AI Data Insight
In the first quarter of 2026, China's Economist Confidence Index climbed to 98.7, a significant improvement from the previous 94.9, reflecting a more optimistic market outlook on the economic prospects. Benefiting from strong exports and manufacturing expansion, the Q1 GDP grew by 5.0% year-on-year, beating market consensus. However, sluggish retail sales highlight weak domestic demand, and it remains to be seen how future policies will stimulate consumption momentum.