Is being a Cubs fan hurting my business?

David Nealis

Is being a Cubs fan hurting my business?

 

It's not easy being a Cubs fan!

If you don't know who the Cubs are they are Chicago’s (baseball) National League team.

They tend to play so poorly that we call them “the Loveable Losers”.

In 2012 they lost 101 games and they won 61. And it wasn’t just this year that was off, as a matter of fact they haven't won a World Series championship in over 104 years. Since 1908, generations of Cub fans have suffered. 

The Cubs are often out of the chance to go to the World Series by the end of July.

Often half way through the baseball season you can hear Cubs fans repeat the very popular saying “well we always have next year" - I've heard and repeated this very saying since I can remember.  

As a child sitting in the car with my father, going home after a Cubs game, I would repeat after him and say “yeah Dad, we always have next year". This ritual was repeated year after year with friends and family; we have repeated the same mantra “well we always have next year" for generations.

 

My fear is that that Cub’s mantra is working its way into the other decisions I make.

For example; while working, occasionally I run across that likeable loser, who is looking for his next thing. I am sure you know the type; he has several years in the industry, he  knows some people, but he just seems to always end up not producing anything.  

When I meet these people it seems my need to cheer for the underdog over takes my business sense and I give them a chance. That Cubs fan mentality of "maybe this year will be different" seems to translate to “maybe this time this guy will be successful”. It has never ended well; they always seem to keep making the same mistakes that they have made year after year. They, like the Cubs, live in a world used to and/or expecting to lose all the time. 

I don't want to give up hope for those under dogs of the world, but after several disappointments and a life time of being disappointed as a Cubs fan; I think it's time to watch more Yankees games!

 Should I feel guilty for being no longer willing to work with likeable losers? Or am I just suffering from a case of the Cubbie Blues?

 

I think I have closed the door on being willing to work with likeable losers, but as for the Cubs well we always have next year.

 

Chinese listed firms go Hog Wild

Chinese listed firms go Hog Wild

Chinese A-share listed firms get into the hog business

The global slowdown has many Chinese A-share listed firms looking for new sources of revenue outside of their core businesses and it seems that the rise in pork prices and issues with food safety in China have several of them looking at opportunities in the hog business.

It’s estimated that there are nearly thirty companies in the A-share market (Domestically listed in China) who are already involved in the hog breeding business; many of these companies originally had nothing to do with the agricultural industry but have found it to be an attractive business.

David Nealis

Some concerns for their success in this new industry are that with draughts in China and in the Midwest of the USA this year, livestock feed costs have increased dramatically and to avoid social arrest the central government may put price controls in place which could reduce profits in this industry.

What many analyst are watching is how do these firms manage their new ventures on a day to day basis after they have injected their capital into them, in addition to the other hog industry risks like a disease outbreak.

Critics are complaining that these companies are not focused enough on their core businesses, but for many of them who are tightly connected to the global economy finding new growth industries may be vital to their survival.

China, the world’s 2nd largest economy, continues to be the most important market for companies looking for growth and Chinese companies continue to globalize by investing and selling their products in new markets; what is your company’s strategy for engaging China?

Futures and Options Risk Disclosure
Trading futures and options involves the risk of loss. You should consider carefully whether futures or options are appropriate to your financial situation. You must review the customer account agreement and risk disclosure prior to establishing an account. Only risk capital should be used when trading futures or options. Investors could lose more than their initial investment. Past results are not necessarily indicative of futures results. The risk of loss in trading futures or options can be substantial, carefully consider the inherent risks of such an investment in light of your financial condition.

 

858 new rural financial institutions established in China

858 new rural financial institutions established in China

I have always said to be able to grow your firm you need to be where the growth is and if you happen to be involved in business in China that place is going to be in the second and third tier cities in the interior of China.

 

The China Banking Regulatory Commission (CBRC) said it has been taking proactive measures to promote the establishment of rural banks. Their goal is that 75 percent of the new rural financial institutions would be set up in central and western regions of China.

 

Proof of the rapid development in rural financial services is since the beginning of the year China has established 858 new rural financial institutions, including rural banks, credit companies and capital cooperatives, according to China’s banking regulator. Of the financial institutions there are 799 new rural banks, with 60 percent (481) of them located in central and west China according to the CBRC.

