MSCI launches new China indexes as reference for investors

The launch of 12 new China-related indexes by MSCI provides a new reference and preparation for global investors, according to analysts.

MSCI Inc., a provider of research-based indexes and analytics, announced Wednesday the launch of 12 new indexes that will expand its China index offering, including the MSCI China A Index, MSCI China A RMB Index, and MSCI China All Shares Large Cap Index.

"With the increased liberalization and internationalization of the China market, investors have expressed a clear need for more insight and tools to make better informed investment decisions," said Theodore Niggli, head of MSCI's Asia Pacific index products.

Hong Kong investment banker Ronald Wan said MSCI added the indexes to prepare and provide references for its investors with a wider range of products.

The new indexes may serve as the "reserve corps" as the A shares become gradually represented by the MSCI, Wan said.

The indexes, which also cover small and medium-sized companies, will help complete the MSCI's China index combination, analysts said.

On June 20, 2017, MSCI announced it would partially include the large cap China A shares in the MSCI Emerging Markets Index and the MSCI ACWI Index.

With A shares to be partially included effective on June 1, 2018, the MSCI China Indexes will cover all share types of Chinese companies listed globally.