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Brief Investment Politics & Society

Beijing spending on BRI hits record in 2025

China’s investment in the Belt and Road Initiative increased by three-quarters to a record $213.5 billion in 2025, reports the Financial Times. This surge comes as Beijing sought to take advantage of wavering US influence around the world by increasing funding in development projects.  The boost in new investment and construction deals was dominated by gas […]

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Brief Economics & Policy Markets & Finance Politics & Society

US firms more optimistic in China despite weak economy

US companies operating in China are growing more optimistic about their earnings outlook, reports Caixin, citing a new report from the American Chamber of Commerce (AmCham) in China. This comes despite mounting concerns over a slowing Chinese economy and continued geopolitical friction. In its 2026 China Business Climate Survey, AmCham China found that 52% of member […]

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Brief Politics & Society Property Travel & Leisure

China’s high office space vacancy sees hotel conversion shift

More economy and mid-range hotel operators in China are leasing office buildings for conversion to guest accommodation, reports the South China Morning Post. Such flexible, mixed-use approaches are expected to increase amid a continued weakening of the office market. In some Chinese cities, the practice of multiple hotel brands co-leasing separate floors within a single building […]

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Economics & Policy Politics & Society Takeaway

A numbers game

China’s GDP growth for 2025 was 5%, according to state-media outlet China Daily, which meets the target Beijing set, and is also the same number as 2024, with the Q4 number being 4.5%. The 5% result for the year is not a complete surprise, but the Q4 number as shown in the China Daily suggests […]

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Brief Economics & Policy Law & Regulation Politics & Society Tech, Media & Telecom

China targets influencers with audits amid domestic slump

China has ramped up audits involving online influencers and high-wage earners, reports the South China Morning Post. The move looks to recover billions in unpaid levies amid slumping land sales and value-added tax revenue decline. As China’s digital infrastructure matures, top-tier influencers are leveraging massive audience engagement to generate premium earnings. Consequently, they have become a […]