Antony Dapiran's 'City on Fire' provides a detailed and authoritative account of the Hong Kong protests from 2014 to 2019, blending legal scholarship with personal experiences. The book highlights the evolution of protest tactics, the role of civil liberties, and the impact of Beijing's policies on Hong Kong's autonomy. It is praised for its vivid prose, deep understanding of Hong Kong's culture, and its critical importance in understanding contemporary Chinese politics.

The article discusses the recent injunction obtained by Hong Kong's Department of Justice, which criminalizes actions such as publishing personal data of police officers and harassing them. This move, seen as a response to the pro-Beijing DAB's long-standing demands, is criticized for its vague scope and potential to stifle freedom of expression. The injunction is viewed as part of a broader 'lawfare' campaign by the Hong Kong government to suppress dissent. The article highlights the chilling effect on public discourse and the implications for Hong Kong's rule of law and business confidence.

The article discusses the deteriorating state of free expression in Hong Kong, highlighting recent events such as the denial of bail to pro-democracy politician Claudia Mo, the Hong Kong police's attempt to shut down an overseas-hosted website, the closure of cultural spaces under the guise of lacking proper licenses, and new film censorship guidelines targeting national security concerns. The author argues that these actions represent a shift from self-censorship to outright censorship, creating an environment of fear and control. The text also includes updates on the author's recent activities and publications.

Hong Kong's pro-democracy politicians faced mass arrests under a National Security Law imposed by Beijing, accused of subversion for holding primary elections. The crackdown aims to eliminate meaningful opposition, with international responses from the US, UK, and EU proving largely ineffective. The article highlights the emotional, financial, and physical toll on those arrested and criticizes the international community's inability to counter Beijing's actions.

Samantha Cristoforetti, the first Italian woman in space, reflects on her historic space missions, including brewing the first espresso in space and her record-length flight on the International Space Station. Now based in Cologne, Germany, she advises engineers for the upcoming Gateway lunar orbit station. Cristoforetti discusses her multicultural experiences, the importance of making humanity multi-planetary, and her new book, 'Diary of an Apprentice Astronaut'.

Hong Kong's political system, characterized by 'liberty without democracy,' has led to a unique form of protest due to limited democratic participation and an executive-led government. The 2019 protests against the extradition bill demonstrated the effectiveness of public dissent. However, the new national security law aims to criminalize dissent and end the cycle of protest by targeting past protest strategies. Despite this, Hong Kong's dissenters continue to adapt, finding creative ways to express opposition, such as buying copies of the pro-democracy Apple Daily newspaper and supporting its parent company, Next Media Group, in the stock market. The future of Hong Kong's delicate balance between liberty and democracy remains uncertain.

The article discusses the political unrest in Hong Kong, focusing on the 2019 protests against Beijing's increasing control. It highlights the Chinese government's authoritarian measures under Xi Jinping, including the imposition of a national security law that curtails Hong Kong's autonomy. The piece also examines the role of the United States and the National Endowment for Democracy in the protests, though it dismisses conspiracy theories about their involvement. Key figures like Joshua Wong and Antony Dapiran are featured, with Wong's activism and Dapiran's detailed account of the protests being praised. The article concludes by noting the broader implications for the region, including Taiwan, and the limited response from the international community.

Hong Kong's press faces unprecedented challenges under the new national security law, with police raids on media offices, arrests of key figures like Jimmy Lai, and increased scrutiny on foreign journalists. Despite these pressures, the local and international media community remains defiant, rallying around pro-democracy outlets like Apple Daily. The New York Times has relocated part of its operations to Seoul due to the uncertain environment. Local broadcasters face government probes and leadership changes, but public support for press freedom persists, as evidenced by the surge in Next Digital Limited's stock and the rapid sale of Apple Daily's special edition.

Beijing's imposition of a new national security law on Hong Kong has dramatically altered the political and legal landscape, introducing broadly defined criminal offenses and expanding the mainland's security apparatus into the territory. The law has silenced the pro-democracy pan-democrats, who had previously won significant local election victories and were poised for further success. The new law's requirements and penalties threaten to disqualify them from office and criminalize their traditional protest and advocacy activities. This shift risks marginalizing the pan-democrats and undermining Hong Kong's vibrant civil society, potentially leading to a more authoritarian state.

