Recent military leadership changes in China, including the October 2026 dismissal of multiple senior PLA Navy admirals and earlier expulsions of Central Military Commission figures such as Zhang Youxia and Liu Zhenli, have driven speculation around coup attempts. Official statements attribute the moves to corruption and disciplinary violations, while analysts note the scale has reduced the CMC and removed experienced officers, consolidating authority under Xi Jinping. Rumors of foiled plots, factionalism, or leaks of sensitive information emerged prominently in January 2026 and resurfaced with the latest announcements, though unverified and often tied to internal power dynamics rather than confirmed events. These developments, occurring amid broader anti-graft efforts, shape trader views on political stability risks through year-end.