高息借贷“换壳”潜行：马甲矩阵、分期场景与退费中介的隐秘博弈

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the emergence of high-interest lending products disguised under new names and structures in response to regulatory tightening on loans with annualized interest rates above 24%. These products target borrowers with poor credit histories and urgent short-term funding needs, utilizing complex and hidden industry chains to evade regulation [1][2][3]. Group 1: High-Interest Lending Products - New lending models such as "monthly financing guarantee" and "installment mall" have developed, featuring short borrowing periods and high fees, leading to significantly elevated effective annual interest rates [1][3]. - A specific case illustrates a borrower taking a loan of 6,000 yuan with a total repayment amount of 8,318.7 yuan, resulting in an effective annual interest rate of 464% [1]. - Complaints against platforms like "Xin Xiaoyong" have surged, with nearly 800 complaints focusing on exorbitant interest rates and hidden fees, including high guarantee fees [2][3]. Group 2: Regulatory Environment - The implementation of regulations prohibiting products with annualized rates above 24% has led to a contraction of previously high-interest lending options, pushing many borrowers to seek alternative, non-compliant products [2][6]. - The China Internet Finance Association has been actively conducting inspections and promoting self-regulation among financial institutions, with some institutions already completing necessary rectifications [6][7]. - New regulations from the People's Bank of China will classify payment institutions based on governance and operational stability, impacting their ability to engage with high-interest lending products [7]. Group 3: Industry Challenges - The complex organizational structure of high-interest lending platforms, often using multiple names and entities, complicates the tracking and accountability of these loans, making it difficult for borrowers to assert their rights [4][5]. - The rise of intermediaries offering to help borrowers reclaim high fees and interest reflects the growing demand for consumer protection in this opaque lending environment [4][5]. - Payment institutions face challenges in monitoring the true cost of funds due to the layered nature of these lending models, which obscures the actual interest rates being charged [7].