This Could Be Beautiful Social networking site Club Beautiful sees potential profit in connecting China＇s youthful stylites

While most industries trend downwards in the wake of the global financial crisis, demand for designer apparel and accessories in the world＇s third-largest economy is expected to grow 7% this year. According to global consulting firm Bain ＆ Co., the sector will expand faster than any market in the world -- with the possible exception of Brazil -- until at least 2012.

Cat and Mouse

While transaction volumes are rising in some southern cities, most buyers are holding off, waiting to see if property prices will fall further

Moving to the Country

Foreign banks are opening up branches in some of China＇s remotest areas, convinced they are tapping into an under-served market

Lending a Hand

A new for-profit initiative, 5IGive, aims to encourage China＇s young professionals to offer loans to help poor students pay their way through university.

The Lion＇s Den

The founder for a firm encouraging wealthy Chinese to mvest in New York property believes the couldn＇t have entered the market at a better time.

Hot Property

How three young entrepreueurs built Jipingmi, China＇s largest online source of residential housing listings

ISLAND LIFE

The little-known Thai is land of Koh Yao Noi has maintained its laidback lifestyle and pristine environment-but get there quick as the developers may soon be moving in