Posted 2/27/2024, 1:46:01 AM
Economist Defends Dire Hong Kong Warning as 'Wake-Up Call,' While China Media Decries 'False Claims'
- American economist Stephen Roach defends his article saying "Hong Kong is over", argues it was a "wake-up call" about doubts over the city's future
- Chinese state media Xinhua criticizes Western media and "so-called experts" for spreading false claims about Hong Kong to "contain China"
- Roach says title overstated his views; hopes "good trouble" sparks serious discussion, but sees low probability of sharp mainland rebound, risk of talent exodus
- Xinhua cites data on companies still operating in Hong Kong, investment funds raised, talent hired to argue business environment remains strong
- Exco convenor Regina Ip says Roach tries to rationalize first "excessive" article but misses key factor of US "capital embargo" behind stock market decline