East Money Securities·2025-12-08 06:46Investment Rating - The report maintains a "stronger than the market" rating for the non-bank financial sector, indicating an expected increase in performance relative to the market index [3][19]. Core Insights - The China Securities Regulatory Commission (CSRC) has proposed to optimize evaluation indicators for quality institutions and moderately expand capital space and leverage limits, which is expected to enhance the competitiveness of the brokerage industry and support high-quality development [1]. - The report highlights that leverage is a key factor in improving the Return on Equity (ROE) for brokerages, with historical data showing a significant increase in ROE from 3.2% in 2018 to 7.5% in Q3 2025, driven by an increase in client funds leverage from 3.27 times to 4.09 times [6]. - The brokerage industry is expected to continue optimizing its structure, focusing on "large and strong" firms and "small and beautiful" firms, promoting differentiated regulation to enhance the competitive landscape [6]. Summary by Sections Policy and Market Dynamics - The CSRC's recent announcements are aimed at creating a favorable environment for brokerages to increase leverage and expand their balance sheets, which is anticipated to lead to a stronger industry overall [1][6]. Financial Performance Metrics - As of Q3 2025, the leverage ratio for listed brokerages in China stands at 4.09 times, significantly lower than the 12-15 times leverage ratios of leading international investment banks, indicating substantial room for growth in domestic brokerages [6]. - The top ten listed brokerages have a leverage ratio of 4.54 times, while the ratios for the next tiers are 3.59 times and 2.99 times, respectively, suggesting that larger firms are more proactive in capital operations [6]. Investment Recommendations - The report suggests focusing on large brokerages with significant competitive advantages, such as CITIC Securities, China Galaxy, GF Securities, and Huatai Securities, as well as smaller firms with effective niche strategies like Western Securities and Huaxi Securities [7].