Shandong International Trust Co., Ltd. (1697) announced on 13 February 2026 that it has entered into a Loan Framework Agreement with its controlling shareholder, Shandong Lucion Investment Holdings Group Co., Ltd. (Lucion Group). The term runs until 31 December 2028, with a maximum outstanding financing balance of RMB1.20 billion at any time, including accrued interest.

According to the announcement, the annual caps for each of the years ending 31 December 2026, 2027, and 2028 are RMB1.20 billion. The interest rate will be based on Lucion Group’s average financing cost plus 70% of the difference between the latest one-year liquidity support loan rate from China Trust Protection Fund Co., Ltd. (CTPF) and Lucion Group’s average financing cost. The Company intends to use part of the proceeds to replace an existing RMB700.00 million financing with CTPF and supplement daily liquidity.

Lucion Group directly and indirectly holds approximately 52.96% of the issued shares of Shandong International Trust, classifying the transaction as a continuing connected transaction under Chapter 14A of the Listing Rules. As the highest applicable percentage ratio is above 5%, the transaction requires reporting, announcement, annual review, circular, independent financial advice, and independent shareholders’ approval. A general meeting will be convened for this purpose. An independent board committee comprising all independent non-executive directors has been formed, and Lego Corporate Finance has been appointed as the independent financial adviser.

The Company stated that the arrangement may reduce overall financing costs and improve its financial position, noting in particular that the rate is determined by reference to relevant market benchmarks and the closing prices of pledged shares. Details on the Loan Framework Agreement and the final terms will be included in a circular to be dispatched before 11 March 2026.