories.

Mexican representatives are quickly working to reassure Chinese firms that their investments in Mexico are still appreciated, amid increasing pressure to regulate factories funded by China.

Santiago Toledo, a trade advisor at the Mexican embassy in China, advised Chinese companies in Mexico on Wednesday to stay composed and "wait and see" the developments following the inauguration of the US President-elect Donald Trump.

Toledo emphasized that, despite the unclear future of trade relations in North America, any Chinese firm establishing a manufacturing plant in Mexico would be considered a local manufacturer under current legislation.

"Regardless of whether it originates from Japan, Germany, or China, it transforms into a Mexican firm and integrates into the local supply chain," Toledo stated, during an off-stage conversation at the China International Supply Chain Expo in Beijing.

The country in Latin America is a favored selection due to its closeness to the US and its involvement in the US-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). This pact ensures that if a specific portion of a product is manufactured within North America, it can be imported into the US market without any tax implications.

The Automobile Industry is undergoing significant transformation, with sustainability driving the rise of electric vehicles, impacting Vehicle Manufacturing and Automotive Sales. Consumer demands for personalized vehicles are reshaping Aftermarket Parts and Vehicle Maintenance, while advancements in Automotive Technology, such as autonomous driving, are becoming the new norm. The need for expertise in Automotive Repair and adaptation in Car Rental Services is growing due to these tech integrations. Supply Chain Management's role has been emphasized by global disruptions, necessitating more resilient operations. Staying compliant with tightening regulations on emissions and safety is critical across the board, from Vehicle Manufacturing to Car Rental Services. Top businesses are leveraging Industry Innovation and Automotive Marketing, using big data to meet shifting Consumer Preferences and Market Trends. Success in this evolving landscape requires a focus on customization, quality, digital marketing, and a deep understanding of market dynamics for Car Dealerships, Aftermarket Parts, and Automotive Repair sectors.

In the fast-paced world of the automotive industry, businesses ranging from vehicle manufacturing giants to local car dealerships are constantly navigating a landscape marked by rapid technological advancements and shifting consumer preferences. At the heart of this bustling ecosystem lie automotive sales, aftermarket parts, car rental services, and automotive repair businesses, each playing a pivotal role in keeping the wheels of the economy turning. As these entities strive for success amid a competitive market, understanding the latest industry innovations, market trends, and effective automotive marketing strategies becomes paramount. This article delves into the critical aspects that drive the automotive business forward, from the top trends shaping the future of vehicle manufacturing to the strategies that ensure profitability in automotive sales and services. With sections dedicated to "Navigating the Road Ahead: Top Trends and Innovations in the Automobile Industry" and "Revving Up Success: Strategies for Automotive Sales, Aftermarket Parts, and Repair Services in Today's Market," readers will gain insights into how businesses can adapt and thrive in an environment influenced by automotive technology, consumer preferences, regulatory compliance, supply chain management, and industry innovation. Whether you're involved in vehicle maintenance, run a car dealership, or are part of the broader automotive sector, this article offers a comprehensive overview of the key factors essential for achieving success in the dynamic automotive market.

• 1. "Navigating the Road Ahead: Top Trends and Innovations in the Automobile Industry"
• 2. "Revving Up Success: Strategies for Automotive Sales, Aftermarket Parts, and Repair Services in Today's Market"

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

In the fast-paced world of the automobile industry, understanding the top trends and innovations is crucial for businesses aiming to stay ahead. The sector, encompassing vehicle manufacturing, automotive sales, aftermarket parts, car dealerships, vehicle maintenance, automotive repair, and car rental services, is witnessing a significant transformation driven by advancements in automotive technology, shifts in market trends, consumer preferences, and the need for regulatory compliance.

One of the most influential trends reshaping the landscape is the increasing emphasis on sustainability and eco-friendliness, leading to a surge in the production and demand for electric vehicles (EVs). Vehicle manufacturing companies are investing heavily in research and development to create EVs that are not only environmentally friendly but also competitive in terms of performance and affordability. This shift is also affecting automotive sales, with dealerships now needing to adapt their strategies to cater to the growing market segment interested in electric and hybrid vehicles.

In the realm of aftermarket parts and vehicle maintenance, there is a growing trend towards customization and personalization, fueled by consumer preferences for vehicles that stand out. Automotive repair shops and aftermarket suppliers are thus expanding their offerings to include a wider range of parts and accessories that allow for vehicle customization, from aesthetic upgrades to performance enhancements.

