THREAD: hong kong chow chunfai artist

HONG KONG Surge Ignites Asian Market Boom

20 March 2025 — Hong Kong is leading a major surge in Asian markets, sparking excitement and strong trading. Big gains are seen in Japan, India, and Malaysia. Indonesia trails slightly behind.

This market shift lines up with possible geopolitical changes, including hints from former President Trump about a potential visit from President Xi to Washington DC. Such moves could impact international relations and economic plans.

China’s tech giants like Alibaba and Tencent are seeing big gains thanks to positive domestic consumption outlooks. This growth shows the strength of China’s tech sector amid global uncertainties.

NIO’s partnership with CATL signals more growth in the tech industry, boosting investor confidence across Asia. The collaboration highlights the region’s focus on innovation and technological progress.

JEWISH Man’s SHOCKING Encounter with Swastika Vandalism on Cybertruck

17 March 2025 — A New York man was stunned when he caught another Jewish man drawing a swastika on his Cybertruck. The incident unfolded in front of a New York Post reporter and photographer, who documented the arrest.

The suspect, Michael Lewis, 42, faced charges of aggravated harassment but was later released. Avi Ben Hamo, the truck’s owner, reportedly saw Lewis park his Subaru before defacing the vehicle with the symbol.

Ben Hamo confronted Lewis as he tried to escape. “What are you doing?” Hamo asked in a video capturing their exchange. This event underscores ongoing tensions over hate symbols and their effects on communities.

CHINA’S Military Moves Near Taiwan Stir Global Concern

10 March 2025 — Taiwan has spotted 11 Chinese military aircraft and 9 vessels close to its territory. This marks a major increase in China’s military activity around Taiwan.

China is also boosting its cognitive warfare against Taiwan by setting up a misinformation unit within its United Front Work Department. This move raises fears of rising tensions in the region.

In other news, AIM Vaccine’s improved diploid rabies vaccine has been approved for clinical trials. The new vaccine promises better results than current options, highlighting AIM’s innovative power on the global stage.

SOUTH CHINA SEA Showdown: Rising Fears and Global Stakes

07 March 2025 — Armed forces from several nations are boosting their presence in the South China Sea, raising tensions over territorial claims. Chinese naval vessels have confronted American warships in disputed waters, leading to close encounters. The United States reaffirms its commitment to freedom of navigation, while China insists the area is under its sovereignty.

Regional allies like Japan and Australia are worried about the rising tension and call for diplomatic solutions. Chinese vessels have intercepted U.S. Navy ships during routine operations, prompting condemnation from the U.S. State Department. In response, China defends its actions as protecting sovereignty and warns against foreign provocations.

Both sides prepare for possible military drills in the region, raising fears of accidental conflict. Analysts warn that ongoing military posturing could trigger a major geopolitical crisis affecting trade routes and international relations across Asia-Pacific.

The situation demands careful handling to avoid unintended escalation and maintain regional stability as tensions continue to simmer in these contested waters.

“MUSICIANS’ SILENT Protest: AI Law Changes Spark Outrage”

26 February 2025 — A new album titled “Is This What We Want?” features over 1,000 musicians and the sound of silence. Released to protest proposed changes to British AI laws, artists fear these changes could erode creative control. The U.K. government is considering allowing tech firms to use copyrighted material for AI training unless creators opt out.

Critics argue this could undermine artists’ control over their work and harm Britain’s creative industries. Notable figures like Elton John and Paul McCartney have voiced opposition to the plan. Composer Ed Newton-Rex organized the album, which includes recordings of empty studios symbolizing potential future impacts on the industry.

The album’s contributors range from famous names like Kate Bush and Annie Lennox to lesser-known musicians, highlighting widespread concern across the music community. Newton-Rex emphasized that this issue affects all artists, regardless of fame or recognition. The project serves as a powerful statement against what many see as a threat to artistic integrity in an increasingly digital world.

MUSICIANS’ SILENT Album Stuns in AI LAW Protest

26 February 2025 — A new album called “Is This What We Want?” features over 1,000 musicians and the sound of silence. Released on Tuesday, it’s a protest against proposed changes to U.K. artificial intelligence laws that artists fear will erode their creative control. British icons like Kate Bush and Annie Lennox contributed to this unique project.

The U.K. government may allow tech firms to use copyrighted material for AI training unless creators opt out. Critics say this could undermine artists’ control over their work and harm Britain’s creative industries. Elton John and Paul McCartney have voiced opposition to the plan.

Composer Ed Newton-Rex organized the album, featuring recordings of empty studios as a symbolic protest against the proposals. He emphasized that both famous and lesser-known musicians are involved because the issue affects everyone in the industry.

