Guan Cha Zhe Wang·2025-08-26 11:25Core Viewpoint - Postal Savings Bank of China (PSBC) is facing regulatory scrutiny due to violations related to loan management and compliance, highlighting weaknesses in its risk control mechanisms [1][2]. Regulatory Violations - PSBC's Jinhua branch was fined 1.9 million yuan for three violations: inadequate loan "three checks" (pre-loan investigation, during-loan review, post-loan inspection), misappropriation of loan funds, and providing off-contract benefits to policyholders [1][2]. - The Huzhou branch was fined 400,000 yuan for similar issues, indicating systemic compliance failures within the bank [1][2]. Impact on Risk Management - The violations point to significant lapses in the bank's core risk management processes, which could lead to potential financial risks such as credit fund misallocation and speculative activities [1]. - The regulatory actions reflect an increasing trend of dual penalties for institutions and individuals, as three responsible persons received warnings alongside the fines [2]. Recent Penalties - This marks the second instance within two months where PSBC has received a fine exceeding one million yuan, with a previous penalty of 1.87 million yuan imposed on its Hainan branch for similar infractions [2]. - In total, PSBC has faced fines amounting to 6.3277 million yuan in the current year [2]. Business Model Challenges - Amidst a backdrop of narrowing net interest margins and slowing expansion, PSBC is transitioning towards a "light capital, light asset" model, which poses challenges given its focus on county-level markets and reliance on interest rate spreads for profitability [3].