2 1 Shi Ji Jing Ji Bao Dao·2025-12-09 02:45Core Insights - The core viewpoint of the article highlights the accelerated exit of bank branches in China, with over 9,000 branches approved for closure by December 2025, indicating a significant shift in the banking landscape due to the rise of digital banking channels [2]. Group 1: Bank Branch Closures - As of December 8, 2025, more than 9,000 bank branches have been approved for closure, with the number of closures in the first half of 2025 exceeding the total for the entire year of 2024 [2]. - In 2024, a total of 2,533 commercial bank branches were closed, reflecting a growing trend of branch exits [2]. Group 2: Impact of Digital Banking - The proliferation of mobile banking and online banking has led to a significant decline in the business volume of traditional bank branches, particularly in cash and basic counter services [2]. - A representative from a joint-stock bank's online finance department noted that the business volume at traditional branches has decreased markedly due to the rise of electronic channels [2]. Group 3: Economic Considerations - Traditional bank branches are facing severe cost-revenue imbalances, with the annual operating cost of a single branch reaching several million yuan [2]. - Correspondingly, the volume of counter services has generally declined, with some branches experiencing a year-on-year decrease of over 70% [2].