China Business Confidence Remains Subdued Amid Ongoing Challenges

In December, China experienced its slowest-ever loan growth, reflecting a persistently low demand for borrowing due to weakened business confidence.

China Yuan-Denominated Loans Hit 18-Year Low in December

The central bank reported a 10.4% increase in Chinese yuan-denominated loans for the month, marking the smallest growth since 2003. Despite a year of consistent loan demand from households and businesses, the prolonged real estate market downturn has led to a decline in mortgage demand.

China Property Market Slump Affects Loans, Spurs Stimulus Expectations

The property market, constituting about one-third of all loans, faces a slump, causing businesses to be cautious about expansion. Banks are reluctant to lend to developers due to a high default rate. In December, Chinese financial institutions issued fresh loans worth 1.2 trillion yuan, falling short of the predicted 1.4 trillion yuan. This has led to heightened expectations for monetary easing and stimulus. A persistent deflation trend in consumer and producer prices, driven by weak domestic demand, has further hindered credit growth.

 

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