Private banks to start on trial basis

China will allow the establishment of private banks and other financial institutions funded by private investment on a trial basis.

A short account of a long tradition

Private banking in China began during the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) when independent money houses were established to conduct currency exchanges, remittances, deposits and loans.

Experts warn of 'two-tier' dilemma

Some banking industry insiders have raised concerns about equality of competition between state-owned and private banks in China.

Tricky switch to lighting a new world

The hand of fate is resting nervously on the dimmer switch of China's lighting industry, not sure which way it is going to turn. For some businesses, it will get brighter; for others, dark times may lie ahead.

Company that LED the way

Major Chinese lighting manufacturer takes a shine to Zhongshan

Quotable

"It's certain that real estate bubbles do exist in large cities in China, and the trend is still developing."

IN BRIEF (Page 18)

Money talks in new academic course

Shanghai Finance University, well known for its extensive international program, is expecting its first group of students from the University of Nairobi on a special finance and economics course, the first of its kind between institutions from China and Africa.

Building bonanza signed and sealed

Tanzanian infrastructure will be greatly improved after major deals in guangzhou.

Enterprising new steps

Simplified procedures for the registration of new companies in China announced recently by the State Council will attract more foreign investment and further stimulate the domestic economy, experts say.

Closest ear may not always be the best

Who would you go to for advice if you were preparing to do a big business deal? Many Westerners, even with bread-and-butter issues like buying houses and planning their retirement, would engage a financial adviser.

Soy imports at new high

Soybean imports are likely to rise to a new high in the 2013-14 market year (September 2013 to August 2014) following a drop in domestic output and greater demand for animal feed and edible oil.