By the end of this past June, the total assets of all operating rural banks stood at 319 billion RMB, with the capital adequacy ratio at 28.6 percent and outstanding loans totaling 178.2 billion RMB. Private investment has been a major capital source for rural banks, according to the CBRC of the 47.7 billion RMB (7.57 billion U.S. dollars) total share capital of all rural banks; 74 percent was held by private investors.

David Nealis in Shandong, China.

In May, the CBRC introduced several guidelines to encourage the participation of private capital in the banking sector, including lowering the minimum shareholdings of the main initiator for rural banks from 20 percent to 15 percent. The CBRC also allows the main initiator to adjust shareholding ratios with other holders once banks enter into a “sustainable development track”.

The old American saying of “Go West Young Man” applies here, though Shanghai and Beijing will remain the centers of commerce and power, the new business development is in the interior.

China, the world’s 2nd largest economy, continues to be the most important market for companies looking for growth and Chinese companies continue to globalize by investing and selling their products in new markets; what is your company’s strategy for engaging China?

 

Futures and Options Risk Disclosure
Trading futures and options involves the risk of loss. You should consider carefully whether futures or options are appropriate to your financial situation. You must review the customer account agreement and risk disclosure prior to establishing an account. Only risk capital should be used when trading futures or options. Investors could lose more than their initial investment. Past results are not necessarily indicative of futures results. The risk of loss in trading futures or options can be substantial, carefully consider the inherent risks of such an investment in light of your financial condition.

Chinese Premier Wen wishes to boost Agriculture trade with Argentina

Chinese Premier Wen wishes to boost Agriculture trade with Argentina

Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao recently expressed an interest in expanding direct trade in agricultural and livestock products with Argentina.

Premier Wen was speaking while visiting a farm close to the Argentinian capital of Buenos Aires, he stated that the two countries' agricultural industries are highly complementary as Argentina has rich resources and advanced technologies while China enjoys a huge market potential.

"China is ready to expand direct agricultural trade with Argentina and enhance cooperation in the investment, infrastructure and technology sectors," Wen said while meeting with Argentine agricultural officials and businesspeople.

Statistics showed that agricultural trade between China and Argentina reached $5.5 billion last year; most of the trade volume was agricultural exports from Argentina to China

Argentina is the world's top exporter of flour and soy oil, and 3^rd largest soy bean exporter and second largest corn exporter.

China, the world’s 2nd largest economy, continues to be the most important market for companies looking for growth and Chinese companies continue to globalize by investing and selling their products in new markets; what is your company’s strategy for engaging China? 

Futures and Options Risk Disclosure
Trading futures and options involves the risk of loss. You should consider carefully whether futures or options are appropriate to your financial situation. You must review the customer account agreement and risk disclosure prior to establishing an account. Only risk capital should be used when trading futures or options. Investors could lose more than their initial investment. Past results are not necessarily indicative of futures results. The risk of loss in trading futures or options can be substantial, carefully consider the inherent risks of such an investment in light of your financial condition.

Citigroup issues sole-branded credit cards in China

Citigroup issues sole-branded credit cards in China

David Nealis President of Blue Bridge

Citigroup announced that it has issued its first-ever sole-branded credit card in mainland China. The China Banking Regulatory Commission gave Citigroup approval to issue credit cards directly to local customers in February 2012. The US-based bank already has co-branded credit cards with Shanghai Pudong Development Bank, a program that will end following the launch of Citigroup’s sole-branded product.

China, the world’s 2nd largest economy, continues to be the most important market for companies looking for growth and Chinese companies continue to globalize by investing and selling their products in new markets; what is your company’s strategy for engaging China?

 

Futures and Options Risk Disclosure
Trading futures and options involves the risk of loss. You should consider carefully whether futures or options are appropriate to your financial situation. You must review the customer account agreement and risk disclosure prior to establishing an account. Only risk capital should be used when trading futures or options. Investors could lose more than their initial investment. Past results are not necessarily indicative of futures results. The risk of loss in trading futures or options can be substantial, carefully consider the inherent risks of such an investment in light of your financial condition.

China’s Yancoal suspends Australia expansion plans

China’s Yancoal suspends Australia expansion plans

Chinese owned Yancoal Australia has suspended its expansion plans in all seven of its Australian mines due to low global coal prices and reduced demand from the Asian market. The company said that expansion plans across all mines will be reviewed.

