Core Insights - The article highlights the participation of Dr. Liu Dejian, Chairman of NetDragon, in a high-level expert group meeting organized by the United Nations to discuss establishing online STEM education platforms for Least Developed Countries (LDCs) [1][3] - Dr. Liu proposed a new concept of "on-demand learning" aimed at addressing the challenges faced by LDCs in providing quality education, emphasizing the need for global coordination and collaboration [3][5] - The article emphasizes the urgent need for investment in higher education, particularly in STEM fields, as LDCs have a gross enrollment rate in higher education of only 11%, significantly lower than the global average of 40% [5] Group 1: AI and Education - The article discusses how advancements in AI technology are reshaping the education landscape, with Dr. Liu advocating for a redefinition of STEM education to better meet local needs [6] - NetDragon has integrated AI into its educational strategy, achieving 100% AI coverage in educational content production, significantly reducing production time and costs [6][8] - The company is developing an education metaverse platform, EDA, aimed at creating a more equitable and high-quality education system globally [8] Group 2: Global Collaborations and Initiatives - NetDragon has established partnerships with influential educational organizations, including UNESCO and Beijing Normal University, to enhance its global educational reach [9] - The company has launched various AI education platforms in countries like Thailand and Serbia, providing vocational training and advanced digital education resources [10] - Dr. Liu expressed the company's commitment to developing inclusive tools that connect education with real-world productivity, aiming to empower LDC youth with STEM skills [12]

Group 1 - Major overseas tech companies like Microsoft, Google, Meta, Amazon, and Apple have released their Q1 2025 financial reports, highlighting strong capital expenditure (Capex) in the AI sector despite macroeconomic challenges and rising hardware costs [1] - Tencent plans to reshape its AI strategy with an expected capital expenditure of around 100 billion yuan in 2025, based on a projected revenue and a low double-digit percentage of Capex [1] - Alibaba's cloud division, Alibaba Cloud, announced a 7 billion yuan investment over the next three years to build an international localized ecosystem, including the establishment of six overseas service centers [1] Group 2 - The Hang Seng Internet ETF (513330) supports T+0 trading and focuses on the internet platform economy, including major companies like Alibaba, JD.com, Tencent, Meituan, Kuaishou, and Baidu, with an AI content of 97% and DeepSeek content of 86% [2]

Core Insights - The core focus of the news is on NetDragon's founder and chairman, Dr. Liu Dejian, presenting a framework for STEM education at a United Nations high-level expert group meeting, emphasizing the role of AI in enhancing educational equity and quality in least developed countries (LDCs) [1][3][6] Group 1: AI and Education Initiatives - Dr. Liu proposed an "On-Demand Learning" framework with three main initiatives: encouraging global developers to create open-source tools, advocating for the global sharing of standardized STEM curricula, and urging businesses to participate in providing STEM job opportunities [3] - The framework aims to create practical and inclusive STEM educational tools by breaking down complex tasks into clear steps, integrating learning with real tasks, and ensuring content is localized [3] - NetDragon has established an AI production center that automates the creation of high-quality educational content, achieving a 100% AI coverage rate in content production, reducing production time to one hour, and lowering marginal production costs to a hundred yuan level [3][4] Group 2: 3E Quality Education Content - NetDragon's strategic goal is to develop high-quality educational content characterized by effectiveness, efficiency, and engagement (3E), aiming to provide comprehensive educational resources across all subjects and levels [4] - The ultimate form of this 3E content will be interactive educational games that facilitate learner-centered, immersive inquiry-based learning, potentially disrupting traditional teaching methods [4] Group 3: EDA Education Metaverse Platform - The EDA platform, a product of the AI production center's output, aims to create a boundary-less educational community that promotes equitable and high-quality education globally [5] - EDA will redefine the essence of learning through an intelligent learning plan system, focusing on on-demand learning and the concept of "learning as entertainment" [5] - A recent collaboration with Thailand's Ministry of Higher Education and Research Innovation resulted in the launch of an AI education platform offering vocational training in electric vehicles, exemplifying EDA's localized deployment [5] Group 4: Future Aspirations - Dr. Liu expressed confidence in attracting millions of active users globally through the innovative community ecosystem created by EDA, which will leverage blockchain technology to record and quantify learner contributions [6] - The company aims to replicate its past successes in creating highly active online communities in the desktop and mobile internet eras, now targeting the AI era [6]

