需重视银行净息差收窄的挑战丨杨涛专栏

Core Viewpoint - The narrowing of net interest margin (NIM) poses significant challenges to the sustainable development of the banking industry, reflecting a downward trend that has persisted for five consecutive years, with the average NIM of 58 listed banks dropping to 1.52% in 2024 and further declining to 1.43% in the first quarter of this year [1][2]. Factors Influencing NIM - Multiple factors contribute to the decline in NIM, including global economic growth challenges, asymmetric interest rate policies during active monetary policy implementation, intensified competition among banks leading to "price wars," and the differentiated impacts of banks' business structures and strategies [2][3]. Implications for the Banking Sector - The decline in NIM affects not only the banking sector but also the overall stability of the financial industry. It necessitates banks to enhance asset-liability management strategies focused on NIM and capital returns, while also addressing the capital replenishment pressures faced by smaller banks [3][4]. Strategic Responses - Banks are encouraged to improve asset-liability and cost-revenue management capabilities by optimizing their asset-liability structures and enhancing non-interest income through the development of wealth management and investment banking services [4][5]. - Strengthening risk management capabilities is essential for banks to navigate macroeconomic fluctuations and reduce exposure to high-risk areas [4][5]. International Experience and Recommendations - Internationally, banks facing NIM challenges have adopted common strategies, such as enhancing asset-liability management, increasing non-interest income, and improving risk management capabilities [4][5]. - Banks should also consider international expansion to tap into high-yield credit markets and support enterprises going abroad, while regulatory adjustments may be necessary to provide banks with the flexibility needed for transformation [5].