Capital flows out of China have reversed course dramatically, with a record jump in a key gauge of inflows at the start of this year, an indication of renewed confidence in the Chinese economy.
Companies and individuals sold Rmb684bn ($110bn) of foreign exchange and bought an equivalent amount of Chinese currency in January, the most in a single month, according to data published by the central bank yesterday.
The surge in demand for renminbi assets came after a smooth handover of power to a new generation of leaders assuaged fears of political instability in China. The transition will culminate next week at the country’s parliament, which opened yesterday, when Xi Jinping is installed as president.