The Big Call

Optimism returns ...gingerly

  • Published 19 Mar 2009

With some of Beijing's economy-boosting measures beginning to gain traction and feed through to the real economy, we are becoming guardedly optimistic.

At the point of engaging battle, do not ask whether your forces are strong; some excellent mounted cavalry have perished before modern artillery. Ask instead whether your forces are up to the fight ahead. This approach seems germane to the situation faced by the Chinese economy. China Confidential researchers in several cities and industries have found clear evidence that a big infrastructure spend is now afoot and will probably intensify in coming weeks (see In Depth). But the question now is not whether Beijing’s forces in its battle against the global downturn are strong, but whether they are strong enough to offset a spectacular slump in external demand.

Issue icon

Latest Issue

12 Jan 2012

Browse the archive

Get two weeks free trial Subscribe now to access all of China Confidential

China Confidential Funds

China Confidential Funds, a new research service launched by FT China Confidential, is dedicated to illuminating the mainland fund industry. Our team of fund industry experts in Shanghai search out the interesting trends in fund performance, strategy, interactions with overseas funds, regulatory changes, distribution and management. We also use a proprietary system to track the emerging flows of Chinese money. Click here to find out more.

Find out more