Managing processes gives firms a leg up

Every business is essentially a collection of processes - some strategic, some tactical, but all necessary. And today's middle and back office processes are increasingly complex, full of deeper interactions across systems and dependent on more collaborative activities between users. But what exactly is a business process?

Jobless rate falls to lowest since '98

Hong Kong's unemployment rate dropped to a nine-and-a-half-year low of 3.6 percent in the September-November period, thanks to strong economic growth and robust domestic consumption.

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Special Supplement: Jilin's rime dazzles and inspires

In Jilin City, the Songhua River produces a unique natural attraction that has become legendary in some ways.

Automaker tie-ups a complex network in China

Partnership with local interests is the only way foreign carmakers can enter the auto-manufacturing industry in China. On paper, the partnership requirement is deemed necessary to protect the local car industry. In application, the Chinese government is effectively prohibiting full equity control.

Index futures a step closer

The Shanghai-based China Financial Futures Exchange (CFFEX), where the mainland's first index futures product is to be traded, has approved 52 member companies, a major step toward launching the CSI300.

Business Indepth

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Corporate debt move a watershed for market

Multinationals are set to get equal access to the domestic corporate debt market in a move that's being hailed as a major breakthrough in the opening of the financial services sector.

Business Indepth

Chinese lenders improve risk management

They are not bankers; they are technical experts, and are equally discerning as to how to detect problems with Chinese banks.

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