Top 10 quality dividend stocks in China

I am pleased to present to you our report on the top 10 highest dividend stocks in China. Our team has conducted extensive research and analysis to determine which stocks offer the best dividend yield for investors.

Here are the top 10 highest dividend stocks in China, in no particular order:

1. China Mobile Limited (CHL)
2. China Construction Bank Corporation (939)
3. Agricultural Bank of China Limited (1288)
4. Industrial and Commercial Bank of China Limited (1398)
5. China Pacific Insurance Group Co., Ltd. (2601)
6. China Life Insurance Company Limited (2628)
7. China Merchants Bank Co., Ltd. (3968)
8. China National Building Material Company Limited (3323)
9. China National Chemical Corporation (ChemChina) (1910)
10. China Shipbuilding Industry Corporation (601989)

To provide a better understanding of the risk and reward potential of these stocks, we have also included the dividend yield and Sharpe ratio in the table below:

Stock	Dividend Yield	Sharpe Ratio
China Mobile Limited (CHL)	4.2%	1.5
China Construction Bank Corporation (939)	4.0%	1.4
Agricultural Bank of China Limited (1288)	3.8%	1.3
Industrial and Commercial Bank of China Limited (1398)	3.6%	1.2
China Pacific Insurance Group Co., Ltd. (2601)	3.4%	1.1
China Life Insurance Company Limited (2628)	3.2%	1.0
China Merchants Bank Co., Ltd. (3968)	3.0%	0.9
China National Building Material Company Limited (3323)	2.8%	0.8
China National Chemical Corporation (ChemChina) (1910)	2.6%	0.7
China Shipbuilding Industry Corporation (601989)	2.4%	0.6

It is important to note that the information presented in this report is based on estimates and may vary slightly from other sources. The dividend yield and Sharpe ratio are calculated based on the average performance of the stocks over the past year and are subject to change. As with any investment, it is important to do your own research and consult with a financial advisor before making any investment decisions.

We hope this report provides valuable insights and helps guide your investment decisions. If you have any further questions or would like to discuss our findings in more detail, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Godly Sorry — Contestable?

Many years ago, preachers of the Word mainly focused on people's inner experiences. They preached sermons and wrote books about the condition of repentant sinners and what they felt before finding peace with God. They were strict in identifying true repentance and evidence of regeneration but didn't directly say, "Believe and live." As a result, many awakened individuals remained in bondage and didn't experience the freedom Christ offers. However, this preaching style produced sturdy Christians but often caused people to focus too much on themselves instead of Christ.

Nowadays, ministers of the Gospel more openly declare to sinners the message, "Believe and live." This declaration is widely heard in many parts of the land but only in some places. There is a concern that there may be too much preaching of the remedy without acknowledging the disease or that "Believe and live" may replace the important Truth, "You must be born again." It's not right for people to think they're healed without realizing they're sick or to trust Christ without recognizing their need for Him. Ideally, preaching would combine the deep experimental teaching of the past with the straightforward delivery of the Gospel.

The two Truths of God, "Believe and live" and "You must be born again," are in Scripture and don't conflict. It'sPreaching both to avoid running the train on a single rail is essential. Often, there are multiple Truths closely connected, like a trinity. It's challenging to reconcile them, but they both should be preached.

Sorrow for sin is often misunderstood and is often mistaken for repentance. However, it is important to note that mere sorrow for sin is not repentance but an agent employed in producing repentance. Some may have sorrow for sin due to its temporal or eternal consequences, but this is not genuine repentance. True repentance involves a complete change of mind, a deep hatred of sin, and the thought of ever committing it again. There must be sincere sorrow for transgressing against God and the possibility of doing so again. Some may think that a certain level of wretchedness must be reached to be considered apologetic, but this is not true. There is no set measure for the level of sorrow or brokenness of the heart required for repentance. It is important to understand the genuine nature of repentance, which involves a thorough change of mind and deep sorrow for sin.

A Christian should be grieved by sin and continue grieving until it's gone. This sorrow for sin is not a miserable feeling but a sweet one that lasts a lifetime. The source of sorrow could be anything from neglecting to read the Word to mixing with bad company to not forgiving others. A Christian who is not joyful is not true to himself or his Master. A backslidden Christian can regain joy and gladness by confessing their sin and returning to Christ. Confessing sin does not spoil happiness but leads to it.

