Introduction
Zhongguancun Index (ZGCI) is a stock market index created by the Shanghai Stock Exchange, in cooperation with the Beijing Stock Exchange, to measure the performance of the largest and most actively traded companies listed on the stock exchange of China. It uses the same methodology as most major stock market indices, such as the S&P 500 Index in the United States, and is in fact often referred to as the “Chinese S&P 500”.
History of ZGCI
The ZGCI was launched in February 2003 as the first official benchmark index of the Chinese stock market. It provides a real-time assessment of the overall performance of the stock exchange market in China, and serves as a reflection of the industries and sectors that have a direct impact on growth and development in the Chinese economy. The index is comprised of publicly traded companies listed on the Shanghai and Beijing bourses, and is calculated daily.
Components of ZGCI
The ZGCI is composed of the 300 largest and most actively traded stocks that are listed on the Shanghai and Beijing Stock Exchanges. The stocks are selected based on their average daily trading volume and market value. The index is reviewed and updated annually and any changes made to the selection process must be technically sound and in line with market regulations.
Performance of ZGCI
Since its inception, the ZGCI has grown at a steady rate and is now one of the world’s most followed stock market indices. Its winners and losers mirror the trends of almost every other stock market index. Some of the major drivers of the ZGCI’s performance are the sectors of financials, energy, IT, shipping, and consumer staples. Additionally, the performance of the index is also impacted by certain geopolitical events, such as the trade disputes between China and the United States, and the overall economic health of China.
Conclusion
The Shanghai and Beijing Stock Exchanges created the Zhongguancun Index (ZGCI) in 2003 in order to provide a real-time measure of the performance of the largest and most actively traded stocks on their exchanges. The ZGCI is composed of 300 stocks and is reviewed and adjusted annually in order to maintain its accuracy and relevance. Since its inception, the ZGCI has grown and become one of the world’s most followed stock market indices, mirroring the performance of almost every other stock market index and reflecting the trends of the Chinese economy.