Core Insights - The credit card market in China is undergoing a significant contraction, with a reduction of 100 million cards over three years, reflecting a decline in consumer confidence and increased preventive savings [1][2] - As of the end of Q3 2023, the total number of credit cards and loan cards in circulation is 707 million, down from a peak of 807 million in June 2022, marking a continuous decline for 12 consecutive quarters [1] - The rise in credit card non-performing loan (NPL) rates to 2.40% as of mid-2023 indicates increasing asset quality pressures on banks, leading to a strategic shift in credit card issuance [1] Industry Trends - The ongoing reduction in credit card numbers is not a short-term fluctuation but a structural adjustment driven by stringent regulatory policies and insufficient consumer demand [1] - Banks are adopting differentiated strategies in card issuance, with some institutions like Postal Savings Bank and Bank of Communications reducing their card inventories, while others like China Merchants Bank and CITIC Bank are increasing their card issuance through targeted marketing [2] - Deloitte's report suggests a shift in the industry focus from quantity to quality in credit card issuance, indicating a more cautious approach by banks in response to market conditions [2]
全国信用卡存量三年减少1亿张,不良贷款率攀升至2.40%