Core Viewpoint - The recent "gold bar adulteration" incident at the Industrial and Commercial Bank of China (ICBC) South Xiang branch has drawn public attention, highlighting challenges in the bank's precious metals business and its financial performance amid changing economic conditions [3][10]. Financial Performance - In 2024, ICBC achieved a net profit of 365.863 billion yuan, a slight increase of 0.51% year-on-year, but the growth rate has been declining for three consecutive years [11][19]. - The bank's operating revenue has decreased for three years, with figures of 942.762 billion yuan in 2021, 875.734 billion yuan in 2022, 843.070 billion yuan in 2023, and 821.803 billion yuan in 2024, reflecting a total decline of over 120 billion yuan from its peak [15][18]. - The decline in revenue is attributed to decreases in both net interest income and non-interest income [18]. Precious Metals Business - ICBC's precious metals assets grew by 49.36% year-on-year, reaching 208.242 billion yuan in 2024, driven by new product launches that cater to diverse customer needs [8][19]. - The "Ruyi Gold Bar," a self-branded product launched in 2007, has sold over 1.08 million sets, indicating strong market demand despite recent controversies [6][8]. Asset Quality - As of the end of 2024, ICBC's total loans reached 28.372 trillion yuan, with a year-on-year increase of 8.8% [20]. - The bank's non-performing loans (NPLs) rose to approximately 379.458 billion yuan, a 7.34% increase, with personal loans contributing significantly to this growth [20][24]. - The NPL ratio improved slightly to 1.34%, down from 1.36% in 2023, although the personal NPL ratio increased from 0.70% to 1.15% [25][26]. Market Position and Challenges - ICBC remains the largest commercial bank globally, but it faces significant challenges in adapting to a low-interest-rate environment and maintaining asset quality while pursuing growth [19][31]. - The bank's ability to regain consumer trust in its gold business following the adulteration incident will be crucial for its future development [10][31].