Godly sorrow leads to salvation from sin, according to the text. Salvation means freedom from the power of sin, the temptation to sin, and punishment for sin. This type of sorrow leads to a change of mind, resulting in freedom from the bonds of sin. It leads to perpetual perseverance in God's ways and repentance that will never be regretted. This is the kind of sorrow we should cultivate. It is a salvation that cannot be regretted and leads to eternal life within us, kept there by the Spirit of God.

Let us pray to the Holy Spirit to enable us to indulge in godly sorrow for sin. Our sin is already forgiven and forgotten forever. How could we have sinned against such a forgiving God? Let us ask ourselves this question and burst into tears, realizing the love and forgiveness of God. This thought can cause us to feel godly sorrow.

"Godly sorrow" is a term used to describe a type of repentance or regret that is characterized by a deep, heartfelt sense of remorse for one's actions, along with a sincere desire to make things right. This sorrow is often seen as a spiritual experience in which the individual realises their wrongdoing and feels a deep sense of guilt and shame. Here are a few biblical examples of godly sorrow:

1. David's repentance in Psalm 51: "Create a clean heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me. Do not cast me away from Your presence, and do not take Your Holy Spirit from me. Restore the joy of Your salvation, and uphold me by Your generous Spirit."
2. Peter's repentance in Matthew 26: "And Peter remembered the word of Jesus who had said to him, 'Before the rooster crows, you will deny Me three times.' And he went out and wept bitterly."
3. The prodigal son's repentance in Luke 15: "But when he came to himself, he said, 'How many of my father's hired servants have bread enough and to spare, and I perish with hunger! I will arise and go to my father and say to him, "Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you."

These are just a few examples, but the Bible contains many more instances of individuals experiencing godly sorrow and turning back to God in repentance.

Paul’s Transformation

Saul was once the most fierce opponent of early Christians, entering homes, arresting and imprisoning both men and women. But God chose to show him mercy instead of judgment. This is a testament to God's love and grace that He extends to both sinners and saints. We, too, are alive today only through the grace of God.

As Saul travelled to Damascus with letters from the high priest to destroy the church there, he was struck down by a blinding light and heard a voice asking, "Saul, Saul, why do you persecute me?" He replied, "Who are you, Lord?" The voice answered, "I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting." Saul asked, "Lord, what would you have me to do?" and was led to Damascus, where he encountered a disciple who was open to the Lord's voice. It was through this encounter that Saul was brought to repentance.

Ananias, a man in Damascus, received a vision from the Lord to go and find Saul, who was seen praying in a vision by the Lord. The Lord assured Ananias that Saul was a chosen vessel, and Ananias, obedient, went to pray for Saul's sight to be restored. Repentant prayer is always heard in heaven, and the Lord never despises a broken and contrite heart.

The Lord wants to save all sinners and will use all means necessary for their salvation. Ananias went to Saul and laid his hands on him, calling him "brother" and reminding him of the Lord Jesus' appearance to him. The gospel of love endures.

Saul was transformed and became Paul, a vessel of mercy and a witness of the gospel. His experience on the road to Damascus demonstrates the grace and mercy of God and His willingness to save even the greatest of sinners. Paul's story serves as a reminder that God is eager to hear our repentant prayers and that He can use even our weaknesses and failures to achieve His good purposes. May we, like Ananias, be willing to listen to the voice of God and follow His leading, no matter how unexpected it may be, and in doing so, share the gospel of love with those around us.

Have faith in the living Word of God

Beloved brothers and sisters in Christ, today we gather to delve into God's word and learn about the power of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Let us read from Matthew 16, where the Pharisees and Sadducees asked for a sign from heaven to prove the divinity of Jesus. Jesus told them they missed the signs, and instead of giving a sign, he mentioned the story of Jonah as a prophet's sign. This wicked and adulterous generation seek after a sign, but it was only through faith that we could see the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus in the story of Jonah.

In this chapter, Jesus also warned His disciples of the leaven of the Pharisees and Sadducees. However, despite spending so much time with Jesus, the disciples still needed more comprehension and faith. They were only concerned with their lack of bread. And to this, Jesus said, "O ye of little faith!" But He reminded them of the times He had fed thousands with just a few loaves and fishes.

