“村改支”再落一子：这一村镇银行解散，被恒丰银行收编

Core Viewpoint - The recent approval by the Sichuan Financial Regulatory Bureau to dissolve Guang'an Hengfeng Village Bank and transfer its assets and liabilities to Hengfeng Bank reflects the ongoing reform and consolidation of small financial institutions in China, with a notable acceleration in the reduction of village banks this year [2][5]. Group 1: Mergers and Acquisitions - Hengfeng Bank has been actively acquiring village banks, including Guang'an Hengfeng Village Bank, which was established in December 2010 with a registered capital of 200 million yuan. After the acquisition, Hengfeng Bank will hold a 40% stake in the new branches [3][4]. - In addition to Guang'an, Hengfeng Bank is also in the process of merging with Yangzhong Hengfeng Village Bank, which will see the latter dissolved and its assets and liabilities transferred to Hengfeng Bank [4]. Group 2: Industry Trends - The number of village banks in China has decreased by 98 in the first half of this year, indicating a significant acceleration in the pace of consolidation compared to previous years. This trend is part of a broader effort to enhance the quality and efficiency of the banking sector [5][6]. - The ongoing reforms in the banking sector are driven by the need to address the challenges of low growth, low demand, low interest margins, and high risks, particularly affecting rural and small banks [6][7].