上半年超2600家网点退出

Core Viewpoint - The rapid decline of physical bank branches in China is driven by the shift towards online banking, cost-cutting measures, and the integration of financial technology, leading to a significant transformation in the banking sector's operational model [1][2][3]. Group 1: Bank Branch Exit Statistics - As of June 2023, 2,677 bank branches have been approved for closure, surpassing the total number of closures in 2022 (2,483 branches) [1]. - The majority of branch closures are attributed to cost-effectiveness pressures, with individual branch operating costs ranging from 2 million to 5 million yuan, and total costs nearing 10 million yuan when including staffing [2]. Group 2: Customer Behavior and Digital Transformation - Customer behavior is increasingly shifting online, with mobile banking and corporate online banking users reaching 88%, and over 90% of high-frequency transactions being conducted online [2]. - The foot traffic in physical branches has decreased by 60% over the past five years, indicating a significant migration to digital channels [2]. Group 3: Reasons for Branch Closures - The closure of branches is primarily due to insufficient customer traffic and overlapping service areas, with over 60% of closed branches categorized as low-efficiency [2]. - The restructuring and merging of small banks, particularly rural commercial banks, are also contributing factors, with 89 village banks absorbed by their parent institutions in the first half of 2025 [2]. Group 4: Future Development of Bank Branches - Future bank branches are expected to transition from transaction processing to enhancing customer experience, incorporating remote video advisors and smart terminals [4]. - The focus of bank operations will shift towards high-net-worth client wealth management and complex services for small and medium-sized enterprises [4]. - Banks will also explore innovative forms such as metaverse banking and AI customer service, aiming for a seamless integration of online and offline services [4]. Group 5: Importance of Physical Branches - Despite the reduction in physical branches, they remain essential for combining online and offline services, providing community financial services with a human touch [5].