CEO of JPMorgan Asia Pacific, Sjoerd Leenart, emphasizes the importance of not overlooking China

JPMorgan Chase & Co. CEO Emphasizes Importance of Doing Business in China

In a recent statement, JPMorgan Asia Pacific CEO Sjoerd Leenart highlighted the significance of China as a global economic powerhouse, stating that investors cannot afford to sideline the country.

“China is too big to be ignored, and investors have to do business there,” Leenart emphasized during the 20th annual Global China Summit in Shanghai. He pointed out that China currently accounts for 19% of global GDP and 48% of Asia’s GDP in terms of purchasing power parity.

Leenart stressed the importance of understanding and engaging with the Chinese market, as developments in China have far-reaching implications for industries worldwide. He noted that a robust presence in China is essential for a thriving investment banking business in the region.

Despite recent economic challenges, including a slowdown in foreign direct investment, Leenart expressed optimism about China’s economic recovery. Official data released in April by China’s National Bureau of Statistics revealed that China’s GDP grew by 5.3% in the first quarter of the year, surpassing expectations.

As China remains a key trading partner for numerous countries, Leenart underscored the vast opportunities for global trade and investment in the country. He reaffirmed JPMorgan’s long-term commitment to China, stating, “We’ve been here for 103 years. So we’ve taken a long-term view on China, and we’ll be here for 100 more years to come.”

In conclusion, Leenart’s remarks underscore the critical role that China plays in the global economy and the necessity for businesses to actively engage with the country to capitalize on its economic potential.