2 1 Shi Ji Jing Ji Bao Dao·2026-01-22 23:18Core Viewpoint - A new force characterized by regional deepening is rapidly rising in China's banking industry, with Chengdu Rural Commercial Bank becoming the fifth rural commercial bank to surpass an asset scale of 1 trillion yuan, joining the ranks of other major urban rural commercial banks [1][2]. Group 1: Growth of Rural Commercial Banks - The five rural commercial banks that have crossed the 1 trillion yuan mark are all based in major national cities, which are characterized by high urbanization levels and strong economic radiation capabilities [1][2]. - These banks have successfully achieved leapfrog development by deeply understanding and closely binding with the regional economy, creating a growth path centered on localized services [1][2]. Group 2: Strategic Focus on Local Markets - The success of these banks is attributed to their strategic focus on local markets, aligning their development with regional economic growth, which is consistent with regulatory guidance emphasizing local service [2][3]. - Regulatory bodies have encouraged rural financial institutions to focus on serving local communities and the agricultural sector, reinforcing the importance of localized banking [2]. Group 3: Unique Development Models - Each of the trillion-yuan rural commercial banks has developed unique models based on local characteristics, such as Beijing Rural Commercial Bank focusing on "three rural" services and Shanghai Rural Commercial Bank developing technology and pension finance [3]. - Chengdu Rural Commercial Bank aims to be a bank that understands rural revitalization and local industries, optimizing its branch layout to enhance service breadth and depth [3][4]. Group 4: Financial Performance - Chengdu Rural Commercial Bank's asset scale has grown from less than 500 billion yuan in 2019 to over 1 trillion yuan in early 2026, with an annual growth rate significantly higher than the industry average [4]. - The bank maintains a stable asset quality, with a non-performing loan ratio of 1.02% and a provision coverage ratio of 441.83%, indicating strong financial health compared to peers [4]. Group 5: Challenges and Transformation - Surpassing the 1 trillion yuan mark signifies a new development stage for these banks, necessitating a restructuring of their development models and management capabilities [6]. - The banks face three core challenges: pressure on profit growth due to narrowing net interest margins, accelerated capital consumption, and increased difficulty in risk management amid regional economic adjustments [6][7]. Group 6: Pathways for Transformation - Transformation strategies should focus on capital replenishment through both internal and external means, diversifying income sources beyond traditional lending, and enhancing risk management capabilities [7]. - Chengdu Rural Commercial Bank's approach includes innovating products in green finance and technology finance, with its green loan balance nearing 50 billion yuan, reflecting a significant growth engine [7][8]. Group 7: Digitalization and Local Service - The bank's strategy to address digital challenges involves focusing on local scenarios and enhancing digital platforms, with over 4 million mobile banking users and a community service platform linking 110 communities [8]. - The emergence of trillion-yuan rural commercial banks indicates that impactful financial institutions can be cultivated in the regional economic service sector, emphasizing the importance of local roots and sustainable development [8].