Changjiang Securities·2025-07-25 05:15Investment Rating - The industry investment rating is "Positive" and maintained [12] Core Viewpoints - In 2023, cyclical bank stocks have generally lagged in performance and are at historically low valuations. The market is beginning to focus on which cyclical bank stocks currently offer attractive value for investment [2][6] - The report highlights three categories of banks worth attention: stable performance small and medium-sized rural commercial banks, city commercial banks with improving retail asset quality, and undervalued joint-stock banks [2][6] Summary by Sections Small and Medium-Sized Rural Commercial Banks - Changshu Bank has significantly lagged behind the sector in 2023, with a valuation of 0.77x 2025 PB, at a historical percentile of 24%. Despite concerns over retail credit demand, the bank's operational performance remains strong, with a revenue growth of 10.1% and a net profit growth of 13.6% in the first half of 2025 [7] - Ruifeng Bank, another leading rural commercial bank in Zhejiang, has a valuation of 0.56x 2025 PB, also under pressure from pessimistic economic expectations. However, it is expected to maintain double-digit credit growth under its strategic initiatives [8] City Commercial Banks - Ningbo Bank, with a valuation of 0.80x 2025 PB, has seen a significant decline in its stock price since 2023. The bank's retail loan quality is improving, and if economic expectations rise, there is potential for valuation recovery [9] - Changsha Bank, which focuses on consumer finance, has a low valuation of 0.56x 2025 PB and has underperformed compared to peers. A recovery in economic expectations could enhance its valuation [9] Joint-Stock Banks - Ping An Bank's valuation is at 0.52x 2025 PB, significantly lower than its peers. The bank has experienced a decline in performance due to strategic adjustments by its new management. If real estate policies improve and economic expectations rise, there is potential for revaluation [10]