HSBC’S BOLD Move: 40 Dealmakers CUT in Hong Kong

18 February 2025 — HSBC has laid off 40 investment bankers in Hong Kong. This is part of a global restructuring plan to cut costs. The layoffs hit several divisions, including technology, media, telecommunications, and financial institutions. HSBC aims to streamline operations worldwide with this bold move.

GOLD SHINES: Prices RISE Despite STRONG Dollar

Gold prices are climbing even as the dollar gains strength. Investors flock to gold as a safe haven during economic uncertainty over tariffs and interest rates. This highlights gold’s lasting appeal in volatile markets.

MILEI FIGHTS BACK: Denies WRONGDOING in Crypto SCANDAL

Argentine President Javier Milei denies any wrongdoing in a cryptocurrency scandal threatening his political career. Facing lawsuits and impeachment calls, Milei defends himself amid growing scrutiny. The controversy adds pressure on his administration during tough economic times for Argentina.

Heartland Bank reports a $50 million loss from bad loans but insists its overall financial health is stable. Despite this setback, the bank plans to issue a half-year dividend as expected, reassuring investors of its resilience.

TRAGIC EXPLOSION in Taiwan Food Court Leaves Community Shaken

15 February 2025 — An EXPLOSION rocked a Taiwan food court, killing four and injuring 26. Witnesses heard a loud blast, then chaos as people scrambled for safety. Authorities believe a gas leak in the kitchen of one stall triggered the explosion.

Emergency services rushed to the scene, taking victims to nearby hospitals. Officials are investigating, with updates expected soon. This tragedy raises concerns about safety regulations in busy commercial areas.

Local leaders promise to review safety protocols to prevent future incidents. The explosion is one of Taiwan’s most significant recent events, spotlighting public safety issues in high-traffic spots. The government expressed condolences and support for victims’ families and those affected by this disaster.

CHINA’S Tech Boom: How Deepseek AI is Shaking Global Markets

15 February 2025 — China’s tech industry is booming, thanks to the rise of the DeepSeek AI model. Major companies like Alibaba, Baidu, and Xiaomi are seeing big benefits. This surge has pushed Hong Kong’s Hang Seng Tech Index up this year.

Alibaba, co-founded by Jack Ma, stands out in this market rally. The company’s growth shows the broader impact of tech advancements on China’s economy. Investors are watching these changes for possible global effects.

The rise in China’s tech stocks might affect U.S. investments and international trade ties. As U.S. markets close with small changes in the S&P 500, global investors keep an eye on shifts in Chinese tech trends.

This ongoing rally highlights China’s growing influence on worldwide economic dynamics, making it a key player to watch in global markets.

CHINESE AI Revolution: DeepSeek’s Shockwave Hits US Tech Giants

28 January 2025 — A new force in artificial intelligence, DeepSeek from China, is shaking up major U.S. tech firms. Their latest AI model, DeepSeek-R1, rivals top U.S. products like OpenAI’s GPT-4 and Google’s Gemini but at a fraction of the cost. This move challenges American dominance and has triggered a massive selloff in tech stocks.

Launched on January 20, 2025, DeepSeek-R1 boasts impressive performance with lower training costs than competitors. Nvidia faced a record market cap drop of over $500 billion — the largest single-day loss in U.S. stock market history — due to this launch. Experts are both amazed and skeptical about DeepSeek’s cost claims, sparking debate on future AI investment strategies.

DeepSeek’s CEO Liang Wenfeng has held closed-door meetings with Chinese leaders to discuss global tech competition implications from their advancements. The rapid rise of DeepSeek has sparked talks about traditional tech investment sustainability and potential industry shifts needed moving forward. Consumers are also interested, as the DeepSeek app topped download charts in both U.S. and China App Stores shortly after release.;

DANGEROUS ‘SLAPPING Therapy’ Healer Gets 10-Year Prison Sentence

07 December 2024 — An alternative healer, Hongchi Xiao, received a 10-year prison sentence for the death of a diabetic woman during his “slapping therapy” workshop. The victim, 71-year-old Danielle Carr-Gomm, stopped taking insulin and died after Xiao failed to get medical help as she suffered in pain.

Xiao promoted paida lajin therapy, where patients slap themselves to expel “poisonous waste.” Critics say this method lacks scientific support and can be harmful. Carr-Gomm’s death is not the only case — another patient also died under similar conditions.

Xiao was extradited from Australia after being convicted of manslaughter in a similar case involving a 6-year-old boy. Justice Robert Bright called Xiao dangerous despite him lacking typical traits of other offenders during sentencing at Winchester Crown Court.

