"This is the clearest proof of rather weak demand and economic recovery."

"Like it or not, banks and other institutions... should expect top-down directives and overhauls."

Beijing aims to challenge American dominance, but it also has to ensure fairness to ensure that China’s growing say won’t become another unfair dominance.

Over a dozen international journalists flocked to our recent forum in Beijing, including from the South China Morning Post, who quoted senior government economic advisor Liu Shijin speaking at the event. 

In China, the party is always in charge of all major matters.

Impressive growth in new energy-related sectors in the past year, including electric vehicles, is a testament to the resilience of the economy.

How can investors and entrepreneurs focus on their business rather than worrying about possible risks or problems?

“We sorely need actions to revive sentiment.”

Foreign businesses being outpaced by SOEs could be due to different policy effects brought to bear on SOEs and foreign companies.

"This can be a hint that Li Qiang may accord further significance [to the private sector]."

Professor Zhu Tian argues for stimulus measures to combat low confidence.

Foreign and private enterprises still face discrimination and "glass barriers" while fair competition law enforcers lack teeth.

Market access, financing and fair competition still need persistent attention

In the Korea Times, Professor Kim Chang-Hyun comments on South Korea's household debt. 

The key is if exporters will be ‘set free’ to chase goals, and if they feel confident to invest

There are some ripple effects and some relief, but what determines the Chinese economy is of course our domestic policy choices.

More government-led investments should concentrate on livelihoods and leave other [investments] for the market – especially the private sector – to decide.

Beijing in the new year may use some consumption-boosting policies to create more demand and help private businesses to invest more.