Core Viewpoint - The banking industry is experiencing a significant shift in deposit interest rates, with small and medium-sized banks leading aggressive rate cuts, marking a departure from their previous role as followers in the interest rate adjustment process [2][3][4]. Group 1: Interest Rate Trends - In 2025, small and medium-sized banks are implementing frequent and substantial interest rate cuts, with some banks adjusting rates more than seven times within the year [4]. - For example, Shanghai Huari Bank has adopted a "monthly reduction" strategy, lowering its three-year deposit rate from 2.8% to 2.15% [4]. - In contrast, state-owned banks have only made one collective rate cut in May 2025, with overall adjustments remaining significantly lower than those of smaller banks [4][5]. Group 2: Rate Cut Magnitude - Small and medium-sized banks are achieving drastic reductions, with some products seeing cuts of up to 80 basis points, while state-owned banks typically reduce rates by only 10 to 20 basis points [5]. - For instance, Zhejiang Pingyang Pudong Rural Bank reduced its three-year and five-year deposit rates from 2.1% and 2.15% to 1.3% and 1.35%, respectively, entering the "1% era" [5]. Group 3: Product Structure Changes - The product offerings of small and medium-sized banks are shifting, with long-term deposit products like three-year and five-year fixed deposits being phased out [6]. - Nine out of 19 private banks have removed five-year deposit products from their apps, indicating a significant reduction in long-term high-interest offerings [6]. Group 4: Interest Rate Inversion - The phenomenon of "interest rate inversion" is becoming widespread, where shorter-term deposit rates exceed those of longer-term deposits, indicating a loss of yield advantage for long-term products [6][7]. - For example, the three-year deposit rate at Dalian Lushunkou Mengyin Village Bank is now 1.80%, higher than the five-year rate of 1.60% [7]. Group 5: Cost Management Strategies - The operational pressures faced by small and medium-sized banks are driving the current wave of aggressive rate cuts, as they seek to lower funding costs [8]. - Data shows that net interest margins for city commercial banks, private banks, and rural commercial banks have decreased compared to the previous year, necessitating a shift in deposit strategies [8]. Group 6: Asset Allocation Shifts - The ongoing decline in deposit rates is influencing residents' asset allocation, with a noticeable slowdown in the growth of fixed-term deposits [9]. - As of September, the growth rate of resident deposits has turned negative, while non-bank deposits have increased significantly, indicating a shift towards financial assets [9].

Core Viewpoint - The recent adjustment of deposit rates by banks, particularly the removal of 5-year fixed deposit products by smaller banks, reflects a strategic response to the current declining interest rate environment and regulatory pressures [1][2]. Group 1: Deposit Rate Adjustments - The Tongmu Teqi Mengyin Village Bank has announced a reduction in deposit rates for terms ranging from 3 months to 3 years, while also canceling the 5-year fixed deposit option [1]. - Major state-owned and joint-stock banks still offer 5-year fixed deposits, with China Bank's rate at 1.6% [1]. - The decision to eliminate 5-year deposits is primarily seen in smaller banks, indicating a divergence in strategies based on bank size and regulatory constraints [1]. Group 2: Interest Rate Environment - The current interest rate is in a downward cycle, leading banks to avoid locking in long-term deposits at higher costs, which could increase interest rate risk and operational pressure [1]. - There is a notable trend of interest rate inversion for 3-year and 5-year deposits in some smaller banks, suggesting a market-driven adjustment to optimize liability structures and reduce costs [2]. Group 3: Alternative Investment Options - In light of reduced availability or lower rates for 5-year deposits, banks and financial markets continue to offer stable alternatives such as 3-year fixed deposits or large-denomination certificates of deposit, which maintain similar safety and yield characteristics [3]. - For investors seeking long-term returns, government bonds (e.g., electronic savings bonds) are recommended as a secure alternative to fixed deposits, providing clear yields and high safety [3].

