Xin Lang Cai Jing·2026-01-15 00:02Core Insights - The rising gold prices have sparked a surge in demand for bank safe deposit boxes, leading to a situation where they are in high demand but low supply [1][4][12] - Many banks in Beijing report that all safe deposit boxes are currently rented out, with waiting lists exceeding 100 customers at some locations [2][10] - The demand for safe deposit boxes is driven by increased interest in gold investments, as geopolitical risks continue to elevate the appeal of gold as a safe-haven asset [4][12] Demand and Supply Dynamics - The demand for safe deposit boxes has significantly increased, with banks reporting a notable rise in inquiries since last year [4][12] - Banks are struggling to keep up with the demand, as the supply of safe deposit boxes has not increased in tandem, leading to a shortage [6][15] - Some banks have ceased offering safe deposit box services altogether due to high maintenance costs and low profitability [15][16] Pricing and Features - Different banks offer various sizes and pricing structures for safe deposit boxes, with significant variations in rental fees [3][11] - For example, at China Merchants Bank, the smallest box has a monthly rental fee of 50 yuan, while larger boxes can cost up to 42,000 yuan annually [11] - Postal Savings Bank offers a fully automated safe deposit box with advanced security features, including 24-hour monitoring and multiple verification methods for access [5][13] Market Trends - The ongoing geopolitical tensions and expectations of continued low interest rates are expected to sustain the demand for gold and, consequently, safe deposit boxes [4][12] - Investors are increasingly looking for secure storage options for their gold investments, as concerns about home security grow [4][12] - Some banks are innovating their services, such as offering promotional deals for customers purchasing gold products, to attract more clients [16]