Hong Kong's new National Security Law, enacted on July 1, 2020, has drastically altered the city's political landscape, equating peaceful protests with terrorism. The law introduces four new criminal offenses—secession, subversion, terrorism, and collusion with foreign forces—carrying severe penalties. It also establishes a powerful new government agency, the Committee for Safeguarding National Security, which operates in secret and is heavily influenced by Beijing. The law's extraterritorial reach threatens international critics of China, and its broad definitions of terrorism and subversion target pro-democracy activists and politicians. The law has already led to arrests and has significant implications for foreign businesses and media operating in Hong Kong.

The annual Tiananmen vigil in Hong Kong, a significant event commemorating the 1989 massacre, faces potential permanent cancellation due to new national security laws imposed by Beijing. The vigil, a symbol of defiance and memory preservation, has been banned this year under the pretext of public health concerns amid the COVID-19 pandemic. The new law, feared to suppress rights and freedoms, has sparked protests and concerns over human rights in Hong Kong. The article highlights the ongoing struggle between pro-democracy activists and Beijing's efforts to rewrite history and control the narrative.

The annual Tiananmen vigil in Hong Kong, a significant event commemorating the 1989 massacre, faces an uncertain future due to new national security laws imposed by Beijing. The vigil, which has been a symbol of defiance and a key part of Hong Kong's identity, was banned this year under the pretext of public health concerns. The new law, feared to suppress rights and freedoms, has sparked widespread protests and criticism from pro-democracy activists and international organizations. The article highlights the ongoing struggle between Hong Kong's desire to maintain its unique identity and Beijing's efforts to enforce its narrative and control.

Hong Kong's autonomy is being undermined by its own leaders and the imposition of Beijing's new national security law, bypassing the city's legislature. The US has responded by beginning the process of eliminating Hong Kong's special treatment, with potential measures that could harm Hong Kong's separate status. While some measures may not directly affect Hong Kong citizens, others, such as revoking Hong Kong's separate customs and travel territory status, could have severe consequences. The US's actions are part of a broader hardening stance towards China, with Hong Kong caught as a pawn in the emerging cold war between the two superpowers. The article suggests that the city's leaders have gradually ceded its autonomy to Beijing, and the US measures are an international recognition of this process.

The National People’s Congress in Beijing has imposed a new national security law on Hong Kong, bypassing the city's legislature. This move, seen as a violation of Hong Kong's Basic Law, has sparked global condemnation and raised concerns about the erosion of Hong Kong's autonomy and rule of law. The law allows mainland security agents to operate in Hong Kong and may exclude foreign judges from national security cases. The US has responded by declaring Hong Kong no longer autonomous, potentially altering its special trading status. Beijing's actions appear aimed at quelling the pro-democracy movement, but protests and political tensions are expected to continue, especially with upcoming Legislative Council elections.

Antony Dapiran, an Australian-born journalist based in Hong Kong, discusses the deep societal divisions in Hong Kong amid ongoing protests against Beijing's influence. His book, 'City on Fire,' captures the cultural and political identity struggles of Hong Kongers. The protests, initially peaceful, escalated into violent confrontations, highlighting the community's desire to preserve their unique identity and autonomy. The government's dismissive response to the protests and the recent national security legislation have further fueled tensions. Dapiran reflects on the impact of these events on his life and the broader implications for Hong Kong's future.

Antony Dapiran, an Australian-born, Hong Kong-based journalist and author, discusses the cultural and political identity of Hong Kong amidst the protests and Beijing's influence. His book 'City on Fire' documents the 2019 protests, which he compares to historical parallels like Berlin during the Cold War and Belfast in the Troubles. Dapiran expresses concern over the deep divisions in Hong Kong society and the escalation of violence, particularly during the siege of Polytechnic University. The article also touches on the impact of the coronavirus pandemic on Hong Kong and the protest movement, noting the community's response and the emergence of the yellow circle economy, which supports the pro-democracy movement.

