The Market Monitor Minding the Nation's Business
By Alvin I. Dacanay
If you’re like most people, you’re probably curious about what the Lunar New Year—or the Year of the Red Fire Monkey, as Chinese astrologers call it—would bring to you and your loved ones.
Would the new year be playful, or play tricks on you? Would it encourage you to swing toward a better life or fool you into leaping into a worse one? If 2016 possesses even half of a monkey’s general attributes, then it’s probably safe to say it’s going to be a lively and wild one.
Depending on the Chinese astrological sign you were born under, your fortune this year may either be awesome, awful or just average. How so? Read on.
Rat (1912, 1924, 1936, 1948, 1960, 1972, 1984, 1996, 2008)
If you’re a Rat, then 2016 would be good to you, since the Rat is friendly with the Monkey. Romantic prospects this year are solid; the older people in your life (parents or mentors) may help you in this regard. There’s a chance for you to increase your riches; investing in residential real estate seems like a fine idea. If you’re a jobseeker, take further studies or learn new skills; you’ll need it. Count on your friends or colleagues to help you when you encounter work-related problems or get a chance to be promoted. Don’t work too much, or you’ll burn yourself out.
Ox (1913, 1925, 1937, 1949, 1961, 1973, 1985, 1997, 2009)
You, as an Ox, may find the Monkey helpful this year. It can help you shine. Open yourself up to more social activities. If you’re in a relationship, improve it by letting it—or your partner—have some space to grow. Opportunities to earn more money are good, but you have to seize them and work hard. About your career, set aside your fears and accept the challenges it poses. Find yourself needed by people in building their business opportunities, and in turn, they could provide you an environment to display your talents. Exercise regularly, if you aren’t already.
Tiger (1914, 1926, 1938, 1950, 1962, 1974, 1986, 1998, 2010)
Proceed with caution this year, Tiger, for the Monkey can bring trouble, if you let it. 2016 is not a particularly good year for love, and if you’re in a relationship, avoid or minimize conflict and keep communication lines honest and open. You’ll not be earning a lot of money this year; don’t invest or spend a lot. Don’t attempt to switch jobs; you may run into unexpected problems if you do. Expect hurdles in your career, and use all your knowledge and wisdom as much as you can to overcome them. If they’re not enough, ask for assistance. Try to avoid accidents.
Rabbit (1915, 1927, 1939, 1951, 1963, 1975, 1987, 1999, 2011)
Matters are looking good for you in 2016, Rabbit, because the Monkey can aid you in considerably raising your profile and enhancing your people skills. If you’re single, your chances of finding love are wonderful. If you’re in a relationship, then maybe it’s time to take it to the next level. Your reputation will generate income-making opportunities, but still keep your day job. That’s where most of your money comes from. Look forward to career openings or new business ties. Steer clear of anything that can hurt your head or face.
Dragon (1916, 1928, 1940, 1952, 1964, 1976, 1988, 2000, 2012)
Terrific news, Dragon. You and the Monkey will be great allies this year. Single? The stars say not for long, as long as you make yourself available, especially at social events. Already in a relationship or even marriage? It’s going to be more fruitful. You’re likely to earn much money; perhaps, it’s time to consult a financial adviser? Your management and social skills are an asset to your career. Anticipate a job offer, and seriously consider grabbing it. Co-workers can help you if you feel you’re burdened. Watch your diet, and exercise regularly.
Snake (1917, 1929, 1941, 1953, 1965, 1977, 1989, 2001, 2013)
No big problems for you in 2016, Snake, because the Monkey holds you in high regard. Love-wise, single men will have it easy, while single women may have to exert a little more effort. Your income may improve and your investments, if handled well, may yield good returns. No major professional problems are forecast, but that doesn’t mean you can slack off. Continue to work hard. Who knows, you may get a promotion. Don’t overexert when you exercise, or you might hurt yourself.
Horse (1918, 1930, 1942, 1954, 1966, 1978, 1990, 2002, 2014)
With the Monkey’s help, you, as a Horse, would see all your hard work pay off in 2016 after enduring trials. If you’re searching for love, it’s time to be more active about it; if in a relationship, try to inject more romance. A salary raise seems likely; try to put that additional money in investments. There’s a good chance your career will grow further, and so are the responsibilities that come with it. Take care of your bones and muscles, as well as your lungs.
Sheep (1919, 1931, 1943, 1955, 1967, 1979, 1991, 2003, 2015)
This year may have you, Sheep, on center stage after lurking in the background for so long, so credit the Monkey for that. Respecting your partner and self-restraint will be of paramount importance in your relationship. Keep working hard and maintain good professional relations, so that your wealth continues to increase. As far as your career is concerned, this is the right time to show how good you are and how much you’ve grown and learned. Do this, and you’ll boost your reputation. Be careful of the food you eat.
Monkey (1920, 1932, 1944, 1956, 1968, 1980, 1992, 2004)
Contrary to what some believe, a Monkey’s luck in a Monkey year is not that hot, and 2016 is no exception. Finding love or a new job may be hard this year; you will have a lot of competitors. Money-making opportunities are not too great. Think twice—and think very hard—before investing or loaning money to someone. If you’re employed, your career status will remain as is. You won’t have serious health issues, but avoid anything that could put you physically at risk.
Rooster (1921, 1933, 1945, 1957, 1969, 1981, 1993, 2005)
It appears this is going to be, at best, an average year for you, Rooster. Avoid being a pushover if you’re in a romantic relationship. It’s a partnership, not an exercise in domination. Be careful with your money; don’t be compelled by people you know or even trust into pursuing an investment opportunity. Think it through. You may face some challenges at work, but as long as you meet your boss’ expectations and don’t give in to pressure, everything should be all right. Take care of your respiration.
Dog (1922, 1934, 1946, 1958, 1970, 1982, 1994, 2006)
Don’t be surprised if you take on the role of an adviser or mentor in 2016, Dog. You have something valuable to teach. Attend more social gatherings if you’re unattached; you may find potential mates there. If in a commitment, then try to be more romantic to your partner. Wealth-wise, your professional and people-networking skills will offer you chances to generate more income. Your career remains stable, and you may find someone creative and smart who could help you enhance it. Exercise caution when indulging in risky outdoor activities.
Pig (1923, 1935, 1947, 1959, 1971, 1983, 1995, 2007)
Be glad, Pig, for this year may turn out to be good, even great, for you. Many people may be romantically interested in you in 2016, so if you’re single, make sure you’re seen and let them know you’re available. Money will pour in, as long as you maintain a modest profile; arrogance and overconfidence can be absolute turnoffs. Grab any chance to learn and grow on the job, but don’t become complacent about the experience and knowledge you will gain. Make sure to strengthen your stomach and maintain your sugar levels.