盛松成：中国货币政策“小步走”可能性较大 降准还有较大空间

Core Viewpoint - The possibility of a "small step" approach in China's monetary policy is significant, especially in the face of uncertainties, requiring a cautious and gradual implementation [1] Group 1: Monetary Policy Mechanism - Monetary policy generally targets short to medium-term goals and operates indirectly, relying on the cooperation of the private sector, commercial banks, and the financial system [1] - The transmission mechanism of monetary policy is more complex than that of fiscal policy, with a longer transmission path, exemplified by the mechanism from policy rates to actual loan rates [1] - The toolbox for monetary policy in China is becoming increasingly diverse, with the central bank enhancing the role of policy rates and utilizing various liquidity support tools [1] Group 2: Reserve Requirement Ratio and Interest Rates - The reduction in the reserve requirement ratio (RRR) is a primary tool for aligning monetary policy with fiscal policy, increasing the funds available for commercial banks to support active fiscal measures [2] - Since 2016, the RRR has been adjusted downwards 23 times, with a cumulative decrease of 8.5 percentage points for large deposit-taking institutions [2] - The net interest margin for commercial banks is at a historical low of 1.42%, indicating pressure on banks, which may explain the preference for RRR cuts over significant interest rate reductions [2] Group 3: Interest Rate Outlook - There is still room for interest rate cuts, given the low inflation and high real interest rates in China, alongside a favorable external environment due to the U.S. Federal Reserve's rate cuts [3] - Structural monetary policy tools can be utilized to lower interest rates, particularly to support technological innovation and weaker economic sectors [3] - However, the effectiveness of large-scale interest rate cuts is limited due to low interest elasticity in consumption and investment, with firms focusing more on investment risks and profits [3] Group 4: Fiscal Policy Stance - The fiscal policy in China is expected to remain expansive in 2026, with necessary fiscal deficits and total debt levels maintained [3] - There is a suggestion to increase the fiscal deficit ratio in China to create conditions for active fiscal policies, diverging from the EU's standard of a 3% deficit ratio [3]