Antony Dapiran, an Australian-born journalist based in Hong Kong, discusses the deep societal divisions in Hong Kong amid ongoing protests against Beijing's influence. His book, 'City on Fire,' captures the cultural and political identity struggles of Hong Kongers. The protests, initially peaceful, escalated into violent confrontations, highlighting the community's desire to preserve their unique identity and freedoms. Dapiran expresses concern over the increasing willingness of protesters to risk their lives and the government's disregard for public sentiment. The article also touches on the impact of the coronavirus pandemic on the protest movement and the broader societal response in Hong Kong.

Hong Kong's response to the COVID-19 pandemic has been overshadowed by Beijing's crackdown on pro-democracy activists, leveraging global distraction to arrest key figures and push controversial legislation. Despite the government's effective virus containment, public trust remains low, with citizens crediting themselves for the success. The legacy of the 2019 protests continues to influence events, fostering new forms of resistance and a distinct Hong Kong identity. Civil society, including new unions and political parties, plays a crucial role in community efforts, contrasting sharply with mainland China's authoritarian approach.

Hong Kong faces a significant crackdown from Beijing following the 2019 protests, with mass arrests of prominent pan-democrat leaders. The Chinese central government has intensified its rhetoric and actions, leading to international condemnation. The text highlights the potential for increased unrest and the ongoing struggle for autonomy in Hong Kong, drawing parallels with historical conflicts. The author also discusses the broader implications of government actions during the pandemic and the potential for lasting restrictions on civil liberties.

The review of 'City on Fire: The Fight for Hong Kong' by Antony Dapiran provides an in-depth account of the 2019 Hong Kong protests, sparked by an extradition bill proposed by Chief Executive Carrie Lam. The protests, characterized by their fluid tactics and significant public participation, highlighted the erosion of promised freedoms under the 'One Country, Two Systems' principle. Dapiran's narrative covers the historical context, the escalation of protests, and the violent responses from the police. The review underscores the profound impact of the protests on Hong Kong's identity and the ongoing struggle for its autonomy.

Hong Kong's ban on public gatherings due to the coronavirus pandemic recalls last year's extensive pro-democracy protests, which blocked an extradition law and led to significant local election gains. A new Hong Kong identity focused on autonomy from Beijing has emerged, despite deep societal rifts and Beijing's hardline response. Recent arrests and legal actions against dissenters, along with the appointment of Beijing loyalists to oversee Hong Kong, signal a tightening grip by Beijing. Upcoming elections and rising support for independence indicate a critical juncture for Hong Kong's future autonomy and relationship with Beijing.

Antony Dapiran shares his experiences of traveling to Hong Kong during the pandemic lockdown, highlighting the stringent measures and organized processes at the airport. He reflects on the broader implications of the pandemic on global mobility and the sense of vulnerability it has introduced. The article also discusses recent developments in Hong Kong, including the arrest of Democratic Party district councillor Cheng Lai-king on sedition charges, and the implementation of a ban on public gatherings. Dapiran provides updates on his new book, 'City on Fire: The Fight for Hong Kong,' and offers recommendations for literature, cinema, and music that have provided him solace during isolation.

Antony announces the completion and upcoming publication of his book 'City on Fire: The Fight for Hong Kong,' which provides a comprehensive analysis of the Hong Kong protests. The book has received endorsements from notable figures like Ai Weiwei and Professor Kerry Brown. Antony also discusses recent leadership changes in Hong Kong, highlighting Beijing's continued control and the implications for Hong Kong's autonomy and freedoms. The newsletter includes details on how to pre-order the book and mentions Antony's recent and upcoming speaking engagements.

Antony Dapiran apologizes for his silence due to working on his book about Hong Kong's protest movement, which he describes as both leaderless and nameless. He discusses the challenges of naming the movement and shares his thoughts published in Quartz. Dapiran likens writing the book to packing an octopus into a box, a task that turned out to be easier than expected. He also provides a brief overview of recent events in Hong Kong, including a large peaceful march, upcoming challenges such as protester prosecutions, the Legislative Council elections, and the potential recurrence of protests.

