Experts suggest that Hong Kong must enhance its efforts to rival Singapore and Dubai in gold trading. They recommend that Hong Kong establish a robust gold trading network and lure global traders, central banks, and hedge funds.

The government of Hong Kong is making progress towards establishing the city as a global hub for gold trading, as stated by industry insiders. However, they believe there is still more work to be done in order to compete with other major players such as Singapore and Dubai.

Joshua Rotbart, the managing partner of J. Rotbart and Company, a small-scale bullion trading and storage service company with branches in Hong Kong, Singapore, and the Philippines, stated that Singapore has been actively promoting its gold industry for the past 12 years. It has done this by setting aside land for the construction of vaults and offering other perks.

The gold market in Hong Kong has been experiencing a downturn since mid-2019, according to reports. This downturn was triggered by social instability, followed by a three-year disruption from the Covid-19 pandemic spanning 2020 to 2022.

The Airport Authority in Hong Kong disclosed plans last Monday to increase its gold vault's capacity from 150 tonnes to 1,000 tonnes. This announcement comes after Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu mentioned in his third policy address that improvements would be made to the bullion storage facilities to elevate gold trading to international standards.

Hong Kong's decision follows the reveal by private metal firm Silver Bullion in August of a six-floor storage facility close to Singapore's Changi Airport. This vault has the capacity to hold up to 10,000 tonnes of silver and 500 tonnes of gold.

One hour and thirty

Chinese customers are getting rid of their used jewelry due to unprecedentedly high gold rates.

Rotbart suggested that besides the Airport Authority's suggested gold vault, Hong Kong should also encourage the private sector to set up gold storage facilities.

Start-up suggests Hong Kong could meet its hydrogen goals through Foshan

H2 Solution's CEO suggests that Hong Kong could enhance its hydrogen sector by utilizing the lower-cost hydrogen and refuelling infrastructure in Foshan.

The adoption of hydrogen in Hong Kong, which has been hindered by inadequate supply, expensive prices and infrastructure issues, could be improved by permitting logistics vehicles to refuel with the emission-free fuel over the border, says a start-up company.

The founder and CEO of H2 Solution, Qian Wei, who operates out of Hong Kong and promotes hydrogen fuel cell systems globally, affirmed that the city has the potential to access more affordable hydrogen and refuelling facilities in Foshan. Foshan, a significant hub for hydrogen production, is merely a two-hour drive to the northwest of Hong Kong.

"He mentioned at the InnoTech Forum last week that Foshan has gleaned significant insights from its commercial use of hydrogen since 2019. He pointed out that Hong Kong can take cues from Foshan's experiences and implement their successful strategies without needing to start from scratch."

Hong Kong could eliminate difficulties by merging its hydrogen economy with the supply chain of the Greater Bay Area, where cities can utilize their advantages in production, distribution, application, and technological advancement, he further stated.

A branch of China Petroleum & Chemical, also known as Sinopec, is constructing Hong Kong's inaugural hydrogen refuelling station. The construction, located in the northwestern region of Yuen Long, is expected to be completed by the end of the year.

The largest fuel manufacturer in the country has constructed 128 fuel stations in China, the highest number globally, as stated by Aaron Yu, the assistant director of Sinopec Hong Kong.

In the rapidly changing Automobile Industry, staying ahead requires focusing on top trends in Vehicle Manufacturing, Automotive Sales, and embracing Industry Innovation, including the rise of electric vehicles, advanced Automotive Technology, and digital strategies in Automotive Marketing and Sales. Effective Supply Chain Management and adapting to Market Trends and Consumer Preferences are key, as are investments in Aftermarket Parts, Car Dealerships, Vehicle Maintenance, and Automotive Repair to meet Regulatory Compliance and ensure sustainability. Car Rental Services are also evolving, reflecting a shift towards digital convenience and eco-friendliness. Success hinges on a holistic strategy that integrates these components, positioning companies for profitability and competitive advantage.

In the ever-evolving landscape of the automobile industry, businesses ranging from vehicle manufacturing giants to local automotive repair shops are constantly seeking ways to navigate through the complexities of market trends, consumer preferences, and regulatory compliance. The automotive business, a vital cog in the global economic machine, encompasses a wide array of operations including manufacturing, distribution, sales, and maintenance of vehicles, parts, and accessories. As we delve into the heart of this dynamic sector, it's clear that understanding the top trends in automotive technology, the intricacies of automotive sales, and the importance of aftermarket parts and car dealerships are crucial for staying ahead. This article aims to explore the multifaceted world of vehicle maintenance, car rental services, and everything in between, offering insights into how businesses within the automotive industry can rev up their success. From navigating the road ahead with industry innovation to fine-tuning strategies for vehicle manufacturing in a competitive market, we'll examine the key components that drive the automotive business forward. Join us as we shift gears and explore the pathways to success in the automotive sector, guided by effective automotive marketing, supply chain management, and a keen understanding of the ever-changing landscape of consumer preferences and regulatory landscapes.

