The People's Bank of China left the one-year loan prime rate unchanged at 3.45 percent at its monthly review, in line with the consensus forecast. The equivalent five-year rate was also left on hold at 4.20 percent. The one-year rate was cut by 10 basis points in August.

Data published earlier in the week showed ongoing weakness in the property market in September, but stronger quarter-over-quarter GDP growth in the three months to September and stronger year-over-year growth in industrial production and retail sales in September. In a statement accompanying the activity data, officials described China's economy as having"sustained the momentum of recovery and improvement" with both demand and production increasing. The statement provided little guidance, however, about whether officials consider that further policy support will be required, merely noting that policy is continuing to be implemented"in a precise and robust way" to expand domestic demand and boost confidence.

Pending the release of key data on Wednesday, the consensus for the People's Bank of China's loan prime rates were for no change, at 3.45 percent for the one-year and 4.20 percent for the five 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.