DEST: NOJPBSM

BEIJING, oct 26 ⁤(Reuters) – A growing ⁢wave‌ of pessimism ​among global companies operating in China is coinciding ​with​ a surge in ⁤confidence among domestic firms, signaling a potential shift in teh economic​ landscape of ‌the ⁤world’s​ second-largest economy.​ foreign businesses are increasingly voicing⁢ concerns about regulatory‌ uncertainty, geopolitical tensions, adn slowing consumer demand, ⁣while their Chinese counterparts are capitalizing on opportunities created by a changing⁢ market.

The shift​ reflects a complex‌ interplay of ‌factors,​ including ‌china’s economic ‌slowdown, its assertive foreign policy, and a intentional push by⁢ Beijing to foster self-reliance and‍ innovation. Companies like Adidas, H&M, Ikea, and Inditex are navigating a challenging environment marked by increased competition ‌from local brands​ and evolving ‌consumer preferences. Concurrently, domestic players are stepping into the void left⁢ by some​ Western ‌companies that have exited Russia, seeking to expand their market share and technological ‌capabilities.

Helen Reid, a London-based reporter⁤ covering ⁤the ​European retail sector for Reuters, focuses on companies including Adidas, H&M, Ikea, and‌ Inditex,‍ analyzing‍ corporate strategy,‍ consumer ​trends,‍ and⁢ regulatory⁤ changes. She also covers ‌major supermarket groups‍ like‌ Ahold Delhaize, Carrefour, and Casino, with a special interest in sustainability and investor pressure for corporate change.Previously, Reid reported on the mining industry from ‌Johannesburg.

Alexander Marrow,Reuters’ chief companies⁢ correspondent for Russia,covers ​the Russian economy,markets,and ⁣sectors including finance,retail,and technology. ⁤His reporting centers on the Western corporate exodus from Russia and the rise of domestic companies filling the resulting gaps. Prior⁢ to joining Reuters,Marrow contributed to ‌Sky Sports News’ coverage of the 2016 Olympics in ​Brazil and the ‌2018 World cup in Russia.