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

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

In the fast-paced world of the Automobile Industry, staying ahead means keeping a pulse on the top trends and innovations that shape the future of Vehicle Manufacturing, Automotive Sales, and the broader spectrum of related services. From Aftermarket Parts to Car Dealerships, and from Vehicle Maintenance to Automotive Repair, every segment of this vibrant sector is undergoing transformative changes, spurred by advancements in Automotive Technology, shifting Market Trends, Consumer Preferences, and the ever-evolving landscape of Regulatory Compliance.

One of the most significant drivers of innovation within the Automobile Industry is the relentless push towards sustainability and efficiency, leading to an increased focus on electric vehicles (EVs) and hybrid technologies. This shift not only responds to regulatory pressures but also aligns with growing consumer demand for eco-friendly transportation solutions. Automotive Sales channels are adapting to this change, with dealerships increasingly showcasing EV options and promoting their environmental benefits to attract eco-conscious buyers.

In the realm of Aftermarket Parts and Vehicle Maintenance, there's a growing trend towards the use of advanced diagnostics and telematics technology. These tools not only enhance the efficiency of Automotive Repair services but also improve the accuracy of diagnostics, thereby ensuring that vehicles are maintained to the highest standards. This emphasis on quality and precision in Vehicle Maintenance underscores the industry's commitment to ensuring customer satisfaction and safety.

Car Rental Services are not left behind in this wave of innovation. The integration of digital platforms and mobile applications has revolutionized the way consumers book and manage their car rentals, offering unprecedented convenience and flexibility. This digital transformation within Car Rental Services exemplifies the broader adoption of technology across the Automotive Industry, aimed at enhancing customer experience and streamlining operations.

Supply Chain Management has emerged as a critical focus area for the Automobile Industry, especially in the wake of disruptions caused by global events. Businesses are increasingly leveraging advanced analytics and machine learning to predict supply chain bottlenecks, optimize inventory levels, and ensure the timely delivery of vehicles and parts. This strategic approach to Supply Chain Management is vital for maintaining competitiveness and meeting market demands promptly.

In conclusion, the Automobile Industry stands at the cusp of a new era, driven by Industry Innovation, technological advancements, and a deep understanding of Automotive Marketing. Businesses that successfully navigate these changes, adapting to new Consumer Preferences and Regulatory Compliance, while also investing in Automotive Technology and Supply Chain Management, are poised for success. As the industry continues to evolve, embracing these trends and innovations will be key to driving forward and securing a sustainable, profitable future in the dynamic world of automotive businesses.

2. "Revving Up Success: Strategies for Vehicle Manufacturing to Automotive Sales in a Competitive Market"

In the rapidly evolving automobile industry, achieving success from vehicle manufacturing to automotive sales demands strategic planning, adaptability, and a comprehensive understanding of market dynamics. To navigate the competitive landscape, businesses must focus on several key areas including industry innovation, automotive technology, and consumer preferences.

Firstly, staying at the forefront of industry innovation is non-negotiable. Companies involved in vehicle manufacturing should invest in research and development to incorporate the latest automotive technologies into their products. This not only includes advancements in electric vehicles and autonomous driving but also improvements in fuel efficiency and safety features, catering to the ever-evolving consumer preferences.

Secondly, robust supply chain management plays a pivotal role in ensuring the seamless production and distribution of vehicles. In an industry where time and efficiency are of the essence, optimizing the supply chain can significantly reduce costs and improve profitability. This involves everything from sourcing raw materials to delivering the final product to car dealerships, ensuring that every step is streamlined for efficiency.

Automotive sales strategies must also evolve to meet the changing landscape. With the rise of digital platforms, automotive marketing has shifted towards online showrooms and virtual test drives, offering consumers a convenient way to explore and purchase vehicles. Car dealerships must leverage these digital tools to reach a wider audience and provide an enhanced buying experience.

Aftermarket parts and automotive repair services represent a significant segment of the industry, offering vehicle maintenance solutions that extend the life and performance of a vehicle. By providing top-quality parts and services, businesses can build customer loyalty and generate additional revenue streams beyond the initial vehicle sale.