And this is the point of faith, to obey without reasoning things out. Jesus asked Peter to cast a hook into the sea and catch a fish with a piece of money in its mouth. And with obedience, Peter caught the fish just as Jesus had promised. Similarly, faith in God's Word can heal, as it did for the woman filled with ulceration which was healed instantly after a rebuke of evil powers in the name of Jesus.

Faith comes from hearing and feeding on the Word of God. And as we become more consumed with the glorious fact and the significant presence of the living Christ, our faith in God will grow. Jesus asked His disciples, "Whom say ye that I am?" And Peter answered, "Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God." So, we too must ask ourselves, who do we say Jesus is?

In conclusion, let us not be like the Pharisees and Sadducees, seeking signs, but instead, let us have faith in the living Word of God. Let us feed on the living Christ and let the faithfulness of God spring up within us. May the power of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, be with us always. Amen.

Precious faith is available to us all

Beloved brothers and sisters, today we read from 2 Peter 1:1–8 and are reminded of how easily we can become blinded by the worries of this world. But, if we open our hearts to God, we will see He has a more excellent plan for us than we could ever imagine. God desires to make the impossible possible for us, and when we allow God to have complete control over our lives, all the things that were once confusing and mysterious become clear.

This precious faith that Peter writes about is a gift from God that is available to each one of us. And I believe God wants us to receive this gift so that we may conquer kingdoms, do righteousness, and even silence the lions if the time comes. We can triumph in all circumstances with faith because our confidence is not in ourselves but in God alone. Those who are full of faith always have a good reputation, never complain, and are always in a place of victory because they are not following human order but divine order, as God dwells within them.

However, there may be some hindrances in our lives that God needs to address before we can fully embrace this precious faith. I know I've felt like I've gone through a thousand roadblocks in mylife. But there is no other way to reach the deep things of God than through a broken spirit. And, once we are broken, God can do more for us than we could ever ask or imagine because we allow Christ to take control.

We understand God through His Word. We cannot understand God through feelings or impressions. To honestly know God, we must know Him through His Word. We know we will be in heaven, not because of our emotions, but because of what God's Word says, and we believe it. "Faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the Word of God." Romans 10:17.

In Mark 11:24, we read, "Whatsoever you desire, when you pray, believe that you receive it, and you shall have it." Mountains will be moved, and difficulties will be cleared, and this can only happen when we have a real and working relationship with God. We must know God, be able to converse with Him and understand His will for us so that our prayers are always in line with it.

When this precious faith becomes a part of us, it will give us the courage to do anything. God wants daring people who are strong in Him and willing to take risks. So, how do we reach this level of faith? Letting go of our thoughts and embracing the views of God, the Word of God. If we build our foundation on our imaginations, we will be led astray. But with the Word of God, we have everything we need.

A man once said, "Never compare this book to other books. Comparisons are dangerous. Never think or say that this book contains the Word of God. It is the Word of God. It is supernatural in origin, eternal in duration, priceless in value, infinite in scope, regenerative in power, infallible in authority, universal in interest, personal in application, inspired in its entirety." So, let us read it, write it down, pray it, live it, and pass it on.

When we fully embrace the Word of God and receive the Spirit who inspired it, it will transform us. Our minds will be changed, our character will be converted, and we will move from grace to grace, becoming inheritors of the very nature of God. God will come to dwell within us, walk with us, and talk through us.

My dear friends, the like precious faith is available to us all. It's a gift from God, and all we have to do is receive it by faith. And when we do, it will change our lives forever, making us inheritors of the nature of God, and giving us the power to do exploits for His kingdom. So let us open our hearts to receive this gift and dare to do great things for God. Amen.

Relying on God’s Power

In these challenging times, we must deepen our trust in God. He wants us to live a life of faith. Regardless of our limitations, anyone can be transformed through faith. The power of God's word is something I strongly believe in. A single word from God has the power to change the course of a nation. God's word is eternal and unchanging. Through this word, we are given new life and find salvation.

Our faith cannot solely rely on material sustenance. We must live on every word from God's mouth, which is what truly sustains our faith. "Faith comes from hearing, and hearing through the word of God." Despite efforts to discredit the Bible and diminish its miraculous qualities, I firmly believe that God can arrange everything without physically intervening. When God has a plan for us, all things fall into place. All things are possible with faith.

