Zhong Guo Ji Jin Bao·2026-01-26 12:04Core Viewpoint - Agricultural Bank of China has increased the risk tolerance assessment requirements for personal gold accumulation business, aligning with regulatory demands to enhance investor protection [2][3]. Group 1: Changes in Risk Assessment Requirements - Starting January 30, 2026, personal clients must achieve a cautious level or higher in risk assessment to engage in gold accumulation business [2]. - Existing clients are exempt from re-assessment for selling, delivery, or executing investment plans within the validity period [2]. - The bank encourages clients to enhance their risk awareness based on their financial status and risk tolerance [2]. Group 2: Industry Trends in Risk Assessment - Major state-owned banks have generally raised the risk tolerance thresholds for personal gold accumulation business, with Industrial and Commercial Bank of China being the first to implement such changes on January 12, 2026 [4]. - Other banks, including Bank of China and China Merchants Bank, have categorized gold accumulation business as medium risk, suitable for moderate to aggressive investors [4]. - The increase in risk assessment levels is attributed to heightened gold price volatility and aims to protect investors from speculative behaviors [4]. Group 3: Gold Price Trends - International gold prices have surged, breaking through multiple thresholds, including $5,000 per ounce on January 26, 2026, marking a new historical high [5]. - The rise in gold prices is driven by increased market risk aversion, influenced by geopolitical tensions and trade policy threats [8]. - Analysts predict that gold prices may fluctuate between $4,800 and $5,200 per ounce leading up to the Chinese New Year, depending on Federal Reserve decisions and ongoing geopolitical risks [8].