PBoC’s Pan: Will guide adjustments in interest rate levels based economic operations

Remarks

Social financing conditions are at loose conditions now.

Central bank will implement appropriately monetary policy this year.

Will flexibly use various monetary policy tools including interest rates, RRR cuts.

Will guide adjustments in interest rate levels based economic operations.

Structural policy tools will docus on expanding domestic demand, tech innovation.

Will curb involution-style competition in some industries.

China has no intention to, not necessary to use exchange rate to gain trade competitiveness.

US, Israeli attacks on Iran led to spike in risk aversion in global markets.

Volatility in currencies have limited impact on over 60% of China's foreign trade.

Will enrich monetary policy toolbox.

Will continue to conduct treasury bond buying and selling operations.

Will improve monetary policy transmission, transparency.

Market reaction

PBoC Pan's comments appear to have negatively impacted the Chinese Yuan (CNH). USD/CNH seems to have attracted slight bids after posting an intraday low at 6.8965.

PBOC FAQs

What does the People's Bank of China do?

The primary monetary policy objectives of the People's Bank of China (PBoC) are to safeguard price stability, including exchange rate stability, and promote economic growth. China’s central bank also aims to implement financial reforms, such as opening and developing the financial market.

Who owns the PBoC?

The PBoC is owned by the state of the People's Republic of China (PRC), so it is not considered an autonomous institution. The Chinese Communist Party (CCP) Committee Secretary, nominated by the Chairman of the State Council, has a key influence on the PBoC’s management and direction, not the governor. However, Mr. Pan Gongsheng currently holds both of these posts.

What are the main policy tools used by the PBoC?

Unlike the Western economies, the PBoC uses a broader set of monetary policy instruments to achieve its objectives. The primary tools include a seven-day Reverse Repo Rate (RRR), Medium-term Lending Facility (MLF), foreign exchange interventions and Reserve Requirement Ratio (RRR). However, The Loan Prime Rate (LPR) is China’s benchmark interest rate. Changes to the LPR directly influence the rates that need to be paid in the market for loans and mortgages and the interest paid on savings. By changing the LPR, China’s central bank can also influence the exchange rates of the Chinese Renminbi.

Are private banks allowed in China?

Yes, China has 19 private banks – a small fraction of the financial system. The largest private banks are digital lenders WeBank and MYbank, which are backed by tech giants Tencent and Ant Group, per The Straits Times. In 2014, China allowed domestic lenders fully capitalized by private funds to operate in the state-dominated financial sector.