Di Yi Cai Jing Zi Xun·2026-01-20 14:09Core Viewpoint - The ongoing closure of credit card centers indicates a shift in the banking industry from extensive growth to refined operations, as banks adapt to changing market conditions and consumer behaviors [1][2][6]. Group 1: Industry Trends - Since 2025, over 60 credit card centers across the country have been closed, with significant closures reported by various banks, including Guangzhou Bank and China Transportation Bank [2][3]. - The decline in credit card issuance is evident, with the total number of credit cards dropping from 807 million in Q2 2022 to 707 million by Q3 2025, a decrease of approximately 100 million cards over three years [2]. Group 2: Operational Adjustments - The closure of local credit card centers is a necessary outcome of industry transformation, driven by the rise of online card applications and increased market saturation [3][4]. - Post-closure, banks typically integrate management functions into local branches, retaining only essential staff for customer service and account management, thereby reducing operational costs [3]. Group 3: Strategic Focus - Private domain operations are becoming a key strategy for banks to engage existing customers, utilizing platforms like WeChat and proprietary apps for efficient customer management [4][6]. - The focus on installment services is increasing, with banks like China Transportation Bank offering significant installment loans to enhance customer engagement and revenue [4]. Group 4: Future Outlook - The contraction of credit card centers signals a transition towards digitalization, ecological integration, and localized operations within the industry [6][7]. - Future strategies will prioritize refined operations, asset quality improvement, and enhanced service levels, moving away from reliance on a single profit model [7].