OCT(SZ:000069) Nan Fang Du Shi Bao·2025-09-05 14:29Core Viewpoint - The recent leadership changes at China Overseas Chinese Town Holdings Limited (OCT Group) signal a strategic shift as the company faces significant financial challenges and seeks to redefine its direction under new management [2][9][10]. Leadership Changes - On September 5, the State-owned Assets Supervision and Administration Commission announced the retirement of Zhang Zhengao, who reached the retirement age for leaders of large state-owned enterprises, and appointed Wu Bingqi as the new deputy secretary and board member, with a nomination for general manager [2][9]. - Wu Bingqi has extensive experience in the real estate sector, having previously held key positions at China Resources Land and China State Construction Engineering Corporation, which positions him well to lead OCT Group [4][5][6]. Historical Context - OCT Group has a 40-year history marked by strategic shifts under different leadership, from the "cultural tourism + real estate" model initiated by Ren Kelei to the recent focus on urban operations and asset optimization under Zhang Zhengao [8][9]. - The company has faced declining profitability, with significant losses reported in recent years, including a net loss of 109 billion yuan in 2022 and further losses in 2023 and 2024 [9][10]. Financial Performance - In the first half of 2023, OCT Group's tourism business generated 81.65 billion yuan, accounting for 72.15% of total revenue, while the real estate segment saw a dramatic revenue decline of 73.51%, significantly impacting overall performance [9][10]. - The gross margin for the real estate business fell to 5.49%, indicating a continued weakening of profitability in this segment [9]. Future Outlook - The appointment of Wu Bingqi, the only member of the management team born in the 1970s, may bring a fresh perspective to the company as it navigates a critical transformation period [10]. - The market will be observing whether Wu's extensive background in real estate and asset management can help OCT Group recover from its current financial difficulties and redefine its strategic direction [4][10].