thoughts from the road

Economic Outlook - China's economy has bottomed, with easier year-over-year comparisons and a reduction in the 'scarring effect' from COVID-19[1] - Trade within Asia is increasing, with 58% of Asian trade occurring within the region by 2021, projected to rise another 10%[17] Growth Drivers - The New Economy, including the Green Economy, AI, and industrial automation, constitutes about 20% of China's economy but accounts for 55% of GDP growth[3] - The green economy is growing at approximately 20% year-over-year, despite being only 10% of China's GDP[51] Challenges - The real estate sector remains overbuilt, with housing starts down nearly 60% from their peak, indicating a significant correction still in progress[32] - Savings as a percentage of household income have increased to 32.5%, up from 29.1% before COVID, indicating a need for restored consumer confidence[37] Investment Sentiment - Many investors are considering reducing their exposure to China from 10-12% to 5-6% due to uncertainty, despite improving fundamentals[47] - The potential for significant capital market reforms exists, which could attract both domestic and foreign investment[79] Policy Recommendations - Emphasis on supply-side reforms, urbanization incentives, and improved clarity around housing market reform is crucial for economic stability[76] - Modernizing the asset management industry is necessary to lower the cost of capital and enhance competitiveness on the global stage[80]