Core Insights - The banking sector is intensifying efforts to attract deposits as year-end approaches, utilizing strategies such as gift offerings, limited-time rate increases, and promotional campaigns to draw in new customers [1][5] Group 1: Deposit Strategies - Several city commercial banks and rural commercial banks are increasing deposit rates by up to 30 basis points to attract new customers [1] - Banks are implementing promotional activities targeting new customers, with some offering limited-time deposit products that require participation in asset enhancement activities to qualify for purchase [3][4] - Jiangsu Bank has raised rates on certain deposit products, with a 3-year term deposit now offering an annualized rate of 1.9%, up 15 basis points from standard rates [3] Group 2: Marketing and Promotions - Marketing activities are seen as a crucial part of the "opening red" strategy, with banks focusing on new customer acquisition through targeted promotions [5] - Some banks are offering gifts for deposits, such as small household items for deposits below 250,000 yuan, and larger gifts for higher amounts [4] Group 3: "Deposit Rush" Phenomenon - There is a rise in "deposit rush" activities, where intermediaries are facilitating deposit inflows for bank employees under pressure to meet performance targets [8][9] - The cost for utilizing these intermediary services can range from 0.0010% to 0.0016% daily, depending on the amount of funds involved [8] - The phenomenon is attributed to high performance targets set by banks, leading to reliance on external assistance to meet deposit goals [8]

Core Viewpoint - The current highest deposit interest rate in Beijing is 1.9% for a three-year term, with banks increasing rates and offering promotional activities as year-end approaches [1][9]. Group 1: Deposit Rates - Many banks have raised deposit rates as the year-end approaches, with promotional activities such as WeChat and Alipay bonuses [1][9]. - The interest rate for a one-year fixed deposit is 1.65%, which can increase to 1.75% for payroll or new fund clients [6][15]. - The five-year fixed deposit is still available at major banks, despite reports of some banks withdrawing these products [2][10]. Group 2: Regional and Product Variability - There are significant differences in deposit rates not only between banks but also among branches of the same bank and different scenarios [6][15]. - For example, a three-year deposit for new funds at Hangzhou Bank starts at 1.9%, while the rate for non-new funds is 1.8% [6][15]. Group 3: Financial Products - For clients dissatisfied with low deposit rates, stable financial products with a recent annualized rate of around 1.5% are available, along with short-term flexible products offering rates between 4.3% and 4.9% [7][16]. - One-year closed-end financial products have a performance benchmark around 2%, differing from deposits as they do not guarantee capital preservation [7][16]. Group 4: Market Dynamics - Some banks are facing pressure to attract deposits, particularly smaller regional banks, leading to potential temporary increases in deposit rates [8][17]. - The net interest margin for commercial banks was reported at 1.42% as of the third quarter, indicating a slight decline from the previous year [8][17]. - Long-term, banks may continue to lower funding costs, suggesting potential downward adjustments in deposit rates [9][18].

Regulatory Dynamics - New credit repair regulations will be implemented starting April 1, 2025, categorizing credit information into "minor, general, and severe," with minor infractions generally not disclosed [2] - Beijing has launched a three-month campaign to address six types of online financial misconduct, focusing on misleading information and illegal financial activities [2] - Six government departments have jointly issued a plan to enhance consumer finance products and services, aiming to improve their adaptability and convenience [2] Industry Dynamics - Over 260 billion yuan in mid-term dividends have been distributed by 13 banks, with the six major state-owned banks contributing over 70% of the total [4] - Several banks have withdrawn long-term deposit products, focusing on shorter-term offerings, with interest rates also being reduced [4] - Insurance companies and banks are providing support for the recent fire incident in Hong Kong, with various institutions mobilizing resources for relief efforts [4] - Insurance companies have seen a record number of stake acquisitions this year, with 37 instances reported, the highest in nearly a decade [4] Corporate Dynamics - Guiyang Bank's acquisition of a loss-making village bank faced opposition from over 27% of minority shareholders, raising concerns about dilution of equity value and risk exposure [5] - Two banks in Shaanxi have been approved for dissolution, with all operations and assets being transferred to the local rural commercial bank [5] - Ant Consumer Finance reported a revenue of 10.041 billion yuan and a net profit of 1.460 billion yuan for the first half of 2025, marking year-on-year growth of 67.77% and 57.84% respectively [5] - Quantitative Technology Co. debuted on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange, with shares rising 88.78% on the first day, achieving a market capitalization of nearly 9.5 billion HKD [5] - New Guodu has submitted an application for an IPO in Hong Kong, aiming to enhance its global strategy and expand overseas operations [5]

