Zheng Quan Ri Bao·2025-11-20 16:05Core Viewpoint - Yitong Century Technology Co., Ltd. has received a criminal judgment from the Guangzhou Intermediate People's Court regarding a long-standing merger and acquisition financial fraud case, marking a significant step in judicial accountability against financial fraud in China [1][2]. Group 1: Case Background - In 2016, Yitong Century initiated a major asset restructuring, acquiring 100% of Shenzhen Beitai Health Measurement Analysis Technology Co., Ltd. for a total consideration of 1 billion yuan, with a commitment from the sellers to achieve a cumulative net profit of no less than 311 million yuan from 2016 to 2019 [2]. - The fraud involved the fabrication of orders by Beitai Health, leading to financial misstatements in Yitong Century's 2017 annual report, resulting in administrative penalties from the China Securities Regulatory Commission [2]. Group 2: Judicial Outcomes - The court sentenced Xu Mouqun to five years in prison and imposed a fine of 500,000 yuan for his role in the fraud, which included providing funds and assisting in financial deception, causing significant economic losses to Yitong Century [1][3]. - The court also ordered the recovery of 40 million yuan in illegal gains from Xu, with provisions for further compensation if the recovery was insufficient [1]. Group 3: Regulatory Environment - The case reflects a broader trend in China's regulatory environment, emphasizing a dual approach of targeting both the principal offenders and accomplices in financial fraud cases, thereby enhancing market integrity and protecting investors' rights [1][4]. - The China Securities Regulatory Commission has reinforced its stance on punishing accomplices in financial fraud, indicating a shift towards a more comprehensive accountability framework [4][6]. Group 4: Industry Implications - The increasing severity of penalties for financial fraud, including criminal charges against accomplices, aims to deter potential fraudsters and purify the market environment [8][9]. - The establishment of a multi-dimensional accountability system is intended to create clear behavioral boundaries for market participants, thereby safeguarding investors' legitimate rights and interests [8][9].