CHINA WATCH

Pilot avoided bigger tragedy by ditching plane in river

Pilot of the crashed TransAsia Airways plane narrowly avoided hitting buildings, likely averting a worse disaster, according to a report.
Updates: 35 dead, of them 22 from the mainland

Yuan to increase Europe appeal

The yuan's appreciation against the euro following the quantitative easing program launched in Europe is poised to increase the continent's popularity as a travel destination for Chinese.

Banks should change their profit earning model: regulator

Commercial banks must overhaul their profit models from traditional ones to address the narrowing interest margin, urged Shang Fulin, chairman of China Banking Regulatory Commission.

Central govt set to take over tax rebate process

In a move aimed at reversing the export slump and spurring growth, Beijing announces decision to pay export tax rebates to companies.

Culture Insider: 6 things about Minor Cold

The traditional Chinese lunar calendar divides the year into 24 solar terms. Minor Cold, the 23rd solar term, begins this year on Jan 5 and ends on Jan 19.

6 things you may not know about Major Snow

The traditional Chinese lunar calendar divides the year into 24 solar terms. Major Snow, the 21st solar term of the year, begins this year on Dec 7 and ends on Dec 20.