The China Investment Group, known by insiders as CIG, was formed in 2002 by an insightful group of executives who understood the coming importance of China, economically and militarily. China was considered by many to be a near third world country at the time but the founders of CIG understood the enormous potential of China to rival the U.S. Eight founding members began meeting on a regular basis to discuss China and Asia in general. Speakers were invited to educate the members of CIG on the realities of what was going on in China, politically, economically and financially. Many speakers decided to join the group, and a one-time membership fee was established.
Members brought guests to meetings and some of the guests decided to join CIG. Before long CIG became known for its intimate knowledge of all things China, historical, cultural, economic, financial and military. Speakers from China, including government officials, asked for the pleasure of speaking at CIG meetings, as did Nobel Laureates, Ambassadors, business leaders, authors, writers, professors, TV pundits and CEOs of emerging businesses such as EB5 and Bitcoin. Venues for meetings began at a small round conference table for six at one office and progressed to large conference rooms seating 30. Panel discussions on important topics of the day attracted famous speakers and knowledgeable audiences numbering more than 100.
Venues for CIG meetings are now held at dozens of law firms, major accounting firms and investment banks. Meetings are from 4 to 6pm on the third Thursday of the month except July and August. Before and after meetings, guests and speakers chat with each other and exchange business cards over refreshments. Not only do meetings inform, but they have also led to important contacts leading to clients, investments and mergers.