Zheng Quan Ri Bao Zhi Sheng·2026-01-12 17:08Core Viewpoint - The securities industry is undergoing a significant transformation, marked by the closure of over 180 offline branches and the rapid rise of internet subsidiaries, indicating a trend towards digitalization and smart transformation in the sector [1][2]. Group 1: Industry Trends - The establishment of internet subsidiaries is becoming a new strategy for securities firms to capture online market share and expand customer bases, driven by favorable market conditions and increased trading activity [2][6]. - By 2025, the total number of new investor accounts in the capital market is expected to reach 30.0571 million, providing ample opportunities for securities firms to enhance their internet business [2]. - Major firms like China Galaxy Securities and Dongwu Securities are actively setting up internet subsidiaries, reflecting a broader trend of digital transformation in the industry [2][3]. Group 2: Differences Between Internet Subsidiaries and Traditional Branches - Internet subsidiaries differ from traditional branches in strategic focus, targeting a broader customer base through standardized and centralized operations, while traditional branches primarily serve high-net-worth and corporate clients [3]. - The operational logic of internet subsidiaries is data and algorithm-driven, contrasting with the reliance on personal experience and social networks in traditional branches [3][4]. - Internet subsidiaries operate as independent units with unified rights, responsibilities, and benefits, allowing for quicker decision-making and a full-cycle approach to customer acquisition and revenue generation [3][4]. Group 3: Functional Roles of Internet Subsidiaries - The core functions of internet subsidiaries include conducting targeted marketing and lead generation on external platforms, managing daily operations of various online platforms, providing refined customer service, and acting as a "smart brain" for data monitoring and AI application across all business processes [4][5]. - Internet subsidiaries aim to address traditional pain points in the securities industry, such as inadequate service for long-tail customers and low operational efficiency due to dispersed operations [5][6]. Group 4: Performance and Effectiveness - The effectiveness of internet subsidiaries is being validated through various practices, with firms like Guotai Junan and Dongwu Securities reporting significant growth in customer acquisition and asset management [6][7]. - Guotai Junan's internet subsidiary has doubled its customer acquisition on new media platforms in 2025 compared to 2024, while Dongwu Securities has successfully attracted nearly 3 million followers and accumulated 150 million yuan in assets [6][7]. Group 5: Challenges and Future Outlook - Despite the progress, internet subsidiaries face challenges such as internal collaboration barriers and the need for alignment with headquarters on operational strategies [8][9]. - Not all securities firms are suited to establish internet subsidiaries, as some leading firms have already integrated internet capabilities into their operations, while smaller firms may prefer to focus resources on key business areas [8][9]. - The future of internet business in the securities industry will depend on advancements in technology, business models, and organizational structures, with a focus on creating long-term customer engagement and breaking down traditional departmental barriers [9][10].