Core Viewpoint - The recent diplomatic interactions between France and Germany regarding China have revealed significant policy divergences, with France adopting a more confrontational stance while Germany emphasizes continued cooperation [1][3]. Group 1: France's Position - President Macron's initial visit to China aimed to strengthen economic ties, particularly in high-tech and green energy sectors, but he later proposed increasing tariffs on China to address trade deficits upon returning to France [1][3]. - Macron's shift in tone reflects an attempt to respond to rising nationalist sentiments domestically, balancing economic interests with the need to maintain a cooperative relationship with China [3][8]. Group 2: Germany's Position - Germany, represented by Foreign Minister Baerbock, has taken a pragmatic approach, expressing a commitment to deepening cooperation with China and rejecting protectionist policies [3][5]. - The German government recognizes that stable relations with China are crucial for its economic recovery and industrial competitiveness, especially as China is Germany's largest trading partner [5][8]. Group 3: EU's Stance - The EU's overall attitude towards China is evolving, with EU Foreign Minister Kaja Kallas emphasizing the bloc's significant economic influence and ability to exert pressure on China [6]. - This shift aims to strengthen internal unity within the EU while supporting France's tougher stance, contrasting with Germany's more flexible approach [6][8]. Group 4: Implications for Future Relations - The divergence in Franco-German policies towards China highlights the complexities of the global economic landscape and the potential for increased tension within the EU [8]. - The ability of Germany to maintain its independent stance within the EU framework while managing its extensive trade relations with China remains a critical point of observation [8].

Macroeconomic Outlook - The People's Bank of China (PBOC) and Bridgewater Associates exchanged views on the international economic situation and financial market dynamics [1] - Bridgewater Associates engaged in discussions with PBOC and State Administration of Foreign Exchange (SAFE) staff on topics such as debt cycles [1] Regulatory Interactions - PBOC Governor Pan Gongsheng met with Bridgewater Associates founder Ray Dalio [1]

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses an upcoming public lecture focusing on economic decision-making logic in uncertain environments, the quantitative assessment of long-term risks and growth through technological innovation, and the core impact of technological innovation on asset pricing [2][10]. Summary by Sections Event Details - The public lecture is scheduled for August 16 (Saturday) at 13:00, located at the Global Financial Center, East Third Ring Road, Chaoyang District, Beijing [2]. - The agenda includes a signing in period from 13:00 to 14:00, followed by a lecture on the international economic outlook under global political and economic uncertainty from 14:00 to 15:00, a discussion on the Gaijin MBA training system from 15:00 to 15:40, and a Q&A session from 15:40 to 16:00 [4]. Speaker Profile - Professor Li Nan is an associate professor at Shanghai Jiao Tong University’s Shanghai Advanced Institute of Finance and serves as the deputy director of the Securities and Finance Research Institute [5]. - Li Nan has extensive experience in financial economics, econometrics, and macro asset pricing, focusing on economic policy and investment decision-making under uncertainty, long-term risk pricing, and the valuation of intangible assets [6]. Teaching and Research Contributions - Li Nan has a rich background in bilingual teaching and has taught various programs including undergraduate, master's, and executive education [7]. - She has published articles in influential media regarding financial regulation, fintech, and innovation finance, and has been invited to speak at various prestigious forums [8].