Economic Overview - The domestic economy is currently in a deflationary cycle, making it increasingly difficult for both business owners and employees to earn money [2] - The overall price trend remains stable, leading to an increase in the value of money held by individuals [2] Interest Rates and Savings Behavior - Recent years have seen a decline in deposit interest rates, with the 3-year deposit rate dropping from 3.15% to 1.8%, a decrease of over 40% [5] - Despite lower interest rates, the enthusiasm for saving among depositors remains high due to rising risks in stock markets and other investment products, as well as the need for financial security against unemployment and health issues [5] Employment Trends - The number of flexible employment workers has surpassed 200 million, with an expected rapid increase due to a sluggish real economy and job scarcity [8] - Many young individuals are opting for gig jobs such as delivery and ride-sharing, while middle-aged workers are turning to freelance or temporary work after losing stable jobs [8] Demographic Changes - There is a notable increase in the number of individuals choosing not to marry or have children, with marriage registrations in Q1 2025 dropping to 181,000, a decrease of 15.9% year-on-year [10] - The cost of marriage and child-rearing is cited as a significant factor, with estimates indicating that raising a child from birth to college graduation costs at least 680,000 RMB [10] Job Security and Employment Structure - Traditional "iron rice bowl" jobs are becoming less secure, with shifts from lifetime employment to contract-based roles, particularly in education and public service sectors [12] - There is a trend of downsizing and reduced benefits in state-owned enterprises, indicating a broader shift in job security [12]