Red Packets – Understanding When & How Much To Give

Most people are aware of the tradition of giving red packets (红包 hóngbāo) in Chinese culture as gestures of appreciation during big life events. Venture beyond the surface level, however, and you quickly discover that effective gifting requires an understanding of public relations, sociology, psychology, finance & accounting, creative writing and even poetry.

Red Packets in Action

There’s nothing mysterious about the red packet itself: a decorated red envelope with cash notes inside. You’ll he...