Core Viewpoint - The frequent "blow-up" incidents in the education and training sector, particularly in non-academic training institutions, have raised significant concerns among parents and consumers regarding the safety of pre-paid courses and the overall stability of these institutions [1][3][6]. Group 1: Industry Overview - Multiple training institutions, including "Qin Han Hutong" and "Tong Cheng Tong Mei," have recently faced closures and operational disruptions, affecting thousands of parents and resulting in significant financial losses [3][6]. - The Chinese Consumers Association reported that in 2024, there were 72,962 complaints related to education training services, with pre-paid consumption disputes being a major issue [1][7]. - The rapid expansion and reliance on pre-paid funds by many training institutions have led to financial instability, making them vulnerable to "blow-up" situations when enrollment declines or cash flow issues arise [3][4][10]. Group 2: Consumer Concerns - Parents are increasingly wary of the pre-paid course model due to the risk of institutions shutting down, which not only results in financial loss but also disrupts their children's education [6][10]. - The allure of discounts for large pre-payments often makes it difficult for parents to resist, despite the associated risks [6][9]. - Many parents are now opting for shorter-term courses instead of long-term commitments, reflecting a growing distrust in the pre-paid model [10][12]. Group 3: Regulatory Responses - In response to the issues, regulatory bodies have implemented measures to control pre-payment practices, including limits on the amount and duration of pre-paid fees [7][9]. - A new regulatory platform was launched in July 2023 to oversee pre-paid fees in the education sector, aiming to enhance consumer protection [7][9]. - The introduction of a free app for parents to select legitimate training institutions and manage payments is part of the effort to ensure financial safety [7][12]. Group 4: Innovative Solutions - The "Anxin Xue" product launched by Meituan offers a new payment model that allows parents to pay per class, reducing the risks associated with large pre-payments [12][13]. - This model not only enhances consumer trust but also helps training institutions manage their cash flow more effectively by avoiding reliance on pre-paid funds [12][15]. - The shift towards service-oriented consumption is evident, with increasing demand for flexible payment options across various service sectors, including education [15][16].