10 Beauty Trends That Ruled the 2010s

Some of these makeup and hair looks are best left in the last decade, while others have become a part of beauty canon.

As we enter 2021 and officially situate ourselves in the 2020s, it's time to look back at the past decade's biggest beauty trends. The 2010s were a time of many transformations, especially in the realm of technology with the boom of social media. Beauty trends were no longer confined to the school hallways, runways, or feature films–they could be posted and shared by anyone on a global scale, and spread on platforms like Instagram, Tumblr, and Pinterest. Some of these trends have survived past the 2010s, becoming staples of the beauty industry in our new decade, and some we'd rather leave behind. Here, L'OFFICIEL revists 10 beauty trends that defined the 2010s.

                                                

Smokey Eye


How could we ever forget the raccoon eye trend? The heavy smokey eye was featured everywhere–red carpets, Ke$ha music videos, in high fashion magazines–making that "still wearing last night's make-up" look seem cool. Though there might have been a time and place for this trend, we've evolved into a more subtle smokey eye that's much more flattering for the everyday.

                                                

Ombre and Dip-Dyed Hair


In the early 2010s, you couldn't log onto Facebook or Instagram without seeing a girl you knew with ombre hair. From subtle and strategic lightening of the ends to dramatic and colorful DIY dip-dyes, celebrities to middle school girls alike participated in this trend.

                                            

Full Eyebrows


Before the 2010s, overplucking was the name of the game. Then society did a sharp 180, with supermodel Cara Delevingne and others sporting natural, full brows. Big brows were back (much to the dismay of everyone who suddenly had to magically undo years of plucking). This trend continues to stick around, with the laminated brow Instagram trend and many models wearing messy, au naturel brows.

                                            

Dark Lipstick


Emo and goth fashion became wearable in the 2010s, thanks in part to Tumblr's influence. Along with dark eyes, dark lipstick took runways by storm. Though this bold look can be glam, it's not always the most practical.

                                            

Beachy Waves


If the everyday goth look wasn’t for you, chances are you probably followed all the Victoria’s Secret models and subsequently tried to replicate their main hair trend of the 2010s: the beachy wave. Somewhere in between straight and the curling iron, it's that (not so) effortless look that’s withstood the test of time.

                                            

Overlined, Matte Lips


This was not the poppin' lip gloss Lil Mama sang about in 2008. The 2010s traded in Juicy Tubes for a matte finish and overlined lips. Neutral and brown-toned lipsticks became the go-to colors, and Kylie Jenner's Lip Kit sensation took the world by storm.

                                            

Heavy Contouring


Before there was a Kardashian beauty line by nearly every Kardashian family member, there was Kim Kardashian's contour. As the reality star rose to fame, so did her full face contour, and soon enough, contour, extreme highlight, and face baking became key steps to achieve an Instagram-ready face beat.

                                            

"No-makeup" Makeup


Somewhere in between dramatic eyeshadow, contour, and the Kylie Lip Kit came the "no-makeup" makeup look–makeup designed to make it look like you're not wearing any. It usually consists of a combination of lip balm (preferably Carmex), Mario Badescu's Rose Facial Spray, and maybe some BB cream or Glossier products. Though the end of the 2010s witnessed some dramatic Instagram make-up looks (à la Kylie Jenner), the "no-makeup" makeup look has persevered, with a hyper focus on skincare and natural glam over the past few years.

                                                

The (Overly) Tanned Look


We can't forget the phenomena of The Jersey Shore in the 2010s. It both demonstrated (and perhaps advocated for) the tanned look that was all the rage for a while. With that came the rise in self-tanner and tanning booths, which resulted in big health risks.

                                                

Extra Nail Art


Making your nails pop was a big thing in the 2010s. With the emergence of customized patterns, manicures were all about being extra and artistic. Nail art has evolved since, and now nail art conitnues with at-home products making manicures more accessible than ever.

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War on the Thailand–Cambodia Front

Cambodia started this war for one reason: Thailand joined the global crackdown on the industrial-scale phone and online scam operations run out of Cambodia.


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China’s Genius Convertible Wedding Tent

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Hong Kong’s Deadly Fire and Political Upheaval Cast a Long Shadow Over U.S.–China Relations

A catastrophic high-rise blaze in Hong Kong coincides with accelerating political suppression under Beijing and emerging tensions in Washington’s approach to China
A devastating fire that tore through a residential complex in Hong Kong’s Tai Po district in late November has become one of the city’s deadliest urban disasters in decades, claiming at least one hundred and sixty lives and leaving families and officials grappling with systemic safety failures and political ramifications.

The inferno engulfed seven high-rise towers at the Wang Fuk Court estate, spreading rapidly as firefighters battled the blaze for more than forty-three hours and raising urgent questions about regulatory oversight, building maintenance standards and the use of combustible materials on aging structures.

Authorities have made multiple arrests linked to renovation work at the site and acknowledged that substandard materials likely fuelled the fire’s spread, even as an independent inquiry is expected to conclude within nine months amid public demands for accountability and reforms.

The tragedy has also sparked sorrowful, and in some quarters contentious, public discourse about governance and civic safety in the semi-autonomous city. 

Hong Kong’s broader political landscape has simultaneously shifted, with the city’s largest pro-democracy party formally dissolving after more than three decades of activism — a symbolic moment in the eroding space for political diversity since the imposition of national security legislation in 2020. In a separate but closely watched legal proceeding, prominent media tycoon and pro-democracy advocate Jimmy Lai was convicted by the High Court under that same national security framework of colluding with foreign forces and publishing seditious material, in a verdict that carries the potential for a life sentence.

Chinese authorities have defended the judicial process, while international governments, including the United States and the United Kingdom, have criticised the outcome as undermining civil liberties and judicial independence.

Lai, who has been detained for years and suffered health deterioration, now awaits sentencing scheduled for early next year. 
These developments unfold as U.S.–China strategic competition remains a central feature of global geopolitics under President Donald Trump’s administration.

Washington extended a “national emergency” designation concerning Hong Kong earlier this year, continuing a policy approach begun in previous administrations that subjects the territory to parity with mainland China for purposes of sanctions and export controls.

This policy was originally enacted through U.S. legislation and executive action designed to hold China accountable for actions seen as eroding Hong Kong’s promised autonomy.

At the same time, analysts note that U.S. human-rights-focused engagement on Hong Kong has been mixed, with Washington emphasising broader economic and security issues with Beijing over specific civic freedoms.

Officials including U.S. legislators have highlighted concerns about Hong Kong’s role in financial practices and sanctions compliance, and some observers warn that tensions over governance, safety, and political freedom in the city risk becoming a broader flashpoint in Washington’s evolving China strategy. 
As Hong Kong mourns the victims of the Tai Po fire and grapples with seismic political shifts, questions about governance, public safety and international relations continue to resonate.

The fire and its aftermath have reignited scrutiny of building safety regulations and the authorities’ responsiveness, even as calls for institutional reforms echo against the backdrop of tightened political control.

With global attention on both the human toll of the tragedy and the legal and political constrictions now reshaping Hong Kong society, the city faces a complex and challenging reckoning in the months ahead.
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Jimmy Lai’s Daughter Says She Is ‘Grieving’ After His Conviction, Appeals for Support

Hong Kong pro-democracy figure’s daughter speaks out in Washington after landmark national security verdict that could see him jailed for life
Jimmy Lai’s daughter, Claire Lai, said she is “grieving” following the guilty verdict against her father in Hong Kong’s national security trial, emphasising the emotional toll of the conviction and appealing for international support to help secure his freedom.

The comments were made hours after Hong Kong’s High Court found the 78-year-old media mogul guilty of conspiracy to collude with foreign forces and publishing seditious material under the city’s Beijing-imposed security laws, in a case that has drawn global scrutiny and sharp criticism from rights advocates and Western governments.

The verdict exposes Lai to a possible life sentence, intensifying concerns over press freedom and judicial independence in the city.

Speaking to reporters in Washington, D.C., Claire said that although she and her family had anticipated the verdict, the emotional impact was profound.

“As much as you can expect that, you can only be so ready for it.

So I am grieving,” she said, underscoring the human cost of the legal proceedings that have spanned more than two years.

She expressed hope that international pressure might spare her father from spending the rest of his life behind bars, portraying him as someone who, if freed, would focus on family and his faith rather than political activism.

Claire has previously shared personal accounts of her father’s deteriorating health after more than five years of detention, including prolonged periods in solitary confinement.

She described his wish to reunite with family and dedicate his remaining years to his faith and loved ones, rather than continuing his high-profile activism.

Her comments in Washington reflected persistent concerns about his physical condition and the broader implications of his imprisonment for civil liberties in Hong Kong.

The conviction of Jimmy Lai, founder of the now-defunct pro-democracy Apple Daily newspaper, has sparked widespread international reaction.

Advocates for media freedom and democratic rights have condemned the outcome as a blow to press independence.

His family’s appeals come as diplomats and political figures weigh responses to the verdict, with some calling for conditions on bilateral relations with China to secure his release.

Despite official assurances from Hong Kong authorities that due process was followed, Lai’s supporters argue that the case exemplifies a broader crackdown on dissent.

Sentencing is scheduled for January 2026, when a judge will determine the appropriate term under the national security law.

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Hong Kong High Court Convicts Media Tycoon Jimmy Lai of Sedition and National Security Offences

Prominent pro-democracy publisher found guilty of colluding with foreign forces and publishing seditious material under China’s national security law

Hong Kong’s High Court has found veteran media tycoon Jimmy Lai guilty of multiple offences, including conspiracy to collude with foreign forces and conspiracy to publish seditious material under the city’s China-imposed national security law, in a landmark verdict that could see him imprisoned for life.

The 78-year-old founder of the now-defunct pro-democracy newspaper Apple Daily was convicted on all charges following a 156-day trial that began in December 2023 and drew sustained international attention to issues of press freedom and judicial independence in the global financial hub.

In open court proceedings at the West Kowloon district court, a panel of three judges concluded that Lai used his media platform and international connections to advocate foreign sanctions and hostile actions against the Hong Kong and Chinese governments, asserting that his intent was to undermine the authority of the Chinese Communist Party.

The court’s detailed 855-page ruling underscored the evidence presented by prosecutors that Lai continued his activities even after the national security law came into effect in June 2020. Lai denied all charges and had stated that his engagement with foreign officials and commentary in his publications were expressions of his views rather than criminal conduct.

Lai has been detained since his arrest in 2020 and has spent more than five years in custody, much of it in solitary confinement.

Defense lawyers are scheduled to present mitigation arguments at a pre-sentencing hearing in January, with an opportunity to seek leniency or appeal.

