2025

2025 was a year marked by significant global events across various domains. Geopolitically, it witnessed a structural escalation in the Middle East, with US-Israeli strikes inside Iran signaling a new phase in an ongoing conflict. Climate-wise, 2025 was confirmed as the third-warmest year ever recorded, exceeding the Paris Agreement's 1.5C limit. In Hong Kong, a record number of cyberattacks occurred, exacerbated by AI-linked threats, while job competition intensified due to AI adoption. Despite a record number of registered companies in Hong Kong, the labor market saw a surge in job applicants. China experienced a slight rebound in marriage registrations, offering a potential glimmer of hope for future birth rates, although demographic headwinds persist. Investor sentiment in China remained cautious due to US-China relations and domestic demand concerns. Globally, children faced unprecedented levels of need, highlighting failures in the humanitarian system. Finally, numerous stunning celestial events captivated stargazers worldwide throughout the year.