Yancoal Australia, formed through Yanzhou Coal Mining's takeover of Gloucester Coal, is currently the biggest Chinese entity listed on the Australian Stock Exchange.

China, the world’s 2nd largest economy, continues to be the most important market for companies looking for growth and Chinese companies continue to globalize by investing and selling their products in new markets; what is your company’s strategy for engaging China?

 Futures and Options Risk Disclosure
Trading futures and options involves the risk of loss. You should consider carefully whether futures or options are appropriate to your financial situation. You must review the customer account agreement and risk disclosure prior to establishing an account. Only risk capital should be used when trading futures or options. Investors could lose more than their initial investment. Past results are not necessarily indicative of futures results. The risk of loss in trading futures or options can be substantial, carefully consider the inherent risks of such an investment in light of your financial condition.

Shanghai still world’s No. 6 financial center

 

Xinhua-Dow Jones: Shanghai still world’s No. 6 financial center

According to the latest Xinhua-Dow Jones International Financial Centers Development Index, Shanghai has kept its sixth spot as the world's most competitive financial center in 2012. Gauging the growth capacity of 45 financial centers all over the world, Shanghai is ranked sixth after New York, London, Tokyo, Hong Kong, and Singapore. Frankfurt, Paris Zurich and Chicago are at seventh to tenth places respectively.

China, the world’s 2nd largest economy, continues to be the most important market for companies looking for growth and Chinese companies continue to globalize by investing and selling their products in new markets; what is your company’s strategy for engaging China?

 

Futures and Options Risk Disclosure
Trading futures and options involves the risk of loss. You should consider carefully whether futures or options are appropriate to your financial situation. You must review the customer account agreement and risk disclosure prior to establishing an account. Only risk capital should be used when trading futures or options. Investors could lose more than their initial investment. Past results are not necessarily indicative of futures results. The risk of loss in trading futures or options can be substantial, carefully consider the inherent risks of such an investment in light of your financial condition.

Noble to target US agriculture assets for mainland China

David Nealis President of Blue Bridge

 

Noble to target US agriculture assets for mainland China

Hong Kong’s Noble Group, a commodity firm said it will target agricultural assets in the USA in order to meet rising demand in mainland China. The USA, which according to the United States Department of Agriculture is the largest corn producer in the world in 2012, will play an important role in meeting China’s rising demand for corn.

 In the last three years, Noble has announced deals worth over  US$ 2 billion, to include developing sugar operations in Brazil as well as other assets in the US and Australia.

China, the world’s 2nd largest economy, continues to be the most important market for companies looking for growth and Chinese companies continue to globalize by investing and selling their products in new markets; what is your company’s strategy for engaging China?

Futures and Options Risk Disclosure
Trading futures and options involves the risk of loss. You should consider carefully whether futures or options are appropriate to your financial situation. You must review the customer account agreement and risk disclosure prior to establishing an account. Only risk capital should be used when trading futures or options. Investors could lose more than their initial investment. Past results are not necessarily indicative of futures results. The risk of loss in trading futures or options can be substantial, carefully consider the inherent risks of such an investment in light of your financial condition.

PetroChina plans to invest US$15.7Billion in global investments

 

PetroChina plans to invest US$15.7Billion in global investments

China's largest oil company; PetroChina, recently stated that it is seeking acquisitions in Central Asia, Australia, Canada, and East Africa to fuel its global growth. PetroChina’s President Zhou Jiping revealed that PetroChina has reserved RMB 100 billion (US$15.74 billion) for overseas investments in oil and gas assets.

PetroChina’s need acquire global assets is not only motivated by commercial growth but also by China’s need to secure new sources of energy.

China, the world’s 2nd largest economy, continues to be the most important market for companies looking for growth and Chinese companies continue to globalize by investing and selling their products in new markets; what is your company’s strategy for engaging China? 

Futures and Options Risk Disclosure
Trading futures and options involves the risk of loss. You should consider carefully whether futures or options are appropriate to your financial situation. You must review the customer account agreement and risk disclosure prior to establishing an account. Only risk capital should be used when trading futures or options. Investors could lose more than their initial investment. Past results are not necessarily indicative of futures results. The risk of loss in trading futures or options can be substantial, carefully consider the inherent risks of such an investment in light of your financial condition.

