Core Viewpoint - The domestic precious metals market experienced a historic shock on February 2, 2026, with significant declines in futures and stocks, prompting the Shanghai Gold Exchange to implement emergency risk control measures to stabilize the market [2][3][4]. Market Reaction - On February 2, the main silver futures contract on the Shanghai Futures Exchange hit the limit down, while gold futures fell over 10%, leading to a collective drop in the A-share precious metals sector, with over ten stocks hitting the limit down [2][6][7]. - The spot gold price fell below $4600 per ounce, with an intraday decline of 6.25%, reflecting a broader panic in the market [2][9]. Regulatory Response - The Shanghai Gold Exchange issued an urgent announcement to adjust the margin levels and price fluctuation limits for silver deferred contracts, aiming to curb excessive volatility and maintain market stability [3][4]. - The margin for silver contracts was raised from 20% to 26%, and the price fluctuation limit was increased from 19% to 25% in response to significant price movements [3][4]. Underlying Factors - The recent volatility in the precious metals market was attributed to multiple factors, including external liquidity concerns, changes in Federal Reserve policies, and panic selling among investors [11][12][14]. - The sharp decline in international gold prices, which fell over 12% in a single day, and the extreme volatility in silver prices, which dropped over 36%, were significant contributors to the market's instability [4][11]. Broader Market Impact - The panic in the precious metals market led to a domino effect, causing declines in related sectors such as oil and gas and telecommunications, with many stocks in these sectors also experiencing significant drops [10][11]. - The domestic commodity futures market saw widespread declines, with various precious metal futures hitting limit down, reflecting a broader market retreat [8][10]. Future Outlook - The long-term outlook for precious metals remains influenced by several key variables, including Federal Reserve policy adjustments, global liquidity changes, and geopolitical uncertainties [27][28]. - Despite the short-term volatility, the fundamental drivers for gold's long-term value, such as ongoing monetary easing and strong central bank demand, remain intact [24][25].

Core Viewpoint - Recent fluctuations in gold prices have led multiple Chinese banks to adjust their gold accumulation business and issue risk warnings to investors [2][4][12]. Group 1: Industrial Bank - Industrial Bank has announced adjustments to its gold accumulation business, effective February 7, including limits on transactions during non-trading days [5]. - The minimum investment amount for gold accumulation was raised from 1,000 yuan to 1,100 yuan starting January 8 [7]. - Only personal clients with a C3 (balanced) risk profile or higher can engage in gold accumulation business from January 12 [7]. Group 2: China Construction Bank - China Construction Bank has increased the minimum investment amount for personal gold accumulation to 1,500 yuan, effective February 2 [9]. Group 3: Bank of China - Bank of China has issued a risk warning, highlighting the significant uncertainties in the precious metals market since 2026 and advising clients to manage their gold holdings carefully [12]. Group 4: Bank of Communications - Bank of Communications has set new requirements for clients with gold wallets, allowing only those with growth, aggressive, or high-risk profiles to engage in all related transactions [15]. - The bank previously advised investors to monitor market changes and manage their gold asset allocations effectively [18]. Group 5: Agricultural Bank of China - Agricultural Bank of China has implemented a risk assessment requirement for clients wishing to engage in gold accumulation, effective January 30, requiring a cautious risk profile or higher [20]. - The bank encourages investors to enhance their risk awareness and make rational decisions based on their financial situation [21].

Core Viewpoint - The gold market experienced a significant drop in prices, with gold falling from 1252 CNY/g to 1142 CNY/g in a matter of minutes, marking a decline of over 9% on January 30, the largest single-day drop since 1983 [1][16]. Market Reaction - Following the price drop, many investors rushed to sell their gold holdings, with some reporting substantial profits from timely sales [1][5]. - The Shenzhen Shui Bei market saw a surge in activity, with some vendors selling gold bars worth millions in a single day, while others faced stock shortages due to high demand [3][8]. Price Trends - On February 1, gold prices were reported at 1262 CNY/g, with a recovery price of 1080 CNY/g, while silver prices were at 30.6 CNY/g, down from previous highs [5][10]. - The price of gold jewelry also saw a significant decline, with major brands reporting drops of up to 160 CNY/g within two days [14]. Investor Behavior - Some consumers opted to buy gold at lower prices, believing in its long-term value, while others were quick to sell due to market volatility [6][12]. - The market showed a mix of panic selling and opportunistic buying, with many investors expressing uncertainty about future price movements [8][10]. Institutional Response - Several banks have increased risk assessments for clients engaging in gold transactions, reflecting heightened market volatility and uncertainty [15]. - Analysts noted that the recent price drop was driven by an overheated market and external factors such as declines in the stock market, particularly following disappointing earnings reports from major companies [16].

