5 Must-Read News | Local Retail Surpasses Expectations in February

1. Hong Kong February retail sales rise 19.3%—beating expectations

Hong Kong retail sales have risen for 10 consecutive months. In February, they increased 19.3%, outperforming expectations. The government said that the momentum of economic growth is resilient, visitor numbers are surging, and this is expected to continue supporting the retail sector.

2. Lo So-bui: No plans to freeze hotel room rent tax or adjust tax rates

The government began restoring the collection of hotel room rent tax from last year. Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau Secretary Lo So-bui said that there are currently no plans to freeze the hotel room rent tax or adjust the tax rates.

3. Hong Kong stocks trend | Hang Seng Index closes up 505 points, reclaims 25,000; Northbound capital flows out of 12.6 billion

The US and Iran signal a willingness to release ceasefire terms, and Hong Kong stocks have surged back above the 25,000 threshold. The index ended the day up 505 points; Zhipu (02513) soared by more than 30% after its results.

4. Outlook for Hong Kong stocks in the second quarter | Uncertainty in the situation tests support levels; strategy should be more conservative

Hong Kong stocks started the first quarter with a faltering start. Entering the second quarter, this website finds three experts to guide readers—analyzing the latest investment landscape and helping everyone stay composed in the turmoil in the Middle East.

5. Draft-dodger case | Taiwanese entertainer “Prince” Chiu Sheng-yi detained with handcuffs and taken to a police station for investigation

In Taiwan’s draft-dodger case, according to information, the entertainer “Prince” Chiu Sheng-yi of “Boyz” was handcuffed by police and taken back to a police station this morning for investigation.