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Gallop ahead: Discover your 2026 Chinese Zodiac forecast

Gallop ahead: Discover your 2026 Chinese Zodiac forecast

The Year of the Horse is here with energy, adventure, and momentum. See what 2026 has in store for you and your Chinese Zodiac sign.

In 2026, Lunar New Year falls on 17 February, kicking off the 16-day Spring Festival. The Horse is the 7th animal in the 12-year cycle of the Chinese Zodiac signs, coming after the Snake and before the Goat.

As the Year of the Horse gallops in with vibrant and fiery energy, symbolising adventure, vitality, and momentum, the HRO team has checked out what Zodiac forecast for this year has in store for everone, encouraging you to embrace change and navigate the year with agility.

As always, take the forecasts with a pinch of salt and make 2026 your own adventure!


Horse (1942, 1954, 1966, 1978, 1990, 2002, 2014, 2026)

Overview:

2026 boosts your energy, making the highs feel higher and the challenges a bit trickier. Keep calm and balance your fiery nature, and you can turn this intense year into growth and breakthroughs.

Health:

Stress and mood swings are your biggest challenge this year. Gentle exercise, meditation, and enough rest will help you stay balanced and avoid burnout.

Career:

Opportunities for big breakthroughs are on the table, but impulsive decisions could backfire. Stay focused, keep a clear head, and your hard work could finally pay off.

Best careers:

  • Architect
  • Business executive
  • Entertainer
  • Entrepreneur
  • Travel vlogger

Wealth:

Financial gains come from persistence and careful planning rather than quick wins. Think of 2026 as a year to plant seeds for long-term growth.

Love and relationship:

Romance is lively this year. Singles may find someone new, while married Horses should focus on patience, communication, and nurturing connections to avoid conflicts.


Goat (1943, 1955, 1967, 1979, 1991, 2003, 2015, and 2027)

Overview:

2026 under the fiery Horse brings Goats opportunities and surprises. Auspicious stars open doors in career, relationships, and wealth, while supportive allies and teamwork can help you navigate challenges and make the most of the year.

Health:

Overall vitality improves compared with last year. Minor issues like headaches or colds may appear, but balanced nutrition, regular outdoor activity, and timely rest will keep energy high. Avoid stressful occasions and watch over young children in the family.

Career:

The year offers visibility, recognition, and strong collaboration. Goats should chase projects, form partnerships, and embrace new opportunities, while staying resilient during occasional setbacks or clashes of opinion.

Best careers:

  • Literary agent
  • Research scientist
  • Writer
  • Artist
  • Editor

Wealth:

Finances look positive, especially through collaborations, networking, and partnerships. Avoid overspending, check contracts carefully, and practise financial discipline to ensure gains turn into long-term wealth.

Love and relationship:

Singles may find love through family or friends, with potential for steady connections. Couples experience growth and commitment, resolve past misunderstandings, and may plan for marriage, moving in together, or share future goals.


Monkey (1944, 1956, 1968, 1980, 1992, 2004, 2016, 2028)

Overview:

2026, the Year of the Horse, brings an energetic ride for Monkeys. Sparks and opportunities arise from the fire-metal clash, and while mood swings or unexpected hiccups may occur, resilience and adaptability can turn challenges into valuable steppingstones.

Health:

The fiery energy can leave Monkeys feeling drained or prone to stomach issues. Watch alcohol and spicy foods, strengthen routines with exercise, sleep, and rest, and avoid stressful occasions such as funerals or hospital visits.

Career:

Extra pressure and restlessness may appear, but guidance from mentors or supportive colleagues helps. Patience and flexibility will sharpen skills, turning challenging moments into long-term career growth.

Best careers:

  • Trader
  • Politician
  • Diplomat
  • Journalist

Wealth:

Financial prospects are positive, with opportunities for direct and indirect income. Careful tracking, handling finances personally, and avoiding messy accounts or over-trusting others will bring steady gains.

Love and relationship:

Romance luck is strong. Singles may meet intriguing people socially, while committed Monkeys should focus on communication, patience, and tolerance to maintain harmony in love.


