Xin Lang Cai Jing·2025-09-23 13:17Core Viewpoint - Postal Savings Bank of China (PSBC) announced the absorption and merger of its wholly-owned subsidiary, Postal Savings Bank Huinong Bank, which will lead to the cancellation of the latter's independent legal status and the transfer of all its business, assets, and obligations to PSBC [1] Group 1: Merger Details - The merger has been approved by PSBC's board and requires shareholder meeting approval and regulatory approval from the National Financial Regulatory Administration [1] - The merger does not constitute a related party transaction or a major asset restructuring and will not materially affect PSBC's financial status or operating results [1] Group 2: Industry Context - The merger reflects a broader trend in the banking industry towards digital transformation, with at least 19 banks, including Minsheng Bank and Hankou Bank, integrating direct banking services in recent years [1][2] - Direct banks were initially established to provide online services without physical branches, but their independent value has diminished due to challenges such as product homogeneity and high customer acquisition costs [2] Group 3: Strategic Benefits - The merger is expected to optimize PSBC's management and business structure, enhance digital transformation outcomes, improve operational efficiency, and reduce management costs [3] - By integrating the talent and experience from Postal Savings Bank Huinong Bank, PSBC aims to strengthen its online business and create a synergistic effect [3] Group 4: Digital Transformation Initiatives - PSBC plans to leverage the merger to advance its digital transformation by enhancing its technological capabilities, improving business management, and strengthening risk control systems [3][4] - The bank aims to reshape customer experience across all channels and products while achieving cost reduction and efficiency improvements in internal management [4]