The article discusses the significant results of the Hong Kong District Council elections, highlighting the highest-ever voter turnout and the overwhelming victory of Pan-Democrat candidates over Pro-Beijing candidates. It emphasizes the elections as a referendum on the recent protests and the public's dissatisfaction with Chief Executive Carrie Lam and her administration. The text also explores the potential implications for future political actions, the reactions from Beijing, and the possible changes within the Hong Kong government and police force.

Hong Kong experienced its most chaotic week of anti-government protests, marked by unprecedented violence, including the first protest-related death, police shootings, and university sieges. The Hong Kong government remained largely absent, while Beijing's strategy appeared to be letting the city suffer to undermine the protest movement. The People's Liberation Army's involvement raised legal and ethical questions, and Chinese President Xi Jinping emphasized restoring order without offering new solutions. The situation remains tense with no compromise in sight.

The article provides a detailed account of the ongoing political unrest in Hong Kong, highlighting significant events such as the death of a student protester, the stabbing of a pro-Beijing politician, and the arrest of pan-democrat legislators. It criticizes the Hong Kong government's handling of the protests, particularly the actions of Carrie Lam and the police, and underscores the need for an independent inquiry into police conduct. The narrative also touches on the broader struggle for control over the story of the protests, emphasizing the importance of freedom of expression and the role of independent bookstores in supporting it.

The Hong Kong government has obtained a new injunction to prevent the dissemination of information that promotes violence, raising concerns about freedom of expression. This follows a series of similar legal actions aimed at curbing protests and dissent. Statements from Beijing suggest a tightening grip on Hong Kong, with potential reintroduction of anti-sedition laws and increased national education efforts. The ongoing cycle of protests and government repression continues, with no resolution in sight. The article also highlights the role of shopping malls in the protests and includes references to other writings by the author on the subject.

Antony Dapiran announces an irregular series of email updates on Hong Kong & China, his writing, and related matters. He reveals his next book, 'City on Fire: The Fight for Hong Kong,' to be published by Scribe. Dapiran discusses the recent 'curfew by capital' in Hong Kong, where the MTR was shut down and malls closed, leading to a quieter protest environment. He also mentions upcoming US Congress debates on Hong Kong-related motions and shares his recent media contributions and protest photos.

Scribe's publisher, Henry Rosenbloom, has acquired world rights to 'City on Fire: the fight for Hong Kong' by Antony Dapiran, an Australian writer and lawyer based in Hong Kong. Dapiran is recognized for his expertise on Hong Kong affairs, contributing to various prestigious media outlets. The book, set to be published in early 2020, is expected to be the definitive guide on the Hong Kong protest movement.

The update covers key regulatory developments relevant to companies listed or planning to list on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange (HKEx) and their advisers. It includes amendments to the Listing Rules, guidance, and enforcement news from HKEx and the Securities and Futures Commission (SFC). Key topics include the SFC's statement on directors' duties during corporate acquisitions or disposals, HKEx's amendments to crack down on backdoor listings and shell activities, and the current regulatory landscape of security token offerings in Hong Kong. The update also highlights the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding on audit working papers between the Ministry of Finance, the China Securities Regulatory Commission, and the SFC.

The article discusses the role of music in Hong Kong's protest movements, contrasting the optimistic Cantopop anthems of the 2014 Umbrella Movement with the darker tones of the 2019 protests. It highlights how music has evolved from being expressive and utopian to more utilitarian and reflective of the current political climate. The article mentions specific songs that have become anthems for the protesters, such as 'Glory to Hong Kong,' and how these songs foster solidarity and heighten spirits among the demonstrators. It also touches on the use of music for satire and as a form of resistance against police intimidation. The piece provides insights from ethnomusicologists and protesters on the significance of these protest songs and their impact on the movement.

The article compares the protest movements in Hong Kong in 2014 and 2019, focusing on their distinct soundtracks. The 2014 Umbrella Movement featured optimistic and expressive songs like 'Boundless Ocean, Vast Skies' and 'Raise the Umbrellas', while the 2019 protests have a darker tone with songs like 'Glory to Hong Kong'. Music has played a central role in both movements, reflecting the changing tactics and sentiments of the protesters. The article includes perspectives from ethnomusicologists and protesters, highlighting the importance of music in creating solidarity and expressing political will.

