Policy Interpretation - The new tax policy on bond interest is not a "one-size-fits-all" approach, as it applies only to new bonds issued after August 8, while previously issued bonds remain tax-exempt, preventing panic selling among existing investors [2] - This strategy aims to increase future debt financing costs without causing immediate losses to current investors, reflecting a controlled and precise approach by the government [2] Tax Burden Impact - The 3% value-added tax may seem minor, but for large principal investors, the impact is significant. For instance, a holder of 1 million yuan in government bonds with a 3% annual interest rate will see a reduction in net income by 900 yuan due to the tax, resulting in an effective yield reduction [3] - For investors holding 10 million yuan in bonds, the annual loss could reach 9,000 yuan, which is comparable to several months' salary [3] Affected Groups - The policy primarily affects three groups: 1. High-net-worth bond investors, particularly retirees relying on bond interest for living expenses, who may face significant income reductions [4] 2. Financial institutions like banks and insurance companies, which hold large amounts of bonds and may respond by lowering deposit rates or raising loan rates, impacting the general public [4] 3. Local government financing platforms, which will see increased borrowing costs and may need to raise bond interest rates to attract investors, affecting fiscal expenditures and local tax structures [4] Underlying Reasons for Policy - The government is not merely responding to a cash shortage; the decision is influenced by several factors: 1. There is an objective fiscal pressure, with a budget deficit exceeding 6 trillion yuan for 2024, and while bond interest income is not substantial, it can help alleviate some fiscal strain [6] 2. The bond market has matured, reducing the need for tax exemptions to attract investors, as the market can self-regulate [6] 3. The restoration of tax on bond interest addresses tax equity, as other investment income types are taxed, promoting a fairer investment environment [6] Response Strategies - Investors are advised to consider three strategies in light of the new policy: 1. Purchase old government bonds issued before August 8 to benefit from tax-exempt interest [6] 2. Diversify asset allocation to reduce reliance on government bonds, considering other investment products for risk mitigation [6] 3. Focus on after-tax yield when evaluating investments, ensuring a rational comparison of different investment products [6] Deep Signals - The policy indicates a shift in macroeconomic policy, suggesting: 1. A tightening of previously loose monetary policies, with fewer favorable policies expected in the future [7] 2. The breaking of the "investment guarantee" perception of government bonds, requiring investors to reassess risk [7] 3. Increased pressure on asset depreciation due to inflation and reduced bond interest, necessitating sound financial planning to avoid potential losses [7]

Core Viewpoint - Local government special bonds have played a significant role in stabilizing investment, expanding domestic demand, and addressing shortcomings, but several issues have emerged that need to be resolved to enhance their effectiveness and leverage social capital [1]. Issues Faced by Special Bonds Used as Capital - Insufficient project income distribution rights lead to a lack of motivation for local governments to utilize special bonds, particularly in sectors like railways and toll roads where lower-level governments have minimal income rights [3]. - There is competition among policies in supported areas, causing special bonds to be overshadowed by other financing methods, which limits their usage [4]. - The inability to separate assets from market financing projects creates a deadlock between governments and financial institutions regarding asset collateralization [4]. - The use of special bond funds is restricted due to scattered regulations, making project units prefer more flexible non-bond funds [6]. Recommendations for Improvement - Shift the usage approach from debt leverage to equity leverage, expanding the scope of special bonds to include operational fixed asset investments in both state-owned and private enterprises [7]. - Broaden the application areas of special bonds, as by 2025, the fields for special bonds used as capital will expand to 22, but further optimization is needed for integration with PPP projects [7]. - Encourage the participation of market financing by formulating policies that support social investors like insurance companies and funds in special bond projects [8]. - Enhance project management to prevent the emergence of new hidden debts, especially as the proportion of special bonds used as project capital increases to 30% by 2025 [9].