Hang Seng Index performance data from the Hong Kong Stock Exchange

China Shifts to 'Moderately Loose' Monetary Policy, Pledges Proactive Fiscal Measures

Dec 9, 2024, 07:30 AM

China's top leaders have shifted the country's monetary policy stance for the first time since 2011, moving from 'prudent' to 'moderately loose' monetary policy. In a Politburo meeting led by President Xi Jinping, the ruling Communist Party's senior officials pledged to implement a more proactive fiscal policy next year and more proactive macro policies. The Politburo emphasized strengthening counter-cyclical adjustments, enriching and improving the policy toolbox, and preventing systemic risks. They vowed to boost consumption forcefully, expand domestic demand in all aspects, and stabilize property and stock markets. The shift in monetary policy wording marks the first change since late 2010. Markets responded positively to the news, with the Hang Seng Index gaining and turnover on the Shanghai and Shenzhen Stock Exchanges exceeding 500 billion yuan ($68 billion).