Guo Ji Jin Rong Bao·2026-01-06 16:27Core Viewpoint - Industrial and Commercial Bank of China (ICBC) announced an increase in risk assessment levels for personal customers' gold accumulation investment starting January 12, 2026, aiming to enhance investor protection amid market volatility [1][3]. Group 1: Risk Assessment Changes - ICBC will require personal customers to achieve a C3-balanced risk assessment or higher to engage in gold accumulation business, which includes opening accounts and making regular investments [3]. - Previously, customers only needed a C1-conservative assessment to participate in the gold accumulation business [3]. - Other major banks have also raised their risk ratings for gold accumulation products to at least medium risk, with some requiring the highest risk level for investment [4]. Group 2: Market Context and Implications - The adjustment is attributed to increased market volatility and the need for better investor protection, as recent fluctuations in international gold prices have heightened the risk characteristics of precious metal assets [4][6]. - The price of gold has seen significant increases, with a 60% rise in 2025, driven by geopolitical and economic uncertainties [6][7]. - Experts suggest that banks are obligated to ensure that investors possess adequate risk tolerance before engaging in such investment products, aiming to prevent inappropriate risk exposure [4][8]. Group 3: Future Trends - There is a likelihood that other banks will follow ICBC's lead in raising risk assessment levels for gold accumulation products, as compliance and risk control pressures persist [7][8]. - The ongoing high volatility in gold prices may prompt banks to refine their risk admission mechanisms to align with stable asset allocation needs [7].