Core Viewpoint - The China Interbank Market Dealers Association has initiated self-discipline investigations against six main underwriters, including major securities firms and a bank, due to concerns over low underwriting fees in a recent bond issuance project [1][5]. Group 1: Investigation and Regulatory Actions - The self-discipline investigation was prompted by the observation of low underwriting fees in the 2025-2026 secondary capital bond project by Guangfa Bank, which raised market concerns [2][5]. - The association had previously issued a notice to strengthen the regulations on underwriting practices, specifically prohibiting bids below cost [3][5]. Group 2: Underwriting Fee Details - The total underwriting service fee for the six selected institutions was reported to be 63,448 yuan, with individual fees as low as 700 yuan for some firms [4][6]. - The breakdown of estimated service fees included: CITIC Jianan Securities at 35,000 yuan, CITIC Securities at 21,000 yuan, and others at significantly lower amounts [4][6]. Group 3: Market Dynamics and Implications - The phenomenon of low underwriting fees has been a recurring issue, with past instances showing fees as low as 0.0001% in previous bond issuances, indicating a trend of aggressive competition among underwriters [8][9]. - Analysts suggest that the practice of low-cost underwriting may lead to insufficient due diligence and could pose risks to the bond market, undermining the role of underwriters as gatekeepers [8][10]. Group 4: Recommendations for Improvement - There is a call for the industry to refocus on the core responsibilities of underwriting, emphasizing quality over quantity, and to establish stricter self-regulatory measures to combat unreasonable pricing practices [10]. - Experts recommend enhancing the ethical standards of underwriting personnel and relying on brand and professional expertise rather than aggressive pricing strategies to secure projects [10].