I wouldn't be surprised China would be doing things like this. Especially given the financial situation between the U.S and China at the moment. They've also admitted to taking their salami slicing warfare tactic to the extreme in this way. Confucius Academys in college were under attack (still are and rightfully so) for spreading Chinese propaganda under the guise of raising awareness of their culture.

Anyway sorry for ranting. I'm not actually seeing a question in your response. What would my suggestion be to invest in outside of real estate?