Author: YAO Jiali 

Publisher: Shenzhen Business Daily 

Date: March 31, 2025

As Guangdong Province invests in building a robust financial infrastructure, its capital market is thriving and showing remarkable growth, leading to significant innovations in technology and business. According to insights from Jiang Hai, a finance professor at Jinan University, the recent economic statistics released by the Guangdong Provincial Bureau of Statistics underscore the province's leadership in fostering a conducive environment for financial vitality and scientific advancement.

Key Financial Highlights

The 2024 Statistical Bulletin on National Economic and Social Development revealed substantial achievements in the Guangdong capital market:

•Listed Companies and Capital Raised: Guangdong has 875 listed companies, leading the nation. These firms collectively have a market value of 14.04 trillion yuan and directly raised 947.389 billion yuan through capital markets in 2024.

•Patent Success: With 692,600 total patent authorizations, Guangdong ranks first in the country, showcasing its commitment to innovation. Of these, 168,800 are invention patents, reflecting a 17.9% increase.

•Investment Growth: The region's IPO financing reached 11.315 billion yuan, while companies raised 30.745 billion yuan in the stock market. Corporate bonds and other financial instruments contributed 904.168 billion yuan, indicating a robust financial ecosystem.

Integration of Finance and Industry

Jiang Hai emphasized that these figures indicate the growing integration of finance and industry in Guangdong. The deep connection between various levels of capital markets and industrial sectors allows for significant capital mobilization, enhancing the overall economic vitality of the region. This integration also strengthens Guangdong's role as a financial hub in the Greater Bay Area, crucial for fostering high-quality economic development.

Professor Han Yonghui from the Guangdong Institute of International Strategy commented on the impressive financial data, highlighting the essential role of Guangdong's financial market in boosting the economy and facilitating innovation. The emphasis on creating a favorable investment climate is vital for ensuring the long-term health of the capital market and supporting the transition from a manufacturing hub to an innovation-driven economy.

Surge in High-Tech Manufacturing

Guangdong's focus on high-tech industries has led to remarkable growth in sectors such as artificial intelligence and robotics. The economic bulletin reported:

•Manufacturing Growth: The added value of high-tech manufacturing rose by 10.2%, accounting for 32.0% of the output from major industries. The production of new energy vehicles soared by 43%, while industrial robots and civilian drones saw increases of 31.2% and 74.2%, respectively.

•Investment in High-Tech Industries: Investment in high-tech manufacturing expanded by 8.7%, representing a significant portion of overall fixed asset investment.

These advancements demonstrate Guangdong's capacity to harness technological innovation, making it a leader in the national landscape of industrial development.

Enhancing Innovation Capacity

The continuous improvement of innovation capabilities in Guangdong is evident in its patent landscape. The province leads in the number of high-tech enterprises and has established numerous state-level laboratories and research centers. For eight consecutive years, Guangdong has topped national rankings for comprehensive innovation capability, maintaining strong R&D investments and personnel.

Han Yonghui pointed out that while patent data is encouraging, it must translate into actual advancements in innovation capabilities to drive sustainable development. The region's focus on industrializing patents and integrating education with research boosts the effectiveness and application of scientific advancements in modern industries.

Guangdong Province is at the forefront of economic transformation through the dynamic interplay between finance and technology. The robust performance of its capital market not only reflects the region's economic strength but also serves as a significant driver for innovation and high-quality development. With ongoing efforts to enhance the integration of industries, education, and research, Guangdong is set to unlock its full potential, establishing itself as a model for economic growth and technological advancement in China. The commitment to building on this foundation will ensure that Guangdong continues to thrive as a key player in the global economy.