China's Banking Reform and Profitability

Abstract

Just as the worse global financial crisis since the Second World War threatens the survival of many global financial giants, the strong financial performance of the Chinese banks stands out. The record profits of Chinese banks are commendable considering that they were considered insolvent not too long ago. The paper reviews the reform strategy of Chinese state commercial banks and its implementation, as well as their strong financial performance in 2007 based upon the four largest listed state commercial banks. Even though a strong economy may have boosted performance, banking reform should have played a significant role in turning around Chinese banks.China, banking reform, bank balance sheets, foreign strategic partners, public listing