Core Insights - The phenomenon of "deposit special forces" has faded, with depositors no longer actively seeking high-interest deposits across provinces, marking the end of a trend that began in 2023 [1][2][3] Group 1: Market Trends - The rise of "deposit special forces" was driven by significant interest rate differentiation in the banking sector, where smaller banks offered higher rates compared to state-owned banks [2][3] - A downward trend in deposit rates has been observed since 2025, with major banks and smaller institutions alike reducing their rates, leading to a decrease in the appeal of high-interest deposits [1][4] Group 2: Changes in Deposit Products - Long-term deposit products are disappearing from the market, with several banks announcing the removal of 5-year and even 3-year fixed deposit options [5][6] - The reduction in long-term deposit offerings is attributed to banks facing pressure on their net interest margins, which have reached historical lows [6][7] Group 3: Implications for Depositors - Depositors are now challenged to shift from a single deposit strategy to a diversified asset allocation approach, balancing safety and returns in a low-interest environment [1][4] - The cost of pursuing high-interest deposits across regions has become less justifiable as the interest rate differentials narrow, reducing the incentive for depositors to travel for better rates [4][7]

Core Viewpoint - The phenomenon of "deposit special forces" has faded as the high-interest deposit rates that attracted savers have diminished, leading to a shift towards a low-interest era in wealth management [1][5][8]. Group 1: Market Trends - In 2023, there was a significant differentiation in deposit rates, with state-owned banks lowering rates while some regional and small banks maintained higher rates to attract deposits [3][4]. - By 2025, a new wave of interest rate cuts began, with many banks, including state-owned and small banks, reducing their deposit rates, leading to a decline in the popularity of "deposit special forces" [4][5]. - The disappearance of long-term deposit products, such as 5-year and 3-year fixed deposits, has been noted, with several banks announcing the removal of these products from their offerings [6][7]. Group 2: Impact on Savers - Savers are now faced with the challenge of wealth preservation and growth in a low-interest environment, necessitating a shift from a single deposit strategy to a diversified asset allocation approach [8][9]. - Recommendations for savers include prioritizing liquidity and safety for short-term needs, while considering structured deposits and insurance products for medium-term goals, and exploring higher-risk investments for long-term growth [8][10]. - The data indicates a growing interest in net value-based financial products, which offer a risk-return profile between deposits and stocks, reflecting a shift in asset allocation strategies among residents [9]. Group 3: Financial Literacy - It is emphasized that savers should enhance their financial literacy, carefully reviewing product details and understanding risk levels and investment strategies before making decisions [10]. - A balanced approach to risk and return is advised, with a focus on aligning investment choices with individual risk tolerance and financial goals [10].

Core Viewpoint - Major state-owned banks and some joint-stock banks in China have recently suspended the sale of 5-year large-denomination time deposits, with current offerings primarily focused on 1-month to 3-year products [1] Group 1: Bank Actions - Six major state-owned banks, including ICBC, ABC, BOC, CCB, BOCOM, and PSBC, along with several joint-stock banks, have withdrawn long-term deposit products [1] - Many small and medium-sized banks have also announced the suspension of 3-year and 5-year fixed deposit products while simultaneously lowering interest rates across various deposit terms [1] - The remaining large-denomination time deposits are mostly concentrated in 1-month, 3-month, and 3-year terms, with 3-year products becoming the primary long-term offering [1] Group 2: Interest Rate Trends - The interest rates for 3-year large-denomination time deposits generally range from 1.5% to 1.75%, with reports of "tight quotas" and "sold out" situations being common [1] - The average net interest margin for commercial banks has dropped to a historical low of 1.42% in Q3, reflecting the pressure on bank profitability [2] Group 3: Strategic Adjustments - The adjustments in long-term deposit products are a response to the narrowing net interest margin, aimed at alleviating profitability pressures [2][3] - The shift indicates a transition from a focus on scale expansion to a more refined approach that emphasizes the quality of liabilities [3] Group 4: Future Outlook - There is potential for further reductions in deposit rates as banks continue to adjust high-cost deposit products [4] - Investors are advised to monitor market dynamics closely, including LPR adjustments and regulatory changes, while diversifying their asset allocation based on risk preferences [4]

