Invest in China!

Basically there are two exchanges in China where stocks can be traded: Shanghai on the east coast and Shenzhen in the south. Then there's also an exchange in Hong Kong, but though it's in Chinese hands since 1997, there are different rules than China's main land exchanges.

There are various types of stocks available. For instance, A-shares are only available to Chinese traders and are traded with the Renminbi currency. Since 2002, these stocks are also available to a very limited number of foreign and institutional investors. Aside from that there are B-shares, intended for foreign investors. These are quoted in US dollars in Shanghai, and in Hong Kong dollars in Shenzhen. Then there are H-shares. These are the listed Chinese companies in Hong Kong. For the enthusiasts among us: N-shares are Chinese stocks listed in New York and L-shares are the ones in London.

Anyway, since November 17, China has opened its doors to foreign investors. Thanks to the Shanghai-Hong Kong stock exchange connection, the stock market of the Chinese mainland is within reach of non-Chinese for the first time ever! Investors can trade in Shanghai 560's listed stocks, with a maximum trading volume of 2 billion US dollars per day. It's seen as a first step of the liberalization of the Chinese market. According to Goldman Sachs, Chinese equities will soon become a staple.

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