Xin Lang Cai Jing·2025-05-14 10:57Core Viewpoint - The expansion of Asset-investment Companies (AICs) in China is expected, with three new members from joint-stock banks joining the existing five state-owned banks, indicating a significant shift in the banking sector's approach to equity investment [1][3][4]. Group 1: AIC Establishment and Expansion - The establishment of AICs is set to increase to eight, with CITIC Bank and China Merchants Bank announcing plans to set up their own AICs, while Industrial Bank has already received regulatory approval for its AIC [1][3]. - The registered capital for the newly established AICs includes 100 billion yuan for Industrial Bank's AIC and 150 billion yuan for China Merchants Bank's AIC [3][4]. - The regulatory environment has become more favorable for AICs, with a significant increase in the signed investment intentions exceeding 380 billion yuan [1][5]. Group 2: Financial Performance and Market Trends - The five existing AICs reported a combined net profit of 18.354 billion yuan in 2024, reflecting a year-on-year growth of 1.04%, with notable performance from ICBC Investment [5][6]. - The policy changes since the second half of 2023 have led to a resurgence in bank equity investments, driven by a recovery in the secondary market and IPO activities [8][10]. - The investment limits for AICs have been relaxed, allowing for a higher percentage of total assets to be allocated to equity investments, increasing from 4% to 10% [5][6]. Group 3: Investment Strategies and Collaborations - AICs are increasingly collaborating with local governments and industry funds to mitigate risks associated with equity investments, particularly in high-risk sectors like technology [8][9]. - The trend indicates a growing preference for blind pool funds over specialized funds, as the former allows for more flexible investment strategies [10]. - The focus on supporting technology and innovation-driven enterprises is evident, with AICs aiming to provide both debt and equity financing to these sectors [10].