Fosun banking on AI to extend reach

Fosun International, one of the largest private conglomerates in the Chinese mainland, is looking to bankroll a big effort in biotechnology and artificial intelligence, a move that will essentially help the acquisitive company lead the pack in the next technology breakthrough and build up an investment empire of billion-dollar companies.

Lenders' asset quality improving on credit reforms

Two of the largest State-owned commercial banks in China recorded a significant improvement in their asset quality last year, as a combined result of several factors including the adjustment of their credit structures and acceleration of the disposal of nonperforming loans.

Bayer launching new female health program

German industrial giant Bayer Group is joining hands with the China Women's Development Foundation to launch a program aimed at enhancing healthcare for women in China.

Japanese firm to promote conservation

The Center for Environmental Education and Communications and Kao Holding Co Ltd, a Japanese chemical and cosmetics company, kicked off a joint campaign to promote water conservation in Beijing, to mark the 26th World Water Day on March 22.

PepsiCo unveils new plan to tackle global water crisis

PepsiCo observed World Water Day on March 22 by offering a plan to tackle the international water crisis - namely through innovation, green production, water recycling and greater access to safe drinking water.

IN BRIEF (Page 18)

Vanke eyes services as tight supply era ends

The era of overall shortage has ended in China's property market, but new issues of unbalanced allocation and undeveloped services have emerged, said China Vanke Co's Chairman Yu Liang.

HNA's plane leasing unit sells 41 aircraft

Bohai Capital Holding Co Ltd, a finance leasing company and a sub-affiliate of HNA Capital, said its wholly-owned aircraft lessor Avolon Holdings Ltd has sold 41 aircraft to Sapphire Aviation Finance I Ltd, as the troubled HNA continues to sell assets to improve liquidity.

Meituan-Dianping plans HK listing

HONG KONG - The mainland's largest provider of on-demand online services Meituan-Dianping has tapped Bank of America Merrill Lynch, Goldman Sachs and Morgan Stanley to work on a Hong Kong float that could see it list as early as this year, according to people with knowledge of the move.

Carbon market to curb pollution

Eric Heitz, CEO of the Energy Foundation, said China's launch of a carbon market is a milestone that will help tackle pollution and climate change and suggested that in the future, more sectors should be covered in addition to power generation.

CCB explores long-term home leasing

China Construction Bank Corp is exploring long-term home leasing as a way to offer financial services to high-quality clients, and is helping to reduce housing inventory.

New high-tech zones inject vitality to innovation efforts

CHONGQING - Long and big-bellied Rongchang pigs have long provided ideal pork for a Chinese delicacy called Huiguorou, or stir-fried pork slices in spicy sauce, but now, the fame of the pig breed is transcending the catering and restaurant industry.