Core Viewpoint - The gaming sector in A-shares has experienced a significant rally, driven by various factors including market sentiment, policy support, and valuation improvements [2][4]. Group 1: Market Performance - As of the latest update, several A-share gaming companies have seen substantial gains, with Zhangqu Technology rising by 13.15%, Giant Network by 7.06%, and G-bits by 6.57% [2]. - In the Hong Kong market, NetDragon increased by 6.68%, and Tencent Holdings also showed strength [3]. Group 2: Industry Growth - According to Gamma Data's report, the Chinese gaming market reached a size of 27.351 billion yuan in April 2025, marking a year-on-year growth of 21.93% and a month-on-month increase of 2.47% [4]. - The client game market specifically accounted for 5.799 billion yuan, with a month-on-month growth of 3.75% and a year-on-year growth of 2.78% [5]. - The mobile gaming market size was 20.424 billion yuan, showing a year-on-year increase of 28.41% and a month-on-month growth of 3.07% [5]. Group 3: Policy and Supply Improvements - The National Press and Publication Administration recently approved 130 domestic games and 14 imported games, signaling a continued friendly policy environment [5]. - By the end of May 2025, 654 domestic game licenses and 44 imported game licenses had been issued, significantly improving the supply side of the gaming industry [5]. Group 4: Valuation Insights - Analysts noted that the current dynamic PE for leading A-share gaming companies ranges from 11 to 17 times, which is still at historical low levels [5]. - The presence of high dividend yields among some leading companies suggests that the gaming sector may offer a compelling combination of growth and dividend potential [5]. Group 5: Technological Advancements - The rapid development of AI technology is seen as a crucial factor for cost reduction and efficiency improvement in the gaming industry, potentially enhancing long-term value [6]. - The integration of AI in gaming is expected to improve user experience and commercial viability, leading to a resurgence in sector growth [6].

Group 1 - NetDragon has launched the AI education platform "MHESI Skill" in collaboration with Thailand's Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation (MHESI), marking a significant step in digitalizing skills training in Thailand [1][2] - The "MHESI Skill" platform will offer officially certified electric vehicle (EV) technology training courses, enhancing employment opportunities in the EV sector for the Thai population [1] - The initial courses available on the platform include "Basic Electric Vehicle Technology" and "Electric Vehicle Maintenance," with plans to introduce advanced courses covering EV system design, infrastructure, and business management [1] Group 2 - The "EV Ready+" program employs a blended learning approach, combining online self-study through the "MHESI Skill" platform with practical training at renowned Thai universities [2] - MHESI aims to empower Thai talent by providing free access to advanced knowledge and professional training, enhancing Thailand's competitiveness in the global automotive industry [2] - NetDragon's Vice Chairman emphasized the importance of the "MHESI Skill" platform in supporting Thailand's vision to become a hub for the EV industry in the Asia-Pacific region, equipping citizens with essential skills for the digital and green economy [2]

Core Insights - The eighth Digital China Construction Summit was successfully held in Fuzhou, with NetDragon participating as a strategic partner for the eighth consecutive year [1][3] - NetDragon showcased its digital technology advantages in the fields of digital culture and tourism, and digital education, becoming one of the most popular exhibition areas at the summit [1][5] Digital Culture and Tourism - NetDragon focused on creating a "Digital Culture and Tourism Demonstration Zone" and a "Digital Education Experience Zone," presenting over ten innovative applications and solutions that integrate AI, VR, and AR technologies [2] - The company aims to leverage its technological strengths to enhance the digital transformation of the cultural and tourism industry in Fujian, promoting the integration of gaming and cultural tourism [5][12] - A special plan titled "Digital Mountain and Sea: New Life for Fujian Tourism through Gaming" was initiated to establish a digital cultural tourism model in Fujian [8][10] Digital Education - NetDragon has expanded its digital education footprint globally, covering over 200 million classrooms and benefiting more than 150 million users [16] - The company is actively responding to the "Belt and Road" initiative by promoting international cooperation in vocational education, with projects successfully launched in countries like Thailand and Singapore [16][17] - During the summit, NetDragon showcased various advanced digital education products and solutions, emphasizing its commitment to integrating education with industry [18][21]

Core Viewpoint - The "Game + Cultural Tourism" theme event at the 8th Digital China Construction Summit aims to explore the integration of digital technology with the cultural tourism industry, promoting a new model for digital cultural tourism in Fujian [1][4]. Group 1: Event Highlights - The event attracted approximately 130 industry elites and experts, focusing on the latest trends in the "Game + Cultural Tourism" sector [1]. - A special plan titled "Digital Mountain and Sea: New Life for Fujian's Cultural Tourism through Games" was officially released, which will promote cross-industry cooperation in Fujian [1][2]. - The plan aims to cultivate new business formats, enhance cultural influence, and showcase a new image of Fujian [1]. Group 2: Industry Insights - NetDragon's Senior Vice President Lin Chen highlighted the company's efforts since 2004 to integrate traditional Chinese cultural elements into games, facilitating the global outreach of Chinese culture [2]. - Experts discussed the potential of music tourism as a new avenue for cultural tourism, emphasizing its role in enhancing tourism quality [4]. - The integration of digital technology in cultural tourism is seen as a means to achieve high-quality development, focusing on aspects such as production efficiency, cultural value, sustainability, and user experience [4][6]. Group 3: Future Directions - The 25th anniversary of "Digital Fujian" marks significant advancements in the digital economy, with a call for leveraging technological advantages to upgrade Fujian's cultural tourism [6]. - The deep integration of "Game + Cultural Tourism" is expected to drive innovation in the cultural tourism economy and support the transmission of traditional culture, achieving synergistic value [6].