Those close to Lai have expressed concern about his health, citing weight loss and pre-existing conditions during his prolonged detention.

The conviction has prompted widespread international reaction, with governments and rights organisations emphasising its broader implications for civil liberties in Hong Kong.

British, U.S., European Union, Australian and Taiwanese officials publicly criticised the trial and verdict, describing the proceedings as politically motivated and warning that the case highlights an erosion of freedoms that were promised under the city’s constitutional framework.

Beijing and Hong Kong authorities, however, defended the verdict as a lawful application of the national security law and asserted that it reflects the judiciary’s duty to uphold national security.

Lai’s Apple Daily, once a vibrant voice of Hong Kong’s pro-democracy movement, was forced to shut down in 2021 after authorities froze the newspaper’s assets and its offices were raided.

Lai’s conviction is widely seen as one of the most consequential applications of the sweeping 2020 national security law, which was enacted in response to the large-scale protests of 2019. Supporters of Lai view the verdict as emblematic of the shrinking space for dissent and independent journalism in Hong Kong, even as officials maintain that the law is necessary to safeguard stability and security.

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Jimmy Lai, Hong Kong Media Tycoon and Long-time Beijing Critic, Convicted Under National Security Law

Founder of Apple Daily faces potential life sentence after being found guilty of collusion and sedition in a landmark verdict
Jimmy Lai, a prominent Hong Kong media tycoon and outspoken critic of Beijing, has been convicted on charges of conspiracy to collude with foreign forces and sedition under Hong Kong’s national security law, in a ruling that could see him imprisoned for the rest of his life.

The 78-year-old founder of the pro-democracy newspaper Apple Daily has been held in custody since 2020, much of it in solitary confinement, as his trial — one of the most high-profile uses of the law imposed by Beijing in 2020 — stretched over more than two years before judges delivered the verdict.

Born in Guangzhou and arriving in then-British Hong Kong as a young stowaway, Lai built his first fortune in business before founding Apple Daily in 1995. Under his leadership the tabloid became a commercial success and a vocal platform for liberal causes, vigorously criticising both Hong Kong and mainland Chinese authorities.

His support for the pro-democracy movement and willingness to use his media outlets to spotlight dissent made him one of the city’s most polarising figures, admired by supporters for his defiance and decried by opponents who labelled his activism a threat to stability.

The charges against Lai stem from his activities surrounding the 2019 pro-democracy protests, including alleged efforts to solicit foreign support for sanctions and other measures against Hong Kong and Chinese officials.

Prosecutors also accused him of publishing seditious material that they said sought to destabilise the Chinese Communist Party’s governance.

Lai consistently denied the allegations, asserting that his engagement with foreign interlocutors was meant to inform them of developments in Hong Kong rather than to influence foreign policy.

In delivering the conviction, the Hong Kong court applied provisions of the national security law that were introduced by Beijing to criminalise acts of secession, subversion, terrorism and collusion with foreign forces.

Critics, including international rights organisations, Western governments and media freedom advocates, have condemned the verdict as evidence of the erosion of press freedom and judicial independence in the city.

U.S., British and European Union officials have all expressed concern over the implications of the case for civil liberties in Hong Kong and have called for Lai’s release.

Lai has previously received multiple prison sentences for protest-related offences and has seen his assets frozen and his media empire dismantled, culminating in the closure of Apple Daily in 2021 following police raids on its offices.

Supporters, including religious figures and international advocates, have rallied around his plight, pointing to his deteriorating health in detention.

A sentencing hearing is scheduled to begin in January, where Lai’s legal team will argue for mitigation amid calls from his family and international backers for clemency.
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HSBC’s Plan to Take Hang Seng Bank Private Secures Independent Committee Backing

Independent board committee deems HSBC’s offer fair and reasonable, advancing bid to acquire full ownership of Hong Kong’s leading lender
HSBC’s bid to take Hang Seng Bank private made a decisive advance on Monday after an independent board committee of the Hong Kong lender concluded that the proposed offer by HSBC Holdings to acquire the remaining minority shares is fair and reasonable and should be supported by shareholders.

The endorsement clears a key procedural hurdle for one of the most significant banking transactions in Hong Kong this year, underpinning HSBC’s strategic objective to consolidate its control of the city’s historic financial institution. 
Under the proposal, first announced in October, HSBC — which already holds about 63 per cent of Hang Seng — has offered HK$155 in cash for each share it does not already own, valuing the entire bank at about HK$290 billion, or around US$37 billion.

The board committee’s recommendation follows the assessment of an independent financial adviser that minority investors would benefit from the terms of the offer, which represents a substantial premium over recent market prices. 
HSBC’s chief executive, Georges Elhedery, has framed the privatisation as a long-term investment in its core home market and a way to strengthen the combined banking franchise, enhancing operational alignment and deepening customer reach.

HSBC has emphasised its intention to preserve Hang Seng’s brand, governance and banking licence while leveraging the wider group’s global network and product capabilities to support future growth. 
If approved by minority shareholders and sanctioned by the Hong Kong High Court, the scheme of arrangement will result in Hang Seng’s shares being withdrawn from the Hong Kong Stock Exchange, likely in late January, and the bank becoming a wholly owned subsidiary of HSBC.

HSBC plans to fund the approximately US$13.6 billion acquisition from its internal resources. 
Market reaction to the committee’s endorsement was mixed, with HSBC’s shares rising modestly in London trading while Hang Seng’s stock performance reflected anticipation of the vote.

The next step in the process will be a shareholders’ meeting scheduled for early January, when minority holders will decide on the proposed privatisation.

A successful vote would mark a major transformation in the ownership of one of Hong Kong’s largest and most historic banks.
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Hongkong Land Completes Targeted Share Repurchase as Part of Capital Strategy

Strategic buyback of 235,000 ordinary shares reflects disciplined capital management and reinforces shareholder value
Hongkong Land Holdings announced that it has executed a share repurchase of two hundred and thirty-five thousand of its ordinary shares, in a transaction completed on September eleventh and subsequently cancelled, as part of its ongoing capital management programme.

The repurchased shares, acquired at prices between six dollars thirty-seven cents and six dollars forty-six cents United States per share, were cancelled, reducing the company’s share capital and reflecting the board’s commitment to disciplined use of capital and enhancement of shareholder returns.

Following the cancellation, the company’s issued ordinary share capital with voting rights stands at approximately two billion one hundred seventy-five million two hundred seventy-seven thousand nine hundred twenty-six shares.

The repurchase follows Hongkong Land’s broader capital recycling strategy, which includes asset disposals and targeted buybacks designed to optimise the company’s balance sheet and return value to shareholders.

Earlier in the year, the company announced a formal share buyback programme of up to two hundred million dollars financed through proceeds from property transactions, including the sale of part of One Exchange Square to Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing.

That programme, announced in April and scheduled to run through December thirty-first, two thousand twenty-five, underpins the firm’s approach to capital allocation amid evolving market conditions.

Shares in Hongkong Land responded modestly to the announcement of the repurchase, closing slightly higher on the day following the transaction.

The company has reiterated that its strategy continues to prioritise financial strength, flexibility and value creation, balancing shareholder returns with reinvestment in core markets.

Investors and analysts view the targeted buyback as a constructive step in managing the company’s capital base and enhancing per-share metrics over time.
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Greater Bay Area Advances First Commercial eVTOL Air-Taxi Link Between Hong Kong and Shenzhen

Plans emerge for a pioneering electric vertical take-off and landing route set to transform travel in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao region
Governments and industry stakeholders in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area are moving forward with plans to establish the region’s first commercial electric vertical take-off and landing aircraft, or eVTOL, service linking Hong Kong and Shenzhen as part of an expanding low-altitude economy initiative.

The route follows a landmark demonstration flight earlier this year when an eVTOL aircraft completed an inter-city crossing between Shenzhen and Zhuhai in just twenty minutes, a journey that otherwise takes hours by road.

This achievement highlighted the potential of zero-emission, electrically powered vertical flight to reduce travel times and open new forms of sustainable transport in one of China’s most densely populated and economically dynamic regions.

Building on this progress, local authorities and aviation developers have indicated growing support for regularised eVTOL operations, including cross-border routes connecting major urban centres.

Industry representatives emphasise that eVTOL aircraft — which do not require conventional runways and can operate from compact vertiports — could offer rapid, low-noise alternatives to traditional ground and helicopter travel, while contributing to broader economic growth and connectivity goals across the Greater Bay Area.

As regulatory agencies refine frameworks for low-altitude airspace and safety certification, the move to commercialise eVTOL services between Hong Kong and Shenzhen is seen as a strategic step toward integrating aerial mobility into the region’s transport infrastructure and supporting future passenger and logistics applications.
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Hong Kong Crypto Exchange HashKey Raises US$206 Million in Landmark IPO

Licensed digital-asset platform priced its shares near the top of range, highlighting strong investor interest amid market volatility
HashKey Holdings Ltd., operator of Hong Kong’s largest licensed cryptocurrency exchange, has raised approximately HK$1.6 billion (about US$206 million) through its initial public offering on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange, in a transaction priced near the top of its marketed range.

The company sold 240.6 million shares at HK$6.68 each, within a marketed price band of HK$5.95 to HK$6.95, reflecting robust demand from institutional and cornerstone investors such as UBS Asset Management, Fidelity and China-based CDH, according to market sources.

Trading on the exchange is expected to begin on December 17, positioning HashKey as one of the few publicly traded players in the regulated digital-assets sector.

Founded in 2018, HashKey operates a regulated virtual-asset trading platform and offers a suite of related services including asset management, brokerage and tokenisation under Hong Kong’s virtual-asset licensing regime introduced in 2022, which aims to foster a compliant crypto ecosystem.

The successful IPO comes amid heightened price volatility in global digital-asset markets, with Bitcoin having experienced significant fluctuations following record highs in recent months.

Hong Kong’s regulatory approach contrasts with mainland China’s strict ban on cryptocurrency trading, as authorities in the mainland continue to emphasise risks associated with speculative virtual-asset activity and reaffirm enforcement measures against illegal crypto-related operations.

The proceeds from HashKey’s offering are expected to support technology development, expanded infrastructure and broader market initiatives as the exchange seeks to consolidate its position within Asia’s fast-evolving digital-asset landscape.

Market observers view the IPO as a signal of institutional confidence in Hong Kong’s regulated crypto framework, even as the broader industry navigates cyclical pressures and competitive dynamics across global financial hubs.

