

Core Viewpoint - The management of China Merchants Bank (CMB) expressed confidence in achieving steady progress and completing the annual budget goals despite recent challenges in the banking sector [2][4]. Group 1: Annual Performance Outlook - CMB's net profit growth turned positive in the first half of the year, with the second quarter performing better than the first, which faced significant pressure due to loan repricing [3][4]. - The bank aims to implement strategic development, enhance cost management, promote non-interest income, and strengthen asset quality to maintain a positive growth trajectory [4]. Group 2: Retail Business Strengths - CMB's retail business is supported by three key factors: technological capabilities, a dedicated workforce, and a customer-centric value system [5][6][7]. - Retail assets under management (AUM) reached 16.03 trillion yuan, with the highest growth in recent years, and retail wealth management income increased by 6% year-on-year [5]. Group 3: Balancing Short-term and Long-term Goals - The bank emphasizes the importance of balancing short-term performance with long-term sustainability, likening banking operations to a marathon rather than a sprint [8]. - CMB aims to solidify its foundational aspects, including customer base and management, while focusing on long-term strategic goals [8]. Group 4: Changes in Customer Risk Preferences - There has been a shift in retail customers' risk preferences, with a gradual improvement in their inclination towards equity assets, although a conservative approach remains predominant [9]. - CMB is committed to providing a stable and comprehensive wealth management experience to meet evolving customer needs [9]. Group 5: Return on Equity (ROE) Management - CMB has established a financial management system focused on ROE, which currently stands at 13.85%, significantly higher than the industry average of around 9% [10][11]. - The bank aims to balance profit growth, net asset accumulation, and dividends to maintain a competitive ROE and meet investor expectations [11][12]. Group 6: Internationalization Strategy - CMB is accelerating its internationalization efforts, recognizing it as a new growth point amid increasing global integration and domestic market saturation [13]. - The bank has already established a network of overseas branches and is enhancing the capabilities of its international operations [13].