Furthermore, regulatory compliance cannot be overlooked. As governments worldwide implement stricter emissions and safety regulations, businesses must ensure their vehicles meet these standards, which can influence vehicle design and manufacturing processes.

Car rental services, while a different arm of the automotive business, must also adapt to changing market trends, such as the growing demand for electric vehicles and flexible rental options. This adaptability can position these services as essential components of modern transportation solutions.

Finally, understanding and adapting to consumer preferences is essential for any business within the automobile industry. Whether it's offering customizable options in vehicle manufacturing or providing convenient, eco-friendly car rental services, meeting the needs and desires of consumers can significantly enhance competitive advantage.

In conclusion, businesses in the automobile industry, from vehicle manufacturing to automotive sales, must employ a multifaceted strategy that includes embracing industry innovation, optimizing supply chain management, leveraging automotive marketing, ensuring regulatory compliance, and prioritizing customer satisfaction to rev up success in a competitive market.

In summary, the intricacies and dynamism of the automotive industry, ranging from vehicle manufacturing to automotive sales, aftermarket parts, car dealerships, vehicle maintenance, automotive repair, and car rental services, underscore the sector's significance in our daily lives and the global economy. The journey through the top trends and innovations in the automobile industry reveals a landscape that is continuously shaped by advancements in automotive technology, shifting market trends, evolving consumer preferences, and the necessity for strict regulatory compliance.

Businesses thriving in this competitive market have mastered the art of navigating these complex waters through strategic planning, embracing industry innovation, and adhering to supply chain management best practices. Moreover, success in automotive marketing, ensuring quality in vehicle manufacturing, and excelling in automotive sales and services are paramount. The insights from "Revving Up Success: Strategies for Vehicle Manufacturing to Automotive Sales in a Competitive Market" make it clear that companies must prioritize customer satisfaction, adaptability to market demands, and a deep understanding of automotive trends to stay ahead.

As the automotive industry marches forward, the role of aftermarket parts, the significance of car dealerships in providing consumer choice, the evolution of vehicle maintenance and automotive repair services, and the flexibility offered by car rental services will continue to be pivotal. In essence, the future of the automotive business looks bright for those who are prepared to innovate, adapt, and focus on delivering exceptional value to consumers. The road ahead is indeed challenging, but it is also filled with opportunities for growth, expansion, and the redefinition of transportation solutions for the 21st century.

Sunac's One Sino Park in Shanghai, a property worth millions of yuan, was completely sold out in just three hours. All of the 158 units of the project, located in Dongjiadu in the Huangpu district, were sold, bringing in a whopping US$825.8 million for the developer.

The challenging real estate market in China is exhibiting indications of resurgence after Beijing implemented policies to stimulate the industry. A new high-end residential development in Shanghai attracted hundreds of eager purchasers.

Every single one of the 158 properties in the third round of Sunac China Holdings' One Sino Park was bought within three hours from when the sale began at 1pm, bringing in 5.88 billion yuan (US$825.8 million). As the first and second stages of the project have also been fully sold, the developer has made an overall profit of 21.5 billion yuan.

The apartments, situated in the Dongjiadu region of Huangpu district at the core of Shanghai's business center, were tagged at 172,000 yuan (US$24,150) for every square meter or 40 million yuan for each apartment. Sunac reported that the number of interested purchasers was double the available apartments for sale.

The robust performance of One Sino Park arrives on the heels of a substantial stimulus package rolled out by Beijing in late September. This was aimed at bolstering the housing market and encouraging spending among potential homeowners. These individuals had become more conservative with their spending due to a crisis that engulfed the industry since late 2020, a result of a campaign to control debt-heavy property developers.

A resident of Shanghai, identified only as Sun, recently purchased a 1,938 square foot (180 square meter) apartment on the 30th floor. He expressed satisfaction in obtaining a property that could potentially sustain its worth.

"At the moment, retaining your money isn't a wise choice; the stock market isn't really ideal for 'small-time investors' like us, thus investing in a property is likely the most sensible decision," he suggested.

Special Report | Saudi Arabia's first Hong Kong ETF garners US$1.3 billion as investors capitalize on China's 'miracle'

As the public offering continues, the fund's value could increase once it is publicly traded on the Saudi Stock Exchange this Wednesday.

Investors from the Middle East have quickly purchased the inaugural exchange-traded fund (ETF) that follows Hong Kong stocks. This action is driven by their intent to benefit from the ongoing market surge and China's sustained growth phenomenon, as stated by the issuer's CEO.

