Xi’s Central Asia Outreach Pays Off With a Fundraising Blitz

Weeks ago, a group of Kazakh bankers traveled to Hong Kong to lay the groundwork for a series of yuan-denominated bond deals that could take place later in the year.

The cohort met with Chinese investors and made presentations, according to people familiar, who asked not to be identified discussing private matters. The meetings in early 2026 have coincided with plans by Chinese bankers to launch bond offerings for entities in Kazakhstan and other Central Asian nations, the people said, pointing to a broader shift.