Chinese people greet the Lunar New Year with joyful celebrations.  But amid the current global financial turmoil, people may rein in their spending.  Yet, Hong Kongers are no strangers to adversity. We are used to thriving on challenges.

My wife and I enjoy doing Spring Festival shopping. I am glad to see that the retail market is doing better than expected, and I am happy to see people going home with bags full of goodies.

Lunar New Year is a time to reaffirm our love and affection for family members, friends or even people whom we don't know in person. I believe that if we pull together as a community, no challenge will be too big for Hong Kong.

We wish you a joyous and prosperous Year of the Ox.