Core Viewpoint - After a four-year downturn, public funds are experiencing a significant recovery in 2025, with over 90% of active equity funds achieving positive returns this year, marking a turning point for the industry [1][2]. Group 1: Performance Recovery - Active equity funds have seen an average return exceeding 13% as of August 1, 2025, with a notable number of products doubling their performance, including 17 funds achieving over 140% returns [2]. - Many fund managers are recovering from previous losses, with over 800 active equity funds reaching historical net asset value highs in the past month [2][3]. - Despite some funds still in the recovery phase, the short-term performance rebound is expected to support long-term growth [2]. Group 2: Investment Strategy Shifts - Fund managers are increasingly focusing on the stock market as a key asset allocation option, moving away from real estate and low-yield bonds [3]. - There is a noticeable increase in risk appetite among fund managers, with many raising stock positions and concentrating holdings in core stocks [5]. - Data shows that nearly 2,500 funds increased their stock positions and concentration in the second quarter, indicating a shift towards higher risk tolerance [5]. Group 3: Fund Issuance and Market Sentiment - The positive performance of funds has boosted market confidence, leading to a noticeable acceleration in the issuance of new funds, particularly equity funds [8]. - In June, 155 new funds were established, marking a recent high, with July seeing 135 new fund launches, indicating a strong recovery in the fund issuance market [9]. - Fund companies are rapidly increasing the pace of new fund launches to capitalize on the market rebound, with some funds achieving record subscription amounts [9][10]. Group 4: Challenges and Investor Sentiment - Despite the recovery, many investors remain cautious, with a tendency to redeem funds as soon as they break even, reflecting a lack of deep trust in active equity funds [1][11]. - The sales performance of equity funds varies significantly across different sales departments, with some struggling to meet sales targets despite the overall market improvement [10][11]. - Passive investment products are currently more favored by investors compared to active equity funds, indicating a need for active funds to rebuild trust and attract new capital [11].

Core Viewpoint - The asset management industry in China is transitioning towards high-quality development amidst low interest rates and stringent regulations, with a focus on shifting from "scale-driven" to "quality-led" growth [1] Group 1: Current Industry Landscape - As of the end of 2024, the total scale of China's asset management industry is expected to exceed 140 trillion yuan, becoming a significant force in wealth management and capital market resource allocation [1] - The industry faces both transformation pressures and opportunities, necessitating a profound shift in operational strategies [1] Group 2: Key Insights from Industry Leaders - The high-quality development of asset management institutions should focus on enhancing investment research capabilities and optimizing product offerings to meet diverse client needs [2][3] - The public fund industry has seen significant growth over the past 20 years, driven by high-level opening-up policies, which should continue to be pursued for further development [3][4] - Private equity firms must emphasize compliance and innovation to enhance their risk management capabilities and competitive edge [4] Group 3: Market Trends and Client Preferences - There is a notable shift in residents' asset allocation preferences, with a polarization in risk appetite: some investors are seeking safety while others are more willing to take risks due to policy influences [3][16] - The market is experiencing a structural challenge where quality assets are becoming increasingly scarce despite ample liquidity [3][16] Group 4: Strategies for High-Quality Development - Asset management institutions should prioritize value creation for clients, focusing on effective investment strategies and robust research capabilities [8][12] - Embracing digital transformation and integrating AI into investment processes are essential for enhancing operational efficiency and client service [12][35] - The development of diversified product lines that cater to varying risk appetites is crucial for meeting evolving client demands [18] Group 5: Regulatory and Policy Recommendations - There is a call for unified standards in performance benchmarks for financial products to foster a sustainable investment environment [30] - Continued support for international cooperation and knowledge exchange is vital for cultivating competitive asset management institutions [32][19]