Core Viewpoint - Recent adjustments in deposit interest rates by multiple small and medium-sized banks indicate a significant shift towards lower rates, with many long-term fixed deposit products falling below 2% following the People's Bank of China's (PBOC) monetary policy changes [1][2]. Group 1: Deposit Rate Adjustments - Several small and medium-sized banks, including Hami City Commercial Bank and Liaocheng Hunan Rural Commercial Bank, have lowered their deposit rates, with some long-term fixed deposit rates now entering the "1 era" [1][2]. - As of May 8, Hami City Commercial Bank's new deposit rates for personal fixed deposits are 1.5% for 1-year, 1.6% for 2-year, 1.8% for 3-year, and 1.85% for 5-year, reflecting a decrease of 10 to 15 basis points [1]. - Liaocheng Hunan Rural Commercial Bank's adjusted rates for 2-year, 3-year, and 5-year deposits are now 1.89%, 1.98%, and 1.98%, respectively, down from previous rates of 2.1% and 2.16% [1]. Group 2: Reasons for Rate Cuts - The recent rate cuts are primarily driven by the pressure on banks' net interest margins, which have reached historical lows of 1.38% for city commercial banks and 1.73% for rural commercial banks as of Q4 2024 [2]. - The adjustments are a direct response to the PBOC's recent monetary policy actions aimed at reducing banks' funding costs and alleviating the pressure on net interest margins, thereby creating room for banks to offer lower loan rates to the real economy [2]. Group 3: Future Outlook - Market interest rates are expected to continue on a downward trend, suggesting that deposit rates may further decline in the near future [3]. - Financial analysts recommend that ordinary savers adjust their asset allocation strategies in light of the diminishing high-yield assets, suggesting diversification and a focus on different liquidity and risk profiles in investment products [3].