Speculation around potential new economic policies from Beijing gained momentum on Monday, sparking optimism in the Chinese markets. Reports from China Daily highlighted insights from three economists affiliated with government-backed think tanks, who urged Beijing to introduce measures to support consumer spending. Suggestions included providing cash or vouchers directly to consumers, as well as accelerating the government’s bond issuance plans for 2025.
China’s economy experienced a slowdown, growing by 4.7% in the second quarter of 2024, down from 5.3% in the first quarter. The latest economic indicators for July raised concerns, particularly with the faster decline in house prices and a rise in unemployment. In response, a robust fiscal stimulus package could play a crucial role in boosting demand for the Hang Seng Index and Mainland China stocks.
The Hang Seng Index saw a notable increase of 1.39% on Monday morning, driven by optimism surrounding potential stimulus measures from Beijing, the possibility of a soft landing for the US economy, and expectations of multiple interest rate cuts by the Federal Reserve in 2024. This positive sentiment extended to specific indices and stocks, with the Hang Seng Mainland Properties Index rising by 1.63% and the Hang Seng Tech Index jumping by 2.73%. Major tech companies also benefited, with Alibaba climbing 2.37%, Baidu up by 3.10%, and Tencent gaining 0.81%.
Mainland equity markets also started the week on a positive note, supported by hopes of upcoming stimulus measures. The CSI 300 and Shenzhen Composite Index both recorded gains, rising by 0.53% and 0.44%, respectively.
The renewed anticipation of economic stimulus from Beijing has provided a much-needed boost to Chinese markets, with positive impacts seen across major indices and individual stocks. As the situation develops, these measures could play a vital role in stabilising and rejuvenating China’s economic growth.
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