The phrase 'Tiger economy' has been used in the past to describe what has become known as the 'emerging economies' in the East.  The Hong Kong stock market is one such economy noted for its sudden swings - from euphoria to depression - and just as quickly to the dizzy heights of unsustainable optimism.  Throughout 2010 the world's stock markets will climb aboard a rollercoaster, that will rise and fall with dramatic rapidity, confident in its every mood, but selfish in its aims.

The Metal Tiger is competitive and ostentatious, but he always wants too much, too soon.  So although unemployment will then be at horrifying levels throughout the world, the Metal Tiger will drive up stock markets in spasmodic bursts, and down again when the Tiger grabs his profit.  The hope will be an end to recession in 2011, but hope springs eternal.

Those who once made money from the housing market will now rest their hopes on potential gains from investment opportunities in financial products, so the housing market will continue to be starved of buyers and, regrettably, casinos throughout the world will be the beneficiaries of uncertainty.

We must also face the possibility in a Metal Tiger year of yet more military conflict between opposing ideologies, rather like the Korean War that started in 1950 - a previous year of the Yang Metal Tiger.

Being the Tiger’s own year, 2010 holds great promise for those born under this sign, with exciting developments happening for them both personally and professionally.

Tigers may be feeling disheartened after 2009, and it is important to leave the past behind and look to the future in the Tiger’s own year, which holds exciting developments on both personal and professional levels.

By the same token, the fast pace of 2010 means the Tiger must take extra care in thinking its projects through. Financially, money-making ideas and concepts must be thoroughly explored and investigated.

The Tiger will have a few splendid successes in 2010, but failures could be even more spectacular. In the end, self-control wins the day.

Those born in the year of the TIGER are thought to be:
Independent, brave, energetic, faithful, attractive, reckless, rebellious and impulsive.

The focus will be on the Rabbit’s career and job prospects during the Year of the Tiger, with unexpected promotions and recognition very likely.

The Rabbit will tend to prefer stability and security to the change and uncertainty that are guaranteed in the Tiger Year - it is through embracing the unknown that the Rabbit will achieve its full potential. Bold new initiatives of your own undertaking will be rewarded.

The speed of the Tiger Year could be exhausting for Rabbits. Hence, the importance of balancing rest and relaxation is more important this year than ever.

Do not allow difficulties and obstacles to get you down for too long. If this Rabbit tendency to discouragement is overcome, then 2010 will be a very rewarding year.

Those born in the year of the RABBIT are thought to be:
Sensitive, tactful, hospitable, modest, artistic, well-mannered, gossipy and gullible.

The quick pace of 2010 will very much be to the liking of Dragons, in order to look for new opportunities. The key is not to get too caught up in the moment; be thoughtful and avoid unnecessary risk.

Teamwork will be integral to success this year, especially with Tigers. Dragons will progress further and faster this year if they bear this in mind.

Dragons whose progress was hindered by the Ox year will find abundant new prospects to explore. The unexpectedness of the Tiger year will bring rapidly changing conditions, in which some Dragons may thrive, others stumble.

Those born in the year of the DRAGON are thought to be:
Noble, dignified, ambitious, vibrant, powerful, arrogant and demanding.

Neither the pace nor style of 2010 is likely to be favorable to Snakes; much like a Snake, laying low, waiting for opportunities, and striking quickly will encourage success.

Once you can realise that transformations are in your favour, it will be easier to adapt to change, which are usually uncomfortable for snakes. Do not measure the year in the number of your successes, but focus on a few big wins.

There may only be a few moments of opportunity, but stay alert and direct your energies to areas in which you have the most expertise. be ready to take advantage so you can make these opportunities count.

Those born in the year of the SNAKE are thought to be:
Wisest of all the chinese horoscopes, charming, logical, compassionate, discreet, anxious and intense.

Horses can look forward to an exceptional year career-wise in 2010. However, follow-up leads and career opportunities with vigor to fully take advantage of the fast-paced energy of the Year of the Tiger.

The Horses’ love of variety and change already gives you a natural advantage over your competitors. In a career you enjoy, the unpredictable challenges could be exhilarating. If you don’t love your job, seek a new one as soon as possible for a quick, rewarding transition.

Horses should keep an eye on finance as overspending could occur very easily. You may be deluded by illusions of grandeur when you receive a large sum of money or a raise. It is not a good time for gambling or risk; don’t trust your luck where money is concerned.

Those born in the year of the HORSE are thought to be:
Lovable, enthusiastic, creative, optimistic, popular, fickle, inconsistent and rebellious.

The Goat likes balance and moderation in all areas of life and the Year of the Tiger will ensure that he or she will discover new aspects and strengths of themselves they were unaware of.

