From Reuters, August 20:
A look at the day ahead in Asian markets from Jamie McGeever, financial markets columnist.
The People's Bank of China is expected to cut interest rates on Monday, but it may have to throw caution to the wind and 'go big' if it is to soothe the nervousness and concern around China currently sweeping through financial markets.
The Chinese central bank's policy decision is one of three in Asia for investors to take in this week, with the Bank of Korea and Bank Indonesia both expected to keep interest rates on hold on Thursday.
The PBOC's decision and wider developments around China's markets and economy will dominate investors' thinking this week along with the U.S. Federal Reserve's annual Jackson Hole Symposium, where Fed Chair Jerome Powell will speak on Friday.
Investors will also be tuned into the summit of the BRICS group of major emerging economies - Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa - in South Africa this week, where Chinese President Xi Jinping will attend.
But whatever Xi says will likely be more political in nature. The assurances investors want from Chinese officials probably center more on monetary and fiscal policy.
Economists at Goldman Sachs and Barclays are among the many who expect the PBOC to lower its one-year loan prime rate by 15 basis points to 3.40%, which would be a new low....
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