Core Insights - The potential direction for consumption growth in China stems from both the increase in marginal propensity to consume and the structural opportunities in service consumption and lower-tier markets [1][3]. Group 1: Marginal Propensity to Consume - The current marginal propensity to consume in China is estimated at 66%, significantly lower than the 88% observed in the United States [2][3]. - Historical data indicates that the marginal propensity to consume is a variable influenced by macroeconomic cycles, fiscal policies, and income expectations [2]. - If the marginal propensity to consume increases to 70% by 2029, it could add approximately 7.1 trillion yuan to the consumption scale, while a rise to 75% could result in an additional 14.9 trillion yuan [3][7]. Group 2: Service Consumption Expansion - In 2024, service consumption accounts for 43% of total household consumption in China, which is significantly lower than the 69% in the U.S. [8]. - If the service consumption share increases to 53% by 2029, it could theoretically add 14.9 trillion yuan to the consumption scale, reaching a total of approximately 245 trillion yuan [8][9]. Group 3: Income Distribution and Rural Consumption - Rural residents exhibit a higher marginal propensity to consume at 86%, compared to 55% for urban residents, indicating stronger consumption willingness among rural populations [9]. - If the annual growth rate of rural disposable income increases from 8% to 10% or 12%, it could contribute an additional 3.5 trillion yuan or 7.2 trillion yuan to consumption, respectively [10]. Group 4: Strategic Recommendations - To enhance consumption levels and structural quality, the focus should be on developing service consumption, improving social security systems, reforming income distribution, and supporting rural consumption policies [13][14].

Group 1: Historical Consumption Trends in the U.S. - From 1960 to 1990, the Permanent Income Hypothesis (PIH) effectively explained consumer behavior, but its validity diminished post-2000 due to financial innovations and external shocks[2] - The average consumption propensity in the U.S. has fluctuated between 85% and 96%, indicating a consumption-driven economy[27] - The financial crisis of 2008 led to a significant drop in consumption propensity, which only began to recover in 2013 but remained below pre-crisis levels[30] Group 2: Factors Influencing Consumption - Tax cuts and financial innovations have historically boosted U.S. consumer propensity, suggesting similar strategies could benefit China amid its aging population[2] - The wealth effect, particularly from real estate, has a dual impact on consumption, with rising home values increasing spending capacity while high mortgage burdens suppress it[61] - Rising rental costs have increased the share of disposable income spent on housing, from under 22% in 2001 to nearly 30% in 2023, further constraining consumer spending[64] Group 3: Policy Implications - U.S. consumption policies, including tax reductions and unemployment benefits, have been crucial in stimulating economic growth during downturns[36] - The expansion of social security and healthcare spending has a positive correlation with consumption propensity, although recent stagnation in these areas may limit future growth[69] - The shift in monetary policy frameworks has led to a greater reliance on current income rather than long-term expectations, affecting consumer behavior[54]