What do AI and feng shui experts predict for Hong Kong's stock market in the Year of the Snake?

An examination of forecasts for the Hang Seng Index, digital currencies, and the real estate market.

An artificial intelligence program focused on feng shui, created by Poe, a chatbot compiler from the Q&A platform Quora, offers a different perspective. It predicts that the Hang Seng Index, associated with the rooster in the zodiac, will experience a rise in fortunes during the initial four months of the Snake Year. However, May is expected to bring an intense fire, causing individuals to make irrational choices, but this will be followed by a resurgence in luck and a more stable path for the rest of the year.

"The snake stands for versatility and resilience," stated Forest Chan, who is this year's "staff-holder" for CLSA's Feng Shui Index and also serves as an equities analyst at the company. "We predict a more stable journey with fewer unexpected events for the Hang Seng Index," he further mentioned, contrasting it to the tumultuous Year of the Dragon.

The Snake Year commences on January 29 and concludes on February 16 of the following year, as per the Chinese zodiac calendar. The Feng Shui Index isn't a research document, as stated by CLSA, and investors should base their decisions on fundamental analysis.

Greater Bay Area collaboration assists AI-powered pharmaceutical research, asserts Hong Kong public company

XtalPi claims AI has halved the timeline for drug discovery from four to two years

XtalPi claims AI has halved the timeline for drug discovery from four to two years

"Numerous promising prospects exist in specialized sectors for artificial general intelligence," Zhang mentioned to the Post during its China Conference: Greater Bay Area 2025 in Guangzhou. "We've noticed immense possibilities to utilize LLMs within specific fields such as the pharmaceutical industry."

Zhang predicts that the combination of robotics and AI could shorten the drug discovery process from four years to just one or two.

XtalPi was established in 2014 by three quantum physicists from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. A year later, they set up their research and development hub in Shenzhen. The company, situated in the Hong Kong-Shenzhen Cooperation Zone, which borders the two cities, has leveraged local industrial strategies to become a significant AI contributor in the field of drug development. It now caters to almost 80% of major global pharmaceutical companies.

Zhang stated that the company's growth has been propelled by regional collaborations in the bay area plan, especially in areas such as talent recruitment, supply chain alliances, and capital raising across various cities.

In 2025, it's predicted that more international real estate investors will offload their assets in the Greater Bay Area. Analysts suggest that the anticipated sell-off is due to the rising geopolitical conflicts and a decrease in investment returns.

Experts believe the anticipated sales are due to growing geopolitical conflicts and reduced investment returns, as the region's business real estate market suffers from an excess supply.

"Returning this year will be quite difficult for overseas investors unless the profits are significantly high, due to the interest rates and global political concerns," stated Charli Chan, the assistant managing director at real estate brokerage firm Cushman and Wakefield.

"Thus, we observe that foreign investors are shifting their positions from purchasers to vendors."

The term 'Greater Bay Area' is used to describe Beijing's plan to unify Hong Kong, Macau, and nine other Guangdong province cities into a globally dominant economic force.

Sales of electric vehicles in China falter in 2025, leading to worries about profitability for auto manufacturers. The distribution of electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles in the country saw a 50% decrease month over month, with only 206,000 units sold in the first 12 days of the year.

The number of pure electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles distributed throughout mainland China drastically fell by 50% to 206,000 during the first dozen days of the year. This is in comparison to the same timeframe in December, as reported by the China Passenger Car Association (CPCA).

The significant drop comes after a 42 per cent increase in sales the previous year, clearly showing the instability in the world's biggest electric vehicle market.

Gao Shen, an independent analyst based in Shanghai, anticipated a decline in sales in January due to the discontinuation of government subsidies for buying electric vehicles (EVs) at the start of the year. Despite the growing popularity of EVs, the sales data suggests that the market could remain fluctuating.

In July, Beijing increased the exchange subsidy for electric vehicle purchasers to 20,000 yuan (around US$2,729) per car, a policy that was introduced three months prior. However, this program concluded on the last day of December.

In the previous month, nationwide deliveries of electric cars hit 1.38 million, showing a 10 per cent increase from November. This surge was due to buyers hastening to conclude transactions prior to the close of the year, as per data from CPCA.

EY awards honor innovation and sustainability

Crown Worldwide's founder, James E. Thompson, commended for revolutionizing global logistics through technology and eco-friendly practices

[This article was crafted by our promotional partner.]