POP-TARTS ART Showcase: A Delicious Tribute to POP Culture

24 October 2024 — A pop-up art gallery in London is celebrating 60 years of Pop-Tarts with unique artwork made from the breakfast pastries. Nathan Wyburn, a food artist from Wales, was commissioned by Kellanova to create three pieces for the Pop (T)Art Gallery Experience. The gallery will be open for two days and features various Pop-Tarts-inspired artworks.

Wyburn spent over 10 hours crafting portraits of Marilyn Monroe and the Mona Lisa using more than 120 Pop-Tarts. He described using Pop-Tarts as a “unique and intriguing experience” that embodies pop art’s essence. Creating an homage to Andy Warhol’s Marilyn Monroe piece was particularly challenging due to Monroe’s distinct look, he noted.

The event highlights how ordinary items like breakfast pastries can be transformed into extraordinary art pieces, capturing the spirit of pop culture. Wyburn expressed respect for the original artworks that inspired his creations but believes they look “pretty epic” when recreated with Pop-Tarts.

The gallery is open on October 25 and 26 in London, offering a brief but memorable artistic experience for visitors who want to see something truly different and fun!

MYSTERY Artist BANKSY Continues to Captivate the World

18 August 2024 — Banksy, the famous yet anonymous artist, continues to captivate global audiences. His works sell for millions and are owned by celebrities like Brad Pitt and Christina Aguilera. Despite his fame, Banksy’s identity remains a closely guarded secret.

Banksy’s art often carries political messages and addresses global issues through immersive installations. Some of his pieces also explore lighter, playful themes. This duality has broadened his appeal across various demographics.

Speculation about Banksy’s true identity persists among fans and critics alike. He is believed to be from Bristol, England, where he initially gained recognition as a graffiti artist with his distinctive stenciled designs.

KING Charles’s NEW Portrait Shocks Royal Fans

15 May 2024 — King Charles’s first official portrait by UK artist Jonathan Yeo introduces postmodern elements, breaking from traditional royal portraits. The 8.5ft by 6.5ft painting features the King in Welsh Guards uniform, holding a sword.

The portrait surrounds King Charles with a vivid red abstract cloud and includes a butterfly above his right shoulder, symbolizing his lifelong environmental activism and metamorphosis into the role of King.

Yeo aimed to blend royal traditions with modernity, reflecting a 21st-century monarchy and highlighting the King’s humanity. He expressed gratitude for capturing such an extraordinary figure at this historic moment.

Churchill’s DESPISED Portrait Hits the Auction Block: A Stirring Tale of Art vs Legacy

17 April 2024 — A portrait of Winston Churchill, loathed by the man himself and crafted by Graham Sutherland, is now showcased at Blenheim Palace, Churchill’s birthplace. This artwork, a part of a larger piece that Churchill detested and was later destroyed, is set to be auctioned in June with an expected price tag ranging from £500,000 to £800,000.

Commissioned for Churchill’s 80th birthday in 1954 and unveiled in Parliament, the portrait received a lukewarm response from Churchill who diplomatically labeled it “a remarkable example of modern art,” while privately criticizing it for its unflattering depiction. The original was eventually destroyed by his family, an event later depicted in the series “The Crown”.

This surviving study shows Churchill against a dark background and serves as both a piece of art and a historical relic that mirrors the intricate dynamics between its subject and portrayal. Sotheby’s predicts this sale on June 6 will draw significant attention.

Churchill’s aversion to Sutherland’s interpretation highlights an ongoing discussion about artistic expression versus personal legacy. As this painting approaches its auction date, it rekindles debates over how historically important figures are remembered and represented in art.

CHAOS at O’Hare: Protesters Block Airport, Spark Outrage Among Travelers

15 April 2024 — Anti-Israel demonstrators created chaos outside Chicago’s O’Hare International Airport by blocking Interstate 190. With arms linked and “long tubes” in hand, they made it impossible for vehicles to pass. This led to travelers, dragging their luggage behind them, being forced to walk to the airport.

Nearby, another group took over a roadway with a sign that slammed U.S. financial support as funding genocide. Their chants and drumbeats echoed loudly, voicing their opposition against Israel loudly and clearly. This act of protest brought significant disruption to those trying to make their flights at one of America’s busiest airports.

Undeterred travelers embarked on foot with their bags, navigating past protesters wearing keffiyeh scarves and waving “Free Palestine” banners. While the protesters’ message was loud and clear, it came at the cost of disrupting the day-to-day lives of countless individuals.

