That may be another reason why Chinese interest rates are divisible by nine: it is seen as an auspicious number.

ECONOMIST: Economics focus: A stitch in time saves nine | The

The "8City" project, so named because the development's eight districts will resemble the number eight when viewed from above, also plays to the Chinese tradition that eight is an auspicious number.

WSJ: Seoul Bets on Chinese Tourists for Lunar New Year