The 2024 EY Entrepreneur Of The Year Awards honored exceptional business founders whose innovative management has the power to revolutionize sectors and promote sustainability.

The individuals honored this year encompassed James E. Thompson, the originator of Crown Worldwide Group, who is an embodiment of innovation and resilience, representing Hong Kong and Macau. His dedication to creating a favourable global influence is commendable.

Revamping worldwide supply chain management

Thompson's business adventure started in 1965 when he sought to elevate the level and establish a fresh benchmark for logistics services in Asia.

In the span of sixty years, his foresight evolved Crown Worldwide Group from a modest business based in Hong Kong into a worldwide logistics powerhouse functioning in 45 nations.

In the competitive Automobile Industry, success hinges on blending Industry Innovation, Automotive Technology, and keen market insight into Consumer Preferences and Market Trends. Top sectors like Vehicle Manufacturing, Automotive Sales, Aftermarket Parts, and Car Rental Services are rapidly evolving, driven by advancements in electric vehicles, digital marketing, and a focus on sustainability. Businesses must prioritize customer satisfaction, Regulatory Compliance, and efficient Supply Chain Management to stay ahead. Emphasizing Automotive Marketing and adapting to changing consumer buying habits, especially in Car Dealerships and Vehicle Maintenance, is crucial. The industry's future leaders will be those who excel in integrating technology with a consumer-driven approach, ensuring adherence to environmental and safety standards while navigating global supply chain challenges.

In the fast-paced world of the automobile industry, success hinges on more than just the ability to manufacture or sell vehicles. Today's automotive businesses, spanning from vehicle manufacturing to automotive sales, aftermarket parts supply, car dealerships, vehicle maintenance, automotive repair, and car rental services, find themselves at the intersection of technological innovation, shifting market trends, consumer preferences, and stringent regulatory compliance. The dynamic nature of the automotive sector demands a comprehensive understanding of supply chain management, industry innovation, and effective automotive marketing strategies to stay ahead. This article delves into the critical strategies for achieving excellence in the automobile industry, exploring how advancements in automotive technology, evolving market trends, and changing consumer preferences are reshaping the landscape of vehicle maintenance, dealerships, and rental services. Join us as we navigate through the keys to success in this competitive arena, offering insights into maintaining relevance and profitability in an industry that never slows down.

• 1. "Navigating Success in the Automobile Industry: Top Strategies for Vehicle Manufacturing, Sales, and Aftermarket Excellence"
• 2. "Revving Up the Future: How Automotive Technology, Market Trends, and Consumer Preferences Are Shaping Vehicle Maintenance, Dealerships, and Rental Services"

1. "Navigating Success in the Automobile Industry: Top Strategies for Vehicle Manufacturing, Sales, and Aftermarket Excellence"

Navigating success in the competitive landscape of the automobile industry requires a multifaceted approach, blending innovation with strategic foresight. From vehicle manufacturing to automotive sales, and excelling in the aftermarket parts sector, businesses must leverage top strategies to stay ahead. Understanding the synergy between automotive technology, market trends, and consumer preferences is key to tailoring offerings that meet the evolving demands of the market.

In vehicle manufacturing, the emphasis on industry innovation cannot be overstated. With automotive technology advancing at a rapid pace, manufacturers must invest in research and development to integrate the latest innovations into their vehicles. This not only includes enhancements in electric vehicles and autonomous driving but also improvements in manufacturing processes that can lead to more efficient production lines. Supply chain management plays a crucial role in this segment, ensuring that the procurement of materials and components does not hinder the manufacturing timeline while maintaining quality and regulatory compliance.

Automotive sales and car dealerships must adapt to changing consumer preferences with a keen focus on automotive marketing strategies. The digital era has transformed the way consumers shop for vehicles, making online presence and digital marketing essential for attracting buyers. Creating immersive online experiences, leveraging social media, and utilizing data analytics for personalized offerings can significantly enhance sales performance. Additionally, understanding the importance of customer satisfaction and fostering trust can turn one-time buyers into loyal customers.

The aftermarket parts sector is a dynamic segment that requires businesses to be well-versed in current automotive repair trends and vehicle maintenance needs. Offering quality aftermarket parts that meet or exceed original equipment manufacturer (OEM) standards is crucial. Furthermore, businesses in this arena must ensure their products are readily available through efficient distribution networks. Automotive repair shops and vehicle maintenance services can capitalize on this by staying updated with the latest automotive technology, offering specialized services that cater to the latest vehicles on the road.

