Core Insights - BMO is enhancing its role as a key financial bridge between China and North America, aiming to support bilateral trade cooperation [1][4] - The bank has a long history in cross-border transactions, having conducted its first foreign exchange transaction related to China-Canada trade shortly after its establishment in 1817 [2] - BMO has established a significant presence in China, being the first Canadian bank to set up a legal entity in the country, with operations in Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou [2] Company Overview - Founded in 1817, BMO is the oldest bank in Canada and ranks as the seventh largest financial institution in North America, offering diversified financial services [1] - The bank serves millions of customers globally, with a focus on personal and commercial banking, wealth management, and capital markets [1] Cross-Border Operations - BMO provides various financial services to corporate clients, including loans and cash management, to support Chinese manufacturing companies in their international expansion [4] - For individual clients, BMO offers a "one-stop banking experience" with services tailored for high-net-worth individuals and new immigrants, including Mandarin-speaking support [4] Strategic Investments - BMO has made strategic equity investments in the Chinese market, holding approximately 28% of Shanghai Fuguo Fund Management Co. and about 16% of COFCO Trust [2] - These investments reflect BMO's long-term strategy to expand its presence in China's asset management and trust sectors [2] Trade Relations - According to data from the General Administration of Customs of China, the bilateral trade volume between China and Canada reached $61.74 billion from January to August 2025, marking a 7.1% year-on-year increase [4] - China is Canada's second-largest trading partner, with total goods trade expected to reach 117.44 billion CAD in 2024 [4] Future Vision - BMO aims to continue leveraging its connectivity to assist Chinese companies in expanding overseas and to support North American businesses entering the Chinese market [4] - The bank is committed to a vision of "daring to explore and achieving great success" while maintaining prudent operations and a long-term perspective in the Chinese market [4]