The Chinese economy is in its worst shape in recent memory — and most of its problems can be directly or indirectly attributed to Xi himself.
Xi Jinping has botched the political business cycle.
An effective leader — in China or elsewhere — will typically manipulate economic policy to create good short-term conditions and optimism in the run-up to an election or critical meeting. That was the case back in 2017, as Xi was able to push through some tough measures in 2016 before enjoying a smooth recovery in the run-up to the 19th Party Congress.
Today, the situation is the reverse. As China approaches the 20th Part
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