Summary of Key Points Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the theoretical basis and operational mechanisms of carry trade and reverse carry trade, asserting that broad carry trade behaviors exist in China, while foreign investors engage in reverse carry trade, which is significantly correlated with the scale of the Bond Connect program. The future of carry trade is constrained by the convergence of Sino-US interest rate differentials, increased global exchange rate volatility, and the boundary effects of policy regulation [1]. Group 1: Overview of Carry Trade - Carry trade is a typical foreign exchange trading strategy in international financial markets, leveraging differences in monetary policies across countries to achieve higher investment returns [2]. - There are two main operational modes of carry trade: unhedged basic carry trade and risk-mitigated carry trade, with the latter using derivatives to reduce exchange rate risk [2][3]. - The risk of currency mismatch in carry trade depends on exchange rate volatility and market liquidity, with financing currencies characterized by low interest rates, low exchange rate volatility, and high foreign exchange liquidity [3]. Group 2: Analysis of RMB Carry Trade - In 2024, the People's Bank of China is expected to enhance counter-cyclical adjustments, leading to a decrease in RMB funding rates, making RMB a viable financing currency for carry trade [4]. - The interest rate differential between China and the US has provided a conducive environment for RMB carry trade, with the 2024 interest rate differential projected to be between 250 to 350 basis points [5]. - The RMB exchange rate is expected to remain stable, with a narrow trading range, indicating resilience and a lack of unilateral appreciation or depreciation expectations [5]. Group 3: Market Behavior and Trends - In 2024, the bank's customer settlement rate was 62.3%, indicating a stable preference for currency exchange, while the foreign currency deposit scale increased significantly, reflecting a growing willingness for broad carry trade [6]. - The issuance of foreign currency wealth management products surged, particularly in USD, indicating strong investor interest in carry trade strategies [7]. Group 4: Analysis of Reverse Carry Trade - In 2024, overseas investors engaged in reverse carry trade by increasing their holdings of low-yield RMB assets, with the Bond Connect program showing a significant increase in foreign institutional holdings [8]. - The reverse carry trade is characterized by negative interest differential and exchange rate gains, with a notable correlation between the profitability of this strategy and the scale of foreign holdings in RMB bonds [9]. Group 5: Future Outlook for RMB Carry Trade - The future of both forward and reverse RMB carry trade will be influenced by multiple factors, including macroeconomic fundamentals, national economic policies, interest rate differentials, and global political and financial environments [10]. - The expected further reduction in US interest rates may compress the profitability of RMB forward carry trade while increasing uncertainty in reverse carry trade returns [10]. - The rising volatility in exchange rates and the need for effective policy regulation will be critical in shaping the landscape for RMB carry trade [11][12].