The WGC says Chinese commercial banks have been a vital pillar supporting developments in China's retail gold investment market since its liberalisation in 2004, facilitated by their widespread network and well-established reputation.
"But their physical gold sales - the core gold business at Chinese commercial banks - have witnessed continuous decline since 2015. Meanwhile, retail physical gold investment products sold from other channels have, until recently, been growing.
In its market update report, which puts Chinese commercial banks' retail gold businesses in focus, the WGC explores:
• The role of commercial banks in developing China's gold market.
• These banks' main retail gold business lines.
• The downward trend in physical gold sales at these banks and the possible drivers.
• Insights for Chinese retail gold investors.