Core Viewpoint - The article highlights the ongoing issue of private banks in China engaging in cross-regional deposit solicitation despite regulatory restrictions, particularly focusing on Huari Bank's practices that allow non-local customers to access higher interest rates [1][2][5]. Summary by Sections Regulatory Environment - Regulatory authorities have emphasized the need for local banks to adhere to regional deposit solicitation rules, with specific guidelines established in 2021 to limit online deposit activities to local customers [4][5]. - The regulatory framework aims to prevent cross-regional deposit solicitation to maintain financial order and mitigate risks [5][6]. Huari Bank's Practices - Huari Bank offers a three-year fixed deposit product with a 2.35% interest rate, explicitly stating it is for Shanghai residents only, yet allows non-local customers to deposit through staff assistance [2][3]. - Reports indicate that multiple customers have successfully completed deposits from outside Shanghai, suggesting a loophole in the bank's compliance with regional restrictions [2][3]. Compliance Issues - Huari Bank has faced previous penalties for improper deposit solicitation methods, including a fine of 6.8 million yuan for various regulatory violations [3]. - The bank's practices raise concerns about compliance risks and potential liquidity issues, as cross-regional deposit solicitation can lead to concentrated withdrawals in specific areas [7][8]. Industry Trends - The article notes that while some private banks strictly enforce regional deposit rules, others, like WeBank and MyBank, are permitted to solicit deposits nationwide due to their internet banking status [4][5]. - The competitive landscape is pushing some banks to take risks in deposit solicitation, driven by the need to attract customers in a challenging market [9]. Legal and Operational Risks - Engaging in cross-regional deposit solicitation exposes banks to legal risks, including regulatory penalties and challenges in risk management due to the separation of operational and registration locations [7][8]. - The potential for increased competition may lead banks to raise deposit rates, further complicating liquidity management and operational stability [7][9].

Core Viewpoint - The article highlights the ongoing issue of private banks in China engaging in cross-regional deposit solicitation, despite regulatory restrictions aimed at curbing such practices. It specifically focuses on Huari Bank's actions, which appear to circumvent these regulations by allowing non-local customers to deposit funds through digital channels, raising compliance and liquidity concerns [1][2][3]. Summary by Sections Regulatory Environment - The regulatory framework mandates that most private banks adhere to local deposit solicitation principles, with exceptions for certain internet banks like WeBank and MyBank, which are allowed to accept deposits nationwide [3][4]. - The 2021 notice on regulating personal deposit business through the internet emphasizes that local banks must serve customers within their registered areas, aiming to prevent risks associated with cross-regional deposit solicitation [3][4]. Huari Bank's Practices - Huari Bank offers a 2.35% interest rate on a three-year fixed deposit, explicitly stating it is limited to Shanghai residents. However, the bank's staff have been reported to assist non-local customers in bypassing this restriction [1][2]. - The bank has faced previous penalties for improper deposit solicitation practices, including a fine of 6.8 million yuan for various compliance violations [2]. Industry Trends - There is a noticeable inconsistency among private banks regarding the enforcement of restrictions on cross-regional deposit solicitation. Some banks, like SuShang Bank, clearly restrict such activities, while others allow it [2][3]. - The article notes that some banks may use covert methods, such as "whitelisting" or direct invitations, to engage in cross-regional business, which could lead to compliance issues [5]. Risks and Challenges - Engaging in cross-regional deposit solicitation can amplify liquidity risks for banks, especially if a significant number of depositors withdraw funds simultaneously from a specific region [5][6]. - The competitive pressure to attract deposits from outside regions may lead banks to raise interest rates, increasing their funding costs and potentially pushing them towards riskier business practices [6][7]. Legal and Compliance Issues - Legal risks associated with cross-regional deposit solicitation include potential regulatory penalties, which can range from fines to operational suspensions for repeated violations [7]. - The article emphasizes the importance of compliance with banking regulations to mitigate risks and ensure sustainable operations for private banks [6][7].