Biden Restricts Investments, China on a Gold Purchasing Spree

The Biden administration’s impending restrictions on U.S. investments in China intensify the Sino-U.S. tensions. Meanwhile, China’s gold hoard peaks at 2,136 tons.

• Private equity and venture capital firms won’t be able to invest in sectors like quantum computing, AI, and advanced semiconductors.
• China’s ongoing gold purchases challenge the U.S. dollar’s role as the world’s top reserve currency.

The Sino-US tensions escalate as the Biden administration gears up to unveil new investment restrictions on American investments in select advanced industries in China, aimed at safeguarding national security. Meanwhile, China’s gold hoarding reaches an all-time high at a staggering 2,136 tons.

The impending measures will prohibit private equity and venture capital firms from investing in sectors like quantum computing, AI, and advanced semiconductors, perceived as potentially bolstering China’s military capabilities. These regulations will also mandate companies investing in a broader range of Chinese industries to report their activities, bolstering transparency in financial transactions between the two nations.

While the White House declined to comment, Biden officials assert that these restrictions focus on addressing security risks without hampering legitimate business ties. This move follows the administration’s efforts to secure crucial supply chains and limit certain technology exports to China.

China has long maintained restrictions on foreign investments, but this latest U.S. action marks a significant departure from past practices. Critics argue that these measures might fall short of counteracting China’s economic sway and technological advancements, potentially disadvantaging the U.S.

Experts stress that the success of these restrictions hinges on international cooperation. The Biden administration is collaborating with allies, including the Group of Seven (G7), to encourage the adoption of similar investment curbs. This global trend aligns with the pursuit of reduced reliance on the U.S. dollar and diversified financial engagements.

In the ever-evolving landscape of security-intertwined economics, the Biden administration’s move underscores economic tools’ increasing significance within comprehensive foreign policy strategies. As nations strive to balance security concerns with economic interests, the outcome of these restrictions could resonate far beyond bilateral relations.

On another front, China continues its remarkable streak of buying gold for the ninth consecutive month. In July alone, the People’s Bank of China purchased 23 tons of gold, raising its total gold reserves to 2,137 tons. This sustained gold-buying spree raises speculation that China seeks to challenge the primacy of the U.S. dollar as the world’s leading reserve currency.

Analysts interpret China’s persistent gold acquisitions as part of a broader strategy to diversify holdings and reduce reliance on the U.S. dollar. While China’s central bank gold purchases play a crucial role in supporting gold prices, this ongoing trend highlights a global shift away from the dollar-centric economic landscape. As central bank gold demand remains a bulwark, China’s strategic gold accumulation adds a layer of complexity to the evolving dynamics of the global financial arena.

Inside Telecom provides you with an extensive list of content covering all aspects of the tech industry. Keep an eye on our Tech sections to stay informed and up-to-date with our daily articles.