The Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank’s first president defends China’s role as ‘responsible stakeholder’ in a less multilateral world

China has reported its first annual investment decline in 30 years, with economic data for November indicating deepening domestic issues. Retail sales have grown at their slowest pace in three years, and investment has sharply slowed, reflecting increased caution among consumers and businesses. This downturn comes despite a record trade surplus of $1.08 trillion, highlighting a significant gap between exports and imports.

China's new economic model, characterized by a trade surplus exceeding $1 trillion, poses significant risks to the future of Asia's Gen-Z, as it shifts economic advantages away from the region's youth. This surplus is largely fueled by a weakened renminbi, which has made Chinese exports more competitive globally.

In November, China experienced a significant decline in investment, falling more than 10 percent, marking a potential first investment decline in three decades. This downturn is largely attributed to the ongoing property crisis, exemplified by the financial distress of major developers like Vanke, which is struggling with substantial debt.

Ample oil supply is currently shielding China from the disruptions in Venezuelan oil flows, which have been exacerbated by geopolitical tensions and U.S. interventions. Recent events, including the U.S. seizure of a sanctioned tanker, have raised concerns about the stability of Venezuelan oil exports, impacting global oil prices and market dynamics.

Asia's foreign exchange markets remained steady, with a focus on weak economic data from China, while the Japanese yen gained strength amid expectations of a rate hike by the Bank of Japan (BOJ). Investors are closely monitoring these developments as they could influence future monetary policy decisions.

The housing market is poised for a transformation as affordability begins to improve for the first time in several years, according to an economist. This shift, while not dramatic, signals the start of a new era in real estate, potentially easing the financial burden on prospective homebuyers.

China's recent wave of small bank mergers has led to a contraction in the banking sector, raising concerns about the potential increase in financial risks. This consolidation is seen as a response to the ongoing economic challenges facing the country, including declining investment and consumer demand.

China has made a significant move by purchasing its first cargo of Argentine wheat in decades, coinciding with a record harvest by farmers in the Pampas region. This development comes as Argentine President Javier Milei reduces tariffs on exports to stimulate trade and bolster the agricultural sector.