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'Beautiful period' for Chinese stock market
(China Daily)
Updated: 2008-09-04 13:05 Q: China is preparing to launch the OTC (over-the-counter) market and the second board. Do you think they will represent a big challenge for EFI to develop its business in China? A: In China, there are 300,000 SMEs and about 28,000 can meet the requirement of listing on the second board. It's such a huge market and the competition is there, but not fierce. The biggest success of a capital market is to help companies grow up. For the companies, the more choices, the better. As far as I'm concerned, OTC can just offer a market to sell or buy assets and equity, but it's not ideal in terms of access for financing. Q: Since the global stock markets are all experiencing a sluggish time, do you think it's wise to encourage Chinese SMEs to launch offshore IPOs now? A: In my opinion, the downturn of the capital market is the most beautiful period, with many opportunities. The Olympic Games and World Expo Shanghai 2010 will put China feature into the spotlight and draw more foreign investors. In the long run, I believe that the Chinese stock market and the global capital market will witness an upward trend, so it's wise to take action now. Q: EFI entered China in 2007. How is the business going? A: So far, EFI has helped six Chinese companies list on Euronext and five more are likely to go public by year's end or the beginning of next year. We have a heavy schedule, but quite enjoy it. EFI tries to meet the requirements of companies at different development stages and help them to transfer among different boards, even in different countries, such as the Catalist in Singapore. Q: It's just your third trip to China. Why have you decided to devote yourself to the development of Chinese SMEs? A: Just look outside the window of this skyscraper. The prospective central business districts in Beijing are similar to those of Paris. I will buy a house in China and come here more frequently. I hope I can establish a life-long relationship with my Chinese clients. As my private requirement, every company that has been listed successfully will set my statue on the company's most eye-catching entrance. So when my grandson comes to China to visit these companies, he will feel proud. (For more biz stories, please visit Industries)
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