
Core Viewpoint - The A-share banking sector has shown strong performance, with all 42 stocks in the sector rising, driven by low interest rates and a preference for high dividend yields among long-term investors [1][2]. Group 1: Market Performance - As of July 4, 2023, the A-share banking sector has accumulated a rise of over 17% this year, with stocks like Industrial and Commercial Bank of China and Shanghai Pudong Development Bank reaching new highs [1]. - Shanghai Pudong Development Bank leads the sector with a year-to-date increase of over 40%, followed by banks like Qingdao Bank and Industrial Bank, each with gains exceeding 30% [2]. Group 2: Investment Appeal - The average dividend yield of the A-share banking sector is close to 4%, making it attractive compared to the current 10-year government bond yield of approximately 1.65% and a one-year deposit rate below 1% [2]. - Institutional investors, including insurance funds, are increasingly favoring bank stocks due to their stable returns and the ongoing reform in the public fund industry, which is expected to enhance demand for bank shares [2][3]. Group 3: Valuation Recovery - Recent increases in shareholdings by major shareholders and executives signal positive future prospects for banks, suggesting that the valuation recovery of the banking sector may accelerate [4]. - Several banks, including Suzhou Bank and Qingdao Bank, have announced plans for significant share buybacks, reflecting confidence in their long-term investment value [4]. Group 4: Funding Dynamics - The recent regulatory changes aimed at promoting the high-quality development of public funds are expected to bring short-term incremental capital to the banking sector [5]. - The demand for stable return equity assets from institutional investors, particularly insurance funds, continues to support the potential for increased allocation to bank stocks [5].