1. Pinsky Named Head of EDC: Mayor Bloomberg appointed a veteran of the private real estate and finance sectors, Seth Pinsky, as president of the New York City Economic Development Corporation last week. Mr. Pinsky was previously an executive vice president at the EDC, which is charged with implementing the city’s economic development strategies.

2. Chinese Bank Branch To Open in Midtown: The first new Chinese bank branch in the city in 20 years is opening on Madison Avenue, Crain’s New York Business reported. China Merchants Bank took a 10-year lease for the 18th floor of 535 Madison Ave., between E. 54th and E. 55th streets. The branch will provide currency exchange and financing for Chinese businesses working in America and American firms dealing with China.

3. Newsweek May Move Downtown: Newsweek magazine is considering moving its offices downtown from Columbus Circle, the New York Observer reported. The magazine is in negotiations for space at 100 Church St., owned by Alex Sapir.

4. Foreclosures in City Increase Sharply: The city saw the sharpest one-month increase in the number of foreclosures in more than 20 years, the New York Post reported. Staten Island was the worst affected, with the number of auctions increasing by 184% since December. Queens increased by 160%, Brooklyn by 46%, and Manhattan by 80%, according to PropertyShark.com. The Bronx had, by contrast, a 14% decrease in the number of auction filings.

5. Real Estate Industry Funds Campaigns: The real estate industry has contributed more to political campaigns — mostly for mayor — than in previous years, the New York Times reported. Executives and others from 25 of the city’s largest property management, brokerage, and real estate developments donated more than $1 million as of January 15, compared with $239,000 in January 2004, and $348,000 in January 2000. The companies were likely trying to beat a change in the city’s campaign finance law.

bhope@nysun.com