Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the implications of the China Securities Regulatory Commission's "Action Plan for Promoting the High-Quality Development of Public Funds," particularly focusing on the constraints of performance benchmarks for fund managers and the potential impact on their investment strategies and fee structures [1]. Group 1: Market Overestimation of Active Equity Funds' Underperformance - The market has overestimated the proportion of active equity funds that will underperform their benchmarks by 10% from 2022 to 2024, with 68.76% projected to face this issue, compared to only 1.05% from 2019 to 2021 [2]. - The first method of measuring this probability assumes fund managers do not adjust their benchmarks, which may not provide a reliable future reference due to historical negligence towards benchmarks [2]. - The second method assumes fund managers will align their benchmarks with broad indices like the CSI 800, but this also presents challenges as managers typically select benchmarks that suit their investment styles [5]. Group 2: Benchmark Selection Challenges - If fund managers choose broad indices like the CSI 300 or CSI 800 without altering their investment strategies, the probability of underperforming the benchmark by over 10% becomes uncontrollable [8]. - Fund managers face two choices: either align with broad indices and adjust their portfolios accordingly or select benchmarks that match their investment styles, effectively turning their products into "enhanced index funds" [8]. - The analysis shows that if managers select benchmarks aligned with their styles, the proportion of funds underperforming by 10% drops significantly from 47.82% to 22.34% [10][11]. Group 3: Short-Term Market Expectations - The market is currently estimating the gaps between fund allocations and benchmark indices, which may lead to short-term trading opportunities in certain sectors [19]. - Active equity funds are generally underweight in financials and traditional consumer sectors while overweight in technology and growth sectors, indicating a need for adjustments if broad indices are chosen as benchmarks [20][21]. Group 4: Benchmark Selection for Active Equity Funds - The article emphasizes the importance of selecting appropriate benchmarks for active equity funds, suggesting that the choice of benchmark should align with the fund manager's investment style rather than conforming to broad indices [29]. - Major index providers have developed a range of indices that cover various strategies, with broad indices like the CSI 300 and CSI 800 being the most commonly selected benchmarks [29][31]. - The article outlines that the characteristics of indices, such as industry distribution and stock selection methods, should be analyzed to ensure they reflect the performance of public funds accurately [40][43].

Core Viewpoint - The article emphasizes the importance of investment factors in selecting stocks and constructing investment strategies, highlighting that understanding these factors can lead to better investment decisions and potential returns [2][20]. Investment Factors Overview - The article introduces eight commonly used investment factors, each with distinct principles, applicable market conditions, and associated risks, which can help investors optimize their investment strategies [4][16]. Factor Summaries 1. Market Capitalization Factor - Focuses on the impact of stock size on returns, with large-cap stocks generally being more stable but less elastic, while small-cap stocks offer higher growth potential but come with increased risk [5][6]. 2. Value Factor - Concentrates on the discrepancy between a company's intrinsic value and market price, aiming to identify undervalued stocks for potential gains when market sentiment improves [8]. 3. Growth Factor - Evaluates a company's earnings growth and future potential, typically performing well in favorable economic conditions but facing higher risks during downturns [9]. 4. Low Volatility Factor - Selects stocks with stable prices and low volatility, providing better risk-adjusted returns, especially during market downturns [11]. 5. Dividend Factor - Targets stocks with stable dividends and high yield, offering defensive characteristics in volatile markets but may lag in strong bull markets [12]. 6. Quality Factor - Based on financial and operational metrics to identify high-quality companies, which may face valuation risks during periods of high market risk appetite [13]. 7. Momentum Factor - Utilizes the trend-following theory, capitalizing on stocks that have shown strong past performance, though it may struggle in volatile markets [14]. 8. Reversal Factor - Exploits price reversal opportunities, performing well in choppy or bearish markets but underperforming in strong trends [15]. Factor Usage Considerations - Investors should choose factors that align with their risk tolerance and investment goals, combining multiple factors to enhance returns while being mindful of market conditions [17][18][19].