21世纪经济报道·2025-04-08 11:51Core Viewpoint - The article highlights the significant increase in cash dividends among listed banks in 2024, with state-owned banks leading in both total dividend amounts and payout ratios, reflecting a strong commitment to shareholder returns [2][7]. Summary by Sections Dividend Distribution Overview - As of April 8, 2024, 23 A-share listed banks have disclosed their annual reports, collectively distributing cash dividends of 56.8862 billion yuan, an increase of over 10.1887 billion yuan year-on-year [2][3]. - The six major state-owned banks are identified as the primary contributors, proposing a total cash dividend exceeding 420 billion yuan, with payout ratios consistently above 30% [7][8]. Individual Bank Performance - Industrial and Commercial Bank of China (ICBC) leads with a cash dividend of 109.773 billion yuan, followed by China Construction Bank and Agricultural Bank of China with 100.754 billion yuan and 84.661 billion yuan respectively [3][8]. - Among joint-stock banks, China Merchants Bank stands out with a dividend payout ratio of 35.32%, distributing over 50 billion yuan [4][9]. Trends in Dividend Frequency and Ratios - The article notes a shift in dividend frequency for state-owned banks to twice a year, enhancing their attractiveness to investors [8][9]. - In contrast, city commercial banks and rural commercial banks generally exhibit lower dividend scales and ratios, with Zhengzhou Bank having the lowest payout ratio at 9.69% [5][9]. Market Valuation and Investor Sentiment - The banking sector is currently experiencing a comprehensive decline in valuation, with an overall price-to-book (PB) ratio below 1, indicating a potential undervaluation of bank stocks [5][17]. - Over 20 banks have announced valuation enhancement plans in response to prolonged low valuations, aiming to improve investor returns and confidence [16][19]. Regulatory and Strategic Considerations - Regulatory bodies have been encouraging listed companies to increase dividend distributions, which has influenced the banks' decisions to enhance their payout strategies [7][12]. - The article emphasizes the importance of maintaining a balance between dividend payouts and capital retention for risk management and growth [10][19].