3.4万亿不良贷款待处置，银行不良贷款处置手段详解

Core Viewpoint - The overall non-performing loan (NPL) ratio of Chinese commercial banks is on a downward trend, reaching 1.50% by the end of 2024 and 1.49% by mid-2025, down from 1.96% in September 2020, indicating stable asset quality in the banking sector [2][3]. Summary by Sections Non-Performing Loan Ratio and Balance - The non-performing loan balance of commercial banks is increasing despite the declining NPL ratio, reaching 3.28 trillion yuan by the end of 2024 and 3.43 trillion yuan by mid-2025, compared to only 0.84 trillion yuan at the end of 2014 [3]. NPL Disposal Methods - Commercial banks are employing various methods to dispose of non-performing loans, including write-offs, asset securitization, and collections. For instance, in 2024, China Merchants Bank disposed of 62.902 billion yuan of NPLs, with 30.401 billion yuan through write-offs, 22.569 billion yuan through asset securitization, and 7.599 billion yuan through collections [6]. Write-Offs - Write-offs are a method where banks remove recognized bad debts from their balance sheets, thus lowering the NPL ratio without affecting current profits if provisions are sufficient. In 2024, write-offs accounted for 48% of all NPL disposals at China Merchants Bank [12]. Collections - Collections involve recovering loans from borrowers, which can occur even after loans have been written off. This process can be conducted internally by the bank or outsourced to collection agencies, utilizing various methods such as phone calls, in-person visits, or legal actions [13]. Debt-for-Asset Swaps - Debt-for-asset swaps occur when borrowers repay loans with non-cash assets like property or stocks. While this reduces NPLs, it introduces risks related to the subsequent sale of these assets, which may not yield expected cash returns [14]. NPL Transfers - NPL transfers involve selling bad loans at a discount to specialized institutions that manage distressed assets. This method allows banks to offload management costs and potentially recover more funds through experienced asset managers [16]. Restructuring - Restructuring is a process where banks modify loan terms for borrowers facing temporary difficulties, aiming to restore their repayment capacity. However, this method does not immediately reduce NPLs and may not be effective if borrowers do not recover financially [18][19]. Securitization - Securitization of NPLs is viewed as a financing method rather than an effective disposal strategy, with further discussion warranted on its implications [20].