2 1 Shi Ji Jing Ji Bao Dao·2025-12-03 12:30Core Viewpoint - The recent collective removal of 5-year large denomination certificates of deposit (CDs) by major Chinese banks indicates a strategic shift towards more cautious interest margin management, reflecting banks' concerns over future interest rate trends [1][11]. Group 1: Market Changes - Major state-owned banks, including ICBC, ABC, BOC, CCB, and others, have removed 5-year large denomination CDs from their mobile banking platforms, with available terms now generally shortened to 3 years or less, and interest rates concentrated between 1.20% and 1.55% [1][2]. - The trend of reducing the supply of long-term fixed-rate deposits deviates from the traditional year-end practice of increasing such offerings to attract depositors [1][11]. - Some banks have indicated that even the 3-year CDs marked as "available" are often sold out, highlighting a significant shift in product availability [8]. Group 2: Historical Context - The development of 5-year large denomination CDs has spanned nearly 40 years, with their initial introduction in 1986 and a significant hiatus from 1997 until their reintroduction in 2015 [4][5]. - The popularity of these CDs surged around 2018 due to changes in the banking landscape, including the relaxation of interest rate caps and increased demand for fixed-term deposits [5]. Group 3: Financial Implications - The current banking environment is characterized by a narrowing net interest margin, which has led to a strategic decision to limit the issuance of long-term high-interest deposits, as they have become a burden rather than a tool for attracting deposits [11]. - As of the third quarter, the net interest margin for commercial banks was reported at 1.42%, reflecting ongoing pressure on profitability due to high deposit costs amidst declining loan rates [11]. Group 4: Customer Behavior - The discontinuation of 5-year large denomination CDs is prompting customers to shift their investment strategies from seeking high-interest deposits to diversifying their asset allocations [14][15]. - A survey indicated that 18.5% of residents are inclined to invest more, with non-guaranteed bank wealth management products becoming increasingly popular [14].