21世纪经济报道·2026-03-17 15:26Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the recent trends in the active user numbers of securities apps, highlighting a decrease in February 2026 due to the impact of the Spring Festival holiday, while also noting a year-on-year increase in user engagement [1][2]. User Activity Trends - In February 2026, the number of active users for securities apps reached 170 million, a decrease of 7.52% month-on-month but an increase of 2.62% year-on-year [1][2]. - The average daily active users in February were approximately 12.17 million, higher than January's 8.38 million, indicating improved user engagement despite fewer trading days [1]. Competitive Landscape - Major third-party securities apps like Tonghuashun, Dongfang Caifu, and Dazhihui lead the market with active user numbers of 35.74 million, 17.61 million, and 12.77 million respectively [6][7]. - Among self-operated broker apps, Huatai Securities' Zhangle Caifutong and Guotai Haitong's Junhong app led with 11.86 million and 10.23 million active users respectively, both experiencing a decline due to the holiday [6][7]. Innovations and Upgrades - The article notes that securities firms are rapidly iterating their apps, focusing on AI integration, ETF section optimization, and 24/7 fund transfer services to enhance user experience and meet wealth management needs [2][11]. - Guotai Haitong announced the integration of its Tongcai app into the Junhong app, aiming to create a comprehensive digital wealth management platform [3][15]. Market Dynamics - The A-share market showed resilience in February, with the Shanghai Composite Index rising by 1.09% and the Shenzhen Component by 2.04%, supporting the activity levels of securities apps [8]. - New account openings in February reached 2.523 million, a year-on-year decrease of 11% but significantly higher than the average monthly levels in 2025 [9]. AI and Differentiation Strategies - The article emphasizes that leading brokerages are leveraging AI to enhance user interaction, efficiency, and personalized services, with a focus on creating differentiated offerings in a competitive landscape [10][14][16]. - The integration of AI capabilities is seen as a key driver for improving user engagement and operational efficiency, with firms like Huatai Securities leading the charge in AI-native app development [11][15].