Core Insights - The credit card industry in China is undergoing a transformation from rapid expansion to a focus on refinement and optimization of user experience, with a significant reduction in the number of credit cards issued over the past three years [1][4]. Industry Overview - The number of credit cards in China has decreased by over 90 million in recent years, with the total number standing at 715 million as of June 2023, marking a decline for 11 consecutive quarters [4]. - Major banks have reported declines in credit card loan balances and transaction volumes, indicating a broader trend of contraction within the industry [4]. Factors Driving Transformation - Regulatory policies have been implemented to guide the credit card business, including restrictions on issuing cards based solely on quantity and limiting the proportion of inactive cards [8]. - The rise of alternative payment methods, such as Huabei and Bai Tiao, has diverted users away from traditional credit cards, particularly among younger consumers [9]. - Changing consumer demands have led to a preference for fewer, more useful credit cards, resulting in cancellations of less utilized cards [9]. - Banks have been reducing cardholder benefits to manage operational costs, which has contributed to the decline in card ownership [10]. Strategic Adjustments - Despite the overall contraction, credit cards continue to play a vital role in facilitating payments and consumer spending [11]. - Banks are shifting their focus from quantity to quality, emphasizing product innovation and deeper integration with consumer spending habits [11]. - Various banks are adapting their strategies to target specific consumer segments, such as the elderly and young people, and are exploring partnerships with e-commerce platforms [12]. - Regulatory adjustments are being made to foster innovation in the credit card sector, including the exploration of online account opening and activation processes [13]. Future Outlook - The credit card industry is expected to maintain a positive growth trajectory, with banks encouraged to adopt differentiated services and leverage digital technologies for product innovation [15].