Car rental services, while slightly different, still rely heavily on understanding market trends and consumer preferences. Flexibility, convenience, and competitive pricing, coupled with a diverse fleet that caters to various needs, from economy to luxury vehicles, can set a car rental service apart. Integrating technology for seamless booking and customer service processes can further enhance the customer experience.

Across all these sectors, regulatory compliance remains a constant. The automotive industry is heavily regulated to ensure safety, environmental standards, and fair practices. Businesses must stay informed of the latest regulations and integrate compliance into their operations seamlessly.

In conclusion, success in the automobile industry hinges on a strategic blend of embracing technological advancements, understanding market dynamics, ensuring quality and compliance, and delivering superior customer experiences. Whether it's vehicle manufacturing, automotive sales, aftermarket parts, or car rental services, businesses that innovate and adapt to the rapidly changing landscape will drive ahead of the competition.

2. "Revving Up the Future: How Automotive Technology, Market Trends, and Consumer Preferences Are Shaping Vehicle Maintenance, Dealerships, and Rental Services"

In the fast-paced world of the Automobile Industry, the convergence of Automotive Technology, Market Trends, and Consumer Preferences is reshaping the landscape of Vehicle Manufacturing, Automotive Sales, and Aftermarket Parts. This dynamic trio is not just driving innovation but also dictating the evolution of Car Dealerships, Vehicle Maintenance, Automotive Repair, and Car Rental Services, ensuring that businesses stay at the top of their game in a fiercely competitive market.

Automotive Technology is at the forefront of this transformation. With advancements such as electric vehicles (EVs), autonomous driving capabilities, and connected car features, the demand for specialized Vehicle Maintenance and Automotive Repair services is on the rise. These technological innovations require a new breed of service centers equipped with the latest tools and knowledge to maintain and repair modern vehicles. As a result, businesses within the sector are investing heavily in training and equipment to meet this emerging need, aligning with Industry Innovation to remain relevant.

Market Trends are equally influential, steering Consumer Preferences towards more sustainable, efficient, and smarter mobility solutions. This shift is evident in the growing popularity of electric and hybrid vehicles, which has prompted Car Dealerships to adapt their sales strategies and product offerings. Automotive Sales now emphasize eco-friendliness and technological integration, factors that are increasingly becoming deciding factors for consumers. Additionally, the trend towards shared mobility and subscription-based models is revolutionizing Car Rental Services, pushing companies to expand their fleets with a broader range of vehicles, including EVs and hybrids, to cater to this evolving demand.

Consumer Preferences have always played a pivotal role in shaping the automotive sector, and today's consumers are more informed and environmentally conscious than ever before. They demand not only quality and reliability in their vehicles but also expect top-notch Vehicle Maintenance and customer service. This has led to a surge in demand for Aftermarket Parts that offer customization and personalization options, allowing owners to enhance their vehicles' performance, aesthetics, and environmental footprint. Automotive Repair shops are also adapting by offering services that meet the specific needs of modern vehicles and their owners, focusing on speed, efficiency, and transparency.

Regulatory Compliance and Supply Chain Management are underlying factors that significantly impact the Automotive Industry. Stricter emissions and safety standards require businesses to ensure their products and services comply with the latest regulations, driving further innovation and adaptation. Meanwhile, efficient Supply Chain Management has become critical in navigating the challenges posed by global supply chain disruptions, ensuring that Automotive Sales and Aftermarket Parts providers can meet their customers' demands without significant delays.

In conclusion, the future of the Automotive Industry is being shaped by a combination of cutting-edge Automotive Technology, shifting Market Trends, and evolving Consumer Preferences. To stay ahead, businesses across the sector, from Vehicle Manufacturing to Car Rental Services, must embrace Industry Innovation, invest in Automotive Marketing, and commit to delivering quality and satisfaction to their customers. The road ahead is both challenging and exciting, with endless opportunities for those ready to rev up and embrace the future.

In conclusion, navigating the road to success in the automobile industry demands a multifaceted approach, integrating top strategies in vehicle manufacturing, automotive sales, and aftermarket excellence. As this article has explored, the keys to thriving in the realms of car dealerships, vehicle maintenance, automotive repair, and car rental services lie in understanding the pulse of automotive technology, market trends, consumer preferences, and regulatory compliance. Industry innovation, coupled with robust automotive marketing strategies and efficient supply chain management, remains at the heart of achieving outstanding results.

