September 13th, 2024

China has 'throttled' its private sector

China's private sector faces severe challenges, with new start-ups dropping from over 51,000 in 2018 to 1,200 in 2023 due to political pressures, economic slowdown, and diminished entrepreneurial spirit.

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China has 'throttled' its private sector

China's private sector is facing significant challenges, primarily due to a combination of political and economic pressures. The venture capital landscape has drastically changed, with new company formations plummeting from over 51,000 in 2018 to just 1,200 in 2023. This decline is attributed to a slowdown in the economy, exacerbated by prolonged COVID-19 lockdowns, a collapsing property market, and rising geopolitical tensions that have led to a withdrawal of foreign investment. President Xi Jinping's policies, including crackdowns on monopolistic tech firms and stringent anti-corruption measures, have created an environment where entrepreneurs feel stifled and closely monitored. Many venture capital firms are now struggling to recover investments, leading to a shift in focus from growth to debt recovery. Founders are increasingly required to take personal financial responsibility for their companies, which deters new ventures. The once-thriving entrepreneurial spirit in China has diminished, with many industry insiders expressing a sense of despair over the future of innovation and investment in the country. The overall sentiment reflects a stark contrast to the optimism that characterized China's tech boom just a few years ago.

- China's venture capital industry has seen a dramatic decline in new start-ups, dropping from over 51,000 in 2018 to around 1,200 in 2023.

- Political decisions, including crackdowns on tech companies and anti-corruption measures, have created a challenging environment for private businesses.

- Many venture capital firms are shifting focus from growth to debt recovery, with founders facing personal financial liabilities.

- The entrepreneurial spirit in China has significantly diminished, leading to widespread pessimism among investors and founders.

- The withdrawal of foreign investment and rising geopolitical tensions have further exacerbated the crisis in China's private sector.

Link Icon 2 comments
By @ZeroGravitas - 7 months
> These strict requirements mean the fund has had to reject good investments — including one profitable company with strong growth and customers — because the founder refused to be personally liable for the loan, the person adds.

No "skin in the game" to use the tired cliché?

By @RedAuburn - 7 months
good