Core Insights - The "AI + Education" sector is experiencing a significant value reassessment driven by technological advancements and policy support, particularly with the introduction of DeepSeek, which reduces the cost of AI model development and deployment [1] - The Ministry of Education and other departments have issued guidelines to accelerate digital education, focusing on integration, intelligence, and internationalization, which is expected to stimulate the application of AI in education [1] Company Developments - NetDragon has been a pioneer in the "AI + Education" field, having invested in AI research since 2017 and successfully commercializing various AI educational products [1][2] - The company aims to establish the largest global education content production center in Hong Kong, enhancing the efficiency and quality of interactive educational games [2] - NetDragon's AI education content unit, "Photosynthesis," was showcased at the Global Smart Education Conference in September 2024, highlighting the company's innovative capabilities [2] Strategic Partnerships - NetDragon is collaborating with Thailand's Ministry of Higher Education to launch an online AI education platform, providing vocational training in sectors like new energy vehicles, aligning with national policies for developing skilled talent in emerging markets [2] - The company has formed a strategic partnership with Hong Kong Polytechnic University to integrate advanced AI and vocational training content into its education platforms [2] Technological Integration - NetDragon's subsidiary, Mynd.ai, has been independently listed and is set to launch new SaaS products that will incorporate AI technology, enhancing the educational experience for users [3] - The company is a technical service partner for the National Smart Education Public Service Platform, which has over 163 million registered users, indicating its significant role in the national education framework [3][4] Market Positioning - NetDragon has established a strong foundation in educational technology, with over a decade of experience in content, software, and hardware, positioning itself to benefit from the dual support of technological advancements and favorable policies [4] - The company has been recognized for its collaboration with educational institutions to develop modern industry colleges, showcasing its commitment to integrating education with industry needs [5] Financial Performance - NetDragon's gaming sector is also benefiting from AI applications, with popular games like "Heroes of the Storm" integrating AI features to enhance player experience [6] - The company has a history of consistent dividend payments, with a proposed annual dividend of 0.9 HKD per share for 2024, reflecting a dividend yield of over 9% [6]