Embracing these elements enables businesses within the automotive sector—from vehicle manufacturing to aftermarket parts suppliers—to not only meet but exceed customer expectations, ensuring their place in a competitive and ever-evolving market. The future of the automobile industry is bright for those who continue to adapt, innovate, and focus on delivering quality products and services. By staying ahead of industry trends, maintaining a commitment to customer satisfaction, and navigating regulatory landscapes with agility, businesses can rev up their potential and drive towards enduring success in the dynamic world of automotive commerce.

Wynn aims to use Vegas as a model to transform Macau's US$28 billion casino hub into a '1+4 economy'. Macau plans to generate 60 per cent of its income from non-gambling sectors by 2028, a significant increase from the current 20 per cent.

During the previous fall, Lamborghini's Veneno Roadster, valued at $4 million, was showcased in the main entrances of Wynn Macau's premier hotels. This attracted an extensive audience consisting of motor racing supporters, car lovers, and tourists not just from mainland China but also from all over the world.

The costliest Lamborghini model ever produced, of which only nine exist – the Veneno, was showcased alongside 30 other exclusive hypercars for the first time in Asia. These included the McLaren Speedtail, Porsche GT1 Strassenversion, Ferrari FXX, and Aston Martin V12 Speedster.

President and Vice-Chairman Linda Chen, along with non-executive chairman Allan Zeman, embarked on a meticulously planned campaign worth HK$1.5 billion (US$192 million). Their goal was to curate "the experience" – an unforgettable and immersive event that leaves a lasting impression of their brand on attendees.

They are adopting strategies similar to those of Wynn Resorts, a company based in Las Vegas, where Chen held a director position from October 2007 until December 2012. This firm, which is listed on the Nasdaq, holds a 71% stake in a casino concessionaire that is listed in Hong Kong.

"The supercar idea was highly effective in creating unforgettable moments in Vegas, which gives us confidence that it will work in Macau," she expressed during a conversation in Macau. "We comprehend the factors that led to the success of Wynn Las Vegas. They were truly the trendsetters in every aspect."

Initial buyers purchase Tuen Mun apartments as uncertainty surrounding Trump policies decreases

Over 75% of the 280 apartments available at The Reserve in New Territories were bought by Saturday afternoon, thanks to sales by Early Light.

By 5pm, out of the 280 properties available at The Reserve at Gold Coast Bay in Tuen Mun, 217 were purchased, as per the information provided by the developer. The developer is a business owned by Francis Choi Chee-ming, a toy magnate from Hong Kong.

The apartments, which cost anywhere from US$310,796 (HK$2.42 million) to US$940,683 (HK$7.34 million) post-discounts, or US$1,020 to US$1,547 per square foot, are appealing to both personal and investment buyers due to their comparatively low rates, which are akin to the cost of parking spaces, according to Louis Chan Wing-kit, CEO of the residential division at Centaline Property Agency.

The most recent grouping consists of 72 studios, 112 single-bedroom apartments, 77 double-bedroom residences, and 19 triple-bedroom houses, with sizes varying between 304 and 655 square feet. The developer stated that approximately 40% of these properties were listed under HK$3 million.

Chan observed that the apartments were favored by young individuals purchasing their first home and investors because of the high demand for rentals in the region.

China is speeding up the merging of its smaller banks to prevent overarching financial risk. The director of Fitch Ratings indicates that these smaller banks are likely to see a decline in asset quality in the near future, in addition to facing earnings stress.

China's initiative to merge its smaller banks has significantly decreased their quantity. This is part of the regulatory attempt to minimize the possibility of widespread risk coming from these banks, which are frequently susceptible to inefficient operations or risky loans.

In 2024, 162 minor banks either combined, ceased to exist, or had their registration cancelled, marking an increase of over four times from 2023 and seven times from 2022, as per the information from Qiye Yujingtong, a service that monitors business hazards. Approximately 4,000 such banks exist in the country.

"Smaller local banks usually exhibit less robust financing profiles and a greater inclination towards risk," stated Elaine Xu, who is in charge of Asia-Pacific financial institutions at Fitch Ratings. "This has resulted in their increased involvement in hazardous sectors like property development."

