监管严禁开发5年期以下产品，万能险整改倒计时

Core Viewpoint - The regulatory authority has implemented strict regulations on universal life insurance (ULI) to prevent risks associated with low interest rates and to protect consumer interests, effective from May 1, 2025 [1][2][3] Regulatory Changes - The new regulations prohibit the design of ULI products, except for whole life insurance, endowment insurance, and annuity insurance, to strengthen the insurance product's protection attributes and avoid misuse for short-term financial management [3][4] - The insurance term for ULI must not be less than five years, addressing the issue of short-term products that have been prevalent in the market [5][6] Market Impact - The current interest rate environment, with five-year fixed deposit rates at 1.55% and ten-year government bond rates at 1.67%, has pressured life insurance companies as their asset yields decline while liability costs remain rigid [2][4] - The regulations are expected to lead to a restructuring of ULI products, with existing products needing to comply by April 30, 2026, and new products developed under the new rules starting May 1, 2025 [4][6] Consumer Protection - The regulations aim to reduce misleading sales practices and enhance the insurance protection function of ULI, ensuring that consumers are adequately informed about risks and product features [1][4] - Insurance companies are required to provide clear terms regarding additional premium payments and must inform customers of any adjustments to the minimum guaranteed interest rates [4][6] Investment Management - The regulations emphasize the need for insurance companies to establish sound investment strategies for ULI accounts, including strict controls on investment concentration and risk exposure [6][7] - Specific limits are set on investments in single unlisted companies and equity investment funds to mitigate risks associated with asset-liability mismatches and liquidity [7]