Another key trend is the integration of advanced technologies into vehicles and the automotive repair process. Automotive technology, such as autonomous driving features, advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS), and connected car technologies, is becoming increasingly common. This evolution requires car dealerships, repair shops, and rental services to stay abreast of the latest developments and ensure their staff are trained to handle new technologies. Additionally, the use of big data and analytics in automotive marketing is enabling businesses to better understand consumer preferences and tailor their offerings accordingly.

Supply chain management has also come to the forefront, especially in the wake of global disruptions caused by the pandemic. The automotive industry has felt the impact of supply chain challenges, leading to a renewed focus on building resilience and flexibility in parts sourcing and inventory management. Companies are exploring ways to mitigate risks, such as diversifying their supplier base and leveraging technology to improve supply chain visibility.

Regulatory compliance continues to be a pivotal area, with governments around the world tightening emissions standards and safety regulations. Companies across the automotive spectrum, from vehicle manufacturing to car rental services, must navigate these regulatory landscapes, ensuring their products and operations comply with the latest rules and standards.

Finally, industry innovation remains a cornerstone for success in the automotive sector. From exploring new business models, like subscription-based car rental services, to adopting cutting-edge manufacturing techniques, businesses are constantly seeking ways to innovate and differentiate themselves in a competitive market.

In conclusion, navigating the road ahead for businesses in the automobile industry involves a delicate balancing act of embracing new technologies, adapting to changing consumer preferences, ensuring regulatory compliance, managing supply chain complexities, and driving forward with innovation. Those that can effectively leverage these trends and innovations are well-positioned to lead the market and meet the evolving needs of today’s consumers.

2. "Revving Up Success: Strategies for Automotive Sales, Aftermarket Parts, and Repair Services in Today's Market"

In today's rapidly evolving automobile industry, businesses within automotive sales, aftermarket parts, and repair services sectors are constantly seeking innovative strategies to rev up their success and maintain a competitive edge. Understanding and implementing top practices in market trends, consumer preferences, and industry innovation is crucial for companies aiming to thrive. Here's how businesses in these sectors can accelerate growth and customer satisfaction.

**Automotive Sales: Navigating the Road Ahead**

For car dealerships, staying ahead in the highly competitive automotive sales landscape requires a multifaceted approach. Embracing automotive technology and digital marketing strategies are key. Today's consumers begin their journey online, making a strong digital presence essential for dealerships. From virtual showrooms to online financing options, providing a seamless digital experience can significantly boost sales. Additionally, understanding and adapting to consumer preferences, such as the increasing demand for electric vehicles (EVs) and sustainable practices, can position dealerships as forward-thinking leaders in vehicle manufacturing and sales.

**Aftermarket Parts: Customizing the Route to Success**

The aftermarket parts sector thrives on customization and quality. With vehicle owners looking to personalize their rides or enhance performance, businesses that offer unique, high-quality aftermarket parts are more likely to capture the market. Supply chain management plays a pivotal role in ensuring the timely availability of these parts. Furthermore, staying informed about the latest automotive technology and trends enables businesses to offer the most sought-after products. Effective automotive marketing strategies, highlighting the benefits and unique selling propositions of these parts, can significantly improve sales and customer loyalty.

**Automotive Repair: Tuning Up for Future Challenges**

For automotive repair services, expertise and trust are the cornerstones of success. In a market where vehicle maintenance and repair are in constant demand, businesses that offer reliable, high-quality services stand out. Staying updated with industry innovation and training staff on the latest automotive technology are essential. This not only improves the efficiency and quality of repairs but also ensures compliance with the latest regulatory standards. Additionally, adopting effective supply chain management practices ensures that necessary parts are always available, minimizing downtime for customers. Offering personalized services and establishing strong customer relationships through excellent service can lead to repeat business and referrals, which are invaluable in this sector.

**Conclusion**

Success in the automotive business, be it in sales, aftermarket parts, or repair services, demands an acute awareness of market trends, consumer preferences, and the ability to leverage automotive technology. By focusing on industry innovation, regulatory compliance, and crafting effective automotive marketing strategies, businesses can navigate the challenges of today's market and drive towards a prosperous future. Whether it's through enhancing online sales platforms, providing top-notch customized parts, or offering trustworthy repair services, the key to accelerating success lies in exceeding customer expectations and adapting to the ever-changing automotive landscape.

