China Implements Cut on Stock Trading Stamp Duty from 0.1% to 0.05%

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August 29, 2023

A major policy change is coming to China’s stock market this week. The Ministry of Finance announced on Friday that it will reduce the stamp duty on stock transactions from 0.1% to 0.05%, effective from Monday. This is the first time that the stamp duty has been lowered since 2008, when it was cut from 0.3% to 0.1%. The move is expected to boost market liquidity, lower trading costs, and stimulate investor confidence.

The stamp duty is a tax levied on the buyers and sellers of stocks, based on the transaction value. It is one of the main sources of revenue for the Ministry of Finance, which collected about 150 billion yuan ($23 billion) from the stamp duty in 2020, accounting for 2.4% of its total fiscal revenue. However, the stamp duty also imposes a burden on investors, especially those who trade frequently or in large volumes.

The Ministry of Finance said that the decision to cut the stamp duty was made in accordance with the central government’s guidelines on promoting high-quality development of the capital market and enhancing its role in serving the real economy. The ministry also said that it will continue to optimize the tax system and implement tax policies that are conducive to the healthy and stable development of the stock market.

The announcement was welcomed by market participants, who believe that the lower stamp duty will have a positive impact on both the supply and demand sides of the market. On the supply side, the lower stamp duty will encourage more companies to list on the stock market, as it will reduce their financing costs and increase their attractiveness to investors. On the demand side, the lower stamp duty will attract more investors to enter or re-enter the market, as it will increase their returns and reduce their risks.

According to some analysts, the stamp duty cut could boost China’s stock market turnover by 10% to 20% and lift the benchmark Shanghai Composite Index by 5% to 10%. They also expect that the stamp duty cut will benefit sectors such as technology, consumer, and healthcare, which have higher valuations and trading volumes.

The stamp duty cut is also seen as a signal that China’s regulators are taking more proactive measures to support the stock market, amid concerns over slowing economic growth, rising inflation, and regulatory crackdowns on some industries. In recent months, China’s stock market has been under pressure from various factors, such as the Evergrande debt crisis, the power shortage, and the delisting of Chinese companies from US exchanges. The stamp duty cut could help ease some of these worries and restore investor confidence.

However, some experts also caution that the stamp duty cut is not a panacea for all the challenges facing China’s stock market, and that investors should not expect too much from it. They point out that the stamp duty is only one of many factors that affect the market performance, and that its impact may be limited or short-lived if other fundamental issues are not resolved. They also warn that the stamp duty cut may increase market volatility and speculation, and that investors should be prudent and rational in their trading decisions.

How will this affect investors? The answer may depend on their investment goals, strategies, and risk preferences. For long-term investors who seek stable returns and low costs, the stamp duty cut may be a good opportunity to buy or hold quality stocks at lower prices.

For short-term investors who seek high returns and high risks, the stamp duty cut may be a good opportunity to trade more frequently or aggressively, but they should also be aware of the potential pitfalls and losses. For investors who are interested in specific sectors or themes, such as green energy or digital economy, they should pay attention to how the stamp duty cut affects their performance and valuation relative to other sectors or themes.

Threads Vs. Twitter: The Social Media Platform War

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TI Partners

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August 29, 2023

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Threads is the new social media platform popularly known as the Twitter replacement created by Mark Zuckerberg, Meta CEO. The app was launched shortly after many recent unpredictable occurrences happening on Twitter since Elon Musk’s takeover.

The two platforms have been in a tussle because many features on the new social media platform, Threads, bear quite a lot of similarities to Twitter — one of which is the fact that Threads is a text-focused messaging app, just like Twitter. Many users believe that Mark is leveraging Instagram’s popularity to pull a crowd of users to the new platform, especially as both Threads and Instagram are almost joined at the hip.

However, others say that the new features that Threads provides users make it a worthy contender for Musk’s Twitter.

In our review of both platforms, indeed we have found many similarities but also a few differentiators as well. Come on this journey with us as we settle the recent tech trends battle between Twitter and Threads.

What Is the Threads App?

Threads is a social media platform that allows users to share and interact with text-based posts. Like Twitter, it’s a micro-blogging social media app that provides a more welcoming space to have online conversations. The platform prides itself on the “new way to share with text,” and Threads users have not wasted a minute utilizing the full features the app provides.

