As Olympics Open, China's Economy Slows

In a worrisome sign that China's growth streak is losing more steam, the latest official statistics on manufacturing show the output of Chinese factories may have actually contracted in July. The Purchasing Managers Index (PMI) fell to 48.4 in July, the first time it has dropped below the 50 boom-bust line since the government introduced the measure three years ago.

That fall suggests manufacturing is shrinking, as levels of both new orders and ... Full Story »