

Core Viewpoint - The surge in insurance stocks is attributed to the recent adjustment in the predetermined interest rates for insurance products, which is expected to mitigate the risk of interest spread losses for insurance companies [2][8]. Group 1: Market Performance - Insurance stocks experienced a significant rally, with the Hong Kong insurance sector rising over 4%, and China Life's H-shares increasing nearly 6% [1][4]. - In the A-share market, New China Life and China Pacific Insurance also saw substantial gains, contributing to the overall surge in the sector [1][3]. - Various insurance-related warrants, such as Ping An's warrants, achieved a doubling in value within a single day [1][4]. Group 2: Interest Rate Adjustments - The China Insurance Industry Association announced a new predetermined interest rate of 1.99%, which is below the previous 2.25% threshold, triggering adjustments in life insurance product rates [1][6]. - The maximum predetermined interest rates for different insurance products have been set at 2.0% for ordinary insurance, 1.75% for participating insurance, and 1.0% for universal insurance, effective from August 31, 2025 [7][10]. Group 3: Implications for the Insurance Sector - Analysts believe that the adjustment in predetermined interest rates is a significant positive development for insurance stocks, as it helps to prevent potential interest spread losses [2][8]. - The reduction in interest rates is expected to enhance the competitiveness of participating insurance products compared to traditional savings deposits and other investment vehicles [10][11]. - The shift towards participating insurance is anticipated to occur as a response to the large volume of savings deposits maturing, with insurance companies likely to benefit from this transition [11][12].