In just a few early days since Zuckerberg announced the launch of the Threads app, the platform amassed over 100 million sign-ups ups making it the current biggest Twitter competitor in the social media world. Threads is available on the list of social media platforms available for download in over 100 countries around the globe.

Threads lets users share posts that look just like Tweets. Users can also grow their followers, comment, and interact with them on trending topics. You can always buy Threads followers from Views4You and have instant growth with your account.

The Main Differences & Similarities Between the Threads Feed & Twitter’s

There are many similarities that make the Instagram-related app seem a tad too similar to Twitter features, which is one of the reasons why the Twitter company CEO, Elon Musk, recently filed to take legal action against the new app. However, each platform still has its own uniqueness that makes Instagram users support Zuckerberg, and Twitter users stand firmly behind Musk.

One significant difference you may observe from the outside looking in is the stark variation between the Twitter logo and Threads’ logo. Unlike the Twitter app icon — the Twitter bluebird, the Threads icon is a thread-like representation of the “@” symbol.

Nevertheless, let’s look in-depth at the key differences between Threads and Twitter as a user of both apps.

Threads vs Twitter: Character Count & Limits on Posts

You can share posts on both Threads and Twitter, which include images, videos, links, GIFs, and much more. However, Threads allows up to 500 character counts per post, while Tweets have a 280-character limit per post on a basic tier account. However if you have a Twitter Blue subscription, you get up to 25k characters per post.

Threads offers users up to 10 items per post with its Carousel posts feature, one-upping Twitter that only allows four items for each post.

Threads vs Twitter: Account Creation Requirements

You need to have an Instagram account to be able to use the Threads platform. If you have the Threads App, you must also be signed up on Instagram to use it. Threads will also allow you to select which account handles from your Instagram account you wish to follow when you join the app. You can select all handles or choose the ones you like.

One major deal breaker that Threads users are facing is that the platform does not allow users to delete their Threads account without deleting their main Instagram account. So, if you’re not ready to say goodbye to your Instagram accounts, Threads may not be an option for you.

Twitter, on the other hand, is a standalone company that’s not joined at the hip with any other social media platforms. This means that you can join Twitter without having to be on any other social media. If you like, you’re also free to delete your Twitter accounts with no strings attached.

Threads vs Twitter: The UI & UX Features

Threads and Twitter look very much alike in their user interface. They both sport a text box that looks alike. The retweet icons and procedure also seem very much similar. Other activities like tagging a Threads user in a comment or post are also similar. Twitter’s hashtags feature which many users leverage to make posts go viral or to search for followers handles is, however, not yet available on the Threads platform. Seeing as hashtags are a popular Instagram and Facebook feature, it’s not far-fetched to assume that Meta is likely working on something related.

Threads vs Twitter: Direct Messaging

Twitter is not just great for creating tweets, tweet threads, and sharing videos on the feed, but the company also provides a Direct Message or DM feature where users can communicate privately. Here, you can share links, messages, images, videos, voice messages, and more. Instagram DMs also provide a similar feature for Instagram users.

Sadly, this feature has not yet been replicated on Threads, perhaps because it already has 3 major social media channels dedicated to exchanging DMs (Facebook Messenger, IG DMs, & WhatsApp).

Threads vs Twitter: Search Capabilities

One of the qualities that help Twitter stand out is the ability it gives its users to search for an old tweet on their feed, a trending news story, a follower, or certain hashtags. Meta has a search feature on its other platforms, as well, but it mostly focuses on finding accounts, and locations, or using the hashtag feature to curate posts with related search terms.

Threads does not have an in-depth search capability like Twitter right now. Instead, it can only search for other Thread accounts. Being a new social media channel, it’s difficult to tell if this feature is in the works.

Threads vs Twitter: Trending Posts

Twitter has a well-built system in place to help users find hot and trending topics. You can also customize your feed to determine the types of posts that show up based on the settings you choose. “Following” gives you content from your followers alone, while “For You” shows you a mix of relevant content from a variety of audiences.

Although Threads also allows you to mute words to customize the posts you see, a typical Threads feed is very basic. You only get to view posts from people you follow and posts that are trending. There are some talks about a Chronological feed in the works for Threads, but that’s about it for now.

Other Minor Differences & Similarities in the Threads vs. Twitter Conflict

Now that you’ve seen the major differences between Threads & Twitter, there are a few other nitty-gritty that you may want to get up to date with.

Followers List

Twitter provides two distinct tabs indicating who you’re following and who is following you. Threads, however, only provides a “Followers” tab under which you can then view who follows you.

