Core Viewpoint - The recent adjustments in gold trading spreads by China Merchants Bank are a response to significant fluctuations in the international gold market, aiming to mitigate risks associated with these changes [1][2]. Group 1: Company Actions - China Merchants Bank announced an adjustment to the trading spread for its gold account business, increasing the buy spread by 2 CNY per gram, resulting in a new spread of 5 CNY per gram effective from March 23 until June 27 [1]. - The bank's customer service indicated that this adjustment aligns with market conditions, noting that many peer institutions have also raised their spreads in response to market changes [1]. - The adjusted spread means that if the gold price is displayed at 1000 CNY per gram, the buying price will be 1002 CNY per gram and the selling price will remain at 997 CNY per gram, reflecting a new spread of 5 CNY per gram [1]. Group 2: Market Context - The adjustments come amid significant volatility in the international gold market, with the London gold spot price dropping below 4500 USD per ounce, marking a weekly decline of 10.49%, the largest since March 1983 [2]. - On March 23, the international gold price experienced a sharp decline, with intraday losses exceeding 8%, marking the ninth consecutive day of decline [2]. - Other banks, such as China Construction Bank and Industrial Bank, have also implemented changes to their precious metals trading operations in response to market instability, including dynamic trading limits and the closure of certain trading channels [4].