The Albilad CSOP MSCI Hong Kong China Equity ETF (Albilad ETF), Saudi Arabia's first index fund following Hong Kong stocks, has already garnered HK$10 billion (US$1.3 billion) as of October 23. This information was revealed by CSOP Asset Management, based in Hong Kong, which partnered with Albilad Capital to launch the fund.

Saudi investors have the opportunity to invest in an ETF, which follows the 30 biggest Hong Kong companies following Islamic rules, with a minimum investment of 10 Saudi riyal (equivalent to US$2.66). An ETF, or exchange traded fund, operates similarly to a hybrid of mutual funds and stocks. It permits investors to purchase and trade units of the fund, which contains a variety of stocks.

The public sale of the ETF is currently in progress, and the fund's volume could increase once it gets listed on the Saudi Stock Exchange (Tadawul) this Wednesday. Based on Bloomberg's data, it's set to be the biggest ETF in the Middle East.

During the roadshow, Middle Eastern investors showed a significant interest in the Hong Kong stock ETF, according to Ding Chen, the CEO of CSOP Asset Management, in a private discussion with the Post.

Investors from the Middle East have faith in China's economic progress, viewing it as an 'extraordinary' occurrence, and they are interested in investing in the globe's second biggest economy.

Real estate in Hong Kong: Chinachem's Echo House in Cheung Sha Wan attracts numerous purchasers

The property developer successfully sold all 198 apartments in the project, according to real estate agents.

Every single one of the 198 properties in the Cheung Sha Wan project was purchased once sales commenced at 9am, say representatives.

In the past few weeks, there's been an uptick in home sales in Hong Kong's real estate market. This comes after the Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) relaxed its policies last month. In addition to that, the HKMA has raised the loan-to-value ratio to potentially 70% of a property's worth, and also increased the debt-servicing ratio from 40% to 50% for both homes and commercial properties.

These encouraging trends have breathed new life into the market, stated Sammy Po Siu-ming, the head of Midland Realty's residential sector. "New developments remain the market's driving force."

"He stated that real estate values are expected to bounce back by approximately 3 percent in the last quarter."

Opinion | Can banks compete with tech behemoths?

Tech firms are progressively encroaching on areas previously controlled by banks, and their expansion won't be limited to payment and lending systems.

The mean net interest margin for U.S. banks faced pressure as both the U.S. Federal Reserve and the European Central Bank began to reduce interest rates following the financial crisis in 2008. The banking sector's value in the stock market was negatively impacted due to the potential for a sluggish economy, the risk of an increase in defaulted loans, and hefty operational expenses.

McKinsey reports that, by the end of 2019, the total market value of the top 200 banks ranged from 0.8 to 1.2 times their book value. On the other hand, the seven major tech giants boasted price-to-book ratios over 5. Both sectors, however, had approximately the same market capitalization, at around US$6 trillion.

Currently, JPMorgan holds the title of the bank with the biggest market capitalization, sitting 14th globally at approximately US$630 billion. Out of the eight corporations each valued over US$1 trillion, seven are technology firms and the remaining one is the Saudi Arabian oil titan, Aramco. The biggest bank in China, ICBC, has a price-to-earnings ratio of 4.5, in contrast to JPMorgan's 12.5. Meanwhile, tech firms Alphabet and Nvidia bear ratios of 23.6 and 65.8, respectively.

GAC, a Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer, intends to invest in Europe despite indications that Beijing disapproves of the plan. GAC asserts that a conclusive verdict will be reached if there is significant demand.

Wei Haigang, the CEO of GAC International, highlighted that penetrating the European market is crucial for the Guangzhou-based firm's expansion plans. He also indicated that the company anticipates introducing a significant amount of electric vehicles to the European market in the coming year.

"We are evaluating proposals to shift production to Europe," he stated in Hong Kong on Friday. "A decisive conclusion will be reached if there's significant demand."

GAC International is a branch that concentrates on operations beyond China's borders.

The report further stated that the government's request was not a compulsory command.

Wei stated that he was uninformed about any such mandate from Beijing, and GAC is insistent on penetrating the European market, despite the extra tariffs of as much as 35.3 per cent that are imposed on EVs manufactured in China.

In October, China gave the green light to 128 game titles, among which was the popular Korean game, Goddess of Victory: Nikke. Both Goddess of Victory: Nikke and Supercell's Squad Busters, which are circulated in China through Tencent, received approval from the game regulatory authority.