The article contrasts the vibrant, artistic nature of Hong Kong's 2014 Umbrella Movement with the current, more desperate and somber protests. The earlier movement was characterized by a festive atmosphere with cultural expressions and a sense of community, while the current demonstrations are marked by violence, anger, and a pervasive sense of mourning. The extradition bill, which would have allowed suspects to be sent to mainland China for trial, sparked the protests. The bill has since been withdrawn, but not before it led to mass rallies, clashes with police, and several protester suicides. The article highlights the shift from peaceful civil disobedience to what some are calling 'uncivil disobedience', with protesters now willing to contemplate death and engage in violent confrontations with the police. The mood of the protests is captured through descriptions of the slogans, songs, and actions of the demonstrators, who fear the loss of Hong Kong's civil liberties and identity.

The article discusses the unique situation in Hong Kong where the scarcity of public space has led to shopping malls becoming the de facto arenas for social life and, more recently, for protests. With the highest concentration of malls in the world, these privately-owned spaces are connected to the city's infrastructure and are essential for daily activities. The article highlights instances where malls have played significant roles during the protests, either as refuges for protesters or as sites of conflict. It also touches on the tension between supporting the protesters and the pressure to align with Beijing's stance, as seen in the actions of mall management and corporate statements. The piece suggests that the future of Hong Kong's autonomy may be influenced by the stance of these commercial entities.

The article discusses a peaceful protest in Hong Kong, known as the 'Hong Kong Way', which marked the 30th anniversary of the Baltic Way. Over 200,000 people formed a human chain across the city to demand democratic reforms, demonstrating broad community support for the movement. The protest was a stark contrast to the subsequent weekend's violent clashes between protesters and police. The author reflects on the concept of 'enchantment' in politics, as described by political theorist Jane Bennett, suggesting that enchantment can inspire hope and engagement in civic life. The article criticizes the Hong Kong government's lack of understanding in dealing with the protests, emphasizing that winning the hearts and minds of people cannot be achieved through economic measures or force, but rather through enchanting the populace.

The article discusses the ongoing protests in Hong Kong and the Chinese government's efforts to control the narrative and suppress the unrest. Despite Beijing's portrayal of the protesters as violent, a recent peaceful march with 1.7 million participants showed continued support for the movement. The article highlights incidents of pro-China sentiment clashing with pro-Hong Kong protesters globally, and Beijing's propaganda push within and outside China. It also covers the international community's growing concern over China's influence and the impact on international businesses, exemplified by the forced resignation of Cathay Pacific's CEO due to pressure from Beijing. The article suggests that Beijing's handling of the situation could drive a wedge between China and the international community, potentially affecting China's global ambitions and economic relations, especially amidst the U.S.-China trade war.

During the Hungry Ghost Festival in Hong Kong's Sham Shui Po district, anti-government protests coincided with traditional celebrations, leading to clashes with police and the burning of 'Hell Money' featuring images of unpopular officials. The protests, part of a broader pro-democracy movement sparked by a proposed extradition law, have persisted for eleven weekends, despite Beijing's warnings and military posturing. The situation escalated as protesters occupied Hong Kong's airport, prompting Beijing to label the demonstrations as showing signs of 'terrorism'. The city awaits Beijing's next move amidst the festival's remnants and a tense atmosphere.

The article discusses the escalating violence in Hong Kong's protests, with protesters attacking police and swarming the international airport, leading to a shutdown. The Hong Kong government, particularly chief executive Carrie Lam, has been criticized for inaction. Beijing is taking a hard line, with state media condemning the protests and troops being amassed near Hong Kong's border. The article suggests that Chinese President Xi Jinping faces a dilemma: intervening could end Hong Kong's financial hub status and provoke further unrest, while inaction could be seen as weakness. Despite economic measures announced by Hong Kong's financial secretary, the political issues driving the protests remain unaddressed, indicating a continued cycle of unrest. The author, Antony Dapiran, is a Hong Kong-based writer and lawyer.

