Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the recent phenomenon of banks offering Labubu toys as incentives for deposits, highlighting the regulatory issues and market implications of such practices [1][3][8]. Group 1: Labubu's Popularity and Market Impact - Labubu, a product under Pop Mart, has gained immense popularity globally, particularly among the Z generation, leading to significant price increases for its products [2][4]. - Prices for Labubu products surged dramatically, with blind boxes increasing from an original price of 99 yuan to 200-600 yuan, and some rare items fetching prices over 1 million yuan at auctions [2][4]. Group 2: Banks' Marketing Strategies - Some banks, including Ping An Bank, initiated promotional activities offering Labubu toys for new deposit accounts, aiming to alleviate pressure on deposit acquisition [4][5]. - The promotional strategy required new customers to deposit over 50,000 yuan for six months to receive Labubu products, effectively turning bank branches into promotional hubs [5][6]. Group 3: Regulatory Response - The promotional activities faced regulatory scrutiny, leading to a halt in such campaigns due to violations of regulations against using gifts to attract deposits [7][8]. - Regulatory bodies emphasized the need for banks to cease these practices and outlined a timeline for the orderly exit of such products by the end of 2025 [8]. Group 4: Long-term Implications for Banks - Experts warn that such promotional strategies could disrupt the normal deposit market and further compress banks' net interest margins, exacerbating existing financial pressures [9][8]. - The article suggests that banks should focus on enhancing their financial services rather than relying on gimmicky promotions to attract deposits [8][9]. Group 5: Future Marketing Strategies - The article advocates for a more sustainable approach to "IP + finance" marketing, encouraging banks to explore deeper collaborations rather than superficial promotions [18]. - Potential strategies include co-branded credit cards and unique financial services tailored to the interests of younger consumers, ensuring compliance with regulations while meeting market demands [18].