On Friday, the National Press and Publication Administration, the body in charge of video game licensing, gave the green light for the launch of 113 locally created games and 15 foreign ones. This information was disclosed through two lists published on their official website.

The most significant endorsed overseas game is Goddess of Victory: New Hope, the local adaptation of Goddess of Victory: Nikke. This anime-inspired role-playing shooter game was created by Shift Up, a South Korean game development company. Tencent, according to its stock exchange report in July, holds a 35% share in the company.

The global edition of Victory Goddess: Nikke, released by Tencent's gaming division Level Infinite, has enjoyed worldwide success since its debut in November 2022.

The local championship will be co-published by Tencent and Migu Fun, a gaming platform that is part of China's largest telecommunications firm, China Mobile.

Tencent, a company based in Shenzhen, seems to be the main beneficiary in the most recent round of approvals. This is because it also handles the local distribution of another endorsed game, Squad Busters, a mobile action game created by Supercell, a Finnish video game developer.

In October, China granted approval to 128 games, among them the popular Korean game, Goddess of Victory: Nikke. Both Goddess of Victory: Nikke and Supercell's Squad Busters, which are distributed in China through Tencent, received the green light from the country's gaming authority.

The agency in charge of issuing video game licenses, The National Press and Publication Administration, gave the green light for the launch of 113 locally developed games and 15 foreign games. This information was revealed in two lists posted on its official website last Friday.

The most prominent approved international game is "Goddess of Victory: New Hope". This is the local edition of "Goddess of Victory: Nikke", an anime-inspired role-playing shooter game created by the South Korean game developer, Shift Up. Tencent, according to their July stock exchange filing, holds a 35% interest in this company.

The global edition of "Goddess of Victory: Nikke," released by Tencent's gaming publishing sector Level Infinite, has achieved worldwide success since its launch in November 2022.

The local title is set to be co-published by Tencent and Migu Fun, a gaming platform owned by China's largest telecom company, China Mobile.

It seems that Tencent, a company based in Shenzhen, emerged victorious in the most recent round of approvals. This is due to the fact that they're not just the local distributor of another sanctioned game, Squad Busters, but they're also a mobile action game that was created by Supercell, a Finnish video game developer.

The focus is on smart lighting at the fall lighting exhibitions in Hong Kong. The Hong Kong Fall Lighting Fair and Outdoor Tech Light Expo are ready to display worldwide advancements in eco-friendly lighting for intelligent urban areas.

[The material in this article was created by our promotional collaborator.]

This year's Autumn Lighting Fair and Outdoor Tech Light Expo in Hong Kong, under the banner 'Light & Life', assures a bright fusion of creativity, environmental responsibility and intelligent solutions in the worldwide lighting sector.

Around 3,000 exhibitors from 22 different nations are presenting a broad spectrum of lighting products and systems at the event. These are intended to beautify residential areas, boost energy savings, and demonstrate the increasing fusion of intelligent technologies in the lighting sector.

The gatherings, taking place at two primary locations, the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC) and AsiaWorld-Expo, are anticipated to attract several tens of thousands of attendees, encompassing industry specialists, purchasers, and interested parties.

The highlight of this year's exhibition is the Hall of Connected Lighting, an advancement from the previous year's Connected Lighting Zone. This change mirrors the growing market need for top-notch, integrated smart lighting systems.

The Corridor of Integrated Illumination: the upcoming era of intelligent solutions.

The researcher dedicated to fostering AI skills in Hong Kong for academic interaction

Ma Yi details why Hong Kong is the perfect location to draw international expertise and the way he's leveraging his new position at the University of Hong Kong to encourage scholarly dialogue.

Ma Yi recalls the numerous notable Chinese scholars who were educated at Microsoft Research Asia, the American technology behemoth's lab. Now, as the newly appointed leader of the University of Hong Kong (HKU)'s computer science department, the AI scientist born in China says he's endeavoring to recreate this supportive atmosphere, which fosters opportunities for gifted individuals to excel.

During a discussion with the Post on Thursday, the head of the newly united School of Computing and Data Science shared that he forfeited his permanent position at the University of California, Berkeley to accept his role in Hong Kong. He believes he can contribute more significantly in this region, including mentoring researchers.

"China isn't short on skill… what it truly needs is a method to cultivate and develop them," stated Ma, who has experience working in both academia and industry across the Pacific. "We possess premier and unrefined skill, but it requires the appropriate surroundings and system to flourish."

Ma is part of an increasing number of Chinese scientists who, after working in US institutions, are coming back to contribute in Hong Kong and mainland China. This trend significantly bolsters China's escalating tech competition with the United States.