“揽储大战”明暗线： 中小行加息送礼 大行向AUM要增长

Core Viewpoint - The banking sector is experiencing a renewed wave of deposit acquisition strategies as the Spring Festival approaches, with many small and medium-sized banks raising deposit rates and introducing innovative products to attract customers, in response to the upcoming 2026 deposit maturity wave [1][4]. Group 1: Deposit Rate Adjustments - Several banks have raised their deposit rates, with some offering rates as high as 1.95% for three-year fixed deposits, reflecting a 10 basis point increase from previous rates [2]. - Banks are implementing differentiated adjustments for various term deposits, with increases ranging from 5 to 30 basis points depending on the amount and term [2]. - The trend of raising deposit rates is particularly pronounced among city commercial banks, rural commercial banks, and village banks, while larger state-owned banks maintain stable rates [4]. Group 2: Innovative Deposit Incentives - In addition to raising rates, banks are launching promotional activities such as offering gifts like rice, cooking oil, and shopping vouchers to attract depositors [3]. - A notable initiative includes a "Deposit for Travel Expenses" program, where depositors can receive reimbursements for travel costs when making fixed deposits above a certain amount [3]. Group 3: Asset Under Management (AUM) Focus - Some banks are shifting their focus from merely acquiring deposits to increasing their overall asset management scale (AUM) by offering incentives for customers to grow their financial assets [5]. - Programs that reward customers for increasing their average financial assets are being introduced, indicating a strategic pivot towards comprehensive wealth management [5]. Group 4: Future Deposit Trends - Analysts predict a significant wave of deposit maturities in 2026, with potential shifts in where these funds will be allocated, including a movement towards low-risk asset management products and possibly equities [6]. - The People's Bank of China notes that while there may be a perception of deposit "loss," these funds are likely to return to the banking system through various channels, including asset management products [7][8].