AGRICULTURAL BANK OF CHINA(SH:601288) Nan Fang Du Shi Bao·2025-10-28 05:20Core Viewpoint - Agricultural Bank of China is actively acquiring rural banks as part of a broader strategy to reform and mitigate risks in the financial sector, with significant reductions in the number of rural banks reported this year [2][6]. Group 1: Acquisitions and Establishments - The Agricultural Bank of China has received approval to acquire Anse Agricultural Bank Village Bank and establish a new branch, taking over its assets, liabilities, and staff [3][4]. - In September and October, the Agricultural Bank also acquired Xiamen Tong'an Agricultural Bank Village Bank and Zhejiang Yongkang Agricultural Bank Village Bank, respectively, establishing new branches in each case [4]. - The bank's control over these rural banks is significant, with a 51% stake in Anse Agricultural Bank Village Bank, which was established in 2010 with a registered capital of 40 million RMB [3][4]. Group 2: Industry Trends - The trend of "village to branch" reform is accelerating among state-owned banks, with other banks like Industrial and Commercial Bank of China and Bank of Communications also acquiring rural banks and converting them into branches [5][6]. - The number of rural financial institutions has decreased significantly, with 222 fewer institutions reported by June 2025 compared to the previous year, including a reduction of 98 rural banks [6]. - The regulatory focus on reforming small financial institutions aims to enhance stability and reduce risks through consolidation and restructuring [6].