The just-concluded 19th National Congress of the Communist Party of China was the most anticipated political event of the year.

The congress has two important implications. General Secretary Xi Jinping has further strengthened his role as the core of the Party. And, therefore, the country's current policy direction will continue in the years to come, but with a greater focus on financial and economic reforms.

During his speech at the opening of the 19th Party Congress, Xi declared that China has entered a "new era of socialism with Chinese characteristics". His long-term vision for China in this new phase of development is termed the Chinese Dream.