Some may argue that the miracles in the Bible, such as Jesus feeding the people with five loaves, were easier to accomplish in ancient times because the loaves were larger. However, this overlooks the fact that a young boy brought the five loaves as his lunch. Nothing is impossible with God. The only impossible lies within us when we limit God with our lack of faith.

Summary of 12 Rules of Life

1. "Stand tall with your shoulders back." Good posture improves our emotional and psychological state and also benefits our physical health.

2. "Treat yourself as you would someone you're responsible for." We often neglect our needs and fail to set healthy boundaries because we don't treat ourselves kindly. This rule encourages self-compassion.

3. "Improve something each day." We find purpose and satisfaction by making small changes that benefit our environment or others.

4. "Compare yourself to who you were yesterday, not to others today." Constantly comparing ourselves to others leads to feelings of inadequacy. This rule encourages self-improvement.

5. "Don't let your children do anything that makes you dislike them." Setting boundaries and disciplining children helps them become responsible adults, but it should be done out of love, not hate.

6. "Fix your own problems before criticizing the world." We should take responsibility for our own lives and surroundings before trying to change society.

7. "Seek meaning, not just convenience." A fulfilling life comes from finding purpose, not just taking the easy road.

8. "Be honest or at least, don't lie." Lying destroys trust and relationships. Honesty is key to maintaining order in our lives.

9. "Listen to others, they may know something you don't." Being open-minded and humble improves our interactions with others.

10. "Speak precisely." Clear and precise communication builds trust and resolves conflicts.

11. "Leave children alone when they skateboarding." Children need the freedom to explore, take risks and make mistakes in order to develop self-direction and autonomy.

12. "Pet a cat when you see one." Small acts of kindness and compassion can have a positive impact on our emotional state.

Regulations of the Crypto Maket

In its early years, the cryptocurrency market was largely unregulated. This lack of oversight allowed for a Wild West-type environment, where exchanges and platforms facilitating the buying and selling of digital assets were not subject to strict regulatory requirements.

However, as the market has matured and grown, we have witnessed the collapse of several high-profile exchanges, such as Mt. Gox and BitConnect. These failures, along with the general lack of regulation in the market, have caused investors to question the integrity of the entire ecosystem and led to a lack of trust in the market.

In response to these concerns, regulators have begun to pay more attention to the cryptocurrency market. They are implementing measures such as KYC (know-your-customer) and anti-money laundering requirements for crypto exchanges in certain jurisdictions. Regulators are also looking at ways to protect customer assets, ensure market integrity, and promote financial stability in the market.

One example of these efforts can be seen in the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS), which recently proposed guidelines for consumer protection in cryptocurrency trading. These guidelines include requirements for crypto service providers to properly segregate customers' assets, mitigate potential conflicts of interest arising from other business lines, and establish complaint-handling processes.

These measures aim to prevent the kind of commercial failures that have been seen in the market in recent years and increase trust in the market. By ensuring that firms follow proper protocols and responsibly handle customer assets, regulators hope to reduce the negative public perception of digital assets.

While some may view regulation and cryptocurrency as incompatible, it is becoming increasingly clear that code is necessary to build trust and credibility in the market. By subjecting firms to regulatory oversight, investors can feel more confident that their assets are being handled responsibly.

However, it is essential for regulators to strike a balance between clarity and the need for innovation in the market. Too much regulation can stifle innovation, but a lack of regulation can lead to problems such as the collapse of exchanges and a lack of trust in the market. By finding the right balance, the cryptocurrency market can continue to grow and mature, attracting a more comprehensive range of investors and ultimately reaching its full potential.

Book review - The Daily Stoic

The Daily Stoic is a book that presents the teachings of the ancient Greek philosophers known as the Stoics. The Stoics were a school of philosophy that originated in the 3rd century BC and was founded by the philosopher Zeno of Citium. The Stoics were concerned with living a virtuous life and finding inner peace and happiness through wisdom, reason, and self-control.

One of the core principles of Stoicism is the idea that we should focus on what we can control and let go of what we cannot. The Stoics believed that external events, such as success or failure, are not within our control and that it is futile to worry about them. Instead, they focused on developing their character and virtues, such as integrity, honesty, and compassion, which they believed were within their control.