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Experts Warn Hong Kong May See Rising Debt Restructuring and Business Liquidations Amid Economic Strain

Sluggish economy, property-sector distress and corporate indebtedness set the stage for more restructurings and potential insolvencies across the financial hub
Hong Kong is poised for an increase in debt restructurings and company liquidations as economic headwinds intensify and key sectors struggle with mounting financial pressures.

A series of recent developments has highlighted vulnerabilities in the territory’s economy, particularly in the property and aviation sectors, prompting warnings from restructuring specialists and market analysts about the likelihood of more distressed corporate balance sheets needing formal remedies.

Last week, the High Court approved a HK$49 billion debt restructuring scheme for Hong Kong Airlines Ltd., underscoring the acute pressures facing local corporates after years of pandemic-related downturn and liquidity challenges.

The sanctioned “scheme of arrangement” will allow the airline, backed by the bankrupt HNA Group, to jettison aircraft, raise new funding and attempt to resume more extensive services across the Asia-Pacific region.

The restructuring plan drew no opposition in court, but reflects how deeply indebted firms are seeking legal frameworks to manage obligations and avoid outright collapse.

Underlying these corporate strains is a broader slowdown in Hong Kong’s economic growth, with weak sales in the city’s critical property sector pushing developers and banks toward complex refinancing negotiations and restructuring talks.

Analysts note that forthcoming bond maturities for Hong Kong-linked property firms are set to rise sharply next year amid falling sales and asset valuations, which could prompt further restructurings if companies cannot meet repayment deadlines.

The property market’s travails also have ripple effects through financial institutions and creditor networks.

Commercial property valuations in Hong Kong remain depressed, putting downward pressure on asset collateral and fueling concerns about non-performing loans.

In some cases, banks have indicated they may sell real estate exposure at a loss as part of risk management, while developers must navigate complex offshore debt negotiations with creditor groups that sometimes threaten liquidation if agreements cannot be reached.

Corporate insolvency law and restructuring frameworks in Hong Kong offer structured processes, including schemes of arrangement and winding-up petitions, but these mechanisms can signal deeper systemic stress when used at scale.

Recent legal commentary highlights how courts are increasingly handling high-profile restructurings, with liquidations proceeding for entities that fail to present viable plans, as exemplified by long-running offshore cases related to large indebted firms.

Economists say that while not all sectors will face restructuring or closure, the confluence of weak domestic demand, elevated debt burdens and external economic uncertainty means that more companies — particularly in property and associated industries — could resort to formal debt resolution processes.

Observers also note that Hong Kong’s status as a global financial centre means these developments are watched closely by investors and regulators alike for what they may signal about regional economic resilience and financial stability.
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Key Facts About the National Security Trial of Hong Kong Media Tycoon Jimmy Lai

The long-running trial of the former Apple Daily founder culminated in his conviction on collusion and sedition charges under Hong Kong’s security law
Jimmy Lai, the 78-year-old founder of the now-defunct pro-democracy newspaper Apple Daily, was convicted in December 2025 of conspiracy to collude with foreign forces and conspiracy to publish seditious material under Hong Kong’s national security law, marking one of the city’s most high-profile rulings since Beijing imposed the law in 2020. The case has drawn intense international scrutiny and is viewed as a barometer of judicial independence and press freedom in the former British colony.

Instituted amid the 2019 pro-democracy protests, the national security law criminalises acts of secession, subversion, terrorism and collusion with foreign entities, with potential penalties up to life imprisonment.

Lai has denied wrongdoing, saying his engagement with foreign officials aimed to inform them about developments in Hong Kong rather than to influence foreign policy.

The prosecution argued that his media activities, including through Apple Daily and allied advocacy groups, sought to solicit sanctions and punitive measures from Western governments, which under the law constituted collusion.

After a trial lasting more than 156 days and spanning over two years, judges delivered an 855-page verdict finding Lai guilty on multiple counts.

He has been held in custody since his arrest in 2020 and has spent much of that time in solitary confinement.

Lai’s legal team intends to seek mitigation at a January 2026 sentencing hearing amid concerns over his deteriorating health, including weight loss, heart problems and diabetes complications.

The conviction has elicited strong reactions from Western governments, including calls for his release from U.K., U.S., European Union and Taiwanese officials, who describe the outcome as damaging to civil liberties in Hong Kong.

Beijing and Hong Kong authorities have defended the proceedings as lawful and necessary to uphold national security and stability.

Supporters of Lai see the verdict as symbolic of a broader contraction of dissent and independent journalism in the territory, while rights groups warn it reflects ongoing erosion of freedoms promised under the “one country, two systems” framework.

Lai’s trial also involved accusations under a revived colonial-era sedition law, and the case has been closely watched by diplomats and legal observers as a test of the city’s rule of law.

The evolution of the trial, including delays due to health and weather issues, and the involvement of foreign legal counsel changes, illustrated the complexity and international attention the case garnered.

Sentencing is scheduled for early next year, when Lai’s fate under the national security regime will be decided.
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The Jetson ONE personal air vehicle costs $128K. You can fly it without a pilot license after a quick 5-day training course.

Needs an $8,000 deposit. has backup batteries, a ballistic parachute, and radar that handles auto-landing. top speed 102 km/h.



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Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee to Begin Annual Beijing Duty Visit

Lee will brief Chinese state leaders on Hong Kong’s policy priorities, post-fire response and economic outlook during a three-day trip to the capital
Hong Kong’s Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu is set to embark on his annual duty visit to Beijing early this week, where he will meet senior Chinese state leaders to brief them on the Special Administrative Region’s latest economic, social and political developments.

The government announced that Lee’s trip will last three days in the Chinese capital and is intended to facilitate direct reporting to central authorities on major local issues, including recent events such as the devastating fire in Tai Po’s Wang Fuk Court that claimed numerous lives and sparked public conversation about safety and governance.

Alongside key aides, Lee will outline Hong Kong’s policy blueprints, improvements in international ratings and how the city can better serve national strategies under the ‘‘one country, two systems’’ principle.

The visit underscores the routine, institutionalised channel through which the Hong Kong leadership communicates with the central government in Beijing.

Previous duty visits have included meetings with President Xi Jinping and other senior officials, focusing on economic revitalisation, talent development, trade integration and structural initiatives to enhance Hong Kong’s role as a regional hub.

While Lee is in Beijing, Chief Secretary Eric Chan will serve as acting chief executive in his absence.

The meetings are expected to reinforce cooperation between Hong Kong and mainland authorities at a time marked by both policy challenges and sustained efforts to solidify the city’s economic resilience and integration with broader national development priorities.
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China’s success is by design: Every product and its supply chain are tied to one huge city the size of a nation.

This is why other nations can’t compete with China. Is chaotic system vs. well planed, designed, implemented system.


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Hong Kong Outlines Ambitious Plan to Trial Passenger-Carrying Drones Within Two to Three Years

City officials set timelines and regulatory roadmaps for integrating passenger drones into the low-altitude economy as part of broader aviation strategy
Hong Kong is moving ahead with plans to develop passenger-carrying drone services, with officials indicating that trials and initial operations could begin within the next two to three years as part of a wider drive to build a low-altitude economy.

Transport and Logistics Secretary Mable Chan set out a phased roadmap at the Airspace Asia Pacific 2025 forum in Hong Kong, where she highlighted the government’s work on integrating advanced drone and electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft into regulated airspace.

Chan said that Hong Kong’s “Regulatory Sandbox X” has already begun testing heavier logistics drones and advanced applications, and that a comprehensive legislative package enabling heavier, more complex operations — including passenger drones — is expected by the end of 2026. Early phase regulatory changes this year extended drone classifications to cover craft weighing up to 150 kilograms, laying groundwork for future, larger-scale operations that could include human-carrying flights.

The government has emphasised safety and public consultation in shaping the legal framework, noting that passenger drone trials will be carefully controlled and initially focused on less-densely populated areas or island tourism routes to minimise impact on urban airspace.

Industry participants, including local mobility firms and academic partners, are already engaged in research and smaller pilot projects, exploring potential applications such as sightseeing tours, medical logistics and short-haul travel links to outlying islands.

These developments form part of Hong Kong’s broader strategy to leverage its advanced aviation infrastructure, deepen ties with the Greater Bay Area and position the city at the forefront of next-generation air mobility in Asia.

Officials have said that if regulatory and technological milestones are met in the coming years, passenger-carrying drone services could begin limited operations within that two-to-three year horizon, adding a new dimension to Hong Kong’s transport ecosystem.
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Rain Electrifies Opening of Hong Kong International Races as Crowds Flock to Sha Tin

K-pop star Rain’s headline performance heralds a vibrant start to the Longines HKIR celebration at Sha Tin Racecourse
K-pop luminary Rain delivered a dynamic opening performance at the Longines Hong Kong International Races at Sha Tin Racecourse, drawing thousands of spectators and setting an upbeat tone for one of the city’s premier sporting and entertainment occasions.

The internationally acclaimed singer and performer appeared in the Parade Ring to kick off the raceday programme with an energetic set that blended music and choreography, energising racegoers as they gathered for elite thoroughbred competition.

Rain’s participation was a highlight of the event’s entertainment schedule, designed to complement the world-class racing that forms the core of the Hong Kong Jockey Club’s annual showcase.

Crowds arriving early to Sha Tin were treated not only to Rain’s celebrated stage presence but also to a full day of racing, social experiences and hospitality offerings organised around the Longines Hong Kong International Races, which feature some of the globe’s top horses vying for Group 1 honours.

The event, widely recognised as a climax of the city’s racing calendar, has become a draw for both local fans and international visitors, with the entertainment lineup amplifying its appeal.

Rain’s set underscored the fusion of sport and cultural celebration that the Hong Kong Jockey Club has championed, reinforcing the international character of the Longines HKIR and its role as a landmark occasion in the region’s sporting year.
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New Retail Entrants Stabilise Hong Kong’s Property Market as Luxury Pulls Back

Mid-market brands and experiential tenants help steady rents amid a prolonged slowdown in high-end retail
Hong Kong’s retail property market is showing signs of stabilisation as new entrants and mid-market brands move in to fill space once dominated by luxury labels, offsetting the impact of a sustained pullback at the top end of the sector.

Leasing activity in key shopping districts has been supported by affordable fashion, lifestyle, food and beverage operators, as well as experiential concepts targeting local consumers rather than high-spending tourists.

Property consultants report that while luxury retailers continue to rationalise their footprints amid changing travel patterns and cautious global demand, vacancy rates have begun to level off as landlords adjust expectations and pricing.

Rents in prime areas remain below pre-pandemic peaks, but declines have moderated, reflecting improved foot traffic and more diversified tenant mixes.

