激活“沉睡资产”还是埋下风险隐患？——透视保单贷款双刃剑效应

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the rising trend of policy loans in the insurance industry, highlighting their benefits for liquidity and flexibility while also addressing the associated risks and the importance of careful management [1][4]. Group 1: Policy Loan Features - Policy loans allow policyholders to borrow against the cash value of their insurance policies, typically up to 80% of the cash value, with interest rates ranging from 4% to 6%, which is lower than average online loan rates [1][2][3]. - The process for obtaining a policy loan is streamlined through digital channels, allowing for online applications and instant disbursements, which has contributed to an increase in policy loan usage [2][3]. - Policy loans do not affect the validity of the insurance contract, allowing policyholders to maintain their coverage while accessing funds [3]. Group 2: Risks and Considerations - There are risks associated with policy loans, including the potential for policy lapse if the total loan amount exceeds the cash value, which can jeopardize insurance benefits [4][6]. - Consumers are advised to avoid third-party intermediaries and to be cautious of exaggerated claims made by loan brokers, as these can lead to financial pitfalls [5][6]. - It is essential for policyholders to assess their financial situation and repayment capabilities before taking out a policy loan, ensuring that they do not overextend themselves [6][7]. Group 3: Recommendations for Policyholders - Insurance companies recommend that policyholders treat policy loans as short-term financing tools and establish clear repayment plans to avoid financial strain [7]. - Regular monitoring of the cash value and loan balance is advised to maintain a safe margin and ensure the policy remains effective [7]. - Consumers should prioritize understanding the terms of the loan, including interest rates and repayment schedules, to prevent adverse financial consequences [7][8].