Group 1 - The core viewpoint of the article highlights the collaboration between Bank of Communications and Hengsheng Electronics to explore the construction of a new asset management technology platform that aligns with Chinese characteristics and is internationally leading [1] Group 2 - The meeting involved discussions on the digital transformation of the banking industry, asset management platform construction, technology system development, and system innovation [1] - Both parties expressed their commitment to jointly explore the development of a new asset management technology platform [1]

Core Insights - The accelerated exit of physical bank branches is a significant trend in the banking industry's digital transformation process [1][2][3] - In the first half of this year, a total of 2,677 bank branches closed, surpassing the total of 2,533 closures for the entire year of 2024 [2][3] - The shift towards digital banking services is leading to a profound restructuring of financial service models, with over 90% of personal financial transactions now completed online [3][4] Group 1: Bank Branch Closures - A total of 2,677 commercial bank branches were shut down nationwide in the first half of this year, which is 144 more than the total closures for the entire year of 2024 [1][2] - The majority of closures were from rural commercial banks, with approximately 2,000 branches exiting the market [2] - The trend reflects a broader shift in consumer behavior, as many customers prefer digital banking solutions over physical branch visits [2][3] Group 2: Digital Transformation Impact - The total amount of off-counter transactions in the banking sector reached 26.268 trillion yuan in 2024, marking an 11.13% increase from the previous year [3] - The operational costs of traditional bank branches are high, with individual branches incurring annual costs of several million yuan, while transaction volumes have significantly decreased [3][4] - The digital transformation is expected to lead to a future where bank branches evolve into multifunctional service complexes, integrating various public and private services [3][4] Group 3: Future of Banking Services - Despite the reduction in physical branches, the need for certain banking services, such as complex business transactions, will still require in-person interactions [4] - Financial institutions are investing in technology to enhance service quality, with advancements in smart risk control and remote collaboration technologies improving operational efficiency [4] - The banking sector is moving towards a more efficient and inclusive service model, balancing the reduction of physical branches with the enhancement of digital capabilities [4]