Core Viewpoint - The recent increase in the minimum deposit requirement for large time deposits at Industrial and Commercial Bank of China (ICBC) to 1 million yuan is seen as a strategy to exclude lower-income depositors from accessing higher interest rates [1][5]. Group 1: Changes in Deposit Products - ICBC has launched a new three-year large time deposit with a minimum deposit requirement of 1 million yuan and an interest rate of 1.55%, significantly higher than the typical 200,000 yuan threshold at most banks [1]. - The interest rates for various deposit products have been declining, with the three-year fixed deposit rate dropping to 1.25% and the five-year fixed deposit rate at 1.30% [2][3]. Group 2: Banking Strategy and Market Implications - The increase in deposit thresholds is a response to the growing proportion of long-term deposits, which are locked in at higher rates than current lending rates, leading to profit erosion for banks [2][5]. - ICBC's actions may prompt other major banks to follow suit, potentially leading to a broader trend of increasing minimum deposit requirements for large time deposits [7]. Group 3: Recommendations for Depositors - Depositors are advised to seek alternative savings options, such as smaller banks or financial products with higher interest rates, as traditional savings accounts may not keep pace with inflation [7][8]. - It is suggested that individuals consider investing in low-risk financial products or enhancing personal skills rather than relying solely on bank deposits for wealth preservation [8].