Retailers from mainland China and other parts of Asia have been particularly active, taking advantage of more flexible lease terms and prominent locations that were previously out of reach.

The shift marks a structural rebalancing of Hong Kong’s retail landscape, with less reliance on luxury spending and greater emphasis on everyday consumption and services.

Market participants say the trend has brought greater resilience to retail property performance, even as the sector continues to navigate broader economic uncertainty and evolving consumer behaviour.
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Hong Kong Court Set to Deliver Verdict in Jimmy Lai’s Landmark National Security Trial

Judges prepare to rule on charges against media mogul whose case has become emblematic of the city’s shifting legal and political landscape
Hong Kong’s High Court is poised to deliver a long-awaited verdict in the national security trial of Jimmy Lai, a veteran pro-democracy media tycoon whose case has captured international attention and highlighted deepening tensions over civil liberties in the former British colony.

The verdict, scheduled for delivery by a three-judge panel on Monday morning, follows a protracted trial that stretched more than one hundred and fifty days and examined charges of conspiracy to collude with foreign forces and conspiracy to publish seditious material under the city’s national security law.

Lai, the eighty-year-old founder of the now-defunct Apple Daily newspaper, has pleaded not guilty to the charges and has been held in custody for several years amid concerns about his health and deteriorating conditions in solitary confinement.

Prosecutors alleged that Apple Daily’s reporting and Lai’s contacts with foreign officials and organisations constituted unlawful collusion and publication of material deemed threatening to national security, while Lai’s defence maintained that his actions reflected advocacy for freedom of expression and democratic values rather than criminal conduct.

Supporters queued outside the West Kowloon courthouse overnight ahead of the verdict, illustrating the symbolic significance of the case for Hong Kong’s civil society as the city’s once-pluralistic political environment continues to evolve under Beijing’s tighter governance.

The proceedings, conducted without a jury and before judges appointed under Hong Kong’s legal framework, have drawn scrutiny from foreign governments and rights organisations, both of which have framed the outcome as a bellwether for judicial independence and press freedom in the territory.

Authorities emphasised that the trial has been conducted strictly on the basis of evidence and in accordance with the law, while maintaining that safeguarding national security is a priority.

The ruling is expected to have far-reaching implications for media, politics and civil liberties in Hong Kong, with Lai’s potential sentence — which could include life imprisonment if he is convicted — to be determined and subject to appeal in subsequent proceedings.
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Hong Kong’s Last Pro-Democracy Party Votes to Disband Amid Intensified China Pressure

The former flagship Democratic Party dissolves after more than three decades as Beijing’s national security crackdown leaves no formal opposition in the city
Hong Kong’s largest and once most influential pro-democracy political party has voted to disband, marking the end of formal liberal opposition in the city’s political landscape after more than thirty years of activism.

Members of the Democratic Party, founded in the mid-nineties ahead of the territory’s return to Chinese rule, overwhelmingly supported liquidation in an extraordinary general meeting as political space for dissent has all but vanished under successive national security measures imposed by Beijing.

The dissolution followed a stringent national security law enacted in 2020 that broadened authorities’ power to suppress dissent and led to the arrest, prosecution or enforced exile of many prominent activists, lawmakers and civil society figures.

Democratic Party chair Lo Kin-hei said members concluded that, given current conditions, dissolving the party was the most viable path forward, even as he expressed pride in its decades-long role advocating for civil liberties, universal suffrage and accountable governance.

Reports indicate that some members received warnings from officials or intermediaries about potential consequences, including possible arrest, if the party did not wind up its affairs.

The move comes after electoral reforms in two thousand twenty-one effectively barred mainstream pro-democracy candidates from contesting legislative elections, further marginalising dissenting voices.

The party’s closure follows a recent series of disbandments by other pro-democracy groups, including the League of Social Democrats earlier this year, leaving Hong Kong’s legislature entirely devoid of organised liberal opposition.

Observers say the rapid disappearance of established opposition parties underscores a dramatic shift in the city’s political culture and reflects the profound impact of Beijing’s tightening control under the “one country, two systems” framework.

Former chairwoman Emily Lau lamented the decision as a significant moment in Hong Kong’s governance history, while veteran members voiced hope that democratic values might one day find renewed expression should the political climate change.
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Footage of the gunmen around Bondi Beach during the terror attack. One of the gunmen has been named as 24-year-old Naveed Akram



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Hong Kong Airlines Inaugurates Direct Flights to Melbourne, Strengthening Asia-Australia Air Links

New thrice-weekly Airbus A330 service lands at Melbourne Airport, boosting connectivity, tourism and trade between the regions
Hong Kong Airlines has touched down in Melbourne with the launch of a new direct service that expands air connectivity between Hong Kong and Australia’s second-largest city.

Flight HX013 arrived at Melbourne Airport on Saturday morning, greeted with a traditional water cannon salute by rescue and firefighting crews, marking the airline’s first service to the Victorian capital.

The new route, operated by the airline’s Airbus A330 aircraft, will operate three times weekly on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays, adding more than ninety-three thousand passenger seats annually between the two cities.

The service follows a recent expansion of bilateral air traffic rights between Hong Kong and Australia, which has opened the door for additional carriers on the route and increased competition.

Melbourne Airport’s chief of aviation said the arrival of Hong Kong Airlines as the airport’s forty-first carrier underscores the growing demand for international travel options and the benefits of expanded air agreements.

Officials from the Victorian government highlighted the positive impact the new flights are expected to have on tourism and the local visitor economy, which has recorded record international numbers in recent months.

In addition to passenger travel, increased flight capacity is anticipated to support freight and export opportunities, further deepening economic ties between Victoria and Asian markets.

Hong Kong Airlines’ chairman welcomed the launch, noting that the Melbourne service enriches the airline’s long-haul network and offers customers greater choice and connectivity.

With onward connections from Hong Kong to destinations across Asia, North America and beyond, the new link positions Melbourne as a key hub in the carrier’s global strategy.
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US Proposal to Require Five Years of Social Media History From Visitors Raises Privacy and Travel Concerns

The Trump administration’s plan to expand social media vetting to all foreign travellers represents a major shift in US border screening
The United States is considering a significant expansion of its travel screening procedures that would require almost all foreign visitors, including tourists from visa-waiver countries, to disclose up to five years of social media history before entering the country.

The proposal, published by the Department of Homeland Security and U.S. Customs and Border Protection, would make social media disclosure a mandatory data element for travellers applying through the Electronic System for Travel Authorization, or ESTA, which allows passport holders from about forty-two countries to visit the United States for up to ninety days without a visa.

Under the planned rule, applicants would need to provide usernames and identifiers for all social media accounts used over the past five years, along with additional personal information such as past email addresses, phone numbers, and extensive family details.

The new requirement builds on earlier changes in 2025 that expanded social media vetting for student, work and other visa categories, reflecting the government’s broader effort to enhance what it describes as national security screening.

Supporters of the plan argue that deeper insight into travellers’ digital footprints could help identify potential threats before arrival and strengthen border security, particularly in the context of evolving global risks.

Critics, however, contend that mandating such detailed online disclosures risks infringing on privacy and freedom of expression, and could deter tourism, business travel and cultural exchange just months before major international events like the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

They have raised concerns that extensive digital data collection and review might chill legitimate online speech and burden travellers and companies with complex compliance demands.

The proposal is currently open for a public comment period of sixty days, and its final form and implementation timeline remain uncertain, meaning the changes would not take effect until after that review and any revisions.
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HashKey IPO Marks Turning Point for Hong Kong’s Regulated Crypto Sector

Public listing of the digital asset group underscores the city’s push to build a compliant, institution-friendly crypto hub
The planned initial public offering of HashKey is being widely interpreted as a milestone in Hong Kong’s evolving approach to digital assets, signalling a shift toward a more regulated and institutionally anchored crypto market.

HashKey, one of the city’s best-known digital asset groups and a licensed virtual asset trading platform, has moved forward with IPO preparations amid growing clarity in Hong Kong’s regulatory framework for cryptocurrencies.

The listing effort comes as authorities actively position the city as a global centre for compliant digital finance, distinguishing its approach from less regulated offshore markets.

Market participants say the IPO reflects increased confidence that crypto-related firms can operate transparently under clear rules, attract traditional investors and access public capital markets.

Hong Kong’s licensing regime for virtual asset service providers, introduced to bring exchanges under closer supervision, has been central to this shift, encouraging consolidation around firms willing to meet higher standards of governance, custody and investor protection.

Analysts note that HashKey’s move could pave the way for other regulated crypto companies to consider public listings, reinforcing Hong Kong’s ambition to integrate digital assets into its mainstream financial system.

While market volatility remains a factor, the IPO is seen as evidence that crypto activity in Hong Kong is transitioning from a niche, high-risk segment toward a more mature and regulated industry with stronger institutional participation.
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Hong Kong Positioned to Contribute to China’s Unified National Market Drive

The city’s financial expertise and legal framework are seen as assets in advancing deeper economic integration
Hong Kong is being urged to play an active role in the development of a strong and unified national market, as China moves to reduce internal barriers and improve the efficiency of goods, capital and services flows across the country.

Recent policy discussions have highlighted the city’s distinctive advantages, including its international financial connectivity, common law system and experience as a gateway between mainland China and global markets.

Advocates argue that closer alignment with national market reforms can reinforce Hong Kong’s relevance while supporting broader economic objectives such as innovation, supply chain resilience and balanced regional growth.

The push for a unified market aims to standardise regulations, lower transaction costs and encourage fair competition, creating a more predictable environment for businesses.

Hong Kong’s role is seen as complementary, offering high-end professional services, cross-border financing and risk management expertise that can facilitate market integration without undermining the “one country, two systems” framework.

Analysts note that participation in national initiatives could help Hong Kong diversify its economy and deepen links with fast-growing mainland regions, while maintaining its outward-facing character.

As China accelerates efforts to build a more cohesive domestic market, Hong Kong’s engagement is increasingly framed as both an opportunity and a responsibility within the evolving economic landscape.
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Thailand Condemns Cambodian Rocket Attack on Civilian Village

Bangkok says the strike deliberately targeted non-military areas, killing a civilian and destroying homes
The Thai government has strongly condemned what it says was a deliberate Cambodian attack on civilians after rocket fire struck a residential village in Si Sa Ket province, killing one person and damaging multiple homes.

According to Thai officials, BM-twenty-one rocket rounds were fired into Ban Nong Mek, located in Moo Four of the Sao Thong Chai subdistrict in Kantharalak district.

