2 1 Shi Ji Jing Ji Bao Dao·2025-12-22 10:46Core Viewpoint - Everbright Bank is planning to establish a financial asset investment company (AIC) in response to regulatory support for qualified commercial banks to set up AICs, with a focus on enhancing communication with regulatory bodies and advancing related preparations [2][4]. Group 1: Regulatory Context - In March 2025, the National Financial Regulatory Administration issued a notice supporting qualified commercial banks in establishing AICs, which aligns with Everbright Bank's strategic plans [2][4]. - The policy framework for AICs has been expanding, with the regulatory body announcing in May that the scope for establishing AICs would include qualified national commercial banks, thereby laying a foundation for the expansion of bank-affiliated AICs [4]. Group 2: Strategic Focus - Everbright Bank aims to leverage its strengths in technological finance and product innovation to enhance the quality and efficiency of services to the real economy, focusing on sectors such as artificial intelligence, biomanufacturing, new materials, high-end equipment, new energy, and semiconductors [4]. - The bank's strategy includes a comprehensive financial service solution that spans from initial investment to industrial integration, supported by a robust framework of five strengths: strong services, strong products, strong ecosystems, strong research and development, and strong digital intelligence [4]. Group 3: Industry Developments - As of December, the establishment of AICs by joint-stock banks has accelerated, with several banks, including China Merchants Bank and CITIC Bank, launching their AICs, indicating a growing trend in the sector [5]. - A total of nine AICs have been approved nationwide, including those under major state-owned banks and joint-stock banks, with Everbright Bank potentially becoming the fourth joint-stock bank to establish an AIC if its application is successful [5]. - Since the initiation of market-oriented debt-to-equity swaps in 2016, AICs have evolved from a singular risk mitigation tool to a key player in supporting technological innovation and industrial upgrades, especially following the regulatory expansion of AIC equity investment trials in 2024 [5].