Global investors descend on China’s Shenzhen to ride wave of AI and robotics opportunities

The convergence of global investors in Shenzhen, led by HSBC, UBS, and Nomura, reflects a clear shift in investment priorities toward China's AI and robotics. HSBC's 13th annual China Conference alone drew over 1,500 executives, signaling a strong appetite for exposure to the country's emerging tech exports. David Liao of HSBC noted that Asian markets, with China at the forefront, will remain a critical hub for global AI exports. This suggests that despite geopolitical tensions, the economic pull of China's AI infrastructure and robotics innovation is proving irresistible to major financial institutions. However, the long-term sustainability of this investment wave will depend on the regulatory environment and the ability of foreign capital to navigate potential US sanctions, which have already impacted companies like Huawei and DJI. While the immediate focus is on the opportunities ahead of the Apec meeting, the real test will be how these global investors manage the inherent risks of a complex and rapidly evolving market. The emphasis on AI infrastructure supply chains points to a deeper integration that could be harder to unwind.