The People's Bank of China left the one-year loan prime rate unchanged at 3.65 percent at its monthly review, with the equivalent five-year rate also left on hold at 4.30 percent. These rates were last lowered in August by 5 basis points and 15 basis points respectively.

This decision to leave policy settings on hold suggests officials are confident that economic conditions are improving. Data published earlier this week showed growth strengthened sharply at the start of the year, with the economy expanding by 2.2 percent on the quarter after an increase of 0.6 percent in the three months to December.

This rebound in growth follows the relaxation of many public health restrictions by authorities in late 2022. PMI survey data also showed conditions improved during the quarter, while offical monthly data also released today showed stronger growth in both industrial production and retail sales in March.

The People's Bank of China is not expected to change its loan price rate, at 3.65 percent for the 1-year rate and 4.30 percent for the 5-year.

The one-year Loan Prime Rate is a new policy rate set by the People’s Bank of China that is used by domestic banks as a reference for the lending rates they offer to their most creditworthy clients. This rate was previously based on the official benchmark rate that required the approval of China’s State Council to be changed but is now based on the PBOC’s medium-term lending facility, which can be changed without the State Council’s approval. New bank loans are now priced relative to the Loan Prime Rate.

The People’s Bank of China determines interest rate policy at its policy meetings. These meetings occur on or around the 20th of each month and market participants speculate about the possibility of an interest rate change. The level of interest rates affects the economy. Higher interest rates tend to slow economic activity; lower interest rates stimulate economic activity. Either way, interest rates influence the sales environment. In the consumer sector, few homes or cars will be purchased when interest rates rise. Furthermore, interest rate costs are a significant factor for many businesses, particularly for companies with high debt loads or who have to finance high inventory levels. This interest cost has a direct impact on corporate profits. The bottom line is that higher interest rates are bearish for the financial markets, while lower interest rates are bullish.