CNY rates: Weak loan data, tariff truce, and curve steepening
Steepening amid flush liquidity.
Group Research - Econs, Samuel Tse15 Aug 2025
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The CGB curve steepened over the week due to sluggish loan data and the extension of the US-China trade truce. Liquidity conditions remained flush. New Yuan Loans came in weaker than expected at CNY 12,870 billion. New medium- to long-term corporate and household credit fell during the month. Outstanding loan growth dropped to 6.9% yoy in July from 7.6% at the end of 2024. In contrast, deposits grew by 8.7%, and M1 growth (demand deposits) accelerated from 4.6% in Jun to 5.6% in July in tandem with ongoing easing.
 

On the external front, China and the US are extending the 90-days truce. This could be a relief as manufacturers may continue to front-load exports. Notably, China’s export growth improved from 6.9% yoy in June to 7.2% in July. Imports also rebounded as manufacturers are importing raw materials and intermediate goods for new orders. However, the upside is likely to be modest. First, China’s exports to the US have already fallen by 12.6% yoy ytd. Second, transshipment may come under pressure amid the 40% additional tariff. The Shanghai-LA/NY Freight Rate Indicies have been falling since mid-May, suggesting front-loading activities could slow soon.

 

Against this backdrop, the PBOC is likely to stay on course with its moderately loose monetary policy. Front-end R007 and DR007 rates remain anchored at 1.5%. Should the domestic demand growth data, to be announced today, decelerate, short-end rates will see stronger downward pressure. Steepening will remain at play.



Samuel Tse 謝家曦

Senior Economist- China & Hong Kong 資深經濟學家 - 中國及香港
[email protected]



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