商业银行线下网点退出数量创新高

Core Viewpoint - The number of offline branches of commercial banks that have been approved to close in the first half of 2025 has reached approximately 2677, surpassing the total for the entire year of 2024, indicating a significant trend of branch closures in the banking industry [1][4]. Summary by Sections Branch Closures - In the first half of 2025, a total of about 2677 offline branches of commercial banks were approved to close, which is higher than the 1126 branches that closed in the same period last year [2][4]. - The first branch to close in 2025 was the Zhongyuan Bank's Sanmenxia Wenbo City branch, which was approved to exit on January 2, 2025 [2][3]. Industry Trends - The trend of closing bank branches is attributed to high operational costs, the impact of financial technology, and the need for cost-saving measures [1][5]. - The banking sector is experiencing a shift as the growth of the population has peaked, and the economy is transitioning, leading to a decrease in customer numbers and business activities [5][6]. Financial Technology Impact - The rapid development of financial technology has reduced the necessity for many banking services to be conducted in physical branches, as services like loan applications and transfers can now be completed via mobile apps [6]. - The integration of financial technology has improved operational efficiency but has also led to a contraction in certain banking services [6]. Supply-Side Reforms - Ongoing supply-side reforms in the banking sector have accelerated the consolidation of offline branches, with many rural banks being absorbed and some branches closed due to overlapping locations [6]. - Despite the closures, some banks are also opening new branches in previously underserved areas [6].