Core Viewpoint - The article reflects on the legacy of Zhou Jintao and his contributions to the understanding of economic cycles, particularly the K-wave theory, emphasizing the cyclical nature of wealth opportunities in life and the impact of external factors on these cycles [4][9][20]. Group 1: Zhou Jintao's Predictions and Theories - Zhou Jintao predicted that 2018 would be the darkest moment of the K-wave cycle, with 2019 marking the beginning of a new cycle, which he believed would provide significant wealth opportunities for those born after 1985 [4][20]. - His theory, known as the "Tao Movement Cycle Theory," incorporates real estate cycles into the K-wave framework, suggesting that individuals have limited opportunities to accumulate wealth throughout their lives [19][20]. - Zhou's insights into the cyclical nature of the economy were validated over time, as the real estate market experienced significant fluctuations, and gold prices surged, reflecting the changing economic landscape [7][31]. Group 2: Economic Context and Market Dynamics - The article discusses the chaotic nature of global markets post-2018, characterized by unpredictable events such as black swan occurrences and shifts in monetary policy, which challenged Zhou's predictions [5][9]. - It highlights the resilience of the Chinese real estate market, which defied Zhou's expectations of a downturn, and the subsequent rise in gold prices, which aligned with his long-term predictions [7][31]. - The impact of structural monetary policies and fiscal measures in both China and the U.S. is examined, noting how these interventions have influenced market dynamics and extended the life of the dollar system [26][28]. Group 3: The Evolution of Economic Theories - The article traces the historical development of K-wave theory, linking it to the works of Kondratiev and Schumpeter, and emphasizes the importance of innovation in driving economic cycles [17][19]. - Zhou's approach to economic cycles was unique in that he integrated real estate dynamics, reflecting the significant role of property markets in China's economic growth [19]. - The discussion includes the limitations of Zhou's predictions, particularly regarding the timing of technological revolutions and their impact on economic cycles, which were not fully anticipated [41][46].