One civilian was killed, believed to have been hit by shrapnel near the front of Nong Mek School.

In the same incident, a house caught fire after being struck and was completely destroyed.

Several other homes were damaged by shrapnel.

Thai authorities stressed that the area hit had no connection to any military operation.

Residents had already been evacuated, a step that prevented further casualties.

Fire engines were dispatched and emergency services coordinated to control the blaze and secure the area.

Siripong, speaking on behalf of the Thai government, said the incident was reported directly by the village head of Moo Four and rejected any suggestion that the strike was accidental.

He said attacks on civilian communities are unacceptable under international norms and stated that this incident was deliberate, not an unintended error as Cambodia has often claimed in the past.

Thai officials emphasised that targeting civilian villages, schools, and homes represents a serious escalation and violates basic principles of international humanitarian conduct.

They reiterated that the affected civilians were ordinary residents with no involvement in hostilities.

The government said it would continue to document incidents affecting civilians and raise concerns through appropriate channels, while reaffirming its responsibility to protect Thai communities along the border.

The attack has deepened concerns in Bangkok over Cambodia’s conduct and the growing risk posed to civilians living near the frontier.
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Completely different time with a completely different work ethic



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Malaysia Destroys Over One Thousand Bitcoin Mining Machines After Court Order

Authorities say the equipment was used to steal roughly two million dollars’ worth of electricity
Malaysian authorities have seized and destroyed one thousand and sixty-nine Bitcoin mining machines after a court determined they had been used illegally to steal electricity on a large scale.

The machines were crushed using a bulldozer following the conclusion of legal proceedings, according to officials involved in the operation.

Investigators said the mining equipment had been operating without authorization and was connected to the power grid through illegal means.

The investigation concluded that the operation resulted in the theft of electricity valued at approximately two million United States dollars, placing a significant burden on public infrastructure and energy providers.

The seizure formed part of a broader enforcement action against illegal cryptocurrency mining in Malaysia, where subsidized electricity and growing demand have made unauthorized mining operations a recurring challenge for authorities.

Officials have repeatedly warned that such activities strain the national power system and increase costs for legitimate consumers.

After the court issued an order authorizing the destruction of the equipment, enforcement teams proceeded with the public disposal of the machines to prevent their reuse or resale.

Authorities stated that destroying the hardware served both as a practical measure and as a deterrent against future violations.

Malaysian officials emphasized that while cryptocurrency mining itself is not illegal under national law, operating such equipment without proper permits and by stealing electricity constitutes a serious criminal offense.

They said enforcement efforts would continue to focus on protecting public resources and ensuring compliance with energy and commercial regulations.

The incident underscores the growing tension between rapidly evolving digital industries and existing regulatory frameworks, particularly in countries where electricity subsidies and infrastructure constraints make illegal mining operations both attractive and costly.
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Critics Denounce Hong Kong Legislative Council Election as a Masquerade Amid Low Turnout and Public Anger

Opposition voices and civil society figures characterise the 2025 polls as lacking legitimacy as turnout remains near record lows and restrictive rules persist
Hong Kong’s recent Legislative Council election, held against the backdrop of public grief following the city’s deadliest residential blaze in decades, has drawn sharp condemnation from civic figures and critics who describe the poll as a “masquerade” rather than a genuine expression of public will.

The election, conducted under a restrictive political system that only permits candidates vetted as loyal to the Beijing-aligned administration to contest seats, saw a turnout rate of around 31.9 per cent of registered voters — a figure only marginally above the record low recorded in the first vote under the revised rules in 2021 and historically far below pre-overhaul participation levels.

Opponents of the current framework argue that the absence of a viable pro-democracy presence and the requirement that all candidates be approved for their loyalty have hollowed out meaningful choice for the city’s electorate, leaving many residents disengaged and questioning the credibility of the process.

Critics have noted that the electoral overhaul, which slashed the number of directly elected seats and expanded selections by bodies dominated by government and professional interests, has effectively sidelined dissenting voices and reduced the legislature to a forum for vetted representatives rather than a body reflecting diverse public views.

Public frustration was further heightened by the recent high-rise fire tragedy in Tai Po, where many voices called for accountability and systemic safety reforms; some observers suggested that the government’s handling of the disaster and the election’s conduct in its immediate aftermath underscored deeper concerns about governance and responsiveness.

Authorities, for their part, framed the election’s smooth conduct and modest uptick in participation as indicators of stability and support for institutional reform, noting efforts to encourage turnout through expanded polling access and outreach initiatives.

Nevertheless, critics maintain that without broader inclusion and genuine electoral competition, the legislature’s mandate will remain contested in the eyes of many residents, and that real democratic engagement cannot be achieved under the current constraints facing Hong Kong’s political landscape.
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Hong Kong Food Expo Vendors Anticipate Strong Sales Growth on Back of Larger Crowds and Good Weather

Exhibitors at the annual Hong Kong Food Expo forecast around twenty percent higher takings as attendance rises and conditions improve after early disruptions
Vendors at the annual Hong Kong Food Expo are reporting stronger footfall and expect sales revenue to exceed last year’s figures by up to around twenty percent, buoyed by larger crowds and favourable weather conditions that have helped sustain visitor numbers throughout the event.

On the fourth day of the five-day exhibition at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, exhibitors observed significant increases in consumer traffic as attendees queued early in the morning, with many arriving prepared to shop extensively and take advantage of special promotions and product bundles.

Several sellers said limited-edition deals and discounted packages, including Bumper offer bundles and novelty HK$1 items, were selling out quickly, a development they attributed to both high consumer interest and improved conditions following initial inclement weather that delayed the event’s first day.

Organisers had earlier expressed optimism that better weather would support turnout after concerns that unpredictable seasonal conditions might suppress attendance, and visitors from within the city and the Greater Bay Area contributed to sustained crowds in the exhibition halls.

Many vendors described a marked surge in midday and evening traffic, partly attributed to extended opening hours over the weekend that allowed customers to browse well into the evening, effectively lengthening the shopping day.

While final sales tallies will only be confirmed once the expo concludes, the general sentiment among participants reflects growing confidence in both the event’s draw and broader consumer appetite for in-person shopping experiences in Hong Kong’s exhibition sector.

The positive vendor outlook underscores a recovery in large-scale trade fairs and suggests robust support for the territory’s exhibitions industry as it continues to attract both local residents and regional visitors alike.
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Hong Kong Launches One-Stop Professional Services Platform to Help Mainland Chinese Firms Expand Globally

New ‘GoGlobal’ task force and integrated support system aim to position the city as the gateway for mainland enterprises entering overseas markets
Hong Kong has established a dedicated professional services platform designed to assist mainland Chinese companies in expanding their international operations, a strategic move to reinforce the city’s role as a global business launchpad.

The initiative, led by the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region government and supported by key agencies, brings together a suite of services through a centralised ‘GoGlobal’ task force and a one-stop support mechanism to streamline legal, financial, regulatory, and market entry assistance for mainland enterprises seeking to ‘go global’.

The platform integrates resources from the Hong Kong Trade Development Council, the Investment Promotion Agency and Hong Kong’s economic and trade offices, enabling firms to access tailored consultancy, regulatory guidance and cross-border networking opportunities from a single entry point.

Officials say this approach builds on recommendations set out in Hong Kong’s 2025 Policy Address to create integrated professional services that support mainland firms in establishing international headquarters or regional offices in the city and in navigating complexities associated with overseas expansion.

The launch was accompanied by promotional events and engagement activities in mainland cities, including Shanghai, where Hong Kong leaders emphasised the city’s unique advantages under the ‘one country, two systems’ framework — a common law legal system, open capital markets, established financial infrastructure and deep international networks that collectively offer mainland companies a secure and efficient steppingstone to foreign markets.

Commerce and legal professionals involved in the task force highlighted how the platform will reduce uncertainty for firms entering new jurisdictions, helping with compliance, risk management and supply-chain strategies as they pursue opportunities across Europe, Southeast Asia and other emerging regions.

Mainland enterprises are increasingly looking beyond domestic borders to diversify their revenue streams and global footprint, and Hong Kong’s initiative is intended to harness these ambitions while strengthening the city’s position as the premier service and expansion hub in Asia.
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Hong Kong’s 2025 Legislative Council Election Exposes Political Apathy and Systemic Constraints

A near-record low turnout and the dominance of vetted candidates highlight the evolving political landscape under the ‘patriots-only’ system
Hong Kong’s 2025 Legislative Council election, held on December seventh, underscored deepening political disengagement and structural change as the city’s electorate returned a fully vetted legislature under the so-called ‘patriots-only’ electoral framework.

With turnout recorded at 31.9 per cent of registered voters, participation remained only marginally above the record low set in the first election under the reformed system in 2021, and far below figures seen before the overhaul, when direct elections routinely attracted more than half the electorate.

This election was the second conducted since electoral laws were reconfigured to ensure that only candidates approved for their loyalty to Beijing could stand, and reduced directly elected geographical seats to twenty of the ninety seats in the Legislative Council while increasing selections by the Election Committee and functional constituencies.

The nomination period produced sixteen candidates vying for the twenty geographical constituency seats, with a total of 161 contender nominations overall across all modes of election.

The pro-Beijing Democratic Alliance for the Betterment and Progress of Hong Kong maintained its position as a leading force in the legislature, even as the broader political environment saw a notable absence of traditional opposition parties and a series of veteran lawmakers choose not to contest new terms.

Analysts contend that the low turnout reflects more than procedural inertia, pointing to heightened public disillusionment, particularly in the wake of a deadly residential fire in Tai Po just weeks before polling day that claimed more than one hundred fifty lives and intensified criticism of governance and accountability.

Authorities responded to public dissatisfaction with a broad civic mobilisation effort, extending polling hours and offering community incentives, yet many residents opted to sit out the poll or cast invalid ballots as a quiet expression of dissent within tightly regulated political space.

Legal restrictions have tightened in recent years, including arrests for public appeals to boycott the vote or submit invalid ballots, further narrowing avenues for open political contestation.

As the new council convenes with all ninety members confirmed, the election has reinforced the trajectory of Hong Kong’s political system under Beijing’s stewardship — one that prioritises stability and control while revealing persistent strains in civic engagement and public trust in representative institutions.
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Hongkong Land Shares Hit Twelve-Month High as Property Outlook Improves

The Asia-focused developer reaches a new annual peak, prompting investors to weigh valuation, earnings momentum and regional recovery signals
Shares in Hongkong Land have climbed to a new twelve-month high, reflecting renewed investor confidence in the property group’s balance sheet strength and its exposure to a stabilising Asian real-estate market.

