In this episode, Joe Leahy, Asia News Editor at the Financial Times, shares his expert insights on the mounting economic pressures facing China. He discusses deflationary trends and the alarming drop in consumer and factory prices. Leahy speculates on potential fiscal stimulus measures from Beijing, including monetary easing and support for the struggling property market. He highlights the cautious consumer behavior and investor uncertainty that complicates growth targets, painting a picture of China's economic landscape.

Disney sharply reduced its losses from video streaming in the second quarter, US inflation dipped to its lowest level since April 2021, and the FT’s Joe Leahy explains China’s crackdown on foreign business due diligence firms, including Capvision, Bain and Mintz. Mentioned in this podcast:Disney shaves streaming losses as subscription fees riseUS inflation eases to 4.9% in April as Fed tightening takes effectChina raids multiple offices of international consultancy CapvisionSpotify ejects thousands of AI-made songs in purge of fake streamsThe FT News Briefing is produced by Fiona Symon, Sonja Hutson and Marc Filippino. The show’s editor is Jess Smith. Additional help by Katie McMurran, Peter Barber, Michael Lello, David da Silva and Gavin Kallmann. Topher Forhecz is the FT’s executive producer. The FT’s global head of audio is Cheryl Brumley. The show’s theme song is by Metaphor Music. Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Joe Leahy, the China bureau chief for the Financial Times, sheds light on the current struggles of the Chinese economy, marked by a potential deflationary spiral. He delves into the impacts of Donald Trump's election on China's growth ambitions, as well as the government's response through new stimulus measures. The discussion also covers the pivotal role of local governments in economic revival and the challenges posed by diminished consumer confidence amidst a real estate crisis. Leahy emphasizes China's need to balance global competition with domestic priorities.