China Leaves Key Interest Rate Unchanged Despite Slowing Economy
• China's central bank left medium-term lending rate unchanged at 2.50%, defying expectations of a cut • Recent data shows uneven recovery - exports rose in Dec but weak credit growth and deflationary pressure • Room for rate cuts limited by narrowing bank margins and weaker yuan • Fresh 216B yuan injected via medium-term loans to maintain banking liquidity • Upcoming Dec data on industrial output, investment, retail sales, and Q4 GDP will indicate if more stimulus is needed