Global Business Report: China Data Is Not Great

The transcript discusses China's credit rating downgrade by SMP due to slow economic rebalancing and increased risks. Michael Cohen from Barclays Capital highlights challenges in Chinese growth and energy markets, particularly issues with oil import data. Hong Kong's retail sales have significantly declined, attributed to fewer Chinese tourists during the Lunar New Year. Lastly, Argentina is nearing a resolution to a 15-year credit dispute, with the Senate voting to end the impasse with holdout creditors.

What was the reason for S&P's downgrade of China's credit rating outlook?

• Rapid economic growth

• Slow economic rebalancing and financial risks

• Decrease in foreign investments

• Increase in export tariffs

What is one of the major uncertainties in China's energy market data?

• The number of new energy projects

• The distinction between inventory and consumption

• The amount of oil being exported

• The level of domestic oil production

How are China's strategic stockpiling plans affecting its oil imports?

• They are increasing oil imports

• They are reducing oil imports

• They are causing uncertainty in import data

• They are stabilizing oil prices

What was a significant factor in the decline of Hong Kong's retail sales?

• Closure of major retail stores

• Increase in local taxes

• Fewer Chinese tourists during the Lunar New Year

• Rise in online shopping

What legislative action did Argentina take to resolve its credit dispute?

• Reduced interest rates

• Implemented new trade agreements

• Passed a bill to end a 15-year dispute

• Increased export tariffs