Core Viewpoint - The trend of small and medium-sized banks discontinuing long-term deposit products and lowering interest rates is closing the door on the "interest-earning era" for depositors [1][2]. Group 1: Discontinuation of Long-Term Deposit Products - Meizhou Commercial Bank announced the discontinuation of its five-year fixed deposit product and the termination of automatic renewal services due to policy adjustments [2]. - Several small and medium-sized banks have been phasing out five-year fixed deposit products, with notable examples including the announcement from Tuyuqi Mengyin Village Bank, which explicitly canceled its five-year fixed deposit product [5]. - A total of seven banks have removed five-year fixed deposits from their offerings, including Meizhou Commercial Bank and Zhongguancun Bank, with some also discontinuing three-year fixed deposits [6]. Group 2: Interest Rate Reductions - Many small and medium-sized banks have entered a new round of interest rate cuts to address the pressure on net interest margins, with significant reductions observed in recent months [8]. - For instance, Pingyang Pudong Village Bank reduced its three-year and five-year fixed deposit rates from 2.1% and 2.15% to 1.3% and 1.35%, respectively, marking a drop of 80 basis points [8]. - The overall trend shows that banks are aligning their deposit rates with larger institutions, leading to a flattening of previously higher rates [11]. Group 3: Impact on Banking Sector - The net interest margin for banks has been under pressure, with state-owned, joint-stock, private, and foreign banks all experiencing a narrowing of their margins compared to the previous year [12]. - Analysts suggest that the current low levels of net interest margins may deter banks from further reducing loan rates, as it could threaten their profitability [13]. - There is speculation that monetary policy may initiate a new round of interest rate cuts, which could lead to a further decline in deposit rates [14].

Core Viewpoint - Several banks are discontinuing long-term fixed deposit products, particularly 3-year and 5-year terms, in response to ongoing pressure on net interest margins, indicating a shift in the banking industry's profit model [1][6][7] Summary by Sections Discontinuation of Fixed Deposits - Multiple banks, including village banks, have announced the cancellation of 5-year fixed deposit products, with some also removing 3-year fixed deposits from their offerings [1][2][3] - As of November 10, 9 private banks have removed 5-year fixed deposit products from their apps, and some have also discontinued 3-year fixed deposits [3][6] Interest Rate Adjustments - Interest rates for 1-year and 3-year fixed deposits are now often higher than those for 5-year deposits, leading to a common phenomenon of interest rate inversion [1][3][4] - For example, the Inner Mongolia Tongyu Bank has adjusted its 1-year fixed deposit rate from 1.50% to 1.45%, while the 5-year rate has been removed entirely [2][4] Impact on Banking Profitability - The banking sector is actively managing its liabilities by reducing the rates on long-term deposits and discontinuing high-cost deposit products to mitigate the pressure on net interest margins [1][7] - A report indicates that out of 26 listed banks, 14 are still experiencing a decline in net interest margins, highlighting the ongoing challenges in the banking sector [7] Market Trends - The trend of discontinuing long-term fixed deposits is primarily observed in small and medium-sized banks, while larger state-owned and joint-stock banks still offer 5-year fixed deposits [6] - The maximum interest rate for 3-year large certificates of deposit has dropped to 1.55%, indicating a broader decline in deposit rates across the banking sector [6][7]