Core Viewpoint - The current low interest rate environment has led to a significant reduction in the availability and attractiveness of large time deposits, with many banks discontinuing long-term products and offering lower rates compared to previous years [1][3][4]. Group 1: Interest Rate Trends - The interest rate for large time deposits has dropped significantly, with major banks now offering rates around 1.55% for 3-year deposits, compared to previous rates of 3.35% [2][3]. - In 2022, the average interest rate for large time deposits was above 3%, but this has since decreased, leading to a scarcity of high-yield products [7][8]. Group 2: Bank Strategies - Major state-owned banks are tightening their offerings of long-term large time deposits as part of a strategy to manage liabilities in a low-interest environment [5][6]. - Many banks, including both state-owned and joint-stock banks, have removed 5-year large time deposit products from their offerings, reflecting a broader trend in the banking sector [4][5]. Group 3: Customer Behavior - Customers are increasingly seeking alternative investment options, such as gold and low-risk financial products, due to the declining attractiveness of traditional large time deposits [1][9]. - There is a noticeable shift among depositors, with some opting for a mix of traditional deposits and riskier investments, indicating a diversification of investment strategies [9][10]. Group 4: Marketing and Competition - Smaller banks are actively marketing their products to attract customers who are looking for better returns, often through social media and targeted promotions [6][8]. - Some banks are offering promotional rates and incentives to new customers, highlighting a competitive landscape as larger banks reduce their offerings [8][10].

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the declining interest rates on large time deposits in China, leading depositors to explore alternative investment options such as gold and stocks, reflecting a shift in savings behavior among traditional depositors [1][14]. Group 1: Current Deposit Trends - Many depositors, previously focused on high-interest large time deposits, are now turning to gold and other investment vehicles due to the unavailability of similar high-yield products [1][14]. - A significant decline in interest rates for large time deposits is noted, with major banks offering rates as low as 1.55% for 3-year deposits, compared to previous rates above 3% [5][6]. - The availability of long-term large time deposits has decreased, with major banks no longer offering 5-year products and reducing the number of 3-year and shorter-term options [3][4]. Group 2: Market Response and Alternatives - Smaller banks are capitalizing on the situation by actively marketing their deposit products through social media, attempting to attract funds from depositors seeking better rates [10][12]. - Some banks are offering promotional rates for new customers, with products like 3-year transferable large time deposits at rates up to 2.95%, which are higher than standard offerings [12][11]. - Depositors are increasingly diversifying their investments, with a notable shift towards non-guaranteed financial products and lower-risk investments, reflecting a broader trend in asset allocation [14][15]. Group 3: Depositor Behavior and Preferences - Depositors can be categorized into two groups: those seeking stability with traditional deposits and those willing to take risks by investing in higher-yield products [14]. - The preference for non-guaranteed financial products has increased, with bank wealth management products and funds becoming popular among depositors looking for better returns [14]. - According to a survey, 62.3% of residents prefer to save more, indicating a cautious approach to financial management amid changing interest rates [14].

Core Viewpoint - The current low interest rate environment has led to a significant reduction in the availability and attractiveness of large time deposits, with many banks discontinuing long-term products, prompting depositors to seek alternative investment options [1][3][4]. Group 1: Interest Rate Trends - The interest rate for large time deposits has decreased significantly, with major banks offering rates as low as 1.55% for 3-year deposits, compared to previous rates above 3% [2][3]. - Many banks, including state-owned and joint-stock banks, have stopped issuing long-term large time deposits, with 5-year products no longer available [3][4]. - The interest rates for traditional fixed deposits are now comparable to those of large time deposits, diminishing their competitive edge [3][4]. Group 2: Depositor Behavior - Depositors are increasingly turning to alternative investments such as gold and bank wealth management products due to the low returns on traditional deposits [1][9]. - There is a noticeable shift among depositors, with some opting for riskier investments while others remain conservative, preferring to keep their funds in banks despite lower interest rates [9][10]. - Social media and deposit communities have become platforms for sharing information about available products, with many depositors actively seeking higher yields [7][8]. Group 3: Bank Strategies - Banks are adopting proactive liability management strategies in response to the low interest rate environment, leading to a reduction in the issuance of long-term large time deposits [5][6]. - Some smaller banks are leveraging marketing strategies to attract depositors by offering competitive rates and promotional incentives [8]. - The trend of discontinuing long-term large time deposits reflects broader market conditions and the need for banks to manage their interest rate risk effectively [5][6].