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02 December 2010

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The Big Call

Auto sales: A strong Q4, but more moderate 2011 in prospect

Our surveys show buoyant demand in November and December but 2011 may see a return to more moderate auto sales growth.

Consumer China

China's car market - Plenty of zip left

Our proprietary online survey reveals several key themes and trends driving the world's largest car market.

Geely - Stalling after a strong 1H, though new launch "Vision" shows promise

Results from our recent survey show that Geely (0175:HKG) is trailing indigenous brands such as the unlisted Chery in lower tier cities and, at the other end of the spectrum, finds it is tough to compete with foreign joint venture brands in first tier markets.

BMW - Taking the high road

Although Audi continues to lead China's luxury car segment, BMW (BMW:BER) group is gaining ground fast.

BYD - Taking a breather but still strong in lower tier cities

Demand remains strong in lower tier cities despite negative publicity surrounding BYD's electric vehicles and weak Q3 results.

Toyota - Sliding reputation brings a meagre harvest

Toyota has been slipping down the rankings in China following its inability to adapt to demand in lower tier cities and political tensions with Japan tarnishing the brand.

SAIC Motor - Thriving through joint ventures with VW and GM

VW and GM have both thrived this year with popular products, expansive distribution networks and a reputation for good service. SAIC has benefited.

In Depth

Trust companies - A benign or malignant part of China's financial architecture?

2010 has been a banner year for Trust companies. But do they represent a much-needed step in China's financial evolution or an insufficiently-regulated netherworld destined to throw up shocks and scares?

Forbidden City

North Korea throws a focus on Asia's fraught strategic balance

So far, the aftermath of North Korea's shelling of a South Korean island has followed true to the playbook of Pyongyang poker.

Best of Chinese Commentators

A turning point for real estate?

Commentators discuss if and when the raft of measures to control China's runaway property market will effectively tame price rises.

Loose liquidity or tight supply?

Commentators discuss the drivers of China's rising inflation.

Funds Data

Flows to China hold up despite inflation fears

Flows to China remained resilient in the two weeks ending Nov 24 in spite of news during the period that inflationary pressures are rising.

RENMINBI COMPASS

Renminbi Compass, a new research service launched by the FT, aims to act as a navigational guide through the expanding universe of renminbi asset classes. With the Chinese currency gaining ever-wider acceptance around the world and Beijing taking steps to open its capital account, we are broadening our research coverage to include not only equity funds but also all other important renminbi asset classes, such as chengtou bonds, dim sum bonds, real estate, trust products, underground banking, art, antiques and several others.