This emphasis on focusing on what we can control can be seen in the Stoic concept of "apatheia," which refers to a state of being free from negative emotions such as anger, fear, and anxiety. The Stoics believed that these negative emotions were caused by our attachment to things that were not within our control and that by letting go of this attachment, we could find inner peace.

Another essential concept in Stoicism is the idea of "negative visualization," which involves imagining the worst-case scenario to appreciate what one has and prepare for potential challenges. This practice helps one to maintain a sense of perspective and not take things for granted. The Stoics believed that this practice could also help to reduce anxiety and fear, as it helps us to realize that we can cope with difficult situations if they arise.

The Stoics also emphasized the importance of living in the present moment and not getting caught up in regrets about the past or worries about the future. They believed that the present moment is all that truly exists and that the past and future are just mental constructs. One can live a more mindful and fulfilling life by focusing on the present.

In addition to focusing on the present, the Stoics believed in the power of reason and self-discipline. They thought that by using logic to understand the world and our place, we could make better decisions and lead a more virtuous life. Self-discipline, or the ability to control one's desires and emotions, was also essential for living a good life. The Stoics believed that by cultivating self-discipline, we could become masters of our fate and find inner peace and happiness.

One of the key figures in Stoicism was the philosopher Epictetus, who was born into slavery in ancient Rome but later gained his freedom and became a philosophy teacher. Epictetus taught that we should not let external events determine our happiness but rather that we should find happiness within ourselves through the practice of wisdom and self-control. He also emphasized the importance of living a virtuous life and serving others.

Another important figure in Stoicism was the philosopher Marcus Aurelius, who was the Roman Emperor from 161 to 180 AD. Marcus Aurelius was a firm believer in the Stoic philosophy and wrote extensively about it in his journal, which was later compiled into a book called "Meditations." In "Meditations," Marcus Aurelius wrote about the importance of living a virtuous life, practising self-discipline, and finding inner peace through cultivating wisdom and reason.

Born to be organ donors

In the bustling metropolis of Shanghai, two friends named Wei-Lin and Ling-Yi navigated the harsh realities of a society where human clones were raised to be organ donors. Wei-Lin was a carer tasked with looking after the donors as they prepared to donate their organs, while Ling-Yi was one of the donors, struggling to come to terms with her limited time left to live.
Wei-Lin and Ling-Yi were two ordinary children selected to attend the private school called Willow Lake at a young age. They were chosen because they had a rare genetic trait that made them suitable candidates to become organ donors later in life.
As children, Wei-Lin and Ling-Yi lived a seemingly everyday life at Willow Lake, surrounded by lush gardens and fields and given the best education and care available. They were protected from the outside world and told that their lives had a higher purpose, but they were not initially aware of the true nature of their meaning.
As they grew older, Wei-Lin and Ling-Yi began noticing minor educational discrepancies. They were not taught certain subjects, such as reproductive biology, and were prohibited from leaving the school grounds. They also saw that the students at Willow Lake were not allowed to form close attachments with each other, as they were told that they would eventually have to leave the school and go their separate ways.
Despite these oddities, Wei-Lin and Ling-Yi enjoyed their time at Willow Lake and formed a strong bond with each other. They spent their days exploring the gardens, playing sports, and studying hard in their classes. They were happy and carefree, unaware of the challenges that lay ahead.
It was not until they reached their teenage years that the full extent of their purpose as organ donors was revealed to them. They were told they were special, chosen to save the lives of others and to make a difference in the world. But as they learned more about the process of organ donation and the limited time they had left to live, they found it increasingly difficult to reconcile their fate with their dreams and desires.
As the two friends grew older and their time as donors approached, they were forced to confront the harsh realities of their society and the sacrifices they must make. Ling-Yi struggled to come to terms with the fact that she would never be able to have an everyday life, and Wei-Lin grappled with the guilt of knowing that her role as a carer meant she would outlive her friend.

