Core Viewpoint - The recent trend of "new deposits" with high annualized returns, such as 8.5%, is actually a repackaged old model of premium financing, which carries multiple hidden risks despite its attractive presentation [2][4]. Summary by Sections Phenomenon - Social media videos promoting "new deposits" often use phrases like "guaranteed returns" and "low thresholds" to attract viewers, leading to a surge in interest and inquiries [3][4]. Investigation - The so-called "new deposits" are essentially premium financing, where policyholders take loans from banks to purchase insurance policies, using the policies as collateral. This means that any benefits from the policy are first used to pay off the loan and interest before any remaining amount is given to the policyholder [4][5]. Industry Insights - Premium financing has been less popular in recent years due to market changes and regulatory scrutiny. Experts warn that while it can amplify potential returns, it also significantly increases risks, especially if policies are surrendered early [5][6]. Consumer Behavior - The enthusiasm of financial advisors in promoting premium financing is often linked to the client's investment capacity. Advisors show more interest in clients with higher budgets, while those with lower budgets receive less attention [6][7]. Regulatory Concerns - The Hong Kong Monetary Authority has issued warnings about the risks associated with premium financing, highlighting issues such as misleading sales practices and the potential for clients to misunderstand the nature of their financial commitments [8][9].

Core Viewpoint - The recent trend of "new deposits" promoted on social media is actually a repackaged old model of "premium financing," which conceals multiple risks despite appearing to offer guaranteed returns [1][2][3]. Group 1: High Yield Marketing Tactics - Promotional content for "new deposits" often employs a template of "high yield + low threshold + strong endorsement" to attract attention [2]. - Claims of guaranteed returns and low risk are prevalent, with minimal mention of potential risks such as fluctuating loan rates and early withdrawal penalties [2][3]. - The marketing strategy includes analogies to real estate investments, suggesting that consumers can leverage loans against insurance policies to maximize returns while only paying a fraction of the premium [2][3]. Group 2: Nature of "New Deposits" - The so-called "2025 new deposits" are essentially a form of premium financing, where policyholders take loans from banks to purchase new insurance policies, using the policies as collateral [3]. - This financing model was popular a decade ago but has since declined due to changing market conditions and increased regulatory scrutiny [3]. - The risks associated with policy loans include the potential for policy lapse if the loan balance exceeds the cash value of the policy, which can lead to loss of insurance coverage [3]. Group 3: Sales Practices and Consumer Interaction - Influencers promoting "new deposits" often follow a consistent lead generation process, focusing on high-budget clients while neglecting those with lower investment amounts [5]. - The sales representatives, often labeled as "financial advisors," claim to provide tailored services but may downplay risks and emphasize safety and high returns [5][6]. - There is a notable lack of transparency regarding the true nature of the financing arrangement, leading to consumer misunderstandings about their financial obligations [7]. Group 4: Industry Response and Regulatory Concerns - Industry experts are calling for stricter management of insurance sales channels to protect consumers from misleading promotions [6]. - The Hong Kong Monetary Authority has previously issued warnings about the risks associated with premium financing, highlighting the need for consumers to assess their financial situations carefully [6][7]. - Complaints have surfaced regarding misleading sales practices, including false assurances about guaranteed returns and inadequate assessments of clients' financial capabilities [7].

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the rising popularity of "new deposit" products, particularly high-yield insurance policies, which are being heavily promoted on social media platforms, attracting significant interest from potential investors [1][2]. Group 1: Product Overview - The so-called high-yield financing insurance policies, backed by major insurance companies and banks, allow policyholders to pay only a portion of the premium upfront and borrow the rest from financial institutions using the policy as collateral [2][3]. - This financing method involves three main participants: the policyholder, the bank, and the insurance company, with the policyholder leveraging the product to amplify returns [3]. Group 2: Financial Mechanics - An example illustrates a total premium of 5 million HKD, where the policyholder pays 1.12 million HKD upfront and borrows the remainder, resulting in a projected net return of 994,800 HKD after 10 years, equating to an annualized return of 8.87% [4]. - However, the actual annualized return is often lower than advertised, with real returns typically ranging from 4% to 7%, depending on various factors such as policy performance, financing rates, and currency fluctuations [5][6]. Group 3: Risks and Considerations - The returns are highly dependent on three variables: actual policy dividend rates, changes in financing rates, and currency exchange rate fluctuations, which are largely uncontrollable [5][6]. - The article emphasizes the importance of being cautious about exaggerated yield promises and suggests that consumers should independently verify the data presented by sales agents [7][8]. Group 4: Market Context - The renewed interest in premium financing is attributed to changes in the interest rate environment and asset allocation needs, with current low or stabilizing rates making financing costs more manageable [7]. - The article advises consumers to approach premium financing with a long-term investment mindset, understanding the product's nature and associated risks, and to seek independent professional advice [8].

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the rising popularity of "new deposit" products and high-yield insurance policies promoted on social media, highlighting their appeal due to high returns and low entry barriers, while raising questions about their actual risks and viability [1][3]. Group 1: Product Overview - The so-called "new deposit" and "high-yield insurance policies" are essentially premium financing products, where the policyholder pays a portion of the premium and borrows the rest from a bank using the policy as collateral [3][4]. - The financing structure involves three main parties: the policyholder, the bank, and the insurance company, with the policyholder leveraging the product to amplify returns [4][5]. Group 2: Financial Mechanics - An example illustrates a total premium of 5 million HKD, where the policyholder pays 1.12 million HKD upfront and borrows the rest, leading to a projected net return of 994,800 HKD after 10 years, equating to an annualized return of 8.87% [5]. - The actual returns are often lower than advertised, with real annualized returns typically ranging from 4% to 7%, depending on various factors such as dividend realization rates, financing rates, and currency fluctuations [6][8]. Group 3: Risks and Variables - The returns are highly dependent on three variables: actual dividend realization rates, changes in financing rates, and currency exchange rate fluctuations, which are largely uncontrollable [8][9]. - Historical performance indicates that if insurance companies underperform or if market interest rates rise significantly, actual returns could fall below expectations, potentially leading to losses [8][9]. Group 4: Market Context and Consumer Guidance - The renewed interest in premium financing is attributed to the current low-interest-rate environment and changing asset allocation needs, making it attractive for investors seeking stable returns [10][11]. - Consumers are advised to be cautious of exaggerated yield promises, thoroughly assess their financial capacity, and understand the terms of the insurance and loan agreements before engaging in premium financing [11][12].