China Digs for Gold in Australia with takeover of Norton Goldfields

 

 

China Digs for Gold in Australia with takeover of Norton Goldfields

Zijin, China's largest gold producer, now holds more than 50% of Norton Golfdields' shares, as the Australian group attempts to revive mining operations in central Queensland and plans a new copper mine at Many Peaks, southwest of Gladstone. Four Norton directors, including Chairman Tim Prowse, have resigned and Zijin’s Chairman, Jinghe Chen, will chair the Norton Goldfields board.

China, the world’s 2nd largest economy, continues to be the most important market for companies looking for growth and Chinese companies continue to globalize by investing and selling their products in new markets; what is your company’s strategy for engaging China?

 Futures and Options Risk Disclosure
Trading futures and options involves the risk of loss. You should consider carefully whether futures or options are appropriate to your financial situation. You must review the customer account agreement and risk disclosure prior to establishing an account. Only risk capital should be used when trading futures or options. Investors could lose more than their initial investment. Past results are not necessarily indicative of futures results. The risk of loss in trading futures or options can be substantial, carefully consider the inherent risks of such an investment in light of your financial condition.

China’s coal demand slows as the economy wobbles

David Nealis President of Blue Bridge

China’s coal demand slows as the economy wobbles

China's ports are becoming overwhelmed with stockpiles of coal as the Chinese economic slowdown has substantially slowed domestic demand for the resource.

Coal stockpiles at the Qinhuangdao, Huanghua and Tangshan ports in north China's Hebei province have risen to 16 million tons, according to a statement recently posted on the website of the Hebei Port Group Co.

The nation's coal demand has slowed in recent months as domestic economic growth has decelerated amid the sluggish global economic recovery, the ongoing eurozone debt crisis and weak US demand for Chinese products.

The manufacturing slow down curbed China’s power consumption, in the first five months of 2012, gross power consumption increased 5.8 percent year on year to 1.96 trillion kilowatt-hours, much lower than the 12-percent increase registered during the same period last year.

China, the world’s 2nd largest economy, continues to be the most important market for companies looking for growth and Chinese companies continue to globalize by investing and selling their products in new markets; what is your company’s strategy for engaging China?

 

Futures and Options Risk Disclosure
Trading futures and options involves the risk of loss. You should consider carefully whether futures or options are appropriate to your financial situation. You must review the customer account agreement and risk disclosure prior to establishing an account. Only risk capital should be used when trading futures or options. Investors could lose more than their initial investment. Past results are not necessarily indicative of futures results. The risk of loss in trading futures or options can be substantial, carefully consider the inherent risks of such an investment in light of your financial condition.

South Korea dependent on China for rare earths

South Korea dependent on China for rare earths

South Korea purchased a total of 282 tons of rare earths from China last year, which accounted for 78% of the South Korea's total imports of 360 tons of rare earth according to the South Korean Customs Service. South Korea's dependence on China for rare earths in 2011 rose by 13% from 2010.

 Rare earth materials are a set of seventeen chemical elements in the periodic table, specifically the fifteen lanthanides plus scandium and yttrium. Scandium and yttrium are considered rare earth elements since they tend to occur in the same ore deposits as the lanthanides and exhibit similar chemical properties. 

 They are key components of many modern-day technologies, including hybrid electric vehicles, liquid crystal displays and other high-tech equipment.

 

China, the world’s 2nd largest economy, continues to be the most important market for companies looking for growth and Chinese companies continue to globalize by investing and selling their products in new markets; what is your company’s strategy for engaging China?

 

Futures and Options Risk Disclosure
Trading futures and options involves the risk of loss. You should consider carefully whether futures or options are appropriate to your financial situation. You must review the customer account agreement and risk disclosure prior to establishing an account. Only risk capital should be used when trading futures or options. Investors could lose more than their initial investment. Past results are not necessarily indicative of futures results. The risk of loss in trading futures or options can be substantial, carefully consider the inherent risks of such an investment in light of your financial condition.

Sales of China solar panels could slow down in 2013

David Nealis President of Blue Bridge

Sales of China solar panels could slow down in 2013
The US market for solar panels might double in 2012, but government policies, falling prices, and new tariffs on China-made panels exported to the United States could help slow down sales in 2013. According to a Solar Energy Industries Association and GTM Research study, developers might install some 3,300mw of solar panels in 2012, almost double that in 2011. With cheaper oil and gas prices might also slow the instilation of large solar projects.

