China grew 4.5% last quarter, more than expected

WHAT HAPPENED

The Chinese economy grew 4.5% between July and September compared with the same period last year, above the expected 4.4%. It also accelerated its quarterly growth to 1.2%, from 0.9%.

WHY IT MATTERS

China is buying and making more than expected: its stores sold 1.1% more. This could support oil, metals, and soybeans, as well as exporting countries. But construction remains weak: investment fell 7.2%.

AND FOR YOUR PORTFOLIO

For a long-term portfolio, the data could temporarily improve sentiment in Asia and commodity prices. The effect on a typical investment account is usually indirect: it depends on companies and funds with exposure to China, trade, and natural resources.