Jack Ma, founder of Alibaba Group and reportedly the richest man in China, saw his wealth soar with the successful launch of Alibaba’s initial public offering. While the IPO offers insights into global financial trends, it also provides a unique perspective on how income inequality is affecting citizens across the globe.

Alibaba’s stellar NYSE IPO beat even the most optimistic expectations. The IPO is likely to forge close US-China economic and trade ties, and to further integrate the two economies, writes He Weiwen.

Russia’s desire to cushion the impact of recent Western sanctions combined with China’s attempts to reduce its reliance on oil imports from the Middle East has created an opportune partnership for the two countries. Now, Beijing is set to become the biggest benefactor of Moscow’s attenuated international standing, strengthening Sino-Russian relations in the long-term.

Are China’s investigative probes into foreign companies selective and rooted in protectionism? Yu Xiang refutes these claims and explains how China’s antitrust legislation and enforcement has developed since its inception in 2008.

China is promoting economic transition and innovation to seize the new opportunities and it is willing to work with others in the region.

As China’s economy continues to slow, Latin American analysts are concerned that investment and trade relations could decline. However, as Walker Rowe explains, China’s foothold in the region is well established and expected to remain for the foreseeable future.

China faces the challenge of reforming its economic policies, and cooling its housing sector. While the Central Bank is taking appropriate actions, there are numerous challenges that may inhibit future growth.

Are China’s anti-trust investigations into Western companies a form of protectionism? Companies like Qualcomm, Microsoft, Chrysler, and Audi were not the first to be subject to China’s anti-monopoly laws. Zhang Monan explains that many domestic companies have also faced penalties, allowing China to establish a law-ruled market economy.

As the China International Fair for Investment and Trade, one of the largest global trade fairs in China, prepares to begin its 19th year, Dan Redford provides a breakdown of the conference and explains the significance of the EB-5 Visa Program to Chinese investors.

The Russia sanctions are likely to have an adverse impact on Russian, U.S. and Chinese economy and could push Europe to a triple-dip recession. A diplomatic solution could deter diminished global prospects.