Mei Ri Jing Ji Xin Wen·2025-11-03 11:44Core Viewpoint - The recent suspension of gold-related services by major banks, including Industrial and Commercial Bank of China (ICBC) and China Construction Bank (CCB), is linked to new tax policies affecting the gold market, leading to significant fluctuations in gold prices and impacting retail businesses [3][4][15]. Group 1: Bank Operations - ICBC and CCB announced the suspension of certain gold investment services due to macroeconomic policy impacts and risk management requirements, with ICBC resuming operations within a day [3][5][11]. - The "Ruyi Gold" accumulation service by ICBC allows customers to accumulate gold and redeem it for cash or physical gold, while CCB's "Easy Storage Gold" service offers similar functionalities [13][11]. - Both banks indicated that existing customers' plans would not be affected, but new applications for certain services were temporarily halted [5][11]. Group 2: Tax Policy Impact - A new tax policy effective from November 1, 2025, exempts value-added tax (VAT) on standard gold transactions through designated exchanges until December 31, 2027, but imposes VAT on physical gold withdrawals, increasing investment costs [4][16]. - The policy aims to enhance the competitiveness of China's gold market and improve tax regulation precision, with expectations of a rise in retail prices for gold products due to increased procurement costs [4][15][22]. - Analysts predict that the new tax regulations will lead to a 7% increase in procurement costs for retailers, affecting pricing strategies across the gold jewelry sector [18][22]. Group 3: Market Reactions - Following the announcement of the new tax policy, gold prices surged significantly in the Shenzhen market, with prices rising from approximately 930 yuan per gram to over 996 yuan per gram within hours [21]. - Retailers, including Chow Tai Fook and others, have begun adjusting their prices in response to the increased costs associated with the new tax regulations [18][22]. - The market is currently in a state of uncertainty, with many retailers halting sales until further notice regarding pricing adjustments [21][22].