Rooster (1945, 1957, 1969, 1981, 1993, 2005, 2017, 2029)

Overview:

For Roosters, 2026 is about adapting and innovating. Sparks from the Rooster-Horse clash push you out of your comfort zone, and while there may be moments of 'working harder for less', the red phoenix star brings sweetness to relationships. Think of this year as a time to polish your feathers and grow stronger by year’s end.

Health:

Overall health is stable, but caution is needed around travel, driving, and accident risks. Seniors should focus on low-sugar, low-fat diet, respiratory and kidney health, while everyone benefits from regular rest, exercise, and avoiding excess alcohol.

Career:

Roosters may feel the 'much effort, little gain' effect. Energy and persistence are needed to maintain income, but those who are innovative and adaptable will thrive. Use your natural sharpness to explore new strategies or niches and shed outdated methods.

Best careers:

  • Investor
  • Data Scientist
  • Realtor
  • Competitive athlete
  • Politician

Wealth:

Financial luck is slightly unstable, especially with weak indirect prospects. Avoid risky investments, focus on saving, budgeting, and protecting existing assets, and cut unnecessary expenses to ride out fluctuations safely.

Love and relationship:

Romance shines with the red phoenix star. Singles may meet someone special through gatherings or friends. Couples should watch for drama or jealousy; staying honest, grounded, and communicative will keep relationships strong.


Dog (1946, 1958, 1970, 1982, 1994, 2006, 2018, 2030)

Overview:

For loyal Dogs, 2026 brings determination, momentum, and steady progress. The Horse year ignites your fire element, pushing action and visible results. While the Horse-Earth clash adds tension, supportive stars help your resilience shine.

Health:

Prioritise rest, exercise, and balanced diet this year. Fatigue from overwork, minor accidents, or stomach issues may appear if wellbeing is neglected. Keep an eye on family health to maintain harmony at home.

Career:

The heavenly solution star favours breakthroughs. Stalled projects may move forward, and mentors or supportive colleagues offer help. Dogs who lead, innovate, or start new ventures will see the greatest rewards.

Best careers:

  • Police officer
  • Accountant
  • Operations specialist
  • Civil servant
  • Lawyer

Wealth:

Unexpected expenses may arise under the minor loss star, so avoid flashy investments or careless spending. Focus on saving, risk reduction, and practical assets to protect and grow your wealth steadily.

Love and relationship:

Love is quieter in 2026. Singles may find peach-blossom luck through social circles, while couples should avoid the 'work-first' trap. Slowing down, opening your heart, and giving attention to relationships keeps bonds strong.


Pig (1947, 1959, 1971, 1983, 1995, 2007, 2019, 2031)

Overview:

For Pigs, 2026 brings a mix of challenges and rewards. The Horse clash may create bumps, but your calm and kind nature helps you navigate the year. Shifting stars test patience, yet opportunities for love and financial growth remain strong.

Health:

Energy dips may affect digestion and immunity, especially in the third and seventh lunar months. Balanced meals, gentle exercise, check-ups, and attention to family well-being will help maintain vitality.

Career:

Work may feel challenging at times, with obstacles and occasional clashes with rivals. Patience, clear communication, and focusing on long-term goals will turn setbacks into growth opportunities.

Best careers:

  • Teacher
  • Academic researcher
  • Gardener
  • Veterinarian
  • Farmer

Wealth:

Financial luck is steady, with regular income, side earnings, and investments possible. Avoid risky ventures in real estate, material supplies, or metal industries, and focus on stable, well-planned strategies to preserve gains.

Love and relationship:

Strong emotions may arise under the prime origin star. Singles may find romance or long-term partners, while committed Pigs should rely on honesty, warmth, and shared laughter to maintain steady, harmonious relationships.


Rat (1948, 1960, 1972, 1984, 1996, 2008, 2020, 2032)

Overview:

The Horse year stands opposite Rats, making 2026 feel like swimming against the current. Challenges arise, but your cleverness, adaptability, patience, and strategy help uncover opportunities and blessings despite disruptions.

