The Ides of August
 

The world is about to change. Fact, and no avoiding it. If you can leave, you would be wise to quickly secure your exit. You'll soon understand the basis of my comment.

The Ides of August was 13 days ago...

No, that was the "ides of March'. Ides of August are a whole different thing. Those of you who think there is any future here, good luck. Time will tell whether my comment had value. I won't comment further, as it would put me in a very small circle. My suggestion is you look to distant horizons for a true career, because CX/HK is done. Happy to debate this in about 5 years time. Until then, all the best and bon voyage.

The Ides of any month are either the 13th or the 15th, depending on the month; it's simply part of the Roman system of naming the days of the month. Maybe they have books wherever you go next so that you can learn words better before you use them?

Paul, does your wife frequently glance sideways at you with "that look"? Answer on a postcard.

Make fun all you like, one has to wonder if ATY is correct. I certainly am...

I am not trying to be cryptic. I simply was trying to impart the fact that there are BIG changes coming to the CX that we have long known. I would certainly like to be more informative on this, but am not able to be due my privileged receipt of the info. All I can say with certainty is that events are about to overtake this airline in a big way. CX is done in mho. As I said, we can come back in 5 years and debate this, but in the meantime, beware the Ides of August. Best to all.

Oh, so you've got some inside info 330?. I don't know what specifically ATY knows, but I sure as h don't doubt that CX is not going to remain as is. If you are planning your career on some idyllic memory of what CX used to be, you will almost certainly be sorely disappointed. If a look at the situation in HK, the mainland's outlook towards HK and its people, and the current whipping boy situation CX finds itself in, and you STILL believe that CX is the place to rest your faith in, both for your own, and your family's sake....well, good luck to you. You'll need it.

It seems that Octavius was ultimately victorious in the past encounter, who gets to wear that hat this time around?

I would take notice of that article if I were you (or anyone under 45 yrs of age). The time is now short to get out of CX without damage.

Merlin's last visit to Beijing involved a Tiger Balm enema which has crystallised the 'Group's' view on bringing forward the long term plan. If you do not have your own plan you should put one in place as soon as possible.

Cathay Dragon is a discount carrier???? Makes you wonder about the veracity of the rest of the story!!

Latest edition of The Economist speculates on a takeover by Air China.

"As for Cathay, Air China holds a 30% stake in the airline. Old rumors of the flag carrier's intention to buy Cathay outright have resurfaced. Luya You of Bocom International, a broker, says an acquisition would transfer Cathay''s global expertise to Air China and "quell China's concerns about its foreign background" (ie Swire). Given all the turbulence, few expect such a high-stakes deal to happen soon. Still, in the meantime, Mr You has a simple message for investors "Do not underestimate China's resolve to punish Cathay as a symbol for others." Many will have heard that disturbing message loud and clear.