Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the issues surrounding the Zhongxin prepaid card, including consumer complaints about its limited usability and the company's response to these challenges, highlighting the impact of "scalpers" on the card's functionality and the broader implications for the prepaid card industry in China [1][2][10]. Group 1: Company Overview - Zhongxin card is issued by Beijing Zhongxin Yinbao Tong Payment Service Co., Ltd., a subsidiary of Zhongxin Antai Group, and is a popular prepaid card in Beijing with over 15 million users [1][3]. - The card was initially usable at over 2,000 merchants in Beijing, covering shopping, dining, entertainment, and life services, but the merchant directory has been cleared as of the article's publication [1][5]. Group 2: Consumer Issues - Since late March, consumers have reported that their Zhongxin cards, which still have thousands of yuan loaded, are facing usage restrictions, with some unable to use the card for purchases at various merchants [2][3]. - The company has stated that the restrictions are due to "scalpers" creating panic and hoarding products, which has disrupted normal consumer usage [2][10]. Group 3: Refund and Redemption Process - The company has opened a redemption channel for cardholders, but consumers must present proof of purchase and identification to schedule a refund, with wait times extending to September [3][4]. - Many consumers have expressed dissatisfaction with the limited product offerings available for redemption, which do not meet their original expectations when purchasing the card [4][8]. Group 4: Industry Context - The article highlights ongoing issues in the prepaid card sector, including difficulties in obtaining refunds and the prevalence of consumer complaints, as noted by the China Consumers Association [3][12]. - Experts suggest that the regulatory framework for prepaid cards in China needs to be strengthened to protect consumer rights and ensure the stability of payment institutions [10][12].