Chinese banks are experiencing increased scrutiny regarding retail loans, as there are concerns that these loans are being utilized for stock purchases following a surge in personal borrowing driven by a recent stimulus-fueled rally. This scrutiny comes amid heightened funding pressure on Chinese banks, an unintended consequence of monetary easing efforts that have simultaneously fueled stock market gains and reduced demand for debt products. In a related development, BlackRock has urged the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) to withdraw proposed restrictions on money managers’ stakes in lenders. The FDIC is scrutinizing BlackRock and Vanguard, as the agency aims to limit the influence of large asset managers on banks where they hold significant stakes. Additionally, China's central bank has maintained its one-year policy rate after implementing record funding cost reductions last month, indicating a cautious approach to monetary stimulus aimed at supporting the economy.