Core Viewpoint - In the current low interest rate environment, traditional long-term fixed deposits may no longer be the optimal choice for preserving and growing savings, prompting a reevaluation of savings strategies [1]. Interest Rate Trends - The three-year fixed deposit rate has dropped from around 2% to 1.55%, resulting in a loss of approximately 1350 yuan over three years for a deposit of 100,000 yuan, highlighting the risks of locking funds in long-term deposits amid fluctuating rates [3]. Risk Diversification Strategies - A segmented savings strategy is recommended, such as allocating 10,000 yuan into different term deposits (e.g., 20,000 yuan in one-year, 20,000 yuan in two-year, and 60,000 yuan in three-year fixed deposits) to meet liquidity needs and capitalize on rising interest rates [4]. Bank Selection Considerations - Not all banks offer the same deposit rates and security; smaller banks may provide higher rates (e.g., 2.8% for three-year deposits) but often come with restrictions. It is crucial to consider the bank's size, reputation, and security, and to diversify large deposits across multiple banks [5]. Timing for Higher Returns - There are "window periods" for higher deposit rates, typically at the beginning of the year, mid-year, and at quarter-end. Investors can take advantage of these periods to optimize their interest income, and consider short-term government bond reverse repos, which can yield around 5% annually [6]. Diversified Investment Approaches - Relying solely on bank deposits is insufficient to combat inflation. A diversified investment strategy is suggested, including personal pension accounts for tax benefits and slightly higher returns, gold for its inflation-hedging properties, and index or bond funds through systematic investment plans [7][8][10]. Actionable Steps for Financial Management - Recommended steps include maintaining an emergency fund covering at least six months of living expenses, segmenting remaining funds for fixed deposits while monitoring interest rates, and incorporating low-risk investment products or government bond reverse repos to enhance overall returns [10].

Core Viewpoint - The recent interest rate cuts by China Construction Bank and China Merchants Bank signify a broader trend in the banking sector, with one-year deposit rates falling below 1%, indicating diminishing returns for depositors [1][3]. Summary by Sections Interest Rate Adjustments - Both banks have reduced their savings account interest rates to 0.05%, resulting in a mere 50 yuan interest for a one-year deposit of 1 million yuan [3]. - The three-month to two-year fixed deposit rates have been cut by 15 basis points, while three-year and five-year rates have decreased by 25 basis points, with five-year rates now at 1.3% [3]. - A notable inversion in rates has emerged, where the three-year fixed deposit rate (1.9%) is higher than the five-year rate (1.55%) at China Construction Bank [3]. Market Trends - Over 20 banks have followed suit in reducing interest rates since April, leading to a widespread entry into the "1% era" for deposit rates [3]. - The low-interest environment is prompting a shift in consumer behavior, with increased inquiries into alternative investment products such as bank wealth management, money market funds, and gold [4]. Impacts on Consumers - The reduction in interest income is significant; for example, a 100,000 yuan deposit now yields 950 yuan annually, down from 1,100 yuan, equating to a loss of 150 yuan [4]. - The attractiveness of traditional savings accounts is declining, pushing consumers to diversify their investments and adopt a more proactive approach to wealth management [4]. Strategic Recommendations - Consumers are advised to compare rates across banks to find higher-yield options, particularly among smaller and private banks, which may offer rates significantly above those of major banks [5]. - A suggested strategy is to implement a "laddering" approach to deposits, spreading funds across different term lengths to optimize interest earnings while maintaining liquidity [5]. - Diversifying into various financial products is recommended, including government bonds, index funds, and insurance products, to mitigate the effects of low interest rates and potential inflation [6][7].