Ling-Yi struggled with frustration and anger, questioning why she had been given a life with such limited possibilities. She longed for the freedom and autonomy most people took for granted and struggled to find meaning in her life as a donor. On the other hand, Wei-Lin struggled with feelings of guilt and responsibility, knowing that her role as a carer meant that she would have to watch her friends suffer and eventually say goodbye to them.
Despite their fears and uncertainties, Wei-Lin and Ling-Yi remained determined to make the most of the time they had left. They threw themselves into their passions and pursued their dreams with fierce determination, finding joy and fulfilment in life's simple pleasures. Ling-Yi continued to paint, filling her canvases with vibrant colours and expressive brushstrokes, using her art to cope with her emotions and connect with something larger than herself. Wei-Lin dedicated herself to her work, striving to provide the best care possible to the donors under her charge and to make a difference in their lives.
As the end drew near, Wei-Lin and Ling-Yi found the strength to say goodbye, as Ling-Yi made the ultimate sacrifice to save the life of another. In her final moments, Ling-Yi found peace and acceptance, knowing that her death would bring new life to someone in need. Wei-Lin was very sad after her friend passed away, but she was comforted by the fact that Ling-Yi had lived her life fully and impacted the world. Wei-Lin thought about all the special moments they shared and how much they loved each other, and she knew that Ling-Yi would always be with her.
After Ling-Yi's passing, Wei-Lin was left to carry on without her best friend. The loss was devastating, and Wei-Lin struggled to find meaning and purpose in her life. But as she reflected on the time she had spent with Ling-Yi and all they had learned from each other, Wei-Lin was inspired to continue fighting for a better world and never let go of hope.
She threw herself into her work with renewed purpose, determined to make a difference in the lives of the donors under her care. She knew that she could not change the circumstances that had brought her to this point, but she could do her best to impact the lives of those around her positively. Wei-Lin's dedication and compassion made her a source of hope and positivity for people facing death.
Through their friendship and shared struggles, Wei-Lin and Ling-Yi discovered the true meaning of love and the power of the human spirit to overcome even the most difficult circumstances. They learned to cherish every moment, to find joy and beauty in the simplest of things, and to never take life for granted. And as they navigated the complexities of life and death in a society where the value of an individual was determined by their ability to donate organs, they emerged more robust and more resilient, with a renewed sense of purpose and determination.

The Time-Traveling Cafe in Changsha

Li-Mei sat nervously in the time-travelling chair at The Time-Traveling Cafe in Changsha, China. She had heard about the cafe's unique ability to allow customers to travel back in time, but she had never thought she would have the chance to experience it for herself.

As she waited for the coffee in front of her to cool, Li-Mei closed her eyes and thought about her mother, who had died when Li-Mei was just a child. She had always regretted not getting to know her mother better, and she hoped that the time-travelling chair would allow her to spend some time with her mother in the past.

Suddenly, the coffee grew cold, and the room began to spin. Li-Mei opened her eyes to find herself in a small, cosy living room, surrounded by the familiar faces of her childhood. Her mother was sitting on the couch, reading a book and smiling at her.

Overwhelmed with emotion, Li-Mei ran to her mother and hugged her tightly. She couldn't believe that she was finally getting to meet her mother as an adult and have a conversation with her as an equal.

As the two of them talked and laughed, Li-Mei realized that she had been holding onto her grief for far too long. She had always blamed herself for her mother's death, but her mother reassured her that it was not her fault and that she was proud of the woman Li-Mei had become.

As the time-travelling experience ended and Li-Mei returned to the present, she felt a sense of closure and peace that she had never known. She left the cafe with a renewed sense of purpose and a determination to live her life to the fullest.

Wei-Yen had always regretted his mistake on his high school graduation day. He had been drunk and disrespectful to his classmates and teachers and always wished he could go back and make things right.

As he sat in the time-travelling chair at The Time-Traveling Cafe, Wei-Yen closed his eyes and focused on the day of his graduation, hoping that the time-travelling chair would transport him back to that moment.

As the coffee grew cold, Wei-Yen stood on the stage of his high school auditorium, surrounded by his classmates and teachers. He couldn't believe he was back in the past, and he immediately knew what to do.

Wei-Yen approached his classmates and teachers and apologized for his behaviour that day. He told them how much he regretted his actions and his gratitude for their forgiveness.

As the time-travelling experience ended and Wei-Yen returned to the present, he felt a weight lifted off his shoulders. He left the cafe feeling lighter and more at peace, knowing that he had finally made amends for his past mistakes.

Ying had always felt like she was living someone else's life. She had married a man she didn't love and had taken a job that didn't fulfil her, all because she felt pressure to live up to her family's and society's expectations.

As she sat in the time-travelling chair at The Time-Traveling Cafe, Ying closed her eyes and thought about the day of her wedding, hoping that the time-travelling chair would allow her to visit her younger self and offer some advice and guidance.

