Ant Group Denies IPO Rumors

A rundown of the news making headlines in and around China:

Ant IPO rumors: Ant Group Co. Ltd. on Thursday denied rumors that it would soon launch an IPO, stating it has no plans for a listing and warning against investment scams exploiting such false claims. The rumors, which have been shared widely on social media this month, are being spread to generate hype for certain stocks, industry insiders told Caixin. Speculation over the fintech giant’s listing has mounted in recent months, as the shortest waiting period, triggered by earlier governance changes that eliminated its actual controller, is nearing its end.