The bull versus bear case for China

Speaking at a press briefing in Hong Kong last week, two leading Asia-based economists gave opposing views on the future of the Chinese economy, equity market and property sector.

Andy Rothman argues China’s move to focus on domestic demand rather than exports will see it through the global slowdown, while Jim Walker believes China’s economy is nothing less than a catastrophe. Bull: Andy Rothman, China macro strategist at CLSA Asia Pacific Markets “To me, the housing sector is the healthiest part of the Chinese economy” We would argue China is better prepared to deal with the global slowdown this time around as it is less dependent on exports. There is a misconception China is an export-driven economy – it seems like everything comes from China, but actually...