How has the pandemic affected Hong Kong's commercial property market?

 The pandemic has significantly impacted Hong Kong's commercial property market, leading to various structural changes and challenges. Here are some key effects:

1. Reduced Demand for Office Space: The rise of remote work during the pandemic reduced the demand for office spaces. Many companies downsized or delayed leasing decisions, leading to a decrease in office rental prices.

2. Shift in Retail Sector: Hong Kong's retail sector, heavily reliant on tourism and consumer foot traffic, was hit hard by the travel restrictions and social distancing measures. Retail rents dropped significantly as many businesses closed or renegotiated leases. High-end shopping districts, once bustling with tourists, saw vacancies increase.

3. Increased Vacancy Rates: Both the office and retail sectors experienced increased vacancy rates, especially in prime commercial areas. The uncertainty about the recovery of tourism and consumer confidence exacerbated this trend.

4. Tenant-Friendly Market: With landlords facing pressure to fill vacant spaces, tenants gained more leverage in negotiating favorable terms, such as rent reductions or rent-free periods.

5. Rise of Flexible Workspaces: Despite the challenges in the traditional office market, flexible workspaces and co-working spaces have seen growth, catering to companies looking for short-term leases or more adaptable work environments.

6. Recovery and Long-Term Changes: While some sectors have started recovering with the easing of restrictions, the commercial property market in Hong Kong has had to adapt to new trends, such as hybrid working models and evolving retail strategies, which could have lasting effects on demand.

Overall, the pandemic has led to a rethinking of space utilization and forced the commercial property market to adapt to a new reality in Hong Kong.

How do I make networking my superpower?

 

To make networking your superpower, you can focus on developing real relationships and a strategic approach. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Change your thinking:

Valuable relationships: Understand that networking is about building mutually beneficial relationships, not just asking for help.
Giving first: Approach every relationship by thinking about how you can provide value, even if that value is small. Be a resource.

2. Build Authentic Connections:

Be authentic: Engage with others authentically and find common ground. Ask questions, show interest, and listen actively. Constant follow-up: Stay in touch with everyone. This could be by sending an email or a quick message just to check in. 3. Leverage Social Media:

Be present across platforms: Stay active on LinkedIn, Twitter, or platforms relevant to your industry. Engage with content, share ideas, and engage in conversations.

Build a Personal Brand: Share content or updates that reflect your expertise and interests to build a strong personal brand. 4. Attend events (in person and virtually):

Get involved in the community: Attend events, industry meetings, and webinars. Prepare and Practice: Prepare your elevator pitch. Be clear about who you are, what you do, and what you are looking for in a relationship. 5. Maintain and expand your network:

Enhance existing relationships: Strengthen your current relationships. Regular check-ins can lead to deeper connections.

Expand your strategy: Identify people who inspire you or who align with your career goals. Find ways to communicate naturally.

6. Be a connector:

Introduction: Helping others connect will make you more valuable in any network. Becoming a bridge will enhance your reputation as a key player. 7. Be patient and persistent:

Think long-term: Networking is about building relationships over time, not immediate results. Stay committed, even if initial results seem slow.

Do you think the temporary traffic restrictions for the Kovalam Marathon are justified considering the benefits of hosting such an event?

 

events such as the Kovalam Marathon are often justified given the wider benefits these events bring. Here is a breakdown:

1. Promotes Health and Fitness: The marathon promotes fitness and healthy lifestyle. Kovalam, famous for its beaches, has a beautiful environment that attracts national and international participants, benefiting the health of the community. 2. Economic stimulus: Such events can boost the local economy, especially for hotels, restaurants and shops as they attract tourists and attendees. 3. Tourism and Branding: Organising marathons makes Kovalam a sports tourism destination. International