Zhong Guo Ji Jin Bao·2025-05-21 12:55Core Viewpoint - Nine joint-stock banks in China have followed state-owned banks in rapidly lowering deposit interest rates, focusing on medium to long-term deposits, particularly three-year and five-year terms [2][4][5] Group 1: Deposit Rate Adjustments - As of May 21, seven banks including Ping An Bank and CITIC Bank have announced reductions in deposit rates, with three-year and five-year fixed deposit rates lowered by 25 basis points (BP) [2][4] - The adjusted rates for Ping An Bank are now 0.70% for three months, 0.95% for six months, 1.15% for one year, 1.20% for two years, and 1.30% for three years, reflecting a decrease of 15 BP for shorter terms and 25 BP for longer terms [3][4] - Minsheng Bank has also reduced its deposit rates, with similar decreases across various terms, including a 25 BP drop for three-year and five-year deposits [3][4] Group 2: Market Expectations and Reactions - Investors had anticipated the recent reductions in deposit rates, with no significant rush to lock in rates observed at bank branches [4][5] - The speed of the banks' responses to the need for lower deposit rates aligns with market expectations, indicating a proactive approach to stabilize net interest margins and support the real economy [5][6] Group 3: Implications for Banking Sector - The adjustments in deposit rates are seen as necessary to reduce financing costs for the real economy, with banks needing to lower their liability costs to maintain profitability [5][8] - The current trend shows that the reductions in deposit rates are larger than the Loan Prime Rate (LPR) decreases, which may help banks manage interest expenses and improve their financial performance [8]