Core Viewpoint - Yibin Bank, which went public in Hong Kong on January 13, is facing significant challenges just three months post-listing, including a sharp decline in performance growth, executive turnover, and asset quality concerns [1][3]. Financial Performance - In 2024, Yibin Bank reported a slight revenue and net profit increase of 0.5% and 0.1%, respectively, indicating a struggle to maintain growth [1]. - The bank's net interest income plummeted by 11.6%, significantly impacting overall performance, with revenue growth slowing to 0.5% [6][8]. - The average yield on interest-earning assets decreased from 4.34% to 4.00%, while the average interest rate on liabilities rose from 2.26% to 2.43%, leading to a narrowing net interest margin [6][7]. Executive Changes - The sudden resignation of CEO Yang Xingwang, who had been with the bank for 34 years, raised concerns about the bank's strategic direction [3][4]. - Yang's leadership saw significant growth in revenue and net profit during his tenure, but the strategies implemented faced challenges in 2024 [4]. Loan Structure and Asset Quality - Yibin Bank's loan structure is heavily skewed towards corporate loans, which accounted for 80% of total loans by the end of 2024, while retail loans made up only 8% [4]. - The bank is experiencing rising non-performing loan ratios, particularly in the manufacturing sector, where the ratio surged from 0.84% in 2023 to 3.79% in 2024 [4][8]. - The balance of special mention loans increased by 25% year-on-year, indicating potential future profit erosion [4]. Competitive Landscape - Yibin Bank is facing intense competition from other regional banks, with peers like Luzhou Bank achieving net interest margin growth while Yibin Bank's performance lags [7][8]. - The bank's retail loan balance decreased by 0.71% in 2024, contrasting with Luzhou Bank's 12% growth in retail loans [8]. Future Outlook - The bank's challenges reflect broader issues faced by regional small and medium-sized banks, including reliance on traditional business models amid market changes [9]. - Opportunities may arise from the development of the Chengdu-Chongqing economic circle, focusing on local resources and industries such as the liquor industry and renewable energy [9].