Economic Developments - Significant progress has been made in high-level economic talks between the US and China, with both sides reaching important consensus [1][3] - The US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent expressed satisfaction with the productive nature of the negotiations, indicating that a detailed briefing would follow [3] - The US Trade Representative emphasized the constructive nature of the discussions, highlighting the need to address the substantial trade deficit [3] Market Reactions - Following the news of the trade talks, US stock futures surged, with the Dow Jones rising by 1%, S&P 500 by 1.2%, and Nasdaq by 1.5% [1] - The offshore Chinese yuan experienced a significant increase, rising nearly 200 points, while Asian markets opened positively across the board [1] Gold Market Dynamics - International gold prices opened lower, with a decline exceeding 1%, and prices dropping to below $3,260 per ounce [4] - COMEX gold futures also faced pressure, opening nearly 2% lower at $3,283.7 per ounce [5] - Domestic gold jewelry prices followed suit, with notable decreases in prices for major brands [6] Future Gold Price Predictions - Analysts predict short-term volatility in gold prices, but a long-term upward trend is expected, with Goldman Sachs forecasting prices to reach $3,700 per ounce by the end of 2025 and $4,000 by mid-2026 [9] - China's gold reserves have increased for six consecutive months, with a total of 7.377 million ounces reported at the end of April, reflecting a growing trend in central bank gold purchases globally [10] Regulatory Actions - Several banks have issued warnings against using credit cards for gold trading, citing risks associated with market volatility and regulatory compliance [12][13] - The banks emphasize that credit card funds should only be used for daily consumption and not for investment purposes, including gold [12][13]

Core Viewpoint - The rising gold prices have led to an increase in speculative behavior among consumers, particularly using credit cards to invest in gold, prompting banks to issue warnings and restrictions against such practices [1][2][4]. Group 1: Bank Responses - Multiple banks, including Jiangsu Bank and Industrial Bank, have issued announcements prohibiting the use of credit card funds for gold investments due to the volatility in gold prices and the associated risks [2][4]. - Banks have clarified that credit cards should only be used for daily consumer spending and not for any form of investment, including gold and other financial products [4][7]. - Regulatory bodies have previously mandated that credit card funds must not be used for investments, and banks are required to monitor and control the actual use of credit card funds [7]. Group 2: Consumer Behavior and Risks - There is a growing trend of consumers using credit cards to buy gold with the intention of reselling it for profit, which is viewed as a speculative and risky behavior [1][8]. - Experts warn that such practices can lead to significant financial risks, including increased repayment burdens and potential credit issues for consumers [1][4]. - Normal purchases of gold items for personal use, such as jewelry, are considered acceptable, but frequent trading of gold bars is classified as investment behavior and is subject to bank scrutiny [8]. Group 3: Changes in Gold Investment Policies - Several banks have adjusted their gold accumulation business policies, increasing the minimum purchase amounts in response to fluctuating gold prices [9][10]. - For instance, Ningbo Bank raised the minimum purchase amount for gold accumulation from 700 yuan to 800 yuan, while Jiangsu Bank increased it from 700 yuan to 720 yuan [9][10]. - Experts suggest that investors should remain rational and avoid impulsive trading in light of the current gold price volatility [11].

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the rising trend of consumers using credit cards to purchase gold as a form of investment, highlighting the associated risks and recent bank regulations aimed at curbing this practice [2][12]. Group 1: Credit Card Usage for Gold Investment - Many consumers are leveraging credit cards to buy gold, especially during price surges, with some reporting purchases as high as 300,000 yuan [2][6]. - The practice of using credit cards for gold purchases is seen as a form of leveraging, which increases financial risk due to potential price volatility in the gold market [9][14]. - Banks like Industrial Bank and Jiangsu Bank have issued warnings prohibiting the use of credit cards for investment purposes, including gold [12][13]. Group 2: Market Trends and Consumer Behavior - International gold prices have reached new highs, with prices exceeding 3,055 USD per ounce and domestic prices surpassing 710 yuan per gram, driving consumer interest in gold investment [4][13]. - Consumers are sharing experiences on social media about buying gold with credit cards, often with the intention of selling at a profit when prices rise [4][6]. - Some consumers view gold as a long-term investment, choosing to hold onto their purchases rather than sell immediately [6][9]. Group 3: Risks and Regulatory Responses - The article emphasizes the risks associated with using credit cards for gold purchases, including the potential for significant financial loss if gold prices decline [8][14]. - Regulatory bodies have previously established guidelines prohibiting the use of credit card funds for investments, which has not been effectively enforced in the past [12][13]. - Banks are implementing stricter monitoring and controls on credit card transactions related to gold purchases to mitigate risks [10][13].