China Business Knowledge @ CUHK’s Top 10 Articles in 2025

2025 marked a year of transformative changes and resilience across industries. The advancement of humanoid robots, intelligent tools, and ever-evolving financial complexities is redefining the workforce and reshaping the business landscape. Sustainability also took centre stage, with leaders focusing on responsible growth and human-centric strategies.

What topics have been of concern in the past year? How can business leaders and entrepreneurs thrive during this period? Our top 10 most-read articles of the year offer fresh ideas and valuable insights—from smarter ways to leverage technology to simple habits that make a difference.

By China Business Knowledge @ CUHK

#1 How assistive robots can boost an inclusive workforce

Professor Choi Sungwoo, School of Hotel and Tourism Management

Technology can empower individuals with disabilities to thrive in the workplace. While its impact on consumer perception varies, a new study suggests that personal interaction is key to success.

#2 The science of creativity, genetics and careers

Professor Li Wendong, Department of Management

Is creativity a blessing for individual well-being and career success? Researchers find that creativity can yield diverse and sometimes conflicting effects on one’s career paths and overall life satisfaction.

#3 The green illusion: why eco-conscious people still waste food?

Professor Elisa Chan, School of Hotel and Tourism Management

Food waste is a major contributor to global warming, yet many people—including those who consider themselves environmentally conscious—remain unaware of its serious impact.

#4 Enhancing consumer trust in sponsored ads

Professor Wang Weiquan, Department of Decisions, Operations and Technology

Misleading ads are fuelling scepticism toward sponsored products and sellers, prompting researchers to examine factors that shape user trust and identify effective strategies to strengthen user confidence.

#5 Two cents mean a milestone for startups

Professor Willow Wu, Department of Management

While it is commonly believed that entrepreneurs should follow the advice of investors, the reality is far more nuanced. New research suggests seizing all possible opportunities to learn.

#6 Stay niche for better branding

Professor Tony Ke, Department of Marketing

How a brand positions itself can make all the difference. While chasing market trends seems tempting, niche brand positioning can be more profitable in the long run by building consumer trust.

#7 The matchmaking secrets for high-performing teams

Professor Mandy Hu, Department of Marketing

Teamwork plays an important role in a fast-paced work environment. Researchers discover a method to enhance firms’ productivity by redesigning teams without incurring additional hiring costs.

#8 How mental shortcuts guide loan success and repayment

Professor Michael Zhang, Department of Decisions, Operations and Technology

People sometimes rely on quick thinking when making decisions, but this comfort can be a disaster when it comes to personal finance. Recent research offers insights into choosing the right shortcut.

#9 Do stock buybacks stifle innovation?

Professor Kevin Tseng, School of Accountancy

Companies are buying back more of their own shares, often to meet earnings targets. While some fear this hurts innovation, a new study finds the pressure can make firms put their priorities straight.

#10 The risks and rewards of Chinese shadow banking

Professor Su Yang, Department of Finance

Chinese banks operate shadow banking as a high-yield wealth management product. Researchers investigate how the competition fuels these products and highlight the need for clearer disclosure.