The move by the state-controlled China Development Bank (CDB) for a £2.5bn stake in Barclays today marks the latest flexing of financial muscles by the Chinese government.

The Chinese and Singaporean governments became major shareholders in Barclays bank today as the bank raised its offer for Dutch takeover target ABN Amro.

LIMERICK County Development Board (CDB) yesterday launched a strategy which directs renewed focus on a variety of issues ranging from youth services to water quality.