Yum! Brands, Inc. (YUM), Baidu.com, Inc. (ADR) (BIDU), General Motors Company (GM): Eye-Popping Numbers Behind China’s Rise

The world’s leading automakers have taken notice. China has become Volkswagen‘s largest market, as the German auto king has soared to take the No. 1 spot there. Consequently, Europe’s slump hasn’t hit VW anywhere nearly as much as it’s affected fellow European companies, as VW’s stock has roared higher by more than 45% over the past year.

Even Detroit’s finest companies have turned to China for their bread and butter, as China recently became General Motors Company (NYSE:GM)‘ top market as well. General Motors Company (NYSE:GM)’s behind only Volkswagen in China, and strong sales on the other side of the Pacific helped the company’s overall sales climb 4% over the first half of the year. For auto investors and China investors alike, the Chinese auto market is one industry you can’t afford to take your eyes off.

Making money on China’s rise

China’s a huge, growing, and valuable market; there’s no other way to say it. The country’s growth from a minor power in Asia to one of the world’s economic powerbrokers has been nothing short of astounding over the past few decades. While some areas in China still need much work to thrive — the materials sector, the country’s weak transportation infrastructure, and the economy’s housing struggles are notable examples — China’s in it for the long run.

Investors can’t just throw money around in a nation that’s still finding its feet, but by sticking to the basics, investing in great, solid companies, and buying for the long term, you might just make the most of China’s rise.

The article 5 Eye-Popping Numbers Behind China’s Rise originally appeared on Fool.com and is written by Dan Carroll.

Fool contributor Dan Carroll has no position in any stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool recommends Baidu and General Motors and owns shares of Baidu.

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