Core Viewpoint - The development of inventory and warehouse receipt financing in China has faced significant challenges since the "Shanghai Steel Trade Case" in 2012, and there is a pressing need for improved regulations, standardization, and digitalization to revitalize this market segment [1][4][16]. Regulatory Environment - In developed countries, warehouse financing operates under a well-established legal framework, including laws specific to warehouse receipts and industry standards, which are lacking in China [2][5]. - China's current legal framework is fragmented, with no dedicated "Warehouse Receipt Law," leading to issues such as multiple pledges on a single asset and difficulties in verifying the authenticity of warehouse receipts [5][6]. Market Potential - The potential market demand for inventory financing in China is estimated at 75 trillion yuan, highlighting the significant opportunity for financial warehouse services to bridge the gap between the real economy and financial services [4][16]. Challenges in the Industry - The lack of a clear regulatory authority and the absence of a cohesive standard system have resulted in uncertainty and risks in warehouse financing [5][6]. - The industry faces a fragmented application of digital technologies, with many small to medium-sized warehouse enterprises still relying on manual management, which hampers efficiency and increases risks [6][10]. Standardization and Digitalization - There is an urgent need to establish a comprehensive standard system for financial warehousing and warehouse receipt financing, including national standards for warehouse receipt issuance and management [6][9]. - The integration of digital technologies such as IoT and blockchain is still in its early stages, with significant room for improvement in data sharing and process automation [10][14]. Future Directions - The industry is encouraged to build a collaborative ecosystem involving regulatory bodies, financial institutions, and technology providers to enhance the standardization and digital transformation of financial warehousing [7][16]. - The establishment of a national warehouse receipt registration platform and the promotion of standardized practices are essential for improving transparency and efficiency in the financing process [8][9]. Trends in the Industry - The trend towards deeper integration of technology in warehouse management is expected to enhance operational efficiency and reduce financing risks [14][15]. - The increasing focus on electronic warehouse receipt financing is likely to attract more attention from financial institutions, driven by the advantages of efficiency and security [15][16].