Core Viewpoint - The digital renminbi has transitioned from the "digital cash era" to the "digital deposit currency era," with the launch of the upgraded version 2.0 of the digital renminbi App, which will start paying interest on real-name wallet balances from January 1, 2026 [1][12]. Summary by Sections Digital Renminbi App Upgrade - The digital renminbi App has undergone 54 iterations since its launch in January 2022, focusing on enhancing user experience [1]. - The significant change in version 2.0 is the introduction of interest payments on real-name wallet balances starting January 1, 2026, based on the specified operational institution's current deposit interest rate [1]. Interest Payment Mechanism - Ten designated operational institutions, including major banks, will pay interest on real-name wallet balances at a current deposit rate of 0.05% [1]. - Users can check their interest details after each quarter's interest settlement date through the App [2][8]. Wallet Classification and Interest Eligibility - Only real-name digital renminbi wallets (categories one, two, and three) will earn interest, while non-real-name wallets (category four) will not [8][11]. - The classification of wallets is based on the strength of customer identity verification, affecting transaction limits and authentication methods [8]. Regulatory and Risk Management Considerations - The shift to interest-bearing real-name wallets aligns with anti-money laundering regulations and provides a basis for deposit insurance, reducing potential disputes over fund ownership [12]. - The transition signifies a move from central bank liabilities to commercial bank liabilities, integrating digital renminbi into the existing banking system and enhancing financial stability [12][15]. Future Implications for Commercial Banks - Commercial banks are expected to innovate more in asset management due to the new interest-bearing structure of digital renminbi [13][16]. - The digital renminbi will be treated as a regular deposit, allowing for the purchase of traditional financial products, thus creating a sustainable market promotion mechanism [16].
数字人民币开始生息,年利率0.05%,工、农、中、建等大行集体公告
21世纪经济报道·2026-01-04 02:29