Health:

Extra caution is advised with water, fire, and sharp objects, as well as stress affecting heart, eyes, brain, kidney, and digestion. Moderate exercise, mindful eating, and proper rest help prevent accidents and burnout.

Career:

Progress may feel like two steps forward, one step back. Minor disputes or contract issues could surface, but careful planning, double-checking agreements, and attention to detail can turn challenges into hidden opportunities.

Best careers:

  • Academic researcher
  • Healthcare professional
  • Writer
  • Accountant
  • Photographer

Wealth:

Financial luck is fluctuating, with risks of unexpected expenses or losses. Avoid speculative investments, focus on steady earnings, savings, and safer long-term assets to protect wealth.

Love and relationship:

Celestial weeping star may create tension in relationships. Gentle communication, empathy, and a light-hearted approach help mend bonds, while singles may attract new connections unexpectedly.


Ox (1949, 1961, 1973, 1985, 1997, 2009, 2021, 2033)

Overview:

The Horse year brings fast, fiery energy, while Oxen prefer steady progress. This clash tests you but also pushes growth. Challenges from cataclysmic collapse and celestial adversity stars may arise, yet your Earth element, persistence, and flexibility help you navigate turbulence successfully.

Health:

Pay attention to digestion, cardiovascular, and heart health. Stick to regular meals, avoid overindulgence, and prioritise rest. Maintaining steady routines is key to thriving in the Horse year.

Career:

Work pace may feel hurried, with potential rivalries and office politics. Benefactor stars support mentorship and guidance. Measured actions, careful speech, and persistence help you earn trust and avoid conflicts, leading to long-term gains.

Best careers:

  • Doctor
  • Social worker
  • Teacher
  • Government worker
  • Military

Wealth:

Finances are stable but risky ventures are warned against. Quick profits may be traps. Focus on saving, careful planning, and disciplined spending to secure steady growth.

Love and relationship:

Flying blade star may create tension in relationships. Couples should navigate disagreements patiently, while singles may face uncertainty at first. Loyalty, sincerity, and guidance from supportive allies help turn friction into stronger bonds.


Tiger (1950, 1962, 1974, 1986, 1998, 2010, 2022, 2034)

Overview:

The Horse year brings movement, excitement, and sudden twists for Tigers. While shifting energies create hurdles, your courage, leadership, and adaptability help you rise above challenges. Staying mindful and flexible allows breakthroughs to emerge from change.

Health:

Emotional fluctuations may lead to insomnia, palpitations, stress, or vivid dreams. Managing pressure through rest and routine is essential. Pay extra attention to elderly family members, especially around September, with early check-ups advised.

Career:

Work feels competitive, with frequent changes, rivalries, and high-pressure situations. Ambition remains strong, but reckless decisions could backfire. A steady, cautious approach, supported by strategic alliances, helps Tigers advance despite obstacles.

Best careers:

  • Politician
  • Stock Trader
  • Entrepreneur
  • Athlete
  • Scientist

Wealth:

The White Tiger star warns of hidden financial traps and unexpected expenses. While opportunities may appear attractive, this is not a year for risk-taking. Conservative planning and disciplined spending help protect long-term stability.

Love and relationship:

Celestial champion and terrestrial malignity stars may cause mood swings, withdrawal, or stubbornness. Partners may feel emotional distance. By listening more, softening attitudes, and staying open, Tigers can transform tension into trust and deeper connection.


Rabbit (1951, 1963, 1975, 1987, 1999, 2011, 2023, 2035)

Overview:

For Rabbits, the Year of the Fire Horse brings a breaking clash with Tai Sui, causing small but recurring challenges. While not extreme, these disruptions may test patience and emotional balance.

Thankfully, peach blossom and heavenly joy stars bring warmth through relationships and happy occasions, helping Rabbits stay grounded and positive throughout the year.

Health:

The sickness token star highlights stress-related concerns such as anxiety, poor sleep, or lowered immunity. The wood–fire tension may amplify fatigue if rest is ignored.

The disheveled star calls for caution with sharp objects, renovations, and driving. Senior Rabbits should prioritise early health checks, especially at the start of the lunar year.

