Talking points
Boost for Cepa free-trade deal
Slower earnings growth tipped for banks
Industrial and Commercial Bank of China (ICBC) - the world's largest lender by market value - and Bank of China will announce results today. There are fears both may report slower earnings growth, further denting mainland banking shares which are already trading near record-low valuations. Bad loans at the mainland's commercial lenders have also been climbing steadily, adding to investor concerns. On Sunday, China Construction Bank, the mainland's second-largest lender by assets, announced the smallest earnings gain in five quarters.
Jailed doctor who helped find bin Laden appeals
Asia Adult Expo debuts in Hong Kong
It took several attempts, but finally, the Asia Adult Expo and Intimate Lingerie Asia makes its debut in Hong Kong, starting at the Convention and Exhibition Centre today and running until Saturday. For those with a fascination for sex toys and associated products, there will also be an adult expo in Macau in December. The organisers say the market for such products is a lucrative one in Asia.
Vice-Minister of Commerce Li Jinzao gives a briefing on Sino-African trade relations as the State Council Information Office publishes a white paper entitled "China-Africa Economic and Trade Co-operation". China has brought cheap consumer goods and built many roads and schools in Africa over the last decade, but the continent's leaders are increasingly pushing for it to help them create jobs.
Champions League group stage draw
The draw for the group stage of the Champions League soccer tournament will be decided in a ceremony in Monaco. The 32 sides, including titleholders Bayern Munich, are split into four seeding pots and teams are then drawn into the eight groups.