China, the world’s 2nd largest economy, continues to be the most important market for companies looking for growth and Chinese companies continue to globalize by investing and selling their products in new markets; what is your company’s strategy for engaging China? 

Futures and Options Risk Disclosure
Trading futures and options involves the risk of loss. You should consider carefully whether futures or options are appropriate to your financial situation. You must review the customer account agreement and risk disclosure prior to establishing an account. Only risk capital should be used when trading futures or options. Investors could lose more than their initial investment. Past results are not necessarily indicative of futures results. The risk of loss in trading futures or options can be substantial, carefully consider the inherent risks of such an investment in light of your financial condition.

China Investment Corp cuts investments in Europe

China Investment Corp cuts investments in Europe
Seeing rising risks of a euro zone breakup, China Investment Corp (CIC), which is China's USD410bn sovereign wealth fund, has decided to cut its stock and bond investments in Europe. CIC Chairman Lou Jiwei cited low returns being unable to commensurate for the increased risk as the main reason for withdrawal. Additionally, Lou also said that China is unlikely to purchase common euro zone bonds should they eventually be sold as part of a resolution of the European debt crisis.

China, the world’s 2nd largest economy, continues to be the most important market for companies looking for growth and Chinese companies continue to globalize by investing and selling their products in new markets; what is your company’s strategy for engaging China? 

Futures and Options Risk Disclosure
Trading futures and options involves the risk of loss. You should consider carefully whether futures or options are appropriate to your financial situation. You must review the customer account agreement and risk disclosure prior to establishing an account. Only risk capital should be used when trading futures or options. Investors could lose more than their initial investment. Past results are not necessarily indicative of futures results. The risk of loss in trading futures or options can be substantial, carefully consider the inherent risks of such an investment in light of your financial condition.

US fund managers roll out US$ 2.5 billion China investments

David Nealis President of Blue Bridge

US fund managers roll out US$ 2.5 billion China investments
despite frightening economic headlines coming out of mainland China, US fund managers have invested US$ 2.5 billion in stocks this year in the world’s second biggest economy. Research firm EPFR Global reported that the outlay follows outflows of US$ 2.6 billion in 2011. Meanwhile, international equity funds bumped their stakes in China and Hong Kong to an average of 4.4% in Q1 2012, up from 4% the same period in 2011, Lipper Inc reported. The confidence stems in part from Beijing spurring growth by loosening bank reserve requirements and speeding up infrastructure projects approval.

China, the world’s 2nd largest economy, continues to be the most important market for companies looking for growth and Chinese companies continue to globalize by investing and selling their products in new markets; what is your company’s strategy for engaging China? 

Futures and Options Risk Disclosure
Trading futures and options involves the risk of loss. You should consider carefully whether futures or options are appropriate to your financial situation. You must review the customer account agreement and risk disclosure prior to establishing an account. Only risk capital should be used when trading futures or options. Investors could lose more than their initial investment. Past results are not necessarily indicative of futures results. The risk of loss in trading futures or options can be substantial, carefully consider the inherent risks of such an investment in light of your financial condition.

Shell: China shale drilling results are encouraging

Shell: China shale drilling results are encouraging
Royal Dutch Shell said that results of its early drilling for shale gas in China have been encouraging and the European  oil company expects to make a profit on its venture in China. Shell signed the first production-sharing contract to explore, develop and produce shale gas in China in March 2012. The deal calls for Shell to apply its technology, operational expertise, and global experience to jointly develop shale gas with state-owned China National Petroleum Corp over a 3,500-sq-km area in the Sichuan Basin.

China, the world’s 2nd largest economy, continues to be the most important market for companies looking for growth and Chinese companies continue to globalize by investing and selling their products in new markets; what is your company’s strategy for engaging China? 

Futures and Options Risk Disclosure
Trading futures and options involves the risk of loss. You should consider carefully whether futures or options are appropriate to your financial situation. You must review the customer account agreement and risk disclosure prior to establishing an account. Only risk capital should be used when trading futures or options. Investors could lose more than their initial investment. Past results are not necessarily indicative of futures results. The risk of loss in trading futures or options can be substantial, carefully consider the inherent risks of such an investment in light of your financial condition.

