The Lucrative Business of Chinese Astrology With an increasing interest in spirituality and the mystical, Chinese astrology or "命理" has become a thriving industry. The practice involves using a person's birth date and time to determine their destiny, personality traits, and future prospects. In China, many people consult fortune tellers or "算命先生" for advice on marriage, career, and financial investments. It's a lucrative business that can earn practitioners thousands of dollars per month, especially during auspicious periods like Chinese New Year. One of the most popular branches of Chinese astrology is "八字命理" or Bazi, which analyzes a person's destiny based on their year, month, day, and hour of birth. The system categorizes individuals into one of the five elements - wood, fire, earth, metal, or water - and assigns them a Yin or Yang energy. The analysis provides insight into a person's strengths and weaknesses, and what they should do to enhance their luck and overcome obstacles. Other forms of Chinese astrology include Zi Wei Dou Shu, which uses a person's birth chart to predict his or her future and Feng Shui, which uses energy flow to enhance the physical environment and improve well-being. The growth of the industry has led to the development of online platforms and mobile apps that offer quick and easy access to astrology services. Companies like iFortune have even gone public, capitalizing on the increasing demand for spiritual guidance. However, there is an ongoing debate about the reliability and accuracy of Chinese astrology. Critics argue that it is purely superstitious and lacks scientific basis. Regardless of the controversy, the business of Chinese astrology remains profitable and continues to attract a diverse clientele. As long as there are those seeking guidance, the industry is unlikely to fade away anytime soon.