China CITIC Bank reports solid Q1 2025, plans shareholder returns

** China CITIC Bank (SSE: 601998) reported a positive start to 2025, with steady asset growth and a commitment to enhance shareholder returns. The bank's First Quarterly Report highlights total assets reaching CNY 9.86 trillion, up 3.38% from the end of 2024, while loans and advances totaled CNY 5.87 trillion, a 2.55% increase. Net profit attributable to shareholders grew 1.66% YoY to CNY 19.51 billion. The bank's board approved and will propose at the Annual General Meeting a final 2024 dividend of CNY 1.722 per 10 shares, totaling approximately CNY 19.46 billion and representing 30.50% of net profit. The move aims to maintain upward and high-quality dividend performance. This solid performance, supported by strategic initiatives and risk management, sets the stage for continued growth in the 2025 fiscal year.