Core Viewpoint - The public fund industry in China is expected to continue its growth trajectory, with projections indicating that the total scale may surpass 40 trillion yuan in 2026, driven by long-term capital inflows and favorable policy reforms [3][4][6]. Group 1: Industry Growth and Trends - The public fund scale is projected to exceed 40 trillion yuan in 2026, supported by long-term funds such as insurance and pension funds entering the market [3][4]. - The public fund industry has seen its net asset value grow from approximately 9.1 trillion yuan in 2016 to about 36 trillion yuan in 2025, with an average annual growth rate of around 16% [4]. - The low interest rate environment is driving a shift of savings into public funds, with equity and "fixed income plus" products expected to be the main growth drivers [3][4]. Group 2: Investor-Centric Approach - The industry is shifting towards an investor-centric model, emphasizing the importance of investor returns and experience in fund management [5][6]. - Regulatory changes are reinforcing the principle of prioritizing investor interests, which is expected to reshape the public fund ecosystem and operational models [6][11]. - The focus on long-term performance and investor satisfaction is anticipated to lead to a healthier industry environment, fostering a virtuous cycle of returns and growth [6][11]. Group 3: Product Innovation - There is a growing trend towards product innovation in the public fund sector, with new offerings such as REITs and thematic funds emerging to meet market demands [7][8]. - Future innovations are expected to focus on technology-driven products, low-volatility options, and diversified asset allocation strategies [7][8]. - The introduction of more diversified ETFs and thematic funds is anticipated, catering to specific industry sectors and investment themes [9][10]. Group 4: ETF Development - The ETF market is expected to enter a new phase of differentiated competition, with a focus on thematic and sector-specific ETFs [9][10]. - The demand for passive investment products is increasing, driven by a structural shift towards low-cost, high-transparency options [10][11]. - The competitive landscape for ETFs will focus on tracking accuracy, fee structures, and niche market offerings [10][11]. Group 5: Active Equity Funds - Active equity funds are moving towards a value investment approach, with a reduction in style drift and a focus on long-term performance [11][12]. - Regulatory frameworks are expected to enforce stricter performance benchmarks, promoting a return to fundamental research and value discovery [11][12]. - The emphasis on long-term performance metrics is likely to reshape the competitive dynamics within the active fund management space [12][13]. Group 6: Sales and Distribution Transformation - The sales model in the fund industry is transitioning towards a focus on maintaining existing client relationships rather than solely on new product launches [16][17]. - Fund sales strategies will increasingly prioritize client service and long-term investment experiences, moving away from a purely transactional approach [16][17]. - The revenue model for fund sales is expected to shift from transaction-based fees to advisory service fees, aligning more closely with client outcomes [17][18]. Group 7: AI and Digital Transformation - The integration of AI technology is becoming crucial for the asset management industry, enhancing efficiency and redefining service delivery [18][19]. - AI applications are expected to permeate various aspects of fund management, including product development, risk management, and customer service [19][20]. - The future of the industry will likely see a collaborative approach between human expertise and AI capabilities, optimizing operational processes and client interactions [20][21]. Group 8: Long-Term Focus and Specialization - The public fund industry is anticipated to return to a long-term investment philosophy, aligning more closely with wealth management and pension fund strategies [21][22]. - The industry is expected to see increased specialization, with firms focusing on niche markets and tailored investment solutions [22][23]. - The trend towards floating fee structures is likely to gain traction, linking fees more closely to fund performance and investor returns [22][23].