The move comes after a sustained rally that has lifted the stock steadily over recent months, supported by improving sentiment toward high-quality developers with strong liquidity and prime asset portfolios.

Market participants point to Hongkong Land’s conservative financial management and its focus on premium commercial properties in key Asian gateway cities as central drivers of the recent share price performance.

The company has continued to prioritise capital discipline, selective development and long-term leasing income, which has helped insulate earnings from volatility seen elsewhere in the sector.

Signs of gradual recovery in office demand in parts of Southeast Asia and mainland China have also contributed to optimism around future cash flows.

Investors have additionally taken note of the company’s asset valuation resilience, particularly in its core Central Hong Kong portfolio, alongside progress in major mixed-use developments in Singapore, Shanghai and other regional hubs.

While the broader property sector remains sensitive to interest-rate trajectories and macroeconomic conditions, Hongkong Land’s focus on high-grade assets and long-duration tenants has been viewed as a relative advantage.

The stock’s rise to a twelve-month high has prompted fresh debate over whether further upside remains.

Some investors see scope for continued gains if regional economic growth strengthens and office markets stabilise further, while others caution that much of the near-term recovery optimism may already be reflected in the share price.

As attention turns to upcoming earnings updates and guidance, Hongkong Land’s ability to convert improving sentiment into sustained financial performance will be key to determining whether the rally can extend beyond current levels.
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Saudi Aviation Club and Samson Sky Forge Partnership to Bring Switchblade Flying Cars to the Kingdom

Riyadh agreement advances Vision 2030 goals by positioning flying car technology to enhance regional connectivity, tourism and modern mobility
Saudi Arabia’s aviation sector took a historic step this week with the signing of a significant Memorandum of Understanding between the Saudi Aviation Club and Oregon-based Samson Sky, the developer of the innovative Switchblade Flying Car.

The agreement was formalised on the opening day of the Sand & Fun 2025 Airshow in Riyadh, with Saudi aviation leaders and international partners present to witness the ceremony.

His Royal Highness Prince Sultan bin Salman bin Abdulaziz, Founder and Board Chairman of the Saudi Aviation Club, underscored the strategic importance of the pact, which aligns directly with the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 objectives of enhancing connectivity, diversifying tourism offerings and positioning Saudi Arabia as a global leader in advanced transportation technologies.

Under the terms of the MoU, Samson Sky will provide comprehensive training for mechanics and pilots of the Switchblade, assist with securing regulatory approvals for its use within Saudi airspace and grant access to Saudi Aviation Club facilities for sales, demonstrations and future operations.

The Switchblade, a hybrid-electric roadable aircraft capable of transforming from a sports car to an aircraft in a matter of minutes, can accelerate from zero to sixty miles per hour in five seconds and is engineered to cruise at speeds of up to 160 miles per hour with a range of roughly 500 miles on premium automotive fuel.

The partnership also envisages integration of the Switchblade into the Kingdom’s broader aviation ecosystem, offering a potential solution to bridge long distances between cities and support regional travel for both tourism and business purposes.

Saudi officials and Samson Sky executives have highlighted the broader economic promise of the flying car concept, noting that the technology could boost domestic aviation enthusiasm and attract international attention.

With considerable global interest in the Switchblade already reflected in thousands of reservations, the collaboration is poised to be a defining milestone in the evolution of personal aerial mobility in Saudi Arabia and beyond.
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This is what a restaurant kitchen in China looks like



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Hong Kong Braces for Cooler Weather as Temperatures Forecast to Dip to Around 14°C

City’s meteorological agency warns of a cold spell with winds making it feel chillier, with cool conditions expected into midweek
Hong Kong is set to experience a noticeable dip in temperatures this week as a cold front moves across the region, with minimum readings forecast to drop to approximately fourteen degrees Celsius in urban areas and potentially lower in parts of the New Territories.

The Hong Kong Observatory has attributed the cooler spell to an intense northeast monsoon, which continues to influence weather across southern China and is expected to bring dry conditions, brisk winds and appreciably cooler mornings and nights.

Forecasters said winds accompanying the monsoon will enhance the cold sensation, meaning conditions may feel colder than actual thermometer readings, particularly for residents spending extended periods outdoors.

The chilly weather pattern is likely to persist through the middle of the week, with dry and relatively clear skies during daytime hours and a significant temperature difference between day and night.

Meteorological officials have advised the public, particularly the elderly and those with health vulnerabilities, to wear appropriate clothing and take precautions against the cooler conditions.

The broader outlook suggests that after the coldest days, temperatures may gradually moderate later in the week as the monsoon influence eases, though cool mornings and comfortable daytime conditions will remain characteristic of the week’s weather.
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Warehouse Blaze in Yuen Long Forces Evacuation as Smoke Billows Across District

More than fifty people are evacuated after a warehouse in Yuen Long catches fire, prompting an ongoing investigation into the cause
A significant warehouse fire ignited in Yuen Long shortly after early afternoon, prompting emergency responders to evacuate more than fifty people to safety as thick smoke rose over the district.

The blaze, reported at approximately one oh seven in the afternoon on Wednesday, engulfed part of a logistics facility, forcing nearby workers and visitors to leave the area quickly as firefighters battled the flames and worked to contain the situation.

Eyewitnesses described loud bangs and plumes of smoke visible across Yuen Long as fire crews deployed hoses and safety teams to subdue the fire.

Authorities said the incident is believed to have started when a forklift caught fire inside the warehouse during operations, though the exact cause remains under investigation.

No serious injuries have been reported, and emergency services continued to secure the site and assess potential risks to surrounding buildings and transport routes.

Officials noted that the prompt evacuation and coordinated response helped prevent casualties, underscoring the importance of strict fire safety measures in industrial zones.
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Lessons from London’s Tower Blaze Inform Hong Kong’s Response to Deadly Wang Fuk Court Fire

Experts and officials draw parallels between recent Hong Kong tragedy and past London high-rise fire, underscoring fire safety reforms and regulatory oversight
As Hong Kong mourns one of the deadliest residential fires in its history at the Wang Fuk Court estate, comparisons with past London high-rise blazes have emerged as authorities, experts and urban policymakers assess how cities can better prevent similar catastrophes.

The fire in Tai Po on November 26, which consumed seven of eight residential towers and killed more than one hundred sixty people, was fuelled by highly flammable scaffolding and building materials that enabled rapid vertical spread — a pattern that echoes the 2017 Grenfell Tower inferno in West London, where cladding materials allowed fire to engulf a twenty-four-storey block with devastating consequences.

London’s tragedy prompted a sweeping overhaul of building safety regulations in the United Kingdom, including the removal of dangerous cladding from hundreds of towers, strengthened fire-resistance standards, and the establishment of the independent Grenfell Tower inquiry to identify systemic lapses and enforce accountability.

That inquiry’s findings and subsequent regulatory action illustrate the importance of proactive material compliance, stringent renovation oversight, and transparent enforcement mechanisms — lessons now resonating in Hong Kong’s ongoing probe and judge-led independent review ordered by the city’s leader to reform building work systems and prevent future disasters.

Fire safety experts have emphasised rigorous inspection regimes for renovation projects, mandatory fire alarm and suppression systems, and the elimination of highly combustible external netting and scaffolding materials that can act as conduits for flame spread, reinforcing the need for modern fire-resistant construction practices across dense urban environments.

The London experience also highlights the value of community engagement in design and emergency planning, ensuring that residents have clear evacuation protocols and that fire services are equipped with up-to-date building layouts and hazards information.

As Hong Kong progresses its investigation and legislative response, the parallels with London’s reforms serve as both a reminder of the human cost of regulatory gaps and a roadmap for comprehensive safety improvements that can save lives in high-density cities internationally.
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Cathay Pacific Passenger Arrested After Attempting to Open Aircraft Door Mid-Flight

Man detained under Aviation Security Ordinance following incident aboard Boston–Hong Kong service that landed safely with no injuries
A passenger on a Cathay Pacific flight from Boston to Hong Kong was arrested after attempting to open an aircraft door while the plane was still in the air on December 10, Hong Kong authorities and airline officials have confirmed.

The incident occurred on flight CX811, which was approaching Hong Kong when cabin crew intervened to prevent the individual from operating the door.

Cathay Pacific stated that all passengers and crew members were safe and uninjured, and that the flight landed normally early on December 11. The airline said its cabin crew responded promptly, checked that the door remained securely closed and reported the situation to the relevant authorities, who subsequently boarded the aircraft upon arrival.

Hong Kong police confirmed they arrested a 20-year-old man from mainland China on suspicion of violating the city’s Aviation Security Ordinance; the case is now under investigation by law enforcement.

The airline reiterated that the safety of its customers and crew remains a core priority, noting that modern aircraft doors cannot be opened during flight due to cabin pressurisation.

Police officers conducted their initial inquiries after taking the suspect into custody at Hong Kong International Airport.

The incident follows a broader pattern of heightened attention to in-flight safety and passenger conduct, underscoring the importance of robust protocols and crew training in maintaining secure operations on long-haul services.
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Hong Kong’s M+ Launches Asia’s First Major Retrospective of Zao Wou-Ki’s Printmaking

The West Kowloon museum opens an expansive exhibition celebrating the seminal Chinese-French artist’s lifelong graphic work
M+, Hong Kong’s museum of contemporary visual culture in the West Kowloon Cultural District, has opened “Zao Wou-Ki: Master Printmaker,” the first comprehensive retrospective in Asia dedicated to the graphic works of the celebrated Chinese-French artist Zao Wou-Ki (1920–2013).

The exhibition, which opened on December 13, brings together nearly 180 works spanning Zao’s printmaking practice from the late 1940s through 2000, positioning his prints, illustrated books, works on paper and archival materials as central to his development as a major figure in modern abstraction.

Drawing on significant holdings donated by his wife, Françoise Marquet-Zao, and additional gifts from his daughter, Sin-May Roy Zao, alongside more than fifty loans from international museums and private collections, the show traces how Zao’s mastery of techniques such as lithography, etching and aquatint informed his broader artistic evolution.

Organised chronologically and thematically, the exhibition reveals how printmaking was not merely a complementary medium but integral to Zao’s creative process, enabling him to experiment with expressive gestures and cross-cultural dialogues that resonated across Europe, Asia and the United States.

Highlights include seminal works such as “Lecture par Henri Michaux de huit lithographies de Zao Wou-Ki” (1950), “Piazza Siena” (1951) and “À la gloire de l’image et art poétique” (1977), which demonstrate the breadth of his graphic and conceptual innovation.

