Group 1 - The core viewpoint of the articles highlights the ongoing consolidation of rural commercial banks by major state-owned banks in China, indicating a trend towards the restructuring of the banking sector [1][2][3] - Agricultural Bank of China has acquired 102 rural commercial bank outlets in Jilin province, transforming them into its branches, which reflects a strategic move to expand its network [2][3] - The consolidation includes not only rural commercial banks but also village banks, with Agricultural Bank of China participating in multiple acquisitions throughout the year, enhancing its branch presence [3][5] Group 2 - In addition to Agricultural Bank, other major banks like Industrial and Commercial Bank of China and Bank of Communications have also engaged in acquiring village banks, with a total of 5 village banks being acquired and converted into 11 branches [5][6] - The restructuring of rural banks is expected to continue, with weaker institutions likely facing elimination as the market undergoes a significant reshuffle [1][7] - The reform in Sichuan province involves the merger of 12 county-level rural commercial banks, indicating a deeper push towards unifying and strengthening the local banking system [7][8]
又见国有大行出手!中小银行合并潮持续