For nearly two months, Hong Kong has been engulfed in anti-government protests that evolved from opposition to an extradition bill into a broader pro-democracy movement. Young activists have adopted agile, leaderless tactics inspired by Bruce Lee's philosophy of 'Be Water,' utilizing mobile protests, online forums, and peer-to-peer technologies like AirDrop. They have developed sophisticated methods to neutralize tear gas, avoid stampedes, and maintain supply lines. The movement has also garnered international attention through crowdfunded advertisements. Key figures like Joshua Wong and Benny Tai are highlighted, while the Hong Kong government's response is criticized.

The article discusses the escalating pro-democracy protests in Hong Kong, highlighting the deepening divide between Hong Kongers and Beijing. It traces the origins of the protests to the proposed extradition law and the broader crackdown on dissent since the Umbrella Movement. Key figures like Edward Leung and Joshua Wong are mentioned, along with the negative sentiment towards Hong Kong's Chief Executive Carrie Lam. The article emphasizes the growing defiance against Beijing and the potential consequences of a harsh crackdown, suggesting that greater autonomy and democratic participation for Hong Kongers could be a solution.

The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited (HKEx) published conclusions to its consultation paper on backdoor listings, continuing listing criteria, and other related Listing Rule amendments, effective from 1 October 2019. The amendments aim to reduce the use of listed companies for backdoor listings and restrict the creation of shell companies. They include modifications to the definition of a reverse takeover (RTO), a new rule to prevent large-scale issues of securities for cash leading to a change of control, codification of 'extreme very substantial acquisition' requirements, and tightening of compliance requirements for RTOs and extreme transactions. HKEx also updated the sufficiency of operations and assets criteria and extended the definition of 'short-term investments' in the 'cash company rule'. A transitional period of 12 months is provided for companies to comply with the new rules.

The article provides an overview of key regulatory developments in Hong Kong over the past three months, focusing on amendments to the Listing Rules, ESG reporting enhancements, and the new China Foreign Investment Law. It discusses HKEx's updated guidance on non-GAAP financial measures, sanctions risks for listing applicants, and competing business interests. The article also covers enforcement actions by the SFC and Market Misconduct Tribunal, including fines and disqualification orders against directors for various misconducts. Key stakeholders include HKEx, SFC, and the National People’s Congress, with significant implications for companies listed or planning to list on HKEx.

Young activists in Hong Kong have demonstrated a highly effective and agile protest strategy, inspired by Bruce Lee's philosophy of 'being like water.' Their tactics include rapid movement, online coordination through Telegram, and innovative communication methods like Apple AirDrop and sign language. The protests aim to disrupt government operations without entrenched positions, making them difficult to counter. The movement is leaderless, relying on a 'hive mind' approach, and has garnered significant financial support for international awareness campaigns. The article highlights the philosophical and technological sophistication of the protests, suggesting they offer a new model for global activism.

Hong Kong has a long history of political protest, from its days as a British Colony to after its handover to Beijing in 1997. Protests have often centered around preserving Hong Kong's unique identity and freedoms. Notable movements include the Star Ferry and Leftist riots (1966-67), June 4 vigils since 1989, opposition to Article 23 in 2003, the Save Star Ferry and Queens' Pier protests (2006), the Anti-Moral and National Education Protest (2011), and the Umbrella Movement (2014). These protests have sometimes led to political change and have been a significant part of Hong Kong's culture of dissent against policies perceived as threats to its autonomy and rights.

Thousands of anti-government protesters in Hong Kong have surrounded government offices and the Legislative Council building, demanding the withdrawal of a controversial proposed extradition law. The protests, reminiscent of the 2014 Occupy Central movement, are driven by a unified public opinion against the law, which is seen as a threat to Hong Kong's core values and identity. The proposed law would allow Beijing to extradite criminal suspects from Hong Kong, blurring the lines between the two justice systems. The government, led by chief executive Carrie Lam, faces a dilemma between heeding public sentiment and facing Beijing's expectations.

