The Year of the Sheep brings good luck to some world leaders and bad vibes for others according to a respected Chinese astrologer, as celebrations mark the Chinese New Year across the globe on Thursday.

Prominent feng shui master Chen Shuaifu has come out with his forecast on what 2015's lunar year may usher in, based on traditional Chinese astrology.

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The Year of the Sheep, which is also referred to as the Year of the Goat, will be a most 'auspicious' time for people who are born in the Year of the Snake, or those who came into this world in 2013, 2001, 1953, 1989, 1977, and 1965. China's President Xi Jinping is one of the lucky ones.

On the other hand, those whose birthday falls in the Year of the Ox -- the years 2009, 1997, 1985, 1973, 1961, and 1949 -- which includes U.S. President Barack Obama, are predicted to suffer through an unlucky year.

Chen foresees that Obama will have to stare down some upheavals in the world this year, including trouble from belligerent Russia.

But, it's a different story for Russian President Vladimir Putin who was born in the Year of the Dragon, a lucky sign under the Year of the Sheep.

The feng shui expert foretells the year to be most unfortunate for love and family. Chen says the Year of the Sheep is hardly the most favorable time for finding new amorous relations and for delivering babies. He did say that as part of Britain's royal family, the usual rules of Chinese astrology may not be valid in the case of Prince William and his wife Kate, who is expected to deliver a baby in April.

Traditionally, those whose date of birth fall under the same astrological sign as the incoming one will live through a most unfortunate year. Chen warns romantic troubles are waiting for Sheep women (birth dates include 2003, 1991, 1979, 1967, 1955 and 1943), who will have to hurdle difficulties in searching for love.

The Year of the Sheep is also expected to be the harbinger of misfortune on the financial front. Chen predicts it will not be a good year for the economy as the real estate business is in the doldrums, which may in turn adversely affect the global economy.

He advised people to be extra cautious in investing their funds. Chen said if investments have to be made, then do them in the last six months of the year.

To improve luck this year, Chen recommends that people wear blue and black and to carry sheep accessories and talismans to help stave off the year's misfortunes. 

TagsYear of the Sheep, Barack Obama