PING AN OF CHINA(PNGAY) - 2022 Q4 - Earnings Call Transcript

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Attributable operating profit for 2022 was CNY 148.4 billion, showing positive growth with an operating ROE of 18%, outperforming peers [5][21] - The full year dividend payout was CNY 2.42 per share, an increase of 1.7% [5][10] - Attributable net profit and NBV were lower due to capital market challenges, but recent indicators have shown a return to positive momentum [5][8] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Life and health insurance was the core profit contributor, increasing by 16% year-on-year [6][7] - Ping An Bank's backend business saw a 25% year-on-year increase [6] - NBV declined by 24% year-on-year due to weakened consumer intent and recruitment challenges, but showed signs of recovery in early 2023 [8][9] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The macro environment in 2022 was challenging, with a GDP growth of only 3% in China and declining equity and bond markets [4] - The company remains optimistic about the Chinese life insurance market, anticipating recovery in consumption and growth opportunities [9] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to advance its integrated finance and healthcare strategy, positioning itself as a leading provider in these sectors [3] - Ping An is focusing on reforms and innovations, particularly in life insurance and healthcare ecosystems, to capture emerging opportunities [23][25] - The integrated financial model has proven effective, with a significant increase in customer numbers and product offerings [27][54] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management described 2022 as a difficult year but highlighted stable growth and continued shareholder returns as key achievements [20][21] - For 2023, management is confident in a return to high-quality growth, supported by government policies aimed at economic stimulation [24][25] - The company is committed to enhancing its integrated finance model and expanding its customer base through various channels [26][27] Other Important Information - The solvency ratio under C-ROSS 2 remained well above regulatory requirements, indicating strong financial health [11] - Investment strategies focus on long-term asset allocation, with a stable yield from fixed income investments [12][15] - The company is actively involved in sustainability efforts and has received accolades for its contributions [16][17] Q&A Session All Questions and Answers Question: Evaluation of last year's performance and outlook for 2023 - Management characterized 2022 as challenging but noted stable growth and positive operating profit, with confidence in 2023 due to supportive policies and a recovering economy [20][21][24] Question: Achievements in life insurance reform - Management highlighted the establishment of a high-quality agent team and the exploration of new channels, including community and bank insurance, as key achievements [29][30][33] Question: Impact of financial institutional reform on business - Management welcomed the reforms, emphasizing a focus on compliance and efficiency to mitigate risks while enhancing service quality [45][46] Question: Profitability trends and investment strategy - Management indicated that the interest rate environment may slightly increase, but their long-term asset allocation strategy remains focused on matching liabilities with long-duration bonds [47][69] Question: Sustainability and investment in fixed assets - The company plans to continue investing in long-term cash flow assets, such as rental housing and shopping malls, while maintaining a diversified investment strategy [70][71]