With a total market capitalization of RMB 79 trillion (US$12.2 trillion) in 2020, China's stock markets rank among the largest in the world. Stock markets in China are seen as crucial for driving economic growth, particularly as a means of financing the country's rapidly growing high-tech industries.

Despite traditionally being closed to overseas investors, China's financial markets have been gradually loosening restrictions over the past two decades. Reforms have been made to make it easier for Chinese companies to list on domestic stock exchanges, as well as launching new programs to attract some of China's most coveted overseas-listed firms back to the country.

China’s stock market is one of the largest in the world, mainly represented by the Shanghai Stock Exchange and the Shenzhen Stock Exchange. It includes A-shares for domestic investors and B-shares for foreign participants, though access has expanded through global trading programs.

The market is heavily influenced by government policies and regulatory decisions. State-owned enterprises play a major role, and sectors such as technology, finance, and manufacturing are dominant. Volatility can be high due to retail investor activity and policy changes. Understanding political direction and economic trends is essential when investing in China’s stock market.