Group 1 - The international precious metals market experienced significant adjustments on January 30, leading major banks such as ICBC, CCB, BOC, and ABC to issue risk warnings and adjust related business rules [1] - ICBC advised investors to adopt a rational perspective on market fluctuations, control positions, and follow a principle of gradual and diversified allocation [1] - Other major banks also issued risk warnings, with CCB raising the minimum amount for personal gold accumulation to 1500 yuan, BOC advising clients to consider their risk tolerance, and ABC enhancing risk assessment requirements for gold accumulation [1][2] Group 2 - The physical gold market is experiencing high demand despite price adjustments, with popular products sold out on banking apps and limited availability of physical gold bars at branches [2] - There is a noticeable increase in inquiries about gold bars, as many view the price correction as an opportunity to accumulate for long-term holding, although supply constraints exist [2] - The interest rates for account-based gold products are being reduced to zero by major banks, indicating a weakening of their "interest property" [2]

Core Viewpoint - Major Chinese banks have adjusted their gold accumulation business and issued risk warnings due to significant fluctuations in gold prices and increased market uncertainty [1][2][5][7]. Group 1: Bank Adjustments - Industrial and Commercial Bank of China (ICBC) has modified its gold accumulation business rules, implementing limit management for transactions on non-trading days starting February 7 [3]. - ICBC raised the minimum investment amount for gold accumulation from 1000 yuan to 1100 yuan as of January 8 [4]. - China Construction Bank increased the minimum investment amount for personal gold accumulation to 1500 yuan starting February 2 [5]. Group 2: Risk Warnings - ICBC advises investors to assess their risk tolerance and maintain a rational investment approach, suggesting a diversified investment strategy [2]. - Bank of China has highlighted the uncertainties in the precious metals market since 2026, urging clients to manage their gold holdings carefully to mitigate potential losses [7]. - China Agricultural Bank requires clients to complete a risk assessment before engaging in gold accumulation activities, emphasizing the importance of risk awareness [12]. - Traffic Bank has set conditions for clients based on their risk assessment results, allowing only those with higher risk tolerance to engage in all gold-related transactions [9].

Core Viewpoint - Recent fluctuations in gold prices have prompted major banks in China to take urgent measures to control risks associated with gold trading [1] Group 1: Bank Responses - Industrial and Commercial Bank of China (ICBC) issued a risk warning on February 1, advising clients to assess their risk tolerance and maintain a rational investment mindset amid significant price volatility [3] - Agricultural Bank of China (ABC) announced an increase in margin requirements for gold trading contracts from 44% to 60% starting January 30, urging clients to manage their positions carefully [5] - Bank of China (BOC) highlighted the uncertainties in the precious metals market and advised clients to control their holdings to mitigate potential losses from price fluctuations [7] - China Construction Bank (CCB) raised the minimum investment amount for its gold accumulation business to 1500 yuan, emphasizing the need for clients to be aware of market risks [9] - Both Bank of Communications and Postal Savings Bank of China also issued trading alerts, with the latter increasing margin requirements for various gold contracts from 80% to 120% [11] Group 2: Market Analysis - The international gold market has experienced significant volatility, with experts warning that investors need to possess adequate risk tolerance due to increased short-term risks [12] - Despite the current fluctuations, the long-term outlook for gold prices remains positive, supported by multiple factors, suggesting that investors should make informed decisions based on their financial situations and risk preferences [12]

Core Viewpoint - Recent fluctuations in gold prices have led to significant volatility, prompting major banks to take measures to control risks associated with gold-related businesses [1][4]. Group 1: Bank Responses - Industrial and Commercial Bank of China (ICBC) issued a risk warning on February 1, advising clients to assess their risk tolerance and adopt a rational investment approach amidst market uncertainty [2]. - Agricultural Bank of China (ABC) announced an increase in margin requirements for gold trading contracts from 44% to 60% effective January 30, urging clients to manage their positions carefully [3]. - China Bank highlighted the need for clients to protect their interests in gold-related businesses and to control their holdings based on financial status and risk tolerance [4]. - China Construction Bank (CCB) raised the minimum investment amount for gold accumulation business to 1500 yuan starting February 2, emphasizing the need for risk awareness [5]. - Bank of Communications and Postal Savings Bank also issued trading alerts, with the latter increasing margin requirements for certain gold contracts from 80% to 120% [6]. Group 2: Market Analysis - The international gold market has experienced significant volatility, with experts warning that investors need to possess adequate risk tolerance due to increased short-term risks [7]. - Despite the current fluctuations, the long-term outlook for gold prices remains positive, supported by various factors, suggesting that investors should focus on their own investment experience and risk preferences [7].

