Core Viewpoint - The changes in bank branches are closely related to people's lives, with a reported 8,592 branches approved for closure and 6,859 new branches opened as of October 24 this year. The reduction of branches is seen as a trend driven by technological advancements, but this perspective is considered a misunderstanding. The necessity for direct human interaction remains, and certain complex financial transactions must still be conducted in person, making physical branches essential for financial services [1]. Group 1: Branch Changes - The reduction and addition of bank branches should follow the logic of being convenient and beneficial to the public while reducing costs and increasing efficiency. The user experience and service quality are crucial for banks to maintain market stability and growth, with physical branches being a key service channel [1][2]. Group 2: Branch Location and Configuration - Branches should be located in areas with demand but insufficient supply. The closure of some branches is a correction of previous expansive operating strategies. New branches are necessary to enhance financial service coverage, particularly in rural areas. The adjustment of branch resources should align with local economic and social resources [2]. - Branches can optimize services for the growing elderly population by improving the service environment, such as providing magnifying glasses and user-friendly self-service devices. They also serve as direct channels for banks to understand customer needs and assist elderly users in adopting new technologies [3]. Group 3: Branch Efficiency - Improving service efficiency is essential to address customer complaints about long wait times. Banks can enhance operational management and effectively guide customers to self-service areas during peak times. The human resources saved through digital services can be redirected to provide comprehensive services, such as financial consulting and knowledge dissemination, thereby improving the overall service capability of branches [3].

Core Insights - The number of physical bank branches among China's six major state-owned banks has stabilized, with a slight decrease of approximately 42 branches as of mid-2025 compared to the beginning of the year [1][5] - The focus of branch adjustments is shifting towards key urban areas such as the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region and county-level operations, indicating a strategic realignment in service delivery [1][6] Summary by Bank - **Industrial and Commercial Bank of China (ICBC)**: As of June 2025, ICBC has a total of 16,354 branches, with 15,941 located domestically and 413 internationally [2] - **Agricultural Bank of China (ABC)**: ABC reported 22,914 domestic branches and 17 overseas institutions as of June 2025 [2] - **Bank of China (BOC)**: BOC has a total of 11,516 branches, with 10,977 in mainland China and 539 in Hong Kong, Macau, Taiwan, and other regions [2] - **China Construction Bank (CCB)**: CCB has 14,727 branches, including 14,178 domestic branches [3] - **Bank of Communications (BoCom)**: BoCom operates over 2,800 domestic branches and 24 overseas branches [3] - **Postal Savings Bank of China (PSBC)**: PSBC has 39,188 branches and 71,435 ATMs as of mid-2025 [3] Overall Trends - The total number of branches across the six major banks is approximately 108,000, showing a decrease of about 42 branches in the first half of 2025 compared to the end of 2024 [5] - The pace of branch closures has significantly slowed, with projections indicating a reduction of around 300 branches by the end of 2024 [5] - The current phase of branch adjustments is characterized by a balance between closing redundant branches and opening new ones in high-demand areas [6]