村镇银行“归巢”

Core Viewpoint - The ongoing "village-to-branch" reform led by main initiating banks aims to optimize the rural financial landscape by absorbing and merging village banks, addressing issues such as weak capital, governance, and risk management [1][7][12]. Group 1: Recent Developments - On October 29, three village banks in Shandong (Jining Blue Ocean, Rizhao Blue Ocean, and Yinan Blue Ocean) were approved for dissolution, with all assets and operations transferred to Qingdao Rural Commercial Bank [1][3]. - The day before, six village banks in Sichuan were also absorbed by Chengdu Rural Commercial Bank, marking a significant step in the reform process [3][4]. - The "village-to-branch" initiative is part of a broader trend where both state-owned and regional banks are consolidating village banks into their operations [5][9]. Group 2: Strategic Implications - The absorption of village banks allows main initiating banks to leverage unified risk management frameworks and capital allocation mechanisms, effectively reducing potential risks [5][10]. - This consolidation enhances the main banks' county-level network coverage, utilizing existing village bank customer bases to deepen financial services in rural areas [5][12]. - The reform is seen as a long-term strategy to improve the quality of financial services while addressing risks, with a focus on balancing efficiency and service quality [12][13]. Group 3: Regulatory Context - The 2025 Central Document emphasizes the importance of maintaining the agricultural support role of rural banks and encourages a tailored approach to reform [12][13]. - Regulatory bodies are pushing for main initiating banks to increase capital in viable village banks while encouraging full acquisitions of those lacking potential [13][14].