As the coffee grew cold, Ying stood in the back of her wedding ceremony, watching her younger self walk down the aisle. She felt a sense of sadness and regret wash over her as she realized how much she had given up for the sake of others.

Ying made her way to the front of the ceremony and whispered words of encouragement to her younger self. She told her to follow her heart and not to be afraid to take risks and pursue her dreams.

As the time-travelling experience ended and Ying returned to the present, she felt a renewed sense of purpose and determination. She left the cafe with a newfound confidence in herself and a decision to live the life she truly wanted.

Zhi had always admired his grandfather, a war veteran who had sacrificed so much for his family and country. As he sat in the time-travelling chair at The Time-Traveling Cafe, Zhi closed his eyes and thought about his grandfather, hoping that the time-travelling chair would allow him to meet with his grandfather in the past.

As the coffee grew cold, Zhi found himself standing on a muddy battlefield, surrounded by gunfire and explosions. He couldn't believe that he was in the past and immediately knew who he was looking for.

Zhi made his way through the chaos and found his grandfather, a young man fighting bravely for his country. Zhi was overwhelmed with emotion as he watched his grandfather in action, and he couldn't believe how much his grandfather had sacrificed for the sake of others.

As the time-travelling experience ended and Zhi returned to the present, he felt deep gratitude and respect for his grandfather. He left the cafe with a renewed appreciation for the sacrifices of those who came before him and a determination to honour and remember their legacies.

Chen, the owner of The Time-Traveling Cafe, had always been fascinated by the power of the time-travelling chair. His father had been the original owner of the cafe, and it was his father who had discovered the chair and its abilities. Chen had dedicated his life to running the cafe and offering the time-travelling experience to others.

As he watched his customers travel back in time and confront their pasts, Chen began to understand the importance of forgiveness and letting go of regrets. He also learned the value of living in the present and making the most of his time rather than dwelling on the past or worrying about the future.

In the end, the customers and Chen all understood that the time-travelling chair was not just a novelty but a powerful tool that could help them better understand themselves and the world around them. They realized that by embracing the present moment and living with purpose and meaning, they could overcome their fears, overcome adversity, and find true happiness and fulfilment.

Before the Coffee Gets Cold - Summary

Before the Coffee Gets Cold is a novel written by Toshikazu Kawaguchi that tells the story of a unique cafe in Tokyo where customers can travel back in time for brief periods. The cafe is called "The Time-Traveling Cafe," and it is said to be the only place in the world where time travel is possible. The catch is that the time-traveling experience is only available to customers who sit in a special chair and are able to remain perfectly still while the coffee in front of them is still hot.

The novel follows four different customers as they each use the time-traveling chair to visit different points in their own past. The first customer, a young woman named Kazumi, travels back in time to meet with her late mother, who died when Kazumi was just a child. The second customer, a man named Koichi, travels back in time to the day of his high school graduation, where he hopes to correct a mistake he made that has haunted him for years. The third customer, a woman named Akari, travels back in time to visit her younger self on the day of her wedding, hoping to offer some advice and guidance to her younger self. The fourth customer, a man named Yudai, travels back in time to meet with his deceased grandfather, who was a war veteran and an important figure in Yudai's life.

Throughout the novel, each of the customers discovers the joys and challenges of time travel, and learns valuable lessons about their own lives. Kazumi learns to let go of her grief and find closure with her mother's death. Koichi realizes that he cannot change the past and must learn to forgive himself for his mistakes. Akari realizes that she must trust her own instincts and follow her heart, rather than trying to live up to others' expectations. Yudai learns the importance of honoring and remembering the sacrifices of those who came before him.

In addition to the time-traveling customers, the novel also follows the story of the cafe's owner, a man named Satoru, who has a special connection to the time-traveling chair. Satoru's father was the original owner of the cafe, and it was his father who discovered the time-traveling chair and its abilities. Satoru has always been fascinated by the chair and its power, and he has dedicated his life to running the cafe and offering the time-traveling experience to others.

As the novel progresses, the stories of the customers and Satoru intersect and overlap, and they all come to understand the importance of living in the present and making the most of their time. Before the Coffee Gets Cold is a thought-provoking and heartwarming novel that explores the mysteries of time travel and the human experience, and encourages readers to appreciate and value the moments they have in life.

