Crisp and new money is a sign of respect and a symbol of wishing good luck to someone’s wealth for the year ahead. It is considered disrespectful to give old or torn notes. Also make sure that the amount is an even number except the number 4 (sì) as it is pronounced nearly the same with death (sĭ).

Giving out shoes as a gift for Chinese New Year is bad luck because the word “shoes” (xié pronounced as /syeah/) sounds similarly like a word for bad luck or evil (xié è).

Generally, cut flowers are given in funerals so it should not be given during Chinese New Year. Any white flowers cannot also be gifted because the colour white is an unlucky colour in Chinese culture.

The colour black and white are colours used in funerals. Avoid giving out items that are black or white, or using wrapping paper or envelopes in these colours. However, red is believed to be a lucky colour so it is a great option to use this Chinese New Year.

Throughout much of Asia, mirrors are a bad idea for gifts as they are believed to attract bad spirits. On top of that, mirrors are easily broken and breaking things is a bad omen.

When giving or receiving a gift, make sure to always use both hands. This is a custom in Chinese tradition especially when giving things like money and business card. It shows respect and appreciation towards the act and the giver.