As the Year of the Dragon fades into memory, Hong Kong emerges with renewed vigour, having experienced a year marked by moderate economic recovery and rejuvenation.
The shadows of the pandemic are receding, and with the HKSAR Government’s visionary policies aimed at spurring growth, we look ahead to what the Year of the Wood Snake may hold for Hong Kong and the world.
Historically, Snake years have been significant, often heralding transformative events. As we enter the new year, we turn to feng shui experts for insights into the upcoming 12 months.
Economic Outlook
This Is the second year of Land Luck #9, heralding a less chaotic and challenging time for Hong Kong. However, despite Fire dominance, social and economic activities haven’t picked up yet. This calls for adopting a more conservative attitude with cautious sentiments towards investment.
A bullish stock market is expected in the first six months of 2025. The best time for acquiring good stocks is after the start of spring, while the strong Fire dominance will lead to a bearish market.
Investors in real estate might have to keep capital untouched for an extended period, as metal-water energies dominate the property market. Looking ahead, the economy and property market will see an upturn in a few years’ time.
Wood is the most robust sector in the Year of the Snake, covering apparel, fabric, paper, furniture, and herbal medicine. Fire comes a close second, with a good forecast for related industries such as telecommunications and internet, fuel and electronics.
Water is weak this year, which comprises industries marked by fluidity – banking and finance, retail, travel, logistics and food & beverage.
Further down the scale is Earth, which covers infrastructure, property, construction and mineral mining. Last is metal, the weakest sector, which includes precious metals like gold and silver, hardware and steel manufacturing.
Personal Snake Forecast
Snakes are offending the presiding god this year. This could lead to changes in your love life and relationships, such as marriage, conceiving a child or breaking up.
The prospects for your career indicate more power and a higher social status. Those hoping for a promotion could be disappointed due to offence against the presiding god. However, if you are chasing more recognition, there’s no harm in trying. The self-employed will find 2025 to be more challenging. Keep an eye on your expenditure, and don’t splurge.
In health matters, try not to dwell on negative feelings or results. Be careful around any transportation. Motorists should exercise particular caution around Lunar April and October. Also, be careful to prevent falls. Travel overseas or socialize with friends to keep your mind positive and occupied.
This year will lead to more gossip and disagreements. Try not to get affected by such incidents. Be self-aware about your mood swings. Control your feelings and watch your words around your family members and close friends.
Historic Snake Years
Snake years can bring unique challenges and opportunities, often reflecting broader societal and geopolitical trends.
The last Snake year, 2013, began tragically with the Boston Marathon bombing, emphasizing the growing concerns over security and terrorism in the U.S. In political spheres, former UK Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher passed away at 87, leaving a checkered legacy. Meanwhile, Xi Jinping was elected President of China, signalling a shift in leadership and policies for the world’s most populous country. In the U.S., Barack Obama was inaugurated for his second term, navigating a landscape marked by division and challenge.
In Hong Kong, a dock strike marked a significant labour movement in 2013, lasting 40 days and culminating in a 9.8% pay increase for workers. This strike was notable for its duration and the unprecedented public support and media attention it garnered.
The September 11 attacks in 2001 saw hijacked planes strike key American landmarks, resulting in profound changes in international relations and security policies. The event precipitated the “Global War on Terrorism,” reshaping government strategies worldwide.
In the same year, China made strides on the global economic stage by joining the World Trade Organization, a significant step that integrated its economy with international markets. The introduction of the One Belt, One Road initiative aimed to enhance cooperation among countries, primarily connecting China with Eurasia.
The year 1989 was pivotal in altering the geopolitical landscape. The Malta Summit marked a thawing of Cold War tensions, signalling a move toward cooperation between the US and the Soviet Union. It also witnessed the collapse of communism in Eastern Europe, including the fall of the Berlin Wall, symbolizing the end of decades of division.
The year was also marked by environmental and humanitarian crises, including the Daulatpur-Saturia tornado in Bangladesh, which resulted in thousands of casualties and injuries, and the Exxon Valdez oil spill, which created one of the most significant environmental disasters in U.S. history.
Historically, Snake years have been associated with significant upheaval and change. The Great Depression of 1929 and the Pearl Harbour attack in 1941 are notable events that reshaped economies and societies.