Xin Lang Cai Jing·2026-02-02 10:33Core Viewpoint - Recent fluctuations in gold and precious metal prices have prompted China Merchants Bank to adjust its gold trading business, increasing margin requirements for various gold contracts [1][2]. Group 1: Margin Adjustments - Starting from February 2, 2026, the margin ratio for Au(T+D), mAu(T+D), Au(T+N1), Au(T+N2), NYAuTN06, and NYAuTN12 contracts will be raised from 60% to 70%, while the price fluctuation limit remains at 15% [1]. - The margin level for Ag(T+D) contracts will also increase from 60% to 70% on the same date, with potential adjustments to the price fluctuation limit depending on market conditions [1]. Group 2: Previous Adjustments - Prior to this announcement, on January 30, 2026, China Merchants Bank had already raised the margin ratios for the same gold contracts from 49% to 60%, while the Ag(T+D) margin increased from 48% to 60% [2]. Group 3: Market Context - Other banks, including Agricultural Bank and Postal Savings Bank, have also adjusted their margin requirements for gold contracts in response to recent market volatility [4]. - Significant price fluctuations were noted, with gold prices rising from $5,200 to $5,600 per ounce between January 28 and 29, 2026, followed by a sharp decline, including a nearly 13% drop on January 31, marking the largest single-day drop in nearly 40 years [4][5]. - As of February 2, 2026, gold was priced at $4,692.54 per ounce, reflecting a 4.14% decline, while silver was at $81.38 per ounce, down 4.55% [5]. Group 4: Future Outlook - Despite recent declines, long-term bullish sentiment on gold remains, with expectations that U.S. inflation may decline in the second half of 2026, potentially leading to further support for gold prices [5].