This event has sparked debate over whether such disruptive methods are effective or appropriate for conveying political messages. Despite aiming to highlight their cause, these demonstrators have faced backlash for causing substantial inconvenience to the public and potentially endangering safety by blocking routes meant for emergencies.

AUSTRALIAN Activist’s SHOCKING Sentence in China Sparks Global Outrage

05 February 2024 — Yang Hengjun, an Australian pro-democracy activist and former Chinese government worker, faces a surprising sentence in China. Born as Yang Jun in 1965, he served the Chinese government before moving to Australia in 2002. He also spent time as a visiting scholar at Columbia University.

Yang was arrested during a family trip to China in 2019. His arrest happened during the height of the Hong Kong pro-democracy movement and amidst tense relations between Australia and China. The Australian government and human rights groups have consistently condemned his detention, calling him a political prisoner.

The trial has been slammed for its secrecy, with claims of torture and forced confessions emerging. Yang reportedly faced a secret trial on vague espionage charges three years ago. In August 2023, he voiced fears of dying from an untreated kidney cyst while waiting for his verdict

The sentencing has ignited international outrage with Australia condemning it as an “appalling” obstacle to better relations with China. Human Rights Watch Asia Director Elaine Pearson labelled Yang’s treatment as making a mockery of legal proceedings.

PROJECT DYNAMO Gears Up for Heroic Rescues in Taiwan and China Amid Rising Tensions

01 January 2024 — Project Dynamo, a nonprofit dedicated to saving endangered Americans overseas, is gearing up for possible rescue missions in Taiwan and mainland China. The move comes as worries intensify over Beijing’s military upgrades, nuclear growth, and aggressive stance towards Taiwan. China regards Taiwan as a rebellious province and has made threats of forceful annexation.

Established by former U.S. military and intelligence officers in August 2021, Project Dynamo initially concentrated on rescuing Americans stranded in Afghanistan after the U.S. military pullout. Since then, the organization has broadened its reach globally to assist Americans who were not part of the U.S. military’s rescue plan.

Bryan Stern, a combat veteran and founder of Project Dynamo conveyed that while it’s unclear if they’ll conduct rescue operations in both mainland China and Taiwan, they are ready for any scenario. Stern stressed that there are more Americans living in China than Taiwan, making their safety just as crucial.

Project Dynamo has named potential rescues in Taiwan and China “Marco Polo”. Operating solely on donations without government support, the group has saved over 6,000 people from various worldwide crises within less than three years of operation.

UK’S IRON Fist: Peaceful Protesters Face HARSH Prison Terms Under New Conservative Laws

29 December 2023 — Peaceful environmental activists in the United Kingdom are now under legal fire for their demonstrations. One retiree could face two years behind bars simply for holding a sign outside a courthouse. An engineer, on the other hand, has been handed a three-year sentence for displaying an “Just Stop Oil” banner from a bridge. Even walking slowly down the street has led to numerous arrests.

These arrests are part of new stringent laws that limit protest rights. The Conservative government justifies these laws as necessary tools to halt extremist activists from harming the economy and causing daily disruptions. Critics, however, contend that these laws chip away at civil rights without proper legislative oversight or judicial safeguards.

The widespread arrest of peaceful demonstrators and branding of environmental activists as extremists signal an alarming shift in this traditionally liberal democracy. Jonathon Porritt, an ecologist and former director of Friends of the Earth stated, “The government is clearly intent on suppressing what is legitimate, lawful protest.”

Britain’s democratic system with centuries-old roots relies heavily on governmental self-restraint — something critics fear is now being eroded.

BRUTAL Clampdown: UK’S PEACEFUL Protesters Face Harsh Penalties Under New Conservative Laws

28 December 2023 — In the United Kingdom, peaceful protesters, including a retiree and an engineer, are facing harsh penalties under new laws. The retiree risks a two-year prison sentence for simply holding a sign outside a courthouse. This sign reminded jurors of their right to acquit defendants. At the same time, the engineer was slapped with a three-year sentence for displaying an “Just Stop Oil” banner from a bridge.

A wave of arrests has swept across those who participated in environmental protests by merely walking slowly down streets. These detentions are part of stringent new laws that curb protest rights in the U.K., leading to hundreds of environmental activists being held.

The Conservative government defends these laws as necessary measures to prevent extremist activists from disrupting daily life and harming the economy. However, critics argue that these actions erode civil rights without adequate scrutiny from lawmakers or protection from courts.

Jonathon Porritt, an ecologist and former director of Friends of Earth, joined others in front of London’s Central Criminal Court to protest this treatment. He voiced his concern over what he perceives as government suppression stating that “legitimate protest is part of what