As recession looms elsewhere, all eyes are fixed on China and its enviable growth rates of over 10 percent. But it is clear that China, while better insulated that many, will not escape the credit crunch. We are already getting anecdotal evidence of harder times, and the figures are showing a slowing of growth – [...]

We reported back in February on Chalco’s skillful purchase (with Alcoa) of 12 percent or Rio Tinto. But that was before the financial crisis and the collapse of Lehman Brothers. Lehman’s collapse has left Chalco with some “issues”. It is already reported to have delayed a bond sale (in the Australian): “ALUMINIUM Corporation of China [...]

As if 2008 did not hold enough surprises (!!) McKinsey’s Gordon Orr is now looking forward to those that might be on offer, in China, in 2009 – Seven ways China might surprise us in 2009: “Here’s a list of some realistic possibilities for the next year. Will all of them come to pass? I [...]

We all know that 4 is an unlucky number in China, and there is not much doubt that the 44th US President will face some double-tough issues as he starts in the job. China is not likely to be at the top of the list (in contrast to what might have happened in not for [...]