Core Viewpoint - Several banks in China are adjusting the risk ratings of their sold asset management products in response to increased stock market volatility, with most ratings being raised to better reflect the actual risk levels of these funds [1][3]. Group 1: Bank Adjustments - CITIC Bank announced it will adjust the risk ratings of 17 asset management products starting from October 15, 2025, marking its fourth adjustment this year [1][2]. - Among the adjustments, 15 products will see their risk ratings increased, while 2 products will have their ratings decreased, specifically a mixed FOF fund managed by E Fund [1][2]. - Other banks, including Agricultural Bank of China, China Construction Bank, and Minsheng Bank, have also made similar upward adjustments to their fund ratings throughout the year [3][4]. Group 2: Regulatory Compliance - The adjustments are primarily driven by regulatory requirements aimed at ensuring appropriate investor management and protecting investor rights [2][4]. - The Financial Regulatory Authority has emphasized the need for banks to independently and prudently assess the risk ratings of the asset management products they sell [3][4]. - The adjustments are part of a broader effort to align product risk levels with investors' risk tolerance, thereby preventing mismatches in product recommendations [4]. Group 3: Market Context - The adjustments come amid a significant rise in stock market indices and increased volatility, prompting banks to optimize their risk ratings [1][3]. - The regulatory framework established in March 2023 mandates banks to enhance their responsibilities in managing the sale of asset management products, ensuring that investors receive accurate and complete risk information [4].

Core Viewpoint - Major commercial banks, including Citic Bank, have raised the risk ratings of their fund distribution products to better protect investors' rights, with Citic Bank's adjustment being the largest in the industry to date [1][3]. Group 1: Citic Bank's Actions - Citic Bank announced an increase in the risk ratings of 158 asset management products, effective from May 12, 2025, marking the highest number of products adjusted in a single batch [2][3]. - The risk ratings of several funds were raised, with some products moving from PR3 (medium risk) to PR4 (higher risk), and one product being upgraded from PR2 (lower risk) to PR4 [3]. - The adjustments are in response to regulatory requirements aimed at enhancing investor suitability management and protecting investor rights [2][3]. Group 2: Industry Trends - Other banks, such as China Construction Bank and Minsheng Bank, have also raised risk ratings for their fund distribution products earlier this year, indicating a broader trend in the banking industry [4][5]. - Minsheng Bank adjusted the risk rating of a specific fund to "medium risk" on January 10, 2025, while China Construction Bank made similar adjustments to 21 funds in February 2025 [4].