In recent months, the Federal Reserve's continuous interest rate hikes have widened the interest rate gap between China and the U.S., causing a notable outflow of foreign capital from China's domestic market. However, as is often the case, this situation is reminiscent of a coin with two sides.

This year has observed a noticeable decrease in enterprise loan rates and personal mortgage rates, with banks' interest rate spreads reaching historic lows. This low-interest-rate environment has sparked the rising popularity of Panda bonds. In fact, the issuance of Panda bonds soared by an impressive 58 percent year-on-year! This trend undoubtedly propels the process of renminbi (RMB) internationalization. According to data from international payment firm SWIFT, in September this year, the RMB surpassed the euro to become the second most popular currency for trade financing, accounting for 6% of such transactions.

So, what exactly are Panda bonds?

To fully grasp this, one must first understand the concept of international bonds. The need for funds is a universal reality; even countries find themselves in need of financial resources. International bonds refer to bonds issued by governments, international organizations, financial institutions, or corporations to raise funds in foreign financial markets. Depending on the issuer, issuing region, and the currency in which the bond is denominated, international bonds may fall into various categories, including European bonds, offshore bonds, and foreign bonds.

Among these, foreign bonds are those issued by domestic issuers in foreign markets or by foreign issuers in domestic markets, denominated in the currency of the issuing region. Traditionally, foreign bonds are named after the local culture or symbols; for example, bonds issued by overseas institutions in Japan are known as "Samurai bonds," while those issued in the UK are termed "Bulldog bonds." By this logic, bonds issued by overseas institutions in China are aptly named "Panda bonds," a concept that emerged in 2005.

In summary, Panda bonds are debt instruments denominated in RMB that are issued by overseas entities in China. Essentially, it signifies foreign capital seeking to borrow in the Chinese currency. The more people who utilize a particular currency, the greater its level of internationalization. The concept can be distilled simply: the more it’s used, the better it works; the better it works, the more it's used. This cyclical nature is central to the process of currency internationalization.

But what advantages does it present when abroad entities borrow money from us?

One significant benefit is that it fosters the internationalization of the RMB.

Studies indicate that nations borrowing in RMB are more likely to use this currency for international transactions. As of now, central banks or monetary authorities from 40 countries and regions have entered into currency swap agreements with the People’s Bank of China, facilitating a rise in the RMB's share in international payments by approximately 1.3 percent.

The promotion of Panda bonds actively contributes to the increased global usage of the RMB. As a financing tool for multinational corporations, the use of RMB for liabilities will naturally enhance the overall usage of the currency. Many overseas enterprises prefer to price their transactions in U.S. dollars due to the complete suite of supporting services, which include global trade settlement management and investment financing. Therefore, for the RMB to become a mainstream financing currency, it must be accompanied by comprehensive financial products that facilitate its role as a true global currency.

Moreover, Panda bonds have the potential to attract a wealth of investment institutions to China.

For instance, Warren Buffett famously invested in Japan a few years ago by leveraging the local yen for borrowing. With low interest rates and a strong credit environment, he could secure yen at almost zero interest, without stringent repayment timelines. Japanese financial institutions allowed Buffett to borrow long-term, providing him with a stable path to receive dividends while incurring minimal costs.

At the time, the dividend yields of the major Japanese trading companies in which he invested were between 5% and 8%. Consequently, he entered the market with no initial investment, borrowing at zero cost, and subsequently reaping returns greater than 5%. When other investors observed Buffett's move, many decided to follow suit, which in turn heightened market sentiments and overall interest.

This highlights an essential truth: if an economic entity can provide stable cash flows, investors will be more inclined to hold onto assets for the long term. Low interest rates only add to the allure for specific institutional investors, as the conditions for borrowing—sufficiently low rates and extended timelines—are typically only feasible for large institutions.

On one hand, the establishment of uniform regulations for Panda bonds across two markets boosts market transparency and operability, while on the other hand, it clarifies that the funds raised by Panda bonds can be utilized both domestically and abroad. Moreover, it encourages foreign institutions to issue bonds within China for the purpose of raising RMB funds for cross-border payments and utilization. This development significantly broadens the spectrum of applications for Panda bonds and spurs multinational enterprises overseas to engage in low-cost financing.

As we look ahead, it is evident that with the progressive easing of policies related to Panda bonds and their adaptation to the evolving landscape of international finance and economics, they will undoubtedly become more attractive to global institutions. Overall, the Panda bond market represents not just a shift in financing but a strategic avenue towards elevating the global stature of the renminbi, ultimately laying a stronger foundation for its role in the international financial realm.