Xin Lang Cai Jing·2025-12-26 10:11Core Viewpoint - The global market is experiencing a rare super cycle in precious metals, driven by a reassessment of the dollar's credibility and real demand from new industrial revolutions such as AI and hydrogen energy [2][24]. Group 1: Market Dynamics - As of December 24, spot gold reached $4500 per ounce, with international silver and platinum increasing over 140% for the year [2][24]. - The demand for precious metals has shifted from traditional safe-haven assets to being driven by monetary credit, geopolitical factors, and green technology [10][34]. Group 2: Banking Sector Adjustments - Major banks like ICBC, CCB, and CITIC are cleaning up personal precious metal accounts that have been inactive, indicating a strategic shift towards focusing on quality clients rather than quantity [3][26]. - This move is not a retreat but a strategic adjustment to enhance service quality, risk control, and long-term trust [27][36]. Group 3: Asset Growth and Competition - By Q3 2025, ICBC led the market with precious metal assets of 385.43 billion yuan, followed by Bank of China, China Construction Bank, Agricultural Bank of China, and Shanghai Pudong Development Bank, all surpassing 100 billion yuan [29][31]. - The growth in precious metal assets is built on a solid foundation from 2024, with ICBC showing consistent expansion from 254.30 billion yuan in Q1 to 385.43 billion yuan in Q3 2025 [32][33]. Group 4: Future Outlook - Goldman Sachs predicts that gold prices may reach $4900 per ounce by 2026, with several financial institutions forecasting gold to potentially hit $5000 per ounce [21][41]. - The competition in the precious metals sector will focus on compliance, customer trust, and long-term strategies, with the true "king of precious metals" being the bank that retains the most engaged and trusting clients after account clean-ups [42].