[Gleaning Book Club] Yongjin Fan and Zhihui Mao: Listening to the Story of the Century-Old Bank, Setting Sail on a New Narrative of Financial Development | Info

Release time：2025-11-10    

On the afternoon of October 31^st, a new [Gleaning Book Club] activity was held on campus at Fudan International School of Finance. Zhihui Mao from the Publicity Department of the CPC Committee of Bank of Communications brought a new book named Golden Tinder: Gleanings from a Century of Banking History. Themed on “The Story ‘Told’ by a Century-old Bank” and adopting the lens of the progressive activities undertaken by Shanghai’s banking industry under the influence and leadership of the Party, this activity offered a panoramic yet conversational exploration of the remarkable episodes and pivotal moments in a century of banking development. Yongjin Fan, Chairman of the Shanghai AJ Special Foundation, Secretary of the CPC Committee and Vice Chairman of the AJ Group, was specially invited to have a dialogue with fellow readers on a century of transformation and the new voices of the new era in the banking sector.

The book Golden Tinder newly published by China Financial Publishing House is not a traditional work in finance but charts a novel path. By turning its gaze into the historical depths of old banking institutions, particularly the Bank of Communications, it seeks to systematically examine the germination and growth of the CPC grassroots organizations within the Bank of Communications, the awakening and struggle of its progressive youth and the actions and influence of ‘red bankers’ on the bank. Through this, it aims to delineate the ‘red tapestry’ woven through the century-long history of the Bank of Communications.

In his sharing, Zhihui Mao stated that whether in the activities of early underground CPC members in banks or the explorations and practices of bankers across different historical periods, both bear the ideals of serving the nation through finance and the belief in finance for the people, upheld by generations of banking professionals. It is hoped that through this book, readers can feel the warmth and strength of financial history and understand how the “Golden Tinder” has been passed down and kept alive through the tides of time.

“As a creator deeply engaged in the field of financial culture, I have always held the conviction that history is a lighthouse illuminating the path ahead.” Zhihui Mao mentioned in the sharing, “The lesser-known red episodes in the century-long history of banking deserve to be further unearthed and brought to light. Our task is not only to portray the ideals and sense of responsibility of pivotal financial figures, but also to dissect the roles played by ordinary underground Party members at crucial historical junctures. This endeavor aims to open a window for readers to understand the transition of China’s banking industry during the transformative era, particularly the evolution of its red financial culture.”

Combining with his many years’ work experience and practical expertise, Yongjin Fan made an in-depth analysis on the pivotal moments and far-reaching impacts within the reform of the banking system and the broader financial sector, narrated the role played by banks in the construction of Shanghai International Financial Center, and highlighted the indispensability of both the inter-generational spirit of banking and a consciousness of innovation in modern financial development. With witty and humorous delivery, he unpacked complex and profound institutional changes in a compelling narrative, and frequently sparked laughter among the audience with his vivid and engaging presentation, offering profound inspiration within a relaxed atmosphere.

Fan also introduced the attention and support that the Shanghai AJ Special Foundation has devoted to the development of financial culture in recent years. He spoke highly of the book Golden Tinder, remarking that it “fully demonstrates the richness, vibrancy and great potential of China’s modern financial culture”.

In the Q&A session, the guests and the audience engaged in a lively discussion around topics like “banks and enterprises”, “finance and life” and so on, with dynamic interaction and a continuous exchange of ideas. Participants noted that this reading session had uplifted their understanding of finance beyond charts, data and skyscrapers, revealing instead a vast world rich with stories, ideas and human warmth.

“Gleaning Book Club” is a cultural brand activity of high quality hosted by FISF, committed for long to promoting in-depth reading and building a bridge for dialogues between scholars and the public.