Jack Ma spent months abroad as China sought confidence in private sector businesses

Jack Ma may be one of Beijing’s best chances to repair its reputation with the private sector in China and beyond. But the billionaire has been cautious about invitations from the authorities.

One of China’s most recognizable business leaders, co-founder of Alibaba Group Holding Ltd. and the financial technology giant Ant Group Co. almost disappeared from public life after criticizing Chinese regulators in a public speech in Shanghai in 2020.