银行保管箱“一箱难求” 黄金投资带火银行“小众”业务

Core Viewpoint - The demand for bank safe deposit boxes is surging due to the increasing interest in gold investments among residents, leading to a supply-demand imbalance where many banks are experiencing a shortage of available boxes [1][4][5]. Group 1: Market Demand - Over 200 customers are currently waiting to reserve small-sized safe deposit boxes at the China Merchants Bank Beijing branch, with larger boxes potentially requiring a wait of several years [1][2]. - The demand for safe deposit boxes is primarily driven by the need to store physical gold and other precious metals, with many banks reporting that their boxes are fully booked [2][4]. - Customers are increasingly opting for physical gold investments over other financial products, viewing it as a form of forced savings [4]. Group 2: Supply Constraints - The supply of safe deposit boxes is limited due to the fixed nature of bank facilities, making it difficult to expand capacity significantly [4][5]. - Many banks have ceased offering safe deposit box rental services or reduced their supply due to business adjustments, with over 10 branches reported to have closed such services in 2025 alone [6]. - The rental process is slow, with long waiting times for customers, as most boxes are rented on long-term contracts, leading to low turnover rates [5][6]. Group 3: Technological Advancements - The traditional safe deposit box business is undergoing a transformation with the integration of digital and intelligent technologies, enhancing security and service efficiency [7][8]. - Banks are implementing advanced security measures, including biometric verification and AI-driven monitoring systems, to improve the safety of safe deposit boxes [7][8]. - Innovations such as fully automated safe deposit boxes are being introduced, allowing customers to access their boxes without bank staff assistance, thus enhancing privacy and convenience [7].