Hua Xia Shi Bao·2025-11-06 09:57Core Viewpoint - The acquisition of Jinzhou Bank by Industrial and Commercial Bank of China (ICBC) is progressing, with regulatory approvals for the rebranding of Jinzhou Bank's branches to ICBC branches [2][4][5] Group 1: Acquisition Details - ICBC will officially take over Jinzhou Bank's assets, liabilities, business, branches, and personnel, with the transition expected to occur on November 15 and 16 [3][4] - As of November 5, 174 branches of Jinzhou Bank have been approved to be renamed as ICBC branches, including 14 branches that were downgraded from full branches to sub-branches [4][5] - The rebranding process includes the replacement of Jinzhou Bank's signage with ICBC's, while the operational addresses will remain unchanged [3][4] Group 2: Historical Context - Jinzhou Bank was established in 1997 and became a publicly listed company in Hong Kong in 2015 [7] - The bank faced a severe liquidity crisis in 2019, leading to its classification as a high-risk financial institution, prompting a restructuring and the introduction of several strategic investors, including ICBC [7][8] - ICBC had previously acquired a 10.82% stake in Jinzhou Bank through its subsidiary, ICBC Investment, during the bank's restructuring efforts [7] Group 3: Industry Implications - The acquisition of Jinzhou Bank by ICBC is seen as part of a broader trend of reform and risk management among small and medium-sized banks in China, with large banks playing a crucial role in stabilizing the financial system [9] - The recent changes reflect a market-oriented approach to addressing risks in local financial institutions, emphasizing the importance of capital support and restructuring [9]