Core Viewpoints - The June economic data reveals five significant "anomalies," indicating new changes in the economy lurking in hidden corners [3][9][110] - Despite strong performance in exports and industrial production, the second quarter GDP remained flat at 5.2%, aligning with market expectations [2][9][107] - The construction industry showed a notable decline, with total output value in the first half of the year growing only 0.2% year-on-year, significantly lower than the 2.5% growth in the first quarter [3][9][107] Economic Indicators - GDP: The second quarter GDP growth was 5.2%, matching expectations, while industrial value-added growth in June was 6.8%, exceeding expectations of 5.5% [2][7][107] - Retail Sales: June retail sales grew by 4.8%, below the expected 5.6%, with significant declines in both commodity retail and catering income due to misaligned e-commerce promotions and competitive subsidies from food delivery platforms [2][20][82] - Fixed Asset Investment: June's fixed asset investment growth fell to 0%, the lowest in three years, primarily due to a decline in investment prices and significant drops in construction and manufacturing investments [4][23][66] Sector Analysis - Real Estate: Although credit financing for real estate improved significantly in June, investment growth declined to -12.9%. The reduction in ongoing projects due to earlier declines in new starts continues to impact the sector negatively [4][30][109] - Industrial Production: The industrial value-added surged due to an increase in working days and "export rush," with textile and chemical raw materials sectors showing recovery, while automotive and steel production weakened [5][41][54] - Consumer Behavior: The decline in retail sales was influenced by the timing of e-commerce promotions, with significant drops in categories like home appliances and communication equipment [20][82][108] Long-term Outlook - The "front-loading effect" may lead to a switch in economic strength between the first and second halves of the year, with the concentrated adjustment phase of the economy since 2022 nearing its end [6][46][110] - The overall economic growth target for the year remains achievable at 5.0%, despite anticipated fluctuations in economic indicators in the second half [46][110]