The last few years have seen new wealth in the group of white-collar workers in China. Primarily this group consists of lawyers, artists,company presidents and employees of joint-venture companies.This group did not exist ten years ago. Business ventures such as real estate development, computer companies and travel agencies have nurtured this new class of ambitious Chinese who have tasted “the good life” and want even more of it.

What are the marks of this group of people? First of all, it is defined by what its members have: cell phones, washing machines , microwave ovens, computers, homes and vacations. But this group is not only marked by material things. A psychological independence and carefree optimism is also present.Middel-aged successful company presidents,young professional even college students are optimistic, expecting the best in their future.

Chinese entrepreneurs（企业家）began accumulating money in the late 1980’s. But it was not until the middle 90’s that the material possession of the newly-rich----- cell phones, computers ,cars, houses----were easily available . These high-tech entrepreneurs quit state enterprise to start private companies nearly a decade ago, when China started to transform from a planned to a market economy. These early entrepreneurs are now wealthy by any country’s standards. However, like any newly-rich Chinese, they  seem a little uncomfortable when asked about wealth. One reason for their discomfort is that they realize that the prosperity---wealth---that has created the group of newly-rich has not benefited all Chinese equally. Some entrepreneurs have move up in social status, but many workers have been laid off, losing their jobs temporarily for economic reason, from state-run factories.

For most Chinese, the move into this style of life is still a step-by-step progress. It may be slow but many business people are hopeful. As a real estate entrepreneur from Beijing said: “This is not just about money. It’s about a better quality of life.”