China’s stocks tumbled to the lowest levels in 13 months amid concern capital outflows will accelerate as the economy slows and support for the yuan eats into the nation’s foreign reserves.
The Shanghai Composite Index plunged 6.4 percent to 2,749.79 at the close. All industry groups slumped, ranging from commodity companies to new-economy shares such as technology. Besides data showing outflows hitting an estimated $ 1 trillion last year, investors were concerned about a possible cash squeeze even as the central bank flooded the financial system before the upcoming Chinese new year holiday. Some of the nation’s most accurate forecasters said the benchmark index may not bottom until it falls to the 2,500 level.
Source: Bloomberg