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Updated Monday, February 4, 2008 0:00 am TWN, By Scott B. Freiberger, Special to the China Post

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Shocking Predictions for the Year of the Rat

ECONOMICS: There is a Chinese proverb, "A predicament isn't formed without events creating it" (冰凍三尺非一日之寒, bīng dòng sān chǐ, fēi yī rì zhī hán). Less prosperous industries in 2008 may be related to the fire and water elements; the fire element refers to airlines, electricity, energy, entertainment, and the stock market. Water symbolizes the beverage, communications and shipping industries, the fact that water is present may mean stronger competition in these industries, translating into weaker short-term profitability. The Earth Rat may bring fortune to industries related to the earth, namely, chemicals, insurance, hotels, mining and real estate, but since the earth element is hampered by water we may see weaker annual growth in these industries. Water influences the metal element, so expect heavy activity in the computer, health, IT, machinery and skincare industries. Since the wood element now appears stronger than that of the earth, industries related to wood, such as fashion, forestry, furniture, paper, publishing and textiles should also encounter short-term profitability. However, since the earth element is weak, annual growth may not be robust.

Regarding the economy, the fire element represents the stock market, but unfortunately, this element is absent during 2008. This may translate to conservative investing and a slower period of economic growth compared with previous years in which the fire element was present. Expect investors to be more cautious and practical in the coming months.

HEALTH: An imbalance in the earth element means health problems related to the stomach, pancreas, muscles and cells. Those at risk should be vigilant about cancer, diabetes (related to an imbalance in insulin, produced by the pancreas, represented by the earth element in Chinese medicine) and obesity. Exercise and be mindful of what you eat in 2008.

ENVIRONMENT: As earth on water is unstable, we may see severe earthquakes, landslides, and bridges and buildings collapse in the coming year. Global warming should also intensify. Polar ice caps have been melting at an alarming rate and we've been experiencing more dramatic changes in climate. Unless action is taken to preserve the environment and reduce CO2 emissions, economic progress made during the Year of the Rat could be hampered. A recent regional outbreak of avian flu also indicates that we must remain vigilant to protect our health and environment.

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