The article provides an overview of recent regulatory developments relevant to companies listed on The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited (HKEx) and their advisers. Key updates include the agreement to allow dual-class share structure companies to be traded by Mainland-based investors through the Stock Connect program, guidance on annual and ESG reporting, changes to the Corporate Governance Code, and implications of new accounting standards for lease transactions. The Securities and Futures Commission (SFC) has also taken enforcement actions against sponsors for due diligence failures and against companies for delayed profit warnings. The article highlights the importance of compliance with regulatory requirements and the potential consequences of non-compliance.

In one of the largest protests since the 2014 Umbrella Movement, 22,000 protesters in Hong Kong rallied against the jailing of three pro-democracy leaders, Joshua Wong, Alex Chow, and Nathan Law. The Hong Kong government, influenced by Beijing, appealed their initial community service sentences, resulting in harsher jail terms and a ban from public office. This move is seen as a message against dissent and has sparked renewed solidarity among Hong Kong's pro-democracy groups. The article criticizes the use of colonial-era laws to suppress political expression and warns of the negative implications for Hong Kong's judicial independence and business confidence.

The Chinese government's control over information has rendered the imprisonment and death of Nobel laureate Liu Xiaobo tragically redundant, as most Chinese citizens remain unaware of his existence. Despite global calls for his release, China's growing economic power and diplomatic confidence have overshadowed Western internal conflicts and diminished global leadership. The article criticizes China's treatment of Liu and other civil rights issues, suggesting that these actions reveal the insecurity of China's leaders despite their attempts to present themselves as global players.

China's President Xi Jinping's visit to Hong Kong for the 20th anniversary of the handover was highly choreographed, avoiding interaction with the public and departing before the traditional July 1 protest march. Xi's speech emphasized Beijing's authority and suggested economic development as a solution to Hong Kong's conflicts, reflecting a misunderstanding of the region's issues. Despite lower reported turnout, the protest demonstrated Hong Kong's vibrant civil society and commitment to diverse causes, from political freedoms to social issues. The author argues that these protests stem from a deep love for Hong Kong and a desire for genuine development.

Antony Dapiran's 'City of Protest' is a timely and insightful book that explores the history of dissent in Hong Kong, coinciding with the 20th anniversary of the city's handover from British to Chinese rule. The book provides a balanced explanation of the motivations behind Hong Kong's protests, highlighting key events such as the Occupy Central demonstrations and the Fishball Riots. Dapiran argues that protests in Hong Kong are effective and deeply rooted in the city's culture. The book's final chapter discusses the ongoing conflict between Hong Kong's freedoms and its governance by a distant communist power, suggesting that protests will continue as long as this system remains.

Stan Berdell, owner of BLX Inc., is spearheading the formation of Vintage Land Holdings, a collective effort by conventional oil and gas producers to survive in a market dominated by large shale companies and low natural gas prices. The strategy involves pooling deep oil and gas rights from various operators to attract private equity investment, aiming to raise between $200 million to $300 million. The industry faces challenges with low commodity prices, and companies are exploring unique solutions, including diversification and service-oriented shifts. Private equity firms see volatility as an opportunity, and Vintage Land Holdings is currently in talks with potential investors.

In the midst of Hong Kong's pro-democracy protests, a pre-school teacher named Helen uses storytelling to educate children about the political situation. She creates a narrative involving animals in a forest to explain concepts like universal suffrage and the protests, encouraging children to engage in discussions about these issues. Helen emphasizes the importance of helping children understand the traumatic events they may witness, such as police using tear gas, and fosters open dialogue without pushing a specific viewpoint.

Alibaba has confirmed its choice of the US over Hong Kong for its IPO venue, a decision driven by regulatory flexibility in the US regarding Variable Interest Entity structures and the refusal of Hong Kong to waive its 'one share, one vote' rule. The US market offers a robust ecosystem for tech companies, which Hong Kong cannot match. Despite the potential risks of a foreign regulator and ongoing disputes between US and Chinese auditors, Alibaba's strategic importance to China's economy as it transitions to a consumption-led model is significant. The possibility of a secondary listing in Hong Kong could provide a 'face saving' solution, bringing Alibaba closer to home without compromising Hong Kong's primary listing standards.