GF SECURITIES·2026-01-22 05:07Investment Rating - The report provides a "Buy" rating for all major banks analyzed, indicating a positive outlook for the banking sector [7]. Core Insights - The digital renminbi has entered its 2.0 era, transitioning from a central bank liability (M0) to a commercial bank liability (M1), allowing it to earn interest and be included in deposit insurance and reserve requirements [6][14]. - This transformation positions China as the first economy to offer interest on its central bank digital currency (CBDC), fundamentally altering its monetary attributes and creating a new financial paradigm in the digital economy [27]. - The digital renminbi's interest-bearing feature enhances user motivation to hold it, shifting its perception from a mere payment tool to a viable store of value, thus promoting its integration into everyday financial activities [27][28]. Summary by Sections 1. Digital Renminbi 2.0 Era - The digital renminbi (e-CNY) is now classified as a digital deposit currency, which can earn interest and is managed under a new regulatory framework [14]. - Major state-owned banks have begun offering interest on digital renminbi wallet balances, marking a significant shift in its utility and appeal [14][27]. 2. Development Progress and Application Status - The development of the digital renminbi began in 2014, with significant milestones including pilot tests in various cities and the establishment of a comprehensive operational framework by 2025 [32][33]. - As of November 2025, the digital renminbi has processed 34.8 billion transactions amounting to 16.7 trillion yuan, with extensive coverage across multiple provinces and cities [37]. 3. Global CBDC Development Trends - The report identifies three main trends in global CBDC development: active retail CBDC initiatives, innovation in payment systems, and cautious approaches in some countries like the U.S. [6]. - China's proactive stance in developing its CBDC positions it favorably in the global digital economy landscape, particularly in cross-border trade applications [30].