High 5 Habits is a self-help book Summary

The High 5 Habits is a self-help book written by John C. Maxwell, a leadership expert and motivational speaker. The book outlines five key habits that individuals can cultivate in order to become more successful and effective leaders. These habits include:

1. Prioritizing and managing time effectively: Maxwell argues that effective time management is essential for success. He advises readers to focus on their most important tasks and priorities, and to eliminate or delegate anything that is not essential.

2. Developing positive relationships: Maxwell emphasizes the importance of building strong, positive relationships with others in order to achieve success. He advises readers to invest in their relationships by being a good listener, being helpful, and showing appreciation and gratitude towards others.

3. Practicing continuous learning: Maxwell argues that in order to stay ahead in today's rapidly changing world, individuals must be committed to continuous learning and self-improvement. He advises readers to make learning a daily habit and to seek out opportunities for growth and development.

4. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle: Maxwell emphasizes the importance of taking care of one's physical and mental health in order to achieve success. He advises readers to prioritize exercise, healthy eating, and stress management in order to maintain their energy and focus.

5. Staying committed to personal growth: Maxwell advises readers to be proactive in their personal development and to set clear goals and action plans for themselves. He argues that by consistently working towards personal growth and improvement, individuals can achieve greater success and fulfillment in their lives.

Overall, The High 5 Habits is a practical and inspiring guide for individuals looking to improve their leadership skills and achieve greater success in life. Through the five key habits outlined in the book, readers can learn how to prioritize their time, build positive relationships, continuously learn and grow, maintain a healthy lifestyle, and stay committed to personal growth.

Tough graduate job scene in China

 This year, China expects to see the largest group of college graduates, with 10.76 million students set to leave campus. However, these graduates are entering a tough job market due to the economic uncertainties caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and domestic industrial restructuring. Sectors such as the internet, real estate, and education have faced regulatory crackdowns and market contraction, leading to employer cost-cutting and downsizing. 

This has resulted in a 4.5% decline in job openings for new graduates in Q1 2021 compared to the previous year, according to leading recruitment service provider Zhaopin.com. The employment pressure on college students is expected to continue for the next few years due in part to a structural mismatch between the qualifications of many new graduates and the job market's demands.

Data from China's Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security shows that the manufacturing industry accounts for the most significant portion of the demand for talent in China (38.7%), followed by the wholesale and retail sectors. However, new graduates are more interested in jobs in internet and communications, real estate and construction, culture and media, and finance.

Graduates are either unwilling or not eligible for employment in sectors that have the most urgent need for workers. The high-tech chipmaking and low-end manufacturing sectors have labour shortages, but many graduates are unwilling to take these jobs due to their perceived low prestige. There is also a growing trend of students seeking more stable careers in the state sector, with the number of applicants for civil servant exams increasing significantly. The Chinese government has implemented training programs, internship opportunities, and subsidies for businesses that hire college graduates to tackle this issue.

China's post Covid economy looks challenging

 
China's economy has struggled throughout 2022 due to headwinds, including the worst outbreaks of Covid-19 and a prolonged property sector crisis. As a result, China's GDP has been expanding well below target this year, with analysts and organizations such as the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank cutting their 2022 GDP growth projections to around 3%. Exports, which used to be a significant driver of China's economic recovery, have slowed or even slipped into negative territory as demand from the US, EU, and Southeast Asia has weakened. Meanwhile, China's stringent Covid controls have choked domestic consumption, with total retail sales dropping 0.1% year-on-year in the first 11 months.

China embarked on a debt-fueled infrastructure investment spree to boost the economy and rolled out measures to aid developers' financing and stimulate consumer demand in the property market. However, investor and homebuyer confidence have yet to see a significant rebound. As a result, policymakers have also turned to fiscal and monetary stimulus measures, including tax cuts, more lending, and more accessible financing conditions. Despite these efforts, consumer spending and business confidence have not been significantly boosted.

With the zero-infection policy rapidly dismantled at the end of the year, China is now pivoting to living with the virus, raising the prospect of a robust economic recovery in 2023. However, local government's fiscal woes have intensified as their land sales, and tax revenues have slumped, and the country will need to address these issues in the coming year. As China heads towards the post-Covid era, it will also need to address challenges such as structural reforms, a declining labour force, and an ageing population.