Core Viewpoint - The brokerage industry is expected to deliver impressive performance in the first half of 2025, driven by active market sentiment and supportive financial policies, with nearly 40% of firms forecasting a doubling of net profits [1][2] Group 1: Performance Overview - As of July 15, 32 listed brokerages have disclosed their performance forecasts, with 29 reporting profit growth and 2 turning losses into profits, while one firm reported a negative net profit growth [2][3] - The total net profit of these brokerages is expected to exceed 500 billion yuan, with leading firms like Guotai Junan, Guosen Securities, and CITIC Securities showing remarkable performance [2] - Guotai Junan is projected to achieve a net profit of 152.83 billion to 159.57 billion yuan, representing a year-on-year growth of 205% to 218% [2] Group 2: Key Growth Drivers - The significant growth in brokerage performance is attributed to self-operated and wealth management businesses, with over 70% of firms indicating that their performance benefited from self-investment activities [4] - Wealth management has also been highlighted as a major contributor, with nearly 60% of brokerages acknowledging its impact on their growth [4] - Other business segments, such as brokerage and investment banking, have positively contributed to the overall performance, with firms like CITIC Securities noting substantial increases in revenue from these areas [4] Group 3: Mergers and Acquisitions - The wave of mergers and acquisitions in the securities industry has enhanced the market competitiveness of certain brokerages, with Guotai Junan and Guolian Minsheng actively pursuing integration strategies [5] - Jinlong Co. reported significant investment gains due to the transfer of its shares in Dongguan Securities, leading to a substantial increase in net profit [5] Group 4: Market Outlook - The brokerage sector is anticipated to maintain a steady upward trajectory, supported by favorable factors such as improved valuations and ongoing market activity [6][7] - Analysts believe that the sector is positioned for a new upward cycle, with expectations of challenging the average valuation levels seen since 2016 if market conditions remain stable [7]