Ads, Security, & Privacy Policies

Unlike Twitter, Threads does not run ads — yet. Everyone knows how big Meta is on advertising on many of its social channels, so it’s likely that the feature will be integrated into Threads soon. As for privacy and security, your Threads account can be either private or public, just like Twitter. Threads by Meta is highly interested in your personal data. The social channel collects a huge amount of your personal data and sensitive information from your purchase history to your physical address, and so much more.

Verification Badge & Pricing

If you have the blue checkmarks on your Instagram accounts, then you automatically have them on your Thread accounts at no charge. Twitter, on the other hand, has a thing going with paid verification badges, assigning badges based on a subscription tier. You can get a blue checkmark on Twitter for $8. A gold check on Twitter represents a business. The only exceptions are Government accounts that get a grey check.

Username Claims

On Threads, your Instagram username automatically becomes your Threads username. You can only modify your Threads username by changing your IG username. Your Twitter name, however, is anything you want it to be, unconnected to any other social media.

Does a Threads Account Need an Instagram Account?

Yes, it does. You can only join Threads if you have an account on Instagram. Similarly, you can only delete your Threads account if you delete your Instagram account. This means you must consider the implications of joining the channel very well before you agree to sign up.

How to Join Threads Social Media Platform

Joining Threads is easy.

Make sure you have an IG account
Download the Threads app from your device’s app store (Google Play or App Store)
Sign in and claim your IG username.

X Records Decline in Downloads And Weekly Active Users, Following Rebranding

By

Ojukwu Emmanuel

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August 29, 2023

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Microblogging platform X , formerly Twitter, is reported to have recorded a decline in the number of downloads and weekly active users, following the rebranding of the app.

Analysis from Sensor Tower reports that X weekly active users dropped 4% over the following weeks after the rebrand (August 6-20), while the X app fell four spots in the overall category rankings to 36th.

This analysis follows the controversial rebranding of Twitter to X, which saw some forecasts estimating the company was destroying billions in brand equity.

Analysts and brand agencies called the platform’s renaming a mistake, which they suggested was completely irrational.

Allen Adamson, the co-founder of the marketing and brand consulting group Metaforce, called Musk branding of X as an “ego decision”. “To me, it’s going to go down in history as one of the fastest unwindings of a business and brand ever”, he said.

Another analyst Irwin suggested that One thing working in Musk’s favor is “The Elon brand,” which might be more powerful than the Twitter brand.”

Meanwhile, despite the decline in the number of downloads and daily active users on the X app, there is one notable bright spot. X rebranding saw an unexpected increase in revenue by around 25% from August 6 to August 20, mostly due to a 24% rise in iOS revenue.

This significant increase in revenue contradicts the idea of brand equity degradation, implying that X was able to retain or perhaps attract more into a segment of its core user base.

Interestingly, there were reports that Twitter’s rebranding appeared to have caused some form of confusion for consumers on the app store. While some were aware of the name change, several other uninformed users still searched for the Twitter app on the app store but were not able to locate it.

This experience reportedly led to the surge of downloads for the Twitter Lite, in the first week of the rebranding. According to Sensor Tower, during this week, Twitter Lite downloads jumped up by around 350%.

This act impacted X revenue, which fell during this first week (July 23-August 5) by 3% overall, primarily due to an 8% decrease in iOS.

However, in the weeks that followed, Meta Threads, saw an uptick in downloads with growth up by roughly 50% while also moving up one spot to 12th Overall in the category rankings.

Also, Bluesky and Mastodon saw downloads increase by 180% and 15%, respectively, an indication that that suggested that those fleeing the rebranded X, turned to Bluesky instead.

Meanwhile, both Twitter-like apps, later experienced a decline in downloads, after the rebranding of X subdued, with installs dropping 25% and 40%, respectively.

With a rather abrupt transition by Twitter to X Corp, the rebranding promises to bring along significant changes to the networking site. The change in branding is not just about aesthetics, but it signals an ambitious foray into new territory.

Powered by cutting-edge AI technology, the rebranded Twitter, now “X,” promises to revolutionize social media as it gears towards becoming an everything app.

The Journey to Growth – Tekedia Mini-MBA Live

By

Ndubuisi Ekekwe

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August 29, 2023

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It is Tekedia Mini-MBA Graduation Week. Join us at Tekedia Mini-MBA Live for the first lecture titled “The Journey to Growth”. After our co-learning process over the last 12 weeks, it is now time for execution. When we execute, we grow.

