Tencent ready to launch China’s 1st private internet bank, WeBank

Tencent today launched the website for what will likely be the first ever private internet bank in the People’s Republic of China. China began a trial program early this year that would allow five new private banks to be set up.

Web giants Alibaba and Tencent signed up, and the maker of WeChat looks to be first out of the gate. The new WeBank website reads (translation ours):

Are we a bank? Are we an internet company? We are an internet bank!

Update on January 6: Techweb reports WeBank will enter its invite-only trial period on January 18.

For now, the domain just holds a placeholder site with a QR code. Scanning that QR code on a mobile phone leads the user to a presentation explaining some general information about WeBank. Forcing curious visitors to scan the QR code to learn more gives some indication about Tencent’s plans for the online bank – it will primarily be a mobile experience.

Tencent owns 30 percent of WeBank, while investment firms Baiyeyuan Investment and Liye Group each own 20 percent. Seven other shareholders make up the remaining 30 percent, and the entity as a whole has a registered capital of RMB 3 billion (US$482 million). The bank was approved in July and obtained all of its necessary licenses and permits by October 22.

Several internet giants have already taken a step into the finance realm by launching high-interest savings funds. Baidu, Tencent, and Alibaba each have their own, usually in cooperation with an existing bank. Alibaba’s has grown to be one of the biggest mutual funds in the world. Additionally, Alibaba and rival ecommerce company JD have set up small loan programs and credit systems for their merchants and customers, respectively.

Setting up their own banks means these internet companies will administer their own customers’ assets rather than just being the fresh face of an existing bank. That includes greater flexibility to hand out loans and set interest rates.

WeBank’s scope covers personal banking, corporate banking, and international banking.

(Hat-tip to 36kr)