China seeks wide brokerage reforms

David Nealis

China seeks wide brokerage reforms
China is coming up with sweeping reforms of its brokerage system, hoping to empower their investment banks in the hope that it could eventually compete with investment banking and securities companies like Goldman Sachs and Morgan Stanley. According to a document released to securities firms earlier in May 2012, the China Securities Regulatory Commission wants to let domestic brokerages, which currently get most of their money from trading stocks and underwriting new securities, to expand into futures, derivatives, asset management, private banking and private equity.

China, the world’s 2nd largest economy, continues to be the most important market for companies looking for growth and Chinese companies continue to globalize by investing and selling their products in new markets; what is your company’s strategy for engaging China?

Futures and Options Risk Disclosure
Trading futures and options involves the risk of loss. You should consider carefully whether futures or options are appropriate to your financial situation. You must review the customer account agreement and risk disclosure prior to establishing an account. Only risk capital should be used when trading futures or options. Investors could lose more than their initial investment. Past results are not necessarily indicative of futures results. The risk of loss in trading futures or options can be substantial, carefully consider the inherent risks of such an investment in light of your financial condition.

Yancoal becomes Australia's largest listed coal firm

David Nealis President of Blue Bridge

Yancoal becomes Australia's largest listed coal firm
Chinese state owned enterprise Yancoal Australia will soon become Australia's largest listed coal company after Gloucester Coal Ltd shareholders approved a merger. It is the biggest investment by a Chinese state-owned enterprise in Australia's coal industry, continuing a trend of state-backed firms seeking to improve China's resource security. Yancoal's parent company Yanzhou Coal, China's fourth largest coal miner will control 78% of the new entity while Singapore-based commodities giant Noble will hold 13% through its Gloucester holding, and Gloucester's remaining shareholders 9%.

China, the world’s 2nd largest economy, continues to be the most important market for companies looking for growth and Chinese companies continue to globalize by investing and selling their products in new markets; what is your company’s strategy for engaging China?

Futures and Options Risk Disclosure
Trading futures and options involves the risk of loss. You should consider carefully whether futures or options are appropriate to your financial situation. You must review the customer account agreement and risk disclosure prior to establishing an account. Only risk capital should be used when trading futures or options. Investors could lose more than their initial investment. Past results are not necessarily indicative of futures results. The risk of loss in trading futures or options can be substantial, carefully consider the inherent risks of such an investment in light of your financial condition.

Citigroup introduces RMB letters of credit

Citigroup introduces RMB letters of credit
Citigroup Inc introduced RMB-denominated letters of credit for importers and exporters in Latin America, showing the US-based bank's eagerness to cash in on the current initiative to make renminbi a global currency. The new product allows traders in Latin America to work with partners in China to issue, receive, and settle RMB-denominated letters of credit. In 2011, trade between China and the region increased by 32.3% year on y earto reach US$ 236.6  billion, according to data from the IMF. 

China, the world’s 2nd largest economy, continues to be the most important market for companies looking for growth and Chinese companies continue to globalize by investing and selling their products in new markets; what is your company’s strategy for engaging China?

Futures and Options Risk Disclosure
Trading futures and options involves the risk of loss. You should consider carefully whether futures or options are appropriate to your financial situation. You must review the customer account agreement and risk disclosure prior to establishing an account. Only risk capital should be used when trading futures or options. Investors could lose more than their initial investment. Past results are not necessarily indicative of futures results. The risk of loss in trading futures or options can be substantial, carefully consider the inherent risks of such an investment in light of your financial condition.

China Huadian constructs thermal power plant in Bali

David Nealis in Bali

China Huadian constructs thermal power plant in Bali
China Huadian Corp, one of China’s five largest state-owned power generation enterprises , started construction of a thermal power plant in Bali, Indonesia. The new facility will be the fourth power facility that China Huadian has built in Indonesia. The thermal power plant is designed to power three 142MW generators and is expected to go into operation in 2014. No details of the deal have been disclosed, but a company official said the launch of the thermal power plant will support electricity supply to accelerate tourism development for the Bali Island.

China, the world’s 2nd largest economy, continues to be the most important market for companies looking for growth and Chinese companies continue to globalize by investing and selling their products in new markets; what is your company’s strategy for engaging China?

