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China central bank plans new metrics to rein in banks’ long-dated bonds holdings, sources say

By Thomson Reuters Sep 14, 2026 | 5:20 AM

SHANGHAI, Sept 14 (Reuters) – China’s central bank plans to introduce new metrics into its Macro Prudential Assessment framework, aiming ​to curb banks’ excessive holdings in ‌long-dated bonds and funds that could heighten investment risks, sources familiar with the matter said on Monday.

The plan also includes measures tracking deviations from ‌money ​market and bond yields, the ⁠people said, declining ⁠to be identified as they were not authorised to speak to the media.

The specific benchmarks for the metrics are still being ​discussed with the industry and are subject to consultation, and have not been ⁠finalised, the sources said.

China’s ⁠bond market has been rallying ​this year, decoupling from a global selloff, as ​lacklustre economic data fuelled expectations of more ‌policy support.

The 10-year yield was 1.68% on Monday, hovering near its lowest since July 2025, while the 30-year yield was 2.17%.Prices ⁠rise when yields fall.

The PBOC did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Market participants said ⁠some small ‌banks could exceed the limits ⁠on bond investment duration and ​fund ‌investments, and may face pressure to ​adjust their ⁠bond portfolios.

The MPA framework, formally implemented by the PBOC in 2016, is a key part of China’s “dual-pillar” regulatory approach combining monetary policy and macro-prudential policy.

(Reporting by Reuters, Editing by ​Louise Heavens)