In conclusion, navigating the complexities of the automobile industry requires businesses to stay ahead of market trends, embrace industry innovations, and respond effectively to consumer preferences and regulatory changes. Whether it's vehicle manufacturing, automotive sales, aftermarket parts, car dealerships, vehicle maintenance, automotive repair, or car rental services, success hinges on a multifaceted approach that includes a deep understanding of automotive technology, strategic automotive marketing, and excellence in supply chain management. As we've explored in this article, from the latest in industry innovation to the best practices in revving up sales and services, the key to thriving in today's dynamic automotive market lies in the ability to adapt and innovate. Businesses that can navigate the road ahead with agility, ensuring regulatory compliance while meeting the evolving needs of their customers, will not only survive but flourish. The automobile industry stands at the cusp of a new era, driven by technology and transformed by consumer demand and environmental considerations. As such, embracing the shifts in automotive sales, aftermarket parts availability, car dealership operations, and vehicle maintenance and repair services will be critical. By focusing on the top trends and adopting effective strategies, automotive businesses can accelerate their journey towards growth and success in the ever-competitive automotive sector.

EU's leading trade official asserts that an electric vehicle agreement with China is far from being finalized. Despite fifty hours of discussions, there's still no consensus on cost commitments, states Sabine Weyand, EU's director general for trade.

A high-ranking official from the European Union has stated that the EU and China are still a long way from resolving their ongoing disagreement over electric vehicles. This official also claimed that any reports implying the contrary are misleading.

"Various reports regarding the impending agreement on battery electric vehicles have been somewhat perplexing," Sabine Weyand, the European Union's trade director general, stated in Brussels on Tuesday.

We've engaged in 50 hours of talks with our colleagues from China. The conversations were productive, yet we were unable to reach a consensus on pricing commitments. Furthermore, there are still unsettled structural matters," she stated.

The committee contends that these financial aids have played a significant role in boosting China's immense expansion in the sector. There's a concern that if these imports continue without regulation, their low pricing could hurt the revenue of Europe's domestic electric vehicle industry.

The duties, varying from 7 per cent for Tesla to a high of 35.3 per cent for the government-owned SAIC, have significantly strained the EU-China relations.

Hong Kong's advancements in AI serve as a bridge between China and the rest of the world despite political friction. The Chief Technology Officer at the Hong Kong Productivity Council emphasizes that Hong Kong continues to be a significant platform for global AI companies.

"Often, we're unsure if we should approach our Western colleagues for collaboration," Cheung admitted to the South China Morning Post. "This is because, despite their potential interest in partnering with us… they might not possess the liberty to [do so]. This situation is somewhat disheartening."

"He stated that from a scientific perspective, it has been challenging in recent years, especially in the field of AI."

Jane Goodall: Hong Kong residents must unite to foster biodiversity

The renowned primatologist expresses that we have a five-year window to unite and mitigate the severe damages that have been inflicted on our planet.

In her first visit to Hong Kong in six years, Goodall stressed the immediate necessity for corporate backing to propel "beneficial transformations to our planet".

During the gathering hosted by the Jane Goodall Institute Hong Kong, the HKU Jockey Club Enterprise Sustainability Global Research Institute, and Zurich Insurance Hong Kong, Goodall had the opportunity to network with over 200 corporate executives. She emphasized the immediate need for collaboration between the private sector, academia, non-profit organizations, and governmental agencies to push forward conservation and sustainability initiatives.

"She stated that we have a five-year window to unite and attempt to mitigate the terrible damage we've inflicted on the earth, and to start making positive changes."

At 90, Goodall is most recognized for her research on chimpanzees in Tanzania. In addition to this, she holds a PhD in animal behavior from the University of Cambridge. Notably, she also serves as a United Nations Messenger of Peace and has been honored as a Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire.

SF Holding experiences a dull start in Hong Kong due to lukewarm market mood.

The Chinese delivery company, SF Holding, initiated its trading at a price of HK$34.30, which remained steady from its IPO price.

SF Holding, often considered China's FedEx equivalent and its biggest courier service, had a lackluster first day of trading in Hong Kong due to weak market sentiment. This sets the stage for a busy week of initial public offerings that are expected to add several billion Hong Kong dollars to this year's total listing proceeds.

Shares of SF, which trades under the code 6936, experienced a surge of up to 1.2 per cent, peaking at HK$35.50 during the day, despite beginning at their initial public offering price (IPO) of HK$34.30. By the close of trading, the shares returned to their starting price. Meanwhile, the key Hang Seng Index rebounded by 2.3 per cent after hitting a two-month low.

