Core Viewpoint - China's bond market is becoming an important option for foreign institutions as the country accelerates its financial opening, with various investment channels influencing foreign investment behavior [1][2]. Overview of Foreign Investment Channels in China's Bond Market - The QFII system, established in 2002, was the first major channel for foreign institutions to invest in China's capital market, initially having high entry barriers which have been gradually relaxed [3]. - The RQFII system, launched in 2011, supports the internationalization of the RMB by allowing foreign institutions to invest in the domestic market using RMB funds, with recent expansions in its scope [4]. - CIBM Direct, initiated in 2016, allows foreign institutions to enter the interbank bond market without prior approval, becoming a major channel for foreign investment [5]. - The "Bond Connect," established in 2017, facilitates access to the interbank bond market through Hong Kong, simplifying the process for foreign investors and enhancing market participation [6]. Comparison of Foreign Institutions' Investment Behavior - Different channels attract various types of foreign institutions, with QFII primarily attracting large international financial institutions, while RQFII is favored by institutions holding offshore RMB [7][8]. - CIBM Direct has broadened the types of foreign institutions participating, including central banks and sovereign wealth funds, while "Bond Connect" has attracted a wider range of institutions, including smaller asset management firms [8][9]. Investment Scale and Trends - As of August 2025, foreign institutions held approximately 3.83 trillion yuan in interbank bonds, with CIBM Direct accounting for 77.08% of the holdings, while "Bond Connect" represented about 22.92% [9][10]. - The trading volume through "Bond Connect" has surpassed that of CIBM Direct, indicating a more active trading behavior among smaller institutions [9]. Preference for Bond Types - Foreign institutions generally prefer interest rate bonds, particularly government and policy bank bonds, with government bonds holding a 72.6% share of their holdings as of August 2025 [10][11]. Preference for Bond Maturity - Investment strategies vary by channel, with QFII and RQFII focusing on flexible duration strategies, while CIBM Direct participants, such as central banks, prefer medium to long-term bonds [12]. Factors Influencing Investment Behavior - Foreign institutions' investment decisions are influenced by policy regulations, market conditions, investor attributes, and limitations of each investment channel [13][14]. - The regulatory environment, including entry barriers and operational processes, significantly impacts the depth and breadth of foreign investment [14]. - Market conditions, such as macroeconomic stability and interest rate differentials, also play a crucial role in shaping investment behavior [15]. Conclusion and Policy Recommendations - To enhance the attractiveness of China's bond market for foreign investors, recommendations include improving asset quality, streamlining cross-border custody standards, and optimizing tax processes [20][21][22][23].