Sir Oliver de Coque in his ogene music reminded us that “egwu oma si na chi” [good music comes from the god], and we can extend that profits come from great execution, because the reward of superior execution is business growth.

Zoom link in the Board . To join the next edition of Tekedia Mini-MBA, go here

Visa Partners With Kenyan Banks to Launch Contactless Payments

By

Ojukwu Emmanuel

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August 29, 2023

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Visa, a trusted leader in digital payments, is reportedly partnering with banks in Kenya to roll out contactless payments, to enable a safe and secure transaction experience for consumers.

Visa seeks to target the growing base of consumers looking for safer payment solutions, both physically and technologically.

Looking at the several advantages that contactless payments offer, such as ease of use, speed, and safety, Visa has several resources in place to familiarize consumers in Kenya with the security features provided by contactless payment technologies and e-commerce to keep them safe while paying with their cards.

Speaking on the launch of contactless payments, the Country Manager for Visa in Kenya, Corine Mbiaketcha, said,

“Across the globe, we’re settling into a new normal, an immediate acceleration of digital shopping, which has dramatically changed the way we live, work, and buy. It has impacted how we spend, send, and use money, with a tsunami-like ripple effect on many parts of the global economy.

“We have seen an increasing demand among consumers and merchants to take advantage of the benefits of contactless payments in light of the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. We are working with our partners to ensure that our capabilities are made widely available and updated specifically to help meet today’s challenges.

“For the transactions that still need to be made in person, we have doubled down on our contactless efforts around the world, including raising spending limits to enable a larger number of PIN-free purchases in more countries around the world.”

It is worth noting that in terms of the adoption of digital payments, Kenya has established itself as a leader on the African continent. The Digital Payments market in Kenya is projected to grow by 14.10% (2023-2027).

Kenya has witnessed significant improvements in payment systems, particularly with mobile money technology. Therefore, Visa contactless payments launch in Kenya is not only strategic but will impact individuals and businesses positively.

For consumers, contactless payments offer an easy, fast, and secure experience, especially as smartphones and even smarter contactless-enabled wearable devices are now commonplace. While for merchants, tap-to-pay technology speeds up queuing times and reduces the burden of handling cash.

A Look at the Several Advantages Contactless Payments Offers For Both Consumers and Businesses

1.) Speed and Convenience: Contactless payments are incredibly fast and convenient. Users can make a payment by simply tapping or waving their contactless-enabled card, mobile phone, or wearable device near a point-of-sale terminal. This reduces the time spent at the checkout counter, making the overall payment process smoother.

2. Reduced Friction: Contactless payments eliminate the need to handle physical cash or insert cards into machines. This reduces the risk of errors and improves the overall customer experience, as users don’t need to fumble for the right amount of cash or deal with faulty card readers.

3. Security: Contactless payments are designed with security features to protect user information. Tokenization and encryption technologies ensure that sensitive payment data is not stored on the device or transmitted to the merchant’s system. Additionally, many contactless transactions require authentication, such as a PIN or biometric verification, adding an extra layer of security.

4. Versatility: Contactless payments can be used in various settings, including retail stores, public transportation, restaurants, and more. This versatility makes them suitable for a wide range of payment scenarios.

5. Record Keeping: Many contactless payment methods offer digital receipts and transaction history, making it easier for users to track their spending and manage their finances.

6. Accessibility: Contactless payment technology can be integrated into various devices, including smartphones, smartwatches, and even some wearables. This makes it accessible to a wide range of users, including those who might not carry physical wallets.

7. Faster Checkout Lines: Businesses benefit from contactless payments as well. With shorter transaction times, checkout lines can move more quickly, improving customer satisfaction and potentially increasing sales volume.

8.) Cost Efficiency: Over time, businesses may see cost savings related to the reduced need for physical cash handling, lower instances of errors, and potentially fewer requirements for traditional point-of-sale hardware.

Overall, the advantages of contactless payments contribute to a more streamlined, secure, and efficient payment experience for both consumers and businesses.

China Implements Cut on Stock Trading Stamp Duty from 0.1% to 0.05%

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Threads Vs. Twitter: The Social Media Platform War

What Is the Threads App?

The Main Differences & Similarities Between the Threads Feed & Twitter’s

Threads vs Twitter: Character Count & Limits on Posts