The initial trading premium places the worth of the company's equity base listed in Hong Kong at HK$6.7 billion, taking into account its post-listing capital base of 195.5 million shares as stated in its listing prospectus. SF Holding has approximately 4.82 billion A shares listed in Shenzhen.

"This listing holds significant value for us, since we're depending on [Hong Kong's open market] to bolster the growth of our global business," stated SF's Chairman and CEO Wang Wei, prior to hitting the ceremonial gong to signal the start of trading.

The company's H shares are valued at 32.03 yuan each, with a current exchange rate of HK$34.35. The firm's A shares in Shenzhen have dropped by 1.1 per cent, to 41.60 yuan, as per the exchange data at 1.33pm local time.

Shares in Hong Kong experienced their biggest surge in five weeks, driven by increasing expectations for fresh economic stimulus from the Chinese government. Profits of major Chinese industrial firms saw a decline of 10 per cent in October compared to the previous year.

The Hang Seng Index experienced a 2.3 per cent surge, closing at 19,603.13, which is a recovery from its lowest point in two months, and the Hang Seng Tech Index saw a 3.6 per cent increase. In mainland China, the CSI 300 Index rose by 1.7 per cent, while the Shanghai Composite Index gained an additional 1.5 per cent.

Major Chinese corporations saw a 10% decrease in industrial profits in October compared to the same month last year, a less steep drop than the 27% seen in the prior month, according to a Wednesday announcement from the National Bureau of Statistics. For the initial 10 months of the year, profits experienced a 4.3% slump, the bureau reported.

The report further confirms the ongoing inconsistency in China's economic recovery. Crucial economic figures for October indicate a rise in retail sales, however, the pressure of deflation continues and the real estate sector is still facing difficulties. Investors are eagerly awaiting the yearly economic conference next month, hoping for insights into significant economic strategies for the coming year.

"Currently, we're taking a careful stance on Hong Kong stocks," stated Zhang Sida, a Guoyuan Securities analyst based in Shenzhen. "The mood is somewhat pessimistic due to China's fiscal stimulus failing to meet expectations and the potential tariff risks. We may face increased instability in the future. The market trends will still be primarily driven by China's economic health and its fiscal policy."

Residential property values in Hong Kong have escalated for the first time since March, despite a minor decline in rental rates. In October, the prices of secondary homes saw a growth of 0.62 percent.

Experts suggest that the toughest period for Hong Kong's real estate sector is likely over, with home prices projected to plateau in the immediate future. Nonetheless, a significant hike in prices might not happen until next year, particularly in the latter half.

The value of second homes saw a rise of 0.62 per cent, moving to a score of 290.1 in October from 288.3 in the previous month, as per the figures provided by the Rating and Valuation Department.

Nonetheless, there has been a decrease of roughly 7 percent in house prices this year. Since reaching their peak in September 2021, the cost of homes has dropped by over 25 percent.

In the meantime, residential rental prices fell by 0.3 per cent, marking their first decrease since February.

Since May of the previous year, rental rates have generally been increasing and were only four units below the highest level of 200.1 noted in September 2019. From the beginning of this year, the cost of renting a home has seen an approximate 4.8% increase.

Breaking News | HSBC plans to highlight former ECB head Draghi and Ark Investment's Wood at Hong Kong summit

The Global Investment Summit is scheduled from March 25 to 27 of the coming year.

HSBC has announced that they anticipate over 3,000 representatives from across the globe to attend the conference, with registration currently available.

Prominent events such as the Global Investment Summit are crucial for Hong Kong to sustain its stature as an international financial hub, especially in a period where it's dealing with drops in the real estate and initial public offering sectors, and confronting a deceleration in mainland economic expansion. Hong Kong's stock market, ranked third in Asia, is also facing challenges to uphold its pace following China's underwhelming fiscal stimulus scheme and Donald Trump's reappointment as US president.

Leading figures from companies such as HSBC, Goldman Sachs, JPMorgan Chase, Citigroup, BNP Paribas, Oaktree Capital Management, and KKR also attended, demonstrating their backing for Hong Kong. The metropolis serves as a significant revenue hub for several of these corporations, with a number of them situating their principal regional offices there.

During the conference, he vowed to increase assistance to Hong Kong in bolstering its position as a hub for the international yuan market. This would be achieved by releasing more governmental bonds and facilitating the listing of Chinese companies in the city. Wu Qing, the chairman of the China Securities Regulatory Commission, also suggested that commodity trading might be incorporated into the Connect program, which presently permits transnational trades of stocks, bonds, and wealth management products.