Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the increasing pressure on banks to attract deposits amid declining interest rates, leading to innovative yet potentially non-compliant methods of deposit solicitation [1][4]. Group 1: Deposit Solicitation Methods - Some banks are using hidden methods such as discount coupons, group purchases, and additional interest to attract deposits, effectively increasing the actual annual yield for depositors by 0.3% to 0.5% [2][10]. - A specific case in Shenzhen involved a bank offering a mountain bike for a deposit of 50,000 yuan, requiring customers to navigate a complex coupon redemption process to receive the gift [4][5]. - Customer managers are also privately offering gifts and rewards to attract high-net-worth clients, indicating a competitive environment where banks are willing to subsidize costs to meet performance targets [5][10]. Group 2: Interest Rate Trends - The average interest rates for various deposit terms have decreased by 20 to 30 basis points in May 2025, with the one-year fixed deposit rate at 1.339% [7][10]. - Despite the decline in official rates, some analysts believe that the pressure on banks to attract deposits remains manageable, particularly as the reductions mainly affect long-term deposits [7][8]. Group 3: Long-term Implications - The reliance on promotional gifts and incentives for deposit solicitation may lead to increased funding costs for banks, potentially disrupting the competitive order in the deposit market [10]. - Experts suggest that banks should shift their operational strategies towards creating a comprehensive retail model and enhancing customer loyalty through scenario-based financial services [10].