ESG年报解读｜兴业银行高净值客户子女实习计划缺风险评估，信息披露机制显治理短板

Core Viewpoint - The launch of the "2025 Elite Internship Program" by Industrial Bank has sparked controversy due to its high financial thresholds for participation, raising concerns about social equity and the potential for privilege among high-net-worth clients [2][7][12]. Group 1: Program Details and Controversy - The program requires non-Industrial Bank private banking clients to deposit over 10 million yuan (approximately 1.4 million USD) and existing clients to deposit over 5 million yuan (approximately 700,000 USD) to qualify for internship opportunities at prestigious companies [2][7]. - Following the program's announcement, several companies, including ByteDance and CITIC Securities, publicly denied any collaboration with Industrial Bank regarding the provision of internship positions for high-net-worth clients' children [7][8]. Group 2: Response and ESG Implications - Industrial Bank responded to the backlash by stating that the program was intended as a value-added service for high-net-worth clients and that the final decision on internship placements rests with the companies involved [8][11]. - The bank acknowledged that the controversy stemmed from incomplete communication and has since suspended the program, highlighting a need for improvement in information disclosure and consumer rights protection [8][11][14]. Group 3: Compliance and Governance Issues - The program's requirement to freeze funds during the internship period has raised questions about compliance with the principle of "voluntary deposits and free withdrawals" as outlined in the Commercial Banking Law [11][12]. - Critics argue that linking internship opportunities to financial deposits creates a perception of privilege and may undermine the fairness of access to such opportunities, challenging social equity principles [12][14]. Group 4: Brand Impact and Future Considerations - The incident has negatively impacted Industrial Bank's brand image, emphasizing the importance of integrating ESG risk assessment mechanisms into their communication and service design processes [14]. - The bank must balance commercial interests with social responsibility to avoid further controversies related to perceived preferential treatment for high-net-worth clients [14].