Co-curated by M+ and the Zao Wou-Ki Foundation and supported by lead sponsor BNP Paribas with major sponsorship from AIA Hong Kong and Cathay, the exhibition runs through May 3, 2026, offering visitors a rare opportunity to experience the full arc of Zao’s printmaking legacy and its relationship to his celebrated contributions to twentieth-century abstract art.
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Cathay Pacific Champions Luxury Travel with Aria Suite Debut on U.S.–Hong Kong Route

The airline introduces its acclaimed Aria Suite Business Class on flights between San Francisco and Hong Kong, marking a milestone in premium long-haul service
Cathay Pacific has unveiled its award-winning Aria Suite Business Class on selected flights between San Francisco and Hong Kong, marking the first time the state-of-the-art cabin will regularly serve a United States route.

Beginning on New Year’s Eve and into the first day of January, the airline will deploy retrofitted Boeing 777-300ER aircraft featuring the Aria Suite — alongside newly designed Premium Economy and refreshed Economy cabins — on its flagship transpacific service.

The Aria Suite, which debuted in Hong Kong in October 2024 and has since garnered multiple industry accolades for passenger comfort, combines privacy doors, human-centric design and artisanal finishes to create a spacious and refined environment for long-haul travellers.

Each suite offers direct aisle access in a 1-2-1 configuration, immersive entertainment systems and premium amenities tailored to elevate the journey.

Cathay’s senior vice-president for the Americas highlighted that San Francisco, the airline’s first U.S. destination dating back to 1986, is a fitting launch point for the Aria Suite as the carrier celebrates four decades in the Bay Area and its eightieth anniversary.

The new service will operate six times per week in both directions, reinforcing Cathay Pacific’s commitment to enhancing connectivity across the Pacific as part of its broader network expansion.

The introduction of the Aria Suite to the U.S. market coincides with the airline’s intensified North American strategy, which in 2025 included new nonstop flights to Dallas-Fort Worth and plans to launch service to Seattle in 2026. By bringing its most elevated cabin product to the transpacific market, Cathay Pacific underscores its ambition to lead in premium passenger experience while strengthening ties between Hong Kong and key international gateways.
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BAPE Launches First All-White Concept Store and Café in Hong Kong’s Iconic 1881 Heritage

Japanese streetwear brand expands experiential retail with monochrome flagship blending fashion, lifestyle and café culture at a landmark destination
BAPE, the renowned Japanese streetwear label, has unveiled its first all-white concept store and accompanying café in Hong Kong’s historic 1881 Heritage precinct, marking a strategic expansion of its global experiential retail footprint.

The new venue, characterised by minimalist all-white design and curated lifestyle spaces, integrates fashion, art and hospitality to offer visitors a multifaceted brand experience in one of the city’s most prestigious retail destinations.

The store showcases BAPE’s latest collections alongside exclusive pieces conceived specifically for the Hong Kong outpost, reflecting the city’s reputation as a dynamic hub for fashion and urban culture.

Designed to immerse customers in the brand’s aesthetic, the space features sculptural installations, interactive displays and bespoke elements that align with BAPE’s identity while adapting to the architectural heritage of its setting.

Complementing the retail environment, the adjacent all-white café serves a selection of signature beverages and light fare, creating a destination that blends commerce with social engagement.

Located within the 1881 Heritage compound — a restored colonial landmark that harmonises historical architecture with contemporary luxury retail — the BAPE concept store underscores the brand’s ambitions to deepen its presence in key Asian markets.

The choice of Hong Kong for this flagship underscores the city’s enduring role as a crossroads of culture, design and lifestyle trends, and positions the store as both a local landmark and a draw for international visitors seeking distinctive retail experiences.

Brand representatives have emphasised the importance of experiential spaces in fostering community and creativity, noting that the all-white concept reflects both a blank-canvas philosophy and a celebration of craftsmanship.

The opening has been accompanied by a curated programme of events, collaborations and limited-edition releases designed to engage customers and reinforce BAPE’s influence across fashion, art and street culture.

The Hong Kong launch follows a series of strategic openings in major cities worldwide as the brand continues to evolve its global retail strategy and connect with diverse consumer bases.
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Verdict in Jimmy Lai’s National Security Trial Nears, Intensifying Diplomatic Tensions

Hong Kong’s High Court is poised to deliver its long-awaited judgment in the high-profile case of media tycoon Jimmy Lai, drawing international attention and political sensitivity.
Hong Kong’s High Court is preparing to issue a verdict on December 15 in the protracted national security trial of Jimmy Lai, the veteran media entrepreneur and founder of the now-defunct Apple Daily newspaper.

The 78-year-old, who faces charges of conspiracy to collude with foreign forces and conspiracy to publish seditious material under the territory’s national security law, has pleaded not guilty and stands to receive a life sentence if convicted.

The case has become one of the most closely watched tests of the law’s application since it was introduced by Beijing in 2020, reflecting the broader scrutiny of Hong Kong’s legal autonomy and freedom of expression.

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Lai’s trial, which began in December 2023 and extended over 156 days, has drawn sustained international interest and commentary.

Western governments, including the United States and the United Kingdom, have repeatedly expressed concerns about the proceedings, framing them as politically driven and urging the defendant’s release.

American leaders have publicly raised the matter in bilateral engagement with Chinese officials, underscoring the case’s diplomatic weight.

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Hong Kong and Chinese authorities, for their part, assert that the process adheres to legal standards and vindicates the imperative of upholding national security.

The judiciary, composed of three judges appointed under the national security law framework, has overseen extensive evidence and witness testimony, with defence arguments emphasising Lai’s advocacy for civil liberties and press freedom.

International observers have interpreted the proceedings as emblematic of the evolving political and legal landscape in the territory.

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Lai has already endured years in detention, much of it in solitary confinement, prompting concern among his family and supporters regarding his deteriorating health.

Advocates for democratic rights have highlighted the physical and psychological toll of prolonged imprisonment on an ageing defendant.

The looming verdict marks a climactic moment in a legal saga that has become a diplomatic flashpoint, with potential ramifications for Hong Kong’s global image and its relations with Western capitals that champion rule-of-law principles and civil liberties.

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Beauty Trade Fair Cosmoprof Asia 2025 Drives Global Market Momentum in Hong Kong

The 28th edition of Cosmoprof Asia convenes thousands of industry delegates and exhibitors, reinforcing Hong Kong’s role as a gateway to international beauty markets
Cosmoprof Asia 2025, Asia’s premier business-to-business beauty industry exhibition, concluded successfully in Hong Kong, drawing tens of thousands of professionals from around the world and underscoring the city’s strategic importance in global cosmetics and personal care trade.

The four-day event, held across AsiaWorld-Expo and the Hong Kong Convention & Exhibition Centre from November eleventh to fourteenth, attracted a record attendance of 64,761 visitors and featured 2,688 exhibitors representing forty-six countries and regions, marking a robust international presence from markets including South America, North America, Europe, the Middle East and Africa.

The event’s growth in international participation reflects Cosmoprof Asia’s stature as a key launchpad for companies seeking expansion into Asia Pacific and beyond, with platforms for networking, trend insight and high-level business dialogue spanning the entire beauty supply chain.

The exhibition encompassed Cosmopack Asia, which showcased innovations in ingredients, machinery and packaging, as well as Cosmoprof Asia’s finished cosmetic sectors, offering a comprehensive picture of industry development and future opportunities.

Organisers also introduced new specialized zones highlighting trends in perfumery, niche brands and sustainability, while hosted buyer programs and executive roundtables facilitated strategic partnerships and market entry discussions.

With increased engagement from global buyers and an enriched programme of networking initiatives, the event has bolstered industry confidence in expanding products and services into new markets.

Looking ahead, Cosmoprof Asia is scheduled to return to Hong Kong in November 2026, with expectations of further strengthening the city’s role as a nexus for beauty innovation and commercial exchange.
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Hong Kong Stocks Rally as Investors Set Sights on 30,000-Plus Hang Seng in 2026

Benchmark index extends strong 2025 performance with analysts forecasting substantial upside next year on earnings growth and policy support
Equity markets in Hong Kong have sustained a notable rally, with the benchmark Hang Seng Index climbing sharply and investor attention now turning to an ambitious 30,000-plus level in 2026. The index has outperformed many global peers this year, driven by optimism over Chinese policy support, strong corporate earnings prospects and renewed capital inflows that have bolstered sentiment in the city’s financial centre.

Recent trading sessions have seen the Hang Seng near multi-month highs, reinforcing expectations of extended upside into the next calendar year.

Forecasts from major financial institutions illustrate consensus around continued strength in Hong Kong equities next year.

HSBC Private Bank’s Q1 2026 outlook projects the Hang Seng Index reaching 31,000 by the end of 2026, citing robust profit growth among technology and mainland-linked stocks as a key driver of returns.

Similarly, DBS revised its base-case target for the benchmark to 30,000 over the next twelve months, highlighting supportive earnings growth forecasts and market valuations that could underpin further gains.

While some strategists offer more conservative scenarios, these upbeat projections reflect a broad view that policy tailwinds and structural market improvements will sustain the rally.

The year-to-date performance of the Hang Seng has been strong, with gains of more than thirty percent that have captured investor interest and drawn comparisons with other major Asian markets.

This momentum is underpinned by expectations of continued economic policy support from Beijing and accommodative monetary conditions, even as global interest rate dynamics remain fluid.

Equities tied to technology, financials and domestic consumption have been among the leaders, reinforcing the narrative that Hong Kong remains a pivotal gateway for investors seeking exposure to China-linked growth opportunities.

Despite these positive signals, some analysts urge caution around potential volatility, noting that broader macroeconomic shifts, regulatory developments and global financial conditions could influence market direction.

Nevertheless, the prevailing sentiment among investors and strategists is that the city’s markets are well positioned for further gains in 2026, with key technical and fundamental indicators supporting an extended rally toward the coveted 30,000 threshold and beyond as the new year unfolds.
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Hongkong Land Steps Up Share Repurchase Programme Amid Strong Market Activity

Asia-focused property group accelerates buybacks to streamline capital structure and enhance shareholder value
Hongkong Land Holdings Limited has intensified its share repurchase programme, executing ongoing market buybacks of its ordinary shares as part of a broader capital management strategy.

The property investment and development group, which holds extensive commercial and residential assets across Asia, has been acquiring its own shares in multiple tranches over recent months, with repurchased stock cancelled to reduce overall share capital and potentially support long-term value for investors.

The continued purchases reflect the company’s confidence in its financial position and outlook.

Announced repurchases in 2025 include market transactions in which tens of thousands of ordinary shares were acquired at prices generally in the range of approximately US$6.24 to US$6.43 per share, with the board authorising further buybacks under the existing programme.