Financial Performance - The company reported a 19.1% year-on-year increase in pre-tax profit, reaching RMB 756 million[12]. - Revenue for 2024 was RMB 6,047 million, a decrease of 14.8% year-over-year[29]. - Revenue from gaming and application services was RMB 3,938 million, accounting for 65.1% of total revenue, down 6.0% year-over-year[30]. - Revenue from Mynd.ai business was RMB 2,106 million, representing 34.8% of total revenue, a decrease of 27.6% year-over-year[29]. - Gross profit for 2024 was RMB 3,942 million, a decline of 10.4% compared to the previous year[29]. - Operating profit for 2024 was RMB 745 million, a decrease of 9.3% year-over-year[29]. - Profit attributable to the company's owners was RMB 311 million, down 43.5% from RMB 550 million in 2023[29]. - Cash flow from operating activities was RMB 1,100 million, a decrease of 5.7% year-over-year[29]. - Basic earnings per share for 2024 was RMB 58.60, compared to RMB 103.00 in 2023[24]. - Adjusted EBITDA loss was RMB 172 million, compared to a loss of RMB 78 million in 2023[43]. Cash and Investments - Operating cash flow remained stable at RMB 1.1 billion, supporting the ongoing "AI+" strategy[16]. - The net cash increased by 13.3% to RMB 2.1 billion, providing a solid foundation for future growth[16]. - Cash balance at the end of 2024 was RMB 541 million, down from RMB 650 million at the end of 2023[43]. - Interest-bearing debt decreased by RMB 148 million by the end of 2024[43]. - The company plans to invest RMB 50 million in Wuxi Benge New Materials Technology Co., Ltd., acquiring approximately 2.27% equity[153]. Dividends - The board declared a final dividend of HKD 0.5 per share, a 25.0% increase compared to the previous year[16]. - The final dividend for 2024 is set at HKD 0.50 per ordinary share, reflecting a year-on-year increase of 25.0%[34]. - The interim dividend of HKD 0.40 per share was paid on October 31, 2024, and a final dividend of HKD 0.50 per share is proposed, expected to amount to approximately RMB 246 million[121]. AI and Technology Initiatives - The company successfully implemented an AI production line for gamified educational content, enhancing operational efficiency[14]. - The company aims to deepen the deployment of advanced AI tools across business segments to enhance organizational efficiency[14]. - The "AI+" strategy has led to a reduction in employee costs by nearly RMB 100 million[14]. - The company is actively exploring "AI-native" gaming and interactive educational games to capture new business opportunities[15]. - The company is collaborating with Thailand's Ministry of Higher Education to develop online AI education platforms for vocational training[14]. Market and Competitive Landscape - The company faces increasing competition in the online and mobile gaming industry, with significant players like Electronic Arts and Tencent Holdings posing challenges to market share and talent retention[109]. - The company relies on consumer spending from gamers, which may be affected by economic uncertainties, including inflation and liquidity crises in major economies, potentially impacting financial performance[111]. Employee and Talent Management - The company has successfully attracted 478 outstanding talents from the gaming and education sectors in 2024, including 97 senior elite talents, enhancing the talent structure[70]. - The total number of full-time employees as of December 31, 2024, is 4,593[71]. - The company emphasizes a "people-oriented" management philosophy, focusing on employee experience and providing various welfare programs throughout the employee lifecycle[75]. - The company has initiated large-scale campus recruitment activities, attracting 27,145 resumes from graduates, ultimately hiring 86 outstanding candidates[70]. Governance and Compliance - The board includes independent directors with significant legal and investment experience, ensuring robust governance and oversight[88][86]. - The company is committed to maintaining strong corporate governance through its various committees, including the remuneration and audit committees[88]. - The company strictly adheres to various laws and regulations regarding employee rights and data protection, ensuring compliance with local and international standards[115]. Strategic Partnerships and Collaborations - The company signed a term sheet with Beijing Zhongke Wenge Technology Co., Ltd. for exclusive cooperation in promoting AI services outside mainland China, with a potential investment of RMB 75 million[39]. - The company has established partnerships with educational authorities and institutions to improve educational services[95]. Future Outlook and Plans - The company plans to launch the sequel to its flagship IP "Magic Domain" in 2025, with the new MMORPG mobile game "Code - Dragon" also set for overseas release[38]. - The company is expanding its online education business overseas, covering a wide range of educational fields[95]. - The company is committed to innovation in educational technology, particularly in AI and cloud computing[94]. Risks and Challenges - The group may face significant adverse tax consequences if the tax authorities determine that the contractual arrangements are not established on an arm's length basis[190]. - The group may incur additional tax liabilities if the tax authorities impose penalties for any unpaid taxes[190]. - There are significant risks associated with the contractual arrangements, including potential non-compliance with Chinese laws, which could adversely affect the company's ability to operate[185].

Investment Rating - The investment rating for the company is downgraded to Neutral [2][3]. Core Insights - The company's revenue growth in gaming and education is facing uncertainty in the short term, with a target price adjustment from HKD 14.00 to HKD 10.20, reflecting a potential decline of 2.7% [2][3]. - The company is focusing on the improvement of the education market in Europe and the US, as well as the anticipated recovery in gaming revenue in the second half of the year [2][8]. Financial Performance Summary - **2024 Performance**: Total revenue is expected to decline by 15% to RMB 6,047 million, with gaming and Mynd.ai revenues decreasing by 6% and 28% respectively [7][8]. - **2025 Forecast**: Revenue is projected to further decline to RMB 5,241 million, with gaming revenue at RMB 3,555 million and Mynd.ai at RMB 1,685 million, both showing a decrease of 10% and 20% respectively [6][8]. - **Profitability Metrics**: Adjusted net profit is expected to drop to RMB 530 million in 2025, down 26% from the previous year, with a net profit margin of 10.1% [6][8]. Revenue Breakdown - **Gaming and Applications**: Revenue is forecasted to be RMB 3,555 million in 2025, down from RMB 3,938 million in 2024 [8]. - **Mynd.ai**: Expected revenue for 2025 is RMB 1,685 million, a significant drop from RMB 2,106 million in 2024 [8]. Cost and Expense Management - The company is implementing cost-saving measures, particularly in operational expenses, which are projected to decrease from RMB 3,351 million in 2024 to RMB 2,878 million in 2025 [8][14]. - Adjusted operating profit is expected to decline to RMB 577 million in 2025, with an operating profit margin of 11.0% [6][8]. Market Position and Valuation - The company's market capitalization is approximately HKD 5,565.61 million, with a 52-week high of HKD 12.78 and a low of HKD 9.47 [5][8]. - The stock's average trading volume is 1.83 million shares per day, indicating moderate liquidity [5].