Core Viewpoint - The significant decline in brokerage commission income reflects the changing landscape of the public fund industry, emphasizing the importance of research capabilities among brokerages [2][4][21]. Summary by Sections Brokerage Commission Income - In 2024, the total brokerage commission income from fund distribution reached 10.7 billion yuan, a 36% decrease from 16.8 billion yuan in 2023 and a 51% drop from 22 billion yuan in 2021, marking three consecutive years of decline [2][5][21]. - The income trend from 2019 to 2024 shows a "U-shaped" curve, peaking at 22 billion yuan in 2021 before declining [5][21]. Top Brokerage Rankings - The top five brokerages by commission income in 2024 are CITIC Securities, GF Securities, Changjiang Securities, CITIC Construction Investment, and Guolian Minsheng, with Changjiang Securities moving up to third place [2][10]. - Only four brokerages surpassed 500 million yuan in commission income in 2024, with CITIC Securities leading at 757 million yuan, followed by GF Securities at 648 million yuan [7][11]. Changes in Market Dynamics - The competition among top brokerages has intensified, with Guolian Minsheng entering the top five for the first time, showing a 348% year-on-year increase in commission income [10][13]. - The threshold to enter the top ten for commission income is now over 320 million yuan, with 31 brokerages earning over 100 million yuan [9][10]. Research Capabilities and Market Trends - The decline in commission income has led to a greater focus on research capabilities as a key differentiator for brokerages, with fund managers increasingly selecting brokerages based on their research strength [21][22]. - The regulatory environment is shifting, with new rules on commission rates for public funds set to take effect, further impacting brokerage income [22][23]. Future Outlook - The merger of Guotai Junan and Haitong Securities is expected to disrupt the rankings in the coming year, similar to the impact of the Guolian Minsheng merger [15][26]. - Brokerages are encouraged to diversify their client base and explore international markets to mitigate the effects of declining commission income [26].