Core Viewpoint - The A-share market's banking sector experienced a counter-trend increase, with several banks showing significant gains despite overall market conditions [1]. Group 1: Stock Performance - CITIC Bank saw an increase of 3.48%, with a total market capitalization of 414 billion [2] - Shanghai Bank increased by 2.49%, with a market cap of 134.6 billion [2] - Huaxia Bank rose by 2.05%, with a market cap of 103 billion [2] - Other banks such as Industrial Bank, Everbright Bank, and Nanjing Bank also reported gains exceeding 1% [1][2] - Agricultural Bank, Industrial and Commercial Bank, and China Merchants Bank had market caps of 2386.9 billion, 2619.6 billion, and 2304.7 billion respectively, with slight increases [2] Group 2: Year-to-Date Performance - Year-to-date performance shows that most banks have negative returns, with CITIC Bank down 3.38% and Shanghai Bank down 6.24% [2] - Notably, Qingdao Bank has a positive year-to-date return of 17.86%, indicating strong performance relative to its peers [2] - Other banks like Agricultural Bank and Industrial Bank have year-to-date declines of 11.20% and 7.31% respectively [2]

Core Viewpoint - The A-share market has seen a rise in bank stocks, with several banks experiencing significant gains despite overall market trends [1] Group 1: Stock Performance - CITIC Bank increased by 3.48%, with a total market capitalization of 414 billion [2] - Shanghai Bank rose by 2.49%, with a market cap of 134.6 billion [2] - Huaxia Bank saw a gain of 2.05%, with a market value of 103 billion [2] - Industrial Bank increased by 1.98%, with a market cap of 403.6 billion [2] - Everbright Bank rose by 1.81%, with a total market capitalization of 199.7 billion [2] - Nanjing Bank increased by 1.52%, with a market cap of 132.2 billion [2] - Beijing Bank saw a rise of 1.51%, with a market value of 113.7 billion [2] - Agricultural Bank increased by 1.49%, with a market cap of 23,869 billion [2] - Industrial and Commercial Bank rose by 1.38%, with a market value of 26,196 billion [2] - Zhejiang Bank increased by 1.37%, with a market cap of 81 billion [2] - Bank of Communications rose by 1.36%, with a market value of 592.9 billion [2] - Shanghai Pudong Development Bank increased by 1.29%, with a market cap of 338.7 billion [2] - Qingdao Bank saw a rise of 1.15%, with a market value of 30.7 billion [2] - Bank of China increased by 1.12%, with a market cap of 17,496 billion [2] - Minsheng Bank rose by 1.07%, with a market value of 165.9 billion [2] - China Construction Bank increased by 1.03%, with a market cap of 23,047 billion [2] - Ping An Bank rose by 1.02%, with a market value of 212.3 billion [2] Group 2: Year-to-Date Performance - CITIC Bank has a year-to-date decline of 3.38% [2] - Shanghai Bank has decreased by 6.24% year-to-date [2] - Huaxia Bank has a year-to-date decline of 4.34% [2] - Industrial Bank has decreased by 9.45% year-to-date [2] - Everbright Bank has a year-to-date decline of 3.15% [2] - Nanjing Bank has decreased by 6.47% year-to-date [2] - Beijing Bank has a year-to-date decline of 1.82% [2] - Agricultural Bank has decreased by 11.20% year-to-date [2] - Industrial and Commercial Bank has a year-to-date decline of 7.31% [2] - Zhejiang Bank has decreased by 2.96% year-to-date [2] - Bank of Communications has a year-to-date decline of 7.45% [2] - Shanghai Pudong Development Bank has decreased by 18.25% year-to-date [2] - Qingdao Bank has increased by 17.86% year-to-date [2] - Bank of China has a year-to-date decline of 5.24% [2] - Minsheng Bank has decreased by 1.04% year-to-date [2] - China Construction Bank has a year-to-date decline of 5.06% [2] - Ping An Bank has decreased by 4.12% year-to-date [2]

Market Overview - On February 2, 2026, London spot gold opened at $4685.99 per ounce, down over 4.2%, with a daily low of $4583.077 per ounce. London spot silver opened at $82.887 per ounce, down over 2.7% [1][2][3] - Domestic precious metal futures prices opened lower, with Shanghai silver futures hitting the limit down, Shanghai gold futures down over 10%, platinum futures limit down, and palladium futures down over 15% [3][4] Price Adjustments - The Shanghai Gold Exchange announced adjustments to the margin levels and price limits for silver contracts due to significant price volatility. If a one-sided market occurs, the margin level will increase from 20% to 26%, and the price limit will change from 19% to 25% [4] - Domestic brand gold jewelry prices have adjusted downwards, with Chow Sang Sang's gold jewelry reported at ¥1484 per gram, down from ¥1618 per gram [5][6] Consumer Behavior and Refund Policies - Sales personnel at gold brand counters have stated that returns will not be accepted due to price drops, with a standard deduction of ¥500 for any return [7] - Online return policies vary, with most platforms not accepting returns for investment gold products. Some brands allow returns within 24-48 hours under specific conditions, while others charge a fee of 1%-5% for returns [9][11][12] Risk Management by Financial Institutions - Several banks, including ICBC, ABC, BOC, and CCB, have issued announcements adjusting their gold accumulation business and providing risk warnings due to significant price fluctuations in precious metals [17][19][22][26] - ICBC has raised the minimum purchase amount for gold accumulation from ¥1000 to ¥1100 and adjusted business rules for gold accumulation starting February 7 [20][21]