Global Finance Announces China’s Top Talent for 2026

Global Finance is proud to present the winners of the 19th annual Stars of China Awards, honoring the best Chinese banks, fintech companies, asset management firms, and enterprises serving China and the world.

The publication’s long‑standing commitment to highlighting financial excellence gives the Stars of China Awards a distinctive platform that reaches senior decision‑makers across borders, reinforcing the importance of cross‑border collaboration in an increasingly integrated global economy.

The Stars of China Awards are the preeminent evaluation of financial institutions and other organizations in China by international media, and they recognize institutions that excel in serving China in harmony with the nation’s goals and objectives.

Evaluation criteria focus on alignment with national development strategies, demonstrated resilience in volatile market conditions, and the ability to innovate while maintaining regulatory compliance, ensuring that each honoree contributes meaningfully to China’s broader socioeconomic agenda.

A full list of the winners is presented on the following pages and will be published in the November print and digital editions and online at GFMag.com. The Stars of China Special Report will include Global Finance’s exclusive ranking of the Safest Banks in China. It will also include an in-depth look at the success stories behind the winners and their various approaches to excellence in the unique environment in China.

The Special Report’s Safest Banks ranking is based on a rigorous assessment of capital adequacy, asset quality, and risk management practices, providing readers with a clear view of which institutions have built the strongest buffers against economic headwinds.

“China’s resilient economy continues to face challenges from weak domestic demand and the property sector, but policy support, steady industrial activity, and efforts to stimulate lending provide reasons for cautious optimism. The country’s largest banks remain well capitalized and are expanding lending to manufacturing, technology, and small businesses,” said Joseph Giarraputo, founder and editorial director of Global Finance. “Global Finance’s Stars of China Awards recognize the top‑performing banks and asset managers that have demonstrated strength, innovation, and superior service.”

Related: Major Banks, Julius Baer in People on the Move

Policy initiatives aimed at stabilizing the property market and boosting consumer confidence have been complemented by targeted credit lines that encourage investment in high‑tech manufacturing and entrepreneurial ventures, showing the banks’ role as catalysts for structural transformation.

Winners will be honored at Global Finance’s annual Stars of China Awards ceremony this fall in Beijing, date and location to be announced.

The ceremony will be staged in Beijing, reflecting the city’s status as a financial hub and providing an opportunity for awardees to network with regulators, industry peers, and international observers.

The full list of winners follows.

The compilation includes categories such as commercial banking, digital finance, wealth management, and cross‑border services, illustrating the breadth of talent recognized across the sector.

For editorial information please contact: Denise Bedell – [email protected]

Media inquiries are directed to the editorial office, where staff can provide additional background, arrange interviews with award recipients, and supply high‑resolution assets for publication.