Futures and Options Risk Disclosure
Trading futures and options involves the risk of loss. You should consider carefully whether futures or options are appropriate to your financial situation. You must review the customer account agreement and risk disclosure prior to establishing an account. Only risk capital should be used when trading futures or options. Investors could lose more than their initial investment. Past results are not necessarily indicative of futures results. The risk of loss in trading futures or options can be substantial, carefully consider the inherent risks of such an investment in light of your financial condition.

GCL inks deal to develop 1GW solar plants

GCL inks deal to develop 1GW solar plants
China-based GCL-Poly Energy Holdings Ltd and Spain's Isofotón SA have signed a MoU under which they plan to develop 1GW worth of solar plants across the globe. The companies said they will form a JV to manufacture solar trackers for the plants, which are expected to comprise both photovoltaic and high concentrating photovoltaic technology. While China-based GCL has said it will undertake project financing and EPC services, Isofotón will reportedly supply the modules, in addition to buying "all the wafers and a portion of the cells" needed for the plants.

China, the world’s 2nd largest economy, continues to be the most important market for companies looking for growth and Chinese companies continue to globalize by investing and selling their products in new markets; what is your company’s strategy for engaging China?

Futures and Options Risk Disclosure
Trading futures and options involves the risk of loss. You should consider carefully whether futures or options are appropriate to your financial situation. You must review the customer account agreement and risk disclosure prior to establishing an account. Only risk capital should be used when trading futures or options. Investors could lose more than their initial investment. Past results are not necessarily indicative of futures results. The risk of loss in trading futures or options can be substantial, carefully consider the inherent risks of such an investment in light of your financial condition.

GreatPoint to build US$1.25 billion gas plant in China

David Nealis President of Blue Bridge

GreatPoint to build US$1.25 billion gas plant in China
US-based alternative energy start-up GreatPoint Energy has signed an US$ 1.25 billion deal with China Wanxiang Holdings, an industrial conglomerate, to build a plant in Western China that will convert coal into synthetic natural gas. Wanxiang will take an US$ 420 million minority stake in GreatPoint, one of the largest investments by a Chinese company in an American firm financed by venture capital, according to Ernst & Young. GreatPoint was founded in 2005 to develop a low cost way to convert coal into cleaner burning gas. Prior to the Wanxiang deal, the company raised about US$ 155 million in capital from investment firms and power companies.

China, the world’s 2nd largest economy, continues to be the most important market for companies looking for growth and Chinese companies continue to globalize by investing and selling their products in new markets; what is your company’s strategy for engaging China?

Futures and Options Risk Disclosure
Trading futures and options involves the risk of loss. You should consider carefully whether futures or options are appropriate to your financial situation. You must review the customer account agreement and risk disclosure prior to establishing an account. Only risk capital should be used when trading futures or options. Investors could lose more than their initial investment. Past results are not necessarily indicative of futures results. The risk of loss in trading futures or options can be substantial, carefully consider the inherent risks of such an investment in light of your financial condition.

Rio Tinto researching diamond demand in China

Rio Tinto researching diamond demand in China
Resources giant Rio Tinto has commissioned global market research company Ipsos to research the demand for diamond jewelry in China. The research aimed at understanding consumer perceptions in China around jewelry comprising small, affordable diamonds, referred to as fashion jewelry. The research confirmed a growing trend towards diamond fashion jewelry in China and challenged the conventional wisdom that Chinese consumers only appreciate large, high quality, white diamonds or gold jewelry. According to PLDG Creative Intelligence, an independent global jewelry trend and forecasting company, this trend in China is consistent with other key jewelry markets.

China, the world’s 2nd largest economy, continues to be the most important market for companies looking for growth and Chinese companies continue to globalize by investing and selling their products in new markets; what is your company’s strategy for engaging China?

Futures and Options Risk Disclosure
Trading futures and options involves the risk of loss. You should consider carefully whether futures or options are appropriate to your financial situation. You must review the customer account agreement and risk disclosure prior to establishing an account. Only risk capital should be used when trading futures or options. Investors could lose more than their initial investment. Past results are not necessarily indicative of futures results. The risk of loss in trading futures or options can be substantial, carefully consider the inherent risks of such an investment in light of your financial condition.