China’s economy started the second half of 2026 on a weaker footing, with industrial output, retail sales and investment all missing expectations.
Industrial production grew 4.5% year-on-year in July, slowing from 5.3% in June and falling below the 4.8% forecast. Retail sales were even weaker, rising just 0.6%, compared with expectations for 1.5% growth.
Meanwhile, fixed-asset investment declined 6.7% during the first seven months of the year, worsening from a 5.7% decline through June.
The disappointing figures highlight continued weakness in domestic demand and increase pressure on Chinese policymakers to consider additional measures to support growth.
For global markets and crypto traders, the key question now is whether Beijing responds with stronger stimulus and whether that could eventually improve risk appetite across markets.
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