BANK OF CHINA(601988) 高盛·2025-05-08 01:49Investment Rating - The report has lowered the average 2025 net profit growth forecast for covered banks to -5%, reflecting a decrease of 1 percentage point from previous estimates [15]. Core Insights - Negative net profit growth in 1Q25 for large SOE banks and CMB has led to stock price declines, prompting a reassessment of profit forecasts and target prices [1]. - Despite negative net profit growth, banks may still attract long-term funds due to limited downside on dividend yields compared to government bond yields [2][3]. - The report emphasizes the increasing importance of net profit growth in 1Q25, as investors have heightened expectations for shareholder returns following two years of excess returns [3][4]. - The report indicates that banks are facing challenges in achieving positive net profit growth in 2025 due to lower-than-expected net interest income (NII) and loan growth [11][15]. Summary by Sections Net Profit Growth - The average net profit growth forecast for covered banks is now -5% for 2025, with small banks BONB and BONJ expected to achieve 7% growth [15]. - Most banks are still releasing provisions, but not sufficiently to drive positive profit growth, and the potential for further provision releases is limited [5][15]. Dividend Payout Ratios - Banks may need to increase their dividend payout ratios to maintain stable dividends per share (DPS) amidst negative EPS growth [22][30]. - The report suggests that banks have the capacity to increase dividends, but their willingness remains uncertain [22][26]. Loan Growth and NIM - Loan growth for major banks is projected to be lower than previously expected, with NIM also declining more than anticipated [11][13]. - The report notes that while credit growth is expected to accelerate, overall loan demand remains weak due to external factors such as tariffs [13][40]. Fee Income and Consumer Finance - Some banks have reported better-than-expected growth in fee income, driven by bancassurance and fund sales [33]. - A potential recovery in consumer finance is anticipated in the second half of 2025, influenced by low base effects and banks seeking new business opportunities [31][34]. Stock Selection and Recommendations - Among large and medium-sized banks, CMB is viewed as having the least EPS dilution and the lowest required increase in dividend payout ratio, making it more capable of maintaining stable DPS [41]. - BONB is favored for its high growth potential relative to larger banks, while BONJ is rated Neutral due to ongoing convertible bond conversion processes [41].