The merger also intends to lessen the danger associated with exposure to government funding platforms, according to analysts. Yet, they noted that this endeavor is facing several hurdles, ranging from a decelerating economy to deteriorating government financial health.

Zhao Xijun, a finance professor at Renmin University in Beijing, has noted that the banking industry is experiencing difficulties with revenue and profitability due to the declining economy. Zhao emphasized that this stress is particularly evident in small and medium-sized banks.

Experts predict the problems will continue.

Hong Kong shares curb increases due to Chinese GDP figures as Vanke plunges. Investors have shifted their attention from the main figures to the sustainability of the revival, given the absence of further information on stimulus plans.

The Hang Seng Index increased by 0.3 per cent, closing at 19,584.06, after recouping from a 0.6 per cent rise. This marked a four-day upward trend, the longest the index had experienced since October 2. Over the course of the week, it saw a 2.7 per cent improvement.

The Tech Index of Hang Seng saw an increase of 1.4 percent. Simultaneously in China, there was a 0.3 percent rise in the CSI 300 Index, and the Shanghai Composite Index also reported a 0.2 percent growth.

The National Bureau of Statistics reported on Friday that China's economy grew by 5.4% in the last quarter year on year, surpassing the anticipated growth of 5% predicted by Bloomberg-tracked economists. The total annual growth was in line with the government's annual target, also at 5%.

Nonetheless, investors shifted their attention away from the main figures, concentrating instead on the resilience of the nation's comeback in the absence of further information on stimulus strategies. The agency noted that unemployment stayed high, at 5.1 per cent by December's close, a figure surpassing the anticipated 5 per cent.

The future of Chinese developer Vanke is uncertain as its stocks and bonds take a hit due to circulating speculations. An analyst suggests that a potential government acquisition could be perceived as a beneficial turn of events in the market.

An analyst suggests that a potential acquisition could be viewed as a beneficial progression in the market. This comes as the company, along with other significant construction firms, wrestle with an impending surge of debt obligations due this year. Meanwhile, the nation's real estate values persist in their decline.

"According to Jeff Zhang, an Equity Analyst at Morningstar, it remains uncertain whether the government will take over Vanke at this point. He also mentioned that the company has over 30 billion yuan [approximately US$4 billion] of bonds maturing in 2025, and he anticipates that most of them will be restructured through discussions with the creditors."

The possibility of a governmental acquisition could assist in immediate debt settlement, which could be perceived favorably by the market, he mentioned. However, he also noted that there are limited examples of the Chinese government buying out privately-owned developers, and there are still doubts about the procedures for such an action.

Following media reports on Thursday night that President and CEO Zhu Jiusheng was taken into custody by the police, Vanke's stock plummeted 3.29% to HK$4.70 on Friday. The firm's shares listed on the mainland also saw a 3.63% decrease to 6.63 yuan. Shenzhen Metro Group, the company running the city's railway transit system, holds the majority of Vanke's shares.

Zhu shared his location on the Chinese social media site WeChat at about 12:45 am on Friday, as per a screenshot viewed by the Post. Zhu was advertising Vanke's property leasing venture in his post, while mentioning he was "getting back to work following the [Chinese] holiday, a short transitional phase".

There's been a surge in users, often referred to as TikTok refugees, moving to RedNote and learning Mandarin through Duolingo. Both Duolingo and Drops, popular language-learning platforms, report a rise in American users taking up Chinese.

Language learning applications, Duolingo and Drops, reported a recent surge in American users studying Mandarin on their platforms.

Duolingo reported approximately a 216 per cent surge in new Mandarin students in the US, compared to the same period last year. The firm indicated that this rise was "significantly larger" than other languages, even those that are typically popular. Spanish, for instance, only experienced a 40 per cent increase during the same timeframe.

Duolingo conducted a poll amongst its new users regarding how they discovered the app and noted a significant increase in the number of people mentioning 'TikTok' as their source.

On Thursday, Duolingo ranked as the 18th most downloaded free application in the US Apple App Store.

Drops, a language learning application based in Estonia, also reported a rise in users learning the Chinese language.

Frederik Cordes, the head of Drops, revealed that the app has seen a surge in the number of users learning Chinese recently. The increase is threefold compared to the past few days and quintuple the number of US-based users learning Chinese, surpassing their expectations based on the prior two weeks.