For the artistic and creative Goat, 2010 will bring offers, opportunities and encouragement, leading to new projects and job offers. If they can remain adaptable, open to change and focused, this year could have long lasting positive implications.

Study and developing specialist skills is also highlighted for this year. For those wishing to change jobs or find employment, there may be many frustrating moments and it won’t be easy. But then, out of the blue, a job offer or an opportunity will present itself. Be ready!

Those born in the year of the SHEEP are thought to be:
Creative, generous, compliant, wise, beautiful, lazy and indecisive.

The energetic nature of Monkeys mean they will benefit from the energy of 2010 - but pacing is necessary to avoid burning out. Through adaptation and staying calm, the monkey will easily survive.

Income and expenses are likely to be unpredictable and volatile - proceed with caution. A dramatic change is likely to put a strain on your budget. You will benefit from an ultra-conservative approach to saving.

Career changes are likely this year, and your professional life may seem erratic, so proceed with caution. You could be best served by respecting power on the job. Do your best to stay in line and not provoke authority.

Those born in the year of the MONKEY are thought to be:
Inventive, humorous, intelligent, witty, independent, opinionated and careless.

2010 will have mixed fortunes for the Rooster, but staying observant, calm and flexible will ensure success and, as a result, will come out a much stronger and wiser person.

Be diligent and patient in your work, recalling your many past achievements. If you follow this strategy, you are likely to finish the year with enhanced respect and trust from your colleagues.

You may be tempted to be too generous with what you have for your own good, especially if you encounter a windfall. Show your generosity in other ways; monetarily, you need to look out for your own security.

Those born in the year of the ROOSTER are thought to be:
Brave, enthusiastic, hardowrking, talented, generous, overly-romatic, bossy and blunt.

The Dog can expect the most from 2010, after the challenging year of 2009. Challenges will still arise. More often than not, it will be important Dogs talk over any potential worries and problems rather than bottling them up.

Finances could be your weakest area this year, as you could be prone to large fluctuations. Your best strategy is to save as much as you can so you can afford some major expenses that are almost certain to present themselves.The worst thing to do would be to finance them through a speculative venture.

Socially, this is the Dog’s year to shine and many new strong friendships and alliances will be formed.

Those born in the year of the DOG are thought to be:
Honest, loyal, fair, unpretentious, open-minded, sociable, judgmental and stubborn.

The Pig loves activity and challenges and the Year of the Tiger will certainly provide this. There may be additional financial pressure on the Pig this year, but with prudent spending and consideration, this need not be a problem.

One key to your success is maintaining self control. You can bet there will be occasions where it will not be easy. Enjoy the ride but do not let yourself get caught up in all the drama. Conserve your energy and be ready to hop on your ship when it sails.

A shift in workplace dynamics this year should ultimately be to your liking. Whether it is a change in position or responsibilities, odds are your career is in for a shake up. That could mean increased flexibility in work hours to afford you a better work-life balance, as well as an opportunity to exercise more creativity. Don't underestimate yourself. Your flexibility and resourcefulness are likely to prove their value this year.

Those born in the year of the PIG are thought to be:
Caring, modest, honest, intelligent, noble, wise, short tempered, too sensitive and gullible.

Rats may be feeling quite tired and deflated after 2009, which saw them keeping their heads down, working and staying out of trouble. The Year of the Tiger is going to be fast-paced for Rats, which does tend to make them slightly uncomfortable. But it is essential that they go with the flow and seize opportunities and take adventures – this year is going to be important for them.

The Rat is likely to experience at least one major change in career path or professional role this year. The best strategy is to cultivate flexibility. If changes are not of your choosing, you'll be best positioned to take advantage of new opportunities by relinquishing some control and being your most adaptable self.

Things will not always be what they appear this year, and that is especially true in money matters. It is not to say you should make no investments or major purchases this year; however, due diligence erring on the side of caution and conservatism could avert serious losses.

Those born in the year of the RAT are thought to be:
Meticulous, shrewd, charming, ambitious, eloquent, artistic, controlling, manipulative and critical.

A year of transition and unexpected changes in career prospects could unnerve the Ox in 2010, especially after what have likely been two years of steady progress. The Year of the Tiger could present great long-term opportunities in the Ox's profession, but you may not readily see it this way unless you are willing to reconsider well-laid plans.

Your cautious approach will serve you well in 2010; although, you may be uncharacteristically tempted by fast-moving forces to take unusual risks. Do not let yourself be pushed or pressured to follow the crowd in financial matters. Rely on your methodical and patient style when making money decisions this year.

This is not the time to march forth boldly into battle heedless of the consequences. You will have to pick your fights and show much restraint if you want to be successful overall. Tone down your efforts and press ahead carefully with ongoing projects.

Those born in the year of the RAT are thought to be:
Responsible, dependable, honest, caring, intelligent, practical and stubborn.