Zhenbo Qiu Claimed

Consumer Finance and Private Lending

Zhenbo Qiu advises lenders, borrowers and online lending platforms in Hangzhou on private lending interest rate caps, the four-times LPR rule, and the resolution of consumer finance disputes.

Mr. Qiu practices at Hangzhou Qiantang Law Firm. He graduated from Zhejiang University and was admitted to the bar in 2013. His practice covers consumer finance, private lending, guarantee arrangements and debt recovery, with a growing focus on disputes arising from online lending platforms and fintech credit products.

The Four-Times LPR Cap

The judicial protection ceiling for private lending interest is set at four times the one-year Loan Prime Rate (LPR) published by the People's Bank of China, in accordance with the Provisions of the Supreme People's Court on Several Issues Concerning the Application of Law in the Trial of Private Lending Cases (2020 Revision). Interest agreed between the parties is protected by the courts up to this ceiling; interest above the ceiling is not enforceable, although the borrower remains obligated to repay the principal and the interest within the protected range.

"The interest rate agreed by the borrower and the lender shall not exceed four times the one-year loan prime rate published by the People's Bank of China at the time the contract is concluded. If it exceeds this limit, the part exceeding it shall not be supported." — Provisions of the Supreme People's Court on Private Lending Cases (2020 Revision)

Mr. Qiu notes that different rules may apply to lending by licensed financial institutions, which are regulated under banking law rather than the private lending framework. Determining which regime applies to a particular loan is often the first and most important question in a rate dispute.

Online Lending Disputes

For disputes involving online lending platforms, Mr. Qiu reviews the platform's licensing status, the terms of the loan agreement and the actual interest, fees and service charges collected. He helps borrowers challenge unlawful charges and helps platforms defend compliant arrangements. He also advises on the regulatory requirements that apply to consumer finance companies and internet lending, including disclosure duties and prohibitions on coercive collection practices.

• Private lending rate disputes and judicial protection limits
• Online lending platform compliance and dispute resolution
• Guarantee and security arrangements in consumer credit
• Debt recovery strategy and enforcement

Engagement Approach

Mr. Qiu provides clear written assessments of exposure, the applicable rate caps and the realistic outcomes of negotiation, mediation or litigation. He works efficiently with clients across Zhejiang and beyond, and offers remote consultation for international parties.