Chinese stocks have been on a downward spiral since February 2021, experiencing a significant drop of $6 trillion over the past three years.
This loss, equivalent to double the annual economic output of Britain, has raised concerns among investors and led to a crisis of confidence in China’s economic future.
In 2024 alone, the Hang Seng index plummeted by 10%, with the Shanghai Composite and Shenzhen Component indexes down by 7% and 10% respectively.
These alarming losses echo the Chinese stock market crash of 2015-2016, reflecting investor apprehension about the country’s economic trajectory.
Goldman Sachs analysts emphasized the challenging period for investors in Chinese equities, citing suppressed valuations and decade-low allocations across investment fund mandates.
The underlying issues plaguing the world’s second-largest economy include a real estate downturn, deflation, rising debt, a declining birthrate, a shrinking workforce, and policy shifts that unsettle the private sector and deter foreign firms.
Amidst a global stock market rally, led by Wall Street and Japan, Chinese markets stand out as the worst performers in 2024.
Reports suggest the Chinese government’s growing concern, with actions such as urging banks to sell dollars and potential direct intervention to support stocks.
Premier Li Qiang has instructed officials to take forceful measures to stabilize the markets, but the critical question remains: can investor confidence be restored?
Driving the Meltdown:
Investors are uneasy due to the perceived lack of effective policies from Beijing to stimulate a sustainable economic recovery.
China’s 2023 economic growth of 5.2%, the slowest since 1990, fuels concerns of a prolonged slowdown.
Analysts argue that Beijing’s unclear economic policy stance, including the unexpected decision by the central bank to keep benchmark lending rates unchanged, adds to the confusion.
What’s Happening?
Beijing’s incremental economic recovery policies over the past year are deemed insufficient by Goldman Sachs analysts, who advocate for a more aggressive approach to overturn negative market sentiment.
An effective government backstop to address the real estate crisis is seen as crucial, with concerns extending to China’s commitment to reform and increasing uncertainties affecting investment appetite.
Beijing’s Response:
Premier Li vows to boost the stock market and improve liquidity, though specific measures are not detailed.
Reports suggest state-owned banks are supporting the yuan, and there are indications of potential direct intervention using a stock market stabilization fund.
These measures aim to prevent further declines and stabilize the market.
Public Reaction:
The stock market’s decline has sparked public anger on Chinese social media, with over 220 million individual investors expressing concerns.
Weibo discussions on the “market plunge” and “China’s stock market rescue” have gained traction.
Even influential figures, usually aligned with official narratives, are urging Beijing to take immediate action to protect small investors.
The situation highlights the urgency of addressing financial risks and restoring social confidence, emphasizing the broader impact beyond the capital market on the overall economy.
Trump Wins In New Hampshire Primary Election, Haley Vows To Fight On