The repurchased shares are being cancelled rather than held as treasury stock, a move that aims to streamline the capital base and potentially improve earnings per share metrics over time.

Equity buybacks form part of Hongkong Land’s ongoing approach to capital recycling and shareholder returns.

The company’s buyback activity this year follows an earlier equity repurchase programme announced in April that contemplated up to US$200 million worth of share purchases through to the end of 2025 under a formal authorisation.

That programme is designed to give the group flexibility to manage its capital structure in response to market conditions and investor interests, while maintaining alignment with strategic investment and development priorities.

Equity buybacks have been carried out in accordance with regulatory requirements and disclosures under applicable markets’ transparency rules.

Hongkong Land’s share repurchase efforts occur against a backdrop of active asset management and strategic repositioning in key Asian cities.

The group’s portfolio includes prime office and retail properties in Central Hong Kong, significant holdings in Singapore, and development projects across Southeast Asia and mainland China.

Continued capital deployment through repurchases underscores the board’s intent to balance long-term growth initiatives with prudent financial stewardship and returns to shareholders.
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Hong Kong Tragedy Exposes Urgent Need for Comprehensive Fire Safety Reform

After a devastating high-rise inferno that claimed dozens of lives, experts and residents call for systemic overhaul of building safety, regulatory enforcement and emergency preparedness
A catastrophic residential tower fire in Hong Kong’s Tai Po district has intensified calls for sweeping reforms to urban safety systems, building standards and enforcement mechanisms as the city mourns one of its deadliest disasters in decades.

The blaze, which engulfed seven of eight high-rise blocks and resulted in at least 160 fatalities, has highlighted deep vulnerabilities in construction oversight, the use of flammable materials and the effectiveness of current safety protocols.

Public anger has been matched by governmental pledges to avenge victims through a thorough independent inquiry and long-term policy changes.

Authorities have launched an independent investigative committee to determine the causes of the fire and recommend reforms to prevent future tragedies.

The investigation, expected to conclude within nine months, is examining systemic issues in the construction and renovation sectors, including potential corruption, bid-rigging and oversight failures.

The rapid spread of flames across the Wang Fuk Court housing complex underscored how flammable bamboo scaffolding, nylon safety nets and other combustible materials may have exacerbated the disaster, igniting broader concerns about building safety practices.

The government response has included criminal and corruption investigations targeting construction contractors and consultants linked to the renovation project, with numerous arrests already made.

Authorities have also announced plans to strengthen regulatory frameworks, improve fire prevention standards and increase accountability for safety violations.

These proposals aim to address not only the immediate causes of the Tai Po fire but also longstanding gaps in enforcement and industry practices that critics contend left residents at risk.

Experts, residents and advocacy groups have emphasised that preventing a recurrence of such a blaze requires more than reactive measures.

Calls for mandatory use of fire-resistant materials, rigorous certification of scaffolding and insulation systems, and enhanced emergency detection and evacuation infrastructure reflect a broader consensus on the need for proactive safety oversight.

Technological innovations, such as advanced alarms, sprinkler systems and drone-assisted response tools, are also cited as part of a comprehensive approach to urban fire safety.

As Hong Kong implements immediate reforms and conducts its inquiry, the tragedy has resonated beyond the territory, prompting mainland China to initiate nationwide inspections of high-rise structures to identify fire risks and enforce corrective actions.

The Hong Kong fire has become a defining moment in discussions about urban resilience and governance, with many stakeholders urging that lessons learned translate into robust, long-lasting policy changes that protect residents and uphold public trust.
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Guoxia Technology to List on Hong Kong Stock Exchange as Cybersecurity and AI Demand Grows

Chinese systems integrator Guoxia Technology sets Hong Kong debut on December sixteenth following strong revenue growth and strategic expansion
Guoxia Technology, a Chinese systems integrator specialising in network security, artificial intelligence services and next-generation digital infrastructure, has announced plans to launch its initial public offering on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange on December sixteenth.

The company’s decision to list in one of Asia’s premier capital markets underscores investor appetite for technology firms positioned at the intersection of cybersecurity, cloud computing and smart solutions, as demand for secure and intelligent infrastructure rises globally.

Guoxia has reported sustained revenue growth driven by expanding contracts with government, enterprise and critical infrastructure clients.

The firm’s offerings encompass secure network deployment, AI-enabled analytics and integrated digital platforms that support clients’ digital transformation objectives.

In recent financial results released ahead of its listing, Guoxia highlighted robust year-on-year growth in both top-line revenue and profit margins, reflecting strong market demand for its suite of services.

Market observers say the company’s Hong Kong debut comes amid broader momentum in the region’s technology sector, with investors showing heightened interest in firms that combine cyber resilience with advanced computing capabilities.

Guoxia’s leadership has emphasised that the capital raised through the listing will be deployed towards accelerating research and development, expanding overseas operations and enhancing AI product lines tailored to industry-specific needs.

Guoxia’s IPO follows continued strategic positioning by Chinese tech enterprises seeking to leverage Hong Kong’s international platform to access global institutional capital.

The firm’s offering has drawn attention from both regional and international investors, with subscription demand cited as particularly strong in the cybersecurity segment.

Guoxia’s executives have signalled confidence that the listing will further elevate the company’s profile and support its long-term growth trajectory.

With its scheduled market debut on December sixteenth, Guoxia Technology will become one of the latest Chinese technology firms to tap Hong Kong’s public markets amid evolving geopolitical dynamics and increasing emphasis on digital infrastructure investment, setting the stage for its next phase of development.
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War on the Thailand–Cambodia Front
Hong Kong’s Deadly Fire and Political Upheaval Cast a Long Shadow Over U.S.–China Relations
Jimmy Lai’s Daughter Says She Is ‘Grieving’ After His Conviction, Appeals for Support
Hong Kong High Court Convicts Media Tycoon Jimmy Lai of Sedition and National Security Offences
Jimmy Lai, Hong Kong Media Tycoon and Long-time Beijing Critic, Convicted Under National Security Law
Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee to Begin Annual Beijing Duty Visit
Hong Kong Outlines Ambitious Plan to Trial Passenger-Carrying Drones Within Two to Three Years
Rain Electrifies Opening of Hong Kong International Races as Crowds Flock to Sha Tin
New Retail Entrants Stabilise Hong Kong’s Property Market as Luxury Pulls Back
Hong Kong Court Set to Deliver Verdict in Jimmy Lai’s Landmark National Security Trial
Hong Kong’s Last Pro-Democracy Party Votes to Disband Amid Intensified China Pressure
Thailand Condemns Cambodian Rocket Attack on Civilian Village
Critics Denounce Hong Kong Legislative Council Election as a Masquerade Amid Low Turnout and Public Anger
Hong Kong Food Expo Vendors Anticipate Strong Sales Growth on Back of Larger Crowds and Good Weather
Hong Kong Launches One-Stop Professional Services Platform to Help Mainland Chinese Firms Expand Globally
Hong Kong’s 2025 Legislative Council Election Exposes Political Apathy and Systemic Constraints
Hongkong Land Shares Hit Twelve-Month High as Property Outlook Improves
Saudi Aviation Club and Samson Sky Forge Partnership to Bring Switchblade Flying Cars to the Kingdom
BAPE Launches First All-White Concept Store and Café in Hong Kong’s Iconic 1881 Heritage
Verdict in Jimmy Lai’s National Security Trial Nears, Intensifying Diplomatic Tensions
Cambodian Forces Intensify Attacks Across Seven Border Sectors; Thai Military Responds with Drones and Artillery
Hong Kong Faces Noticeable Chill This Weekend as Temperatures Dip to Around Fifteen Degrees
JD.com’s Jingdong Industrials Unit Sees Share Price Decline on Hong Kong Market Debut
Hackers Are Hiding Malware in Open-Source Tools and IDE Extensions
Traveling to USA? Homeland Security moving toward requiring foreign travelers to share social media history
JPMorgan Predicts Near-Twenty-Percent Gains for Hong Kong and China Stocks in 2026
Hong Kong Security Office Warns Foreign Media Over ‘False Information’ Ahead of Election
Indian Airports in Turmoil as IndiGo Cancels Over a Thousand Flights, Stranding Thousands
China Sees Sharp Jump in Number and Wealth of Billionaires Amid Tech and EV Boom
Hong Kong Luxury Sales Continue to Rise in October on Tourist Rebound
Hong Kong Fire Survivor Struggles With the “Hero” Label Amid Guilt and Grief
Hong Kong Fire Death Toll Climbs to 159 as Authorities Order Scaffolding-Net Sweep Citywide
Chinese Autonomous-Driving Firm Momenta Files for Hong Kong IPO Amid Shift from U.S. Markets
Hong Kong’s Fire-Response Highlights Eroding Divide with Beijing as Security Pressures Rise
Hong Kong Detains 13 on Manslaughter Charges After Fatal Tower-Block Fire
Silent Resistance: How Hong Kong’s Young Activists Are Surviving Under Deepening Repression
Beijing Warns Against Using Hong Kong’s Tai Po Fire as Pretext for Unrest
Southeast Asia Floods Push Death Toll Above Nine Hundred as Storm Cluster Devastates Region
Hong Kong Investigates Corruption and Safety Failures After Deadliest Fire in Decades
Hong Kong High-Rise Fire Death Toll Climbs to 128 as Authorities Broaden Criminal Probe
Hong Kong Tower Fire Surpasses Grenfell as One of Worst High-Rise Tragedies — Spark Renewed Focus on Building Safety Worldwide
Hong Kong Pushes Hydrogen Transport Plan as Part of 2050 Carbon-Neutrality Drive
Hong Kong Firefighter Set to Marry Next Month Dies in Tai Po Tower Blaze — City Honors Fallen Hero
Families Endure Agonising Wait as Nearly 300 People Remain Missing After Hong Kong Tower Blaze
Hong Kong Residents, Volunteers and Companies Mobilise Massive Aid Effort After Tai Po Tower Fire
Death Toll Climbs to 128 as Hong Kong High-Rise Inferno Raises Urgent Safety Questions
250 Still Missing in the Massive Fire, 94 Killed. One Day After the Disaster: Survivor Rescued on the 16th Floor
Tesla reaffirms support for Chinese suppliers, rejects sweeping ban amid supply-chain retooling
China Holds Economic Levers Over Japan as Taiwan-Row Deepens — but Analysts Warn of Self-Harm
At least 44 killed, hundreds missing after massive fire rips through Hong Kong’s Wang Fuk Court towers