Career:

The clash influence may bring delays, disagreements, or stalled progress at work. These challenges require flexibility rather than confrontation.

Rabbits who stay diplomatic and consistent will still earn trust and recognition. Be mindful of communication and handle work relationships with care to avoid misunderstandings.

Best careers:

  • Finance
  • Artist
  • Architecture
  • Public relations
  • Teacher

Wealth:

The minor loss star points to frequent small expenses, such as repairs or maintenance, which may quietly add up.

Avoid risky investments or gambling. Focus on saving, stable income, and conservative financial plans to keep wealth steady in the Horse year.

Love and relationship:

Romance is a highlight. The peach blossom star boosts attraction for single Rabbits, especially around May and October, with chances for meaningful connections.

For those attached, heavenly joy supports family harmony. Minor quarrels may arise, but patience and clear communication keep relationships smooth.


Dragon (1952, 1964, 1976, 1988, 2000, 2012, 2024, 2036)

Overview:

The Year of the Horse brings a mixed but promising phase for Dragons. Inauspicious stars like heavenly Dog and Mourning Guest may stir challenges, but growth opportunities remain strong.

By staying adaptable and planning carefully, Dragons can turn pressure into progress. This is a year where resilience unlocks quiet but meaningful rewards.

Health:

With mourning guest and leopard’s tail present, health requires extra attention, both for yourself and close family members. Emotional stress may surface if worries are left unattended.

The heavenly Dog star also signals caution around accidents or minor medical procedures. Regular check-ups and a proactive approach help keep disruptions minimal.

Career:

Career momentum improves compared to last year, though occasional disruptions may arise. Workplace changes or family matters could spill into professional life.

Dragons do best by staying humble, cooperative, and open to support. Avoid ego clashes, as teamwork helps hidden opportunities emerge from challenges.

Best Careers:

  • Artist
  • Politician
  • Academic Researcher
  • Architect

Wealth:

Financial prospects call for careful management. With limited auspicious support, avoid risky investments and be cautious about lending money.

Focus on budgeting and protecting existing assets. Balanced generosity and disciplined planning help maintain stability through fluctuations.

Love and relationship:

The influence of leopard’s tail may bring emotional distance or miscommunication. Singles may struggle to connect deeply, while couples face cooler moments.

Patience and honest dialogue are key. When emotions are handled gently, bonds can stabilise and grow stronger over time.


Snake (1953, 1965, 1977, 1989, 2001, 2013, 2025, 2037)

Overview:

For Snakes, 2026 feels like a fresh opening after a demanding cycle. Freed from last year’s obstacles, you move forward with sharper instincts and renewed confidence.

The Horse year’s fiery energy supports momentum, while the heavenly solution star brings smoother progress. Lingering challenges begin to unravel, making space for recognition and meaningful breakthroughs.

Health:

The sickness token star highlights the need to protect your wellbeing. Stress, fatigue, or emotional strain may surface if you push too hard.

Extra caution is advised when driving, exercising, or handling sharp objects. Prioritising rest, balanced meals, and early care helps keep energy stable throughout the year.

Career:

Career barriers ease noticeably in 2026. With support from heavenly solution, Snakes gain visibility and influence, often with timely help from mentors or allies.

You excel at problem-solving, but progress accelerates when you embrace new ideas. Those willing to innovate or step into challenging roles will see this year as a turning point.

Best careers:

  • Investment advisor
  • Artist
  • Stylist
  • Social media influencer
  • Psychologist

Wealth:

Financial prospects improve alongside career momentum. Salary growth, bonuses, or project-based gains are likely, especially when built through strong networks.

Avoid rushing into speculative trends. Steady budgeting and thoughtful planning help convert short-term wins into lasting financial security.

Love and relationship:

The red phoenix star boosts charm and attraction. Singles may meet promising connections through social events or introductions from friends.

For those attached, strong peach-blossom energy calls for clear boundaries. When attention is directed back into the relationship, trust deepens and bonds grow stronger.


Forecasts adapted from Chinese New Year


ALSO READ: What your Chinese Zodiac would say in an out-of-office email

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