2 1 Shi Ji Jing Ji Bao Dao·2025-12-03 13:31Core Viewpoint - The recent collective removal of 5-year large denomination certificates of deposit (CDs) by major Chinese banks indicates a shift in banks' strategies towards more cautious interest margin management and a potential reduction in the supply of long-term fixed-rate deposits [1][11]. Group 1: Market Changes - Major state-owned banks have collectively removed 5-year large denomination CDs from their mobile banking platforms, with current offerings limited to terms of 3 years or less, and interest rates ranging from 1.20% to 1.55% [1][2]. - The trend of discontinuing 5-year large denomination CDs is not new, as some institutions had already begun this practice last year [1]. - The interest rates for 3-year large denomination CDs are approximately 1.55%, with minimum purchase amounts typically set at 200,000 yuan [2]. Group 2: Historical Context - The development of large denomination CDs spans nearly 40 years, with their initial issuance by the Bank of Communications in 1986, followed by a long hiatus until their reintroduction in 2015 [5][6]. - The popularity of large denomination 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 [6]. Group 3: Financial Implications - The discontinuation of long-term high-interest deposits is primarily driven by banks' need to manage net interest margins more effectively, as the current environment of low loan rates and high deposit costs creates pressure on profitability [11]. - As of the end of Q3, the net interest margin for commercial banks was reported at 1.42%, indicating a challenging environment for maintaining high-interest deposit products [11]. Group 4: Customer Behavior - The removal of 5-year large denomination CDs has prompted customers to reconsider their investment strategies, shifting from a focus on high-interest deposits to a more diversified asset allocation approach [12][15]. - A survey indicated that 18.5% of residents are inclined to invest more, with non-principal guaranteed bank wealth management products becoming increasingly popular [14].