Core Viewpoint - The banking industry is experiencing a "New Year" surge in early 2026, with small and medium-sized banks raising deposit rates despite regulatory pressures and narrowing interest margins [1][3]. Group 1: Deposit Rate Adjustments - In January, several small and medium-sized banks in regions like Shanxi, Henan, and Shaanxi have announced increases in deposit rates, with typical upward adjustments around 20 basis points (BP) [2][3]. - Specific banks, such as Shanxi Qingshui Rural Commercial Bank, have raised their deposit rates for various terms, with 1-year, 2-year, and 3-year rates reaching 1.45%, 1.50%, and 1.75% respectively [2]. - Compared to previous years, the current increases in deposit rates are less pronounced, with fewer institutions participating in the adjustments [2]. Group 2: Regulatory Environment and Market Dynamics - Regulatory authorities are promoting a market-oriented deposit rate mechanism, which has constrained banks' pricing power and reduced their motivation to raise deposit rates [3]. - The continuous narrowing of net interest margins is limiting banks' profit margins, further impacting their ability to engage in price competition [3]. Group 3: Service Enhancement Initiatives - Local banks are focusing on improving service quality, emphasizing their commitment to local communities and enhancing personalized marketing strategies [3]. - Recommendations for local banks include optimizing liability structures and developing combined deposit products to increase customer retention [3]. Group 4: Overall Market Outlook - The overall outlook for the "New Year" in January is optimistic, with many local banks reporting significant growth in their deposit and loan businesses [4][5]. - The People's Bank of China reported a total social financing increase of 35.6 trillion yuan for 2025, indicating a robust financial environment [4]. - Analysts expect that the liquidity in the market will increase, with banks experiencing a strong demand for deposits due to seasonal and structural imbalances [5].
存款利率逆势上扬!多家地方银行鏖战“开门红”
Guo Ji Jin Rong Bao·2026-01-15 14:58