Summary of the Conference Call on the Gaming Sector Industry Overview - The gaming sector in A-shares has shown strong performance in August 2025, continuing a positive trend since the beginning of the month, significantly outperforming other sectors in September [2][3][5]. Key Companies and Products - **ST Huatuo**: - "Wild Survival" achieved over $200 million in global revenue in August, a 17% month-over-month increase, with overseas iOS and Google Play contributing over $150 million, up 21% [1][2]. - "King Shot" generated $77.6 million in August, a 26% increase [2]. - "Tasty Travels" maintained a steep growth trajectory, reaching nearly $10 million in August, with a 24% month-over-month increase [2]. - **Giant Network**: - "Supernatural" has shown outstanding performance since the first half of 2025, with domestic iOS revenue in August increasing by 73% [4]. - **G-bits**: - "Sword of the Hero" performed well in overseas markets, with a 62% month-over-month increase in Hong Kong, Macau, and Taiwan, and a 116% year-over-year increase in Japan [4]. - **Xindong Company**: - The performance was driven by older games, with "Xindong Town" reaching a new high in July due to anniversary celebrations and IP collaborations [1][4]. - **Perfect World**: - "P5X Persona" exceeded expectations in Japan, contributing significantly to revenue growth, with overseas revenue in July between 140 million to 150 million RMB, and around 80 million RMB in August [1][8]. Financial Performance - In Q2 2025, 25 major A-share gaming companies reported total revenue of 27.9 billion RMB, a 23% year-over-year increase and a 4% quarter-over-quarter increase, significantly outperforming the overall domestic gaming industry growth of 10% year-over-year and -4% quarter-over-quarter [11]. - Net profit attributable to shareholders totaled 4.6 billion RMB, a 100% year-over-year increase and a 25% quarter-over-quarter increase [11]. Profitability Metrics - The gaming sector's gross margin was 68% in Q2 2025, up 3 percentage points year-over-year and 2 percentage points quarter-over-quarter, attributed to high-quality products reducing reliance on traditional channels [3][12]. - Sales expense ratio remained stable at 33%, indicating that revenue growth was not solely dependent on user acquisition spending [3][13]. Future Outlook - The gaming sector is expected to continue its growth trajectory in the second half of 2025 and into 2026, driven by several factors: - Continued strong performance of existing popular games and new product launches [5][6]. - Expansion into international markets and new game releases, such as ST Huatuo's upcoming titles [5][6]. - Increasing demand for digital entertainment and technological advancements enhancing user experience [6]. - The valuation of the sector remains reasonable, with a central estimate below 20 times earnings, suggesting potential for continued outperformance [15]. Noteworthy Trends - The application of AI in game development and marketing is expected to enhance efficiency and quality, with significant portions of advertising content being produced by AI [15]. - Companies with strong product lines and forward-looking AI strategies, such as ST Huatuo, Giant Network, G-bits, and Perfect World, are recommended for attention [17]. Additional Insights - Older games have shown resilience, with several maintaining stable revenue streams, indicating a potential for sustained performance [7][10]. - The competitive landscape has improved, with companies leveraging community marketing and content-driven strategies to reduce traditional user acquisition costs [14]. This summary encapsulates the key points from the conference call regarding the gaming sector, highlighting the performance of specific companies, financial metrics, and future outlooks.

Group 1: Overview of China's Gaming Industry Growth - The Chinese gaming industry is experiencing a new wave of growth in overseas markets, with actual sales revenue from self-developed games reaching $9.501 billion in the first half of 2025, a year-on-year increase of over 11% [1] - Traditional markets such as North America, Japan, South Korea, and Western Europe remain key revenue contributors, but competition is intensifying, prompting Chinese companies to explore underdeveloped emerging markets [1] - Emerging markets in the Middle East, Latin America, and Southeast Asia are rising, presenting new growth opportunities for manufacturers [1] Group 2: Vietnam's Gaming Market - Vietnam has emerged as a significant player in the global gaming scene, with mobile game downloads reaching the highest globally in 2024, surpassing China [5] - Chinese games dominate the Vietnamese market, with 81% of approved games being from China, and titles like "Sword of Legends Online" have historically held a significant market share [7] - The success of Chinese games in Vietnam is attributed to cultural proximity, effective localization strategies, and integration with local payment platforms [9] Group 3: Challenges in the Vietnamese Market - Despite the potential, challenges such as strict approval processes and market size versus commercial return discrepancies exist, requiring companies to adjust expectations [9] - The Vietnamese gaming market is projected to reach $1.5 to $2 billion by 2025, with an annual growth rate of 15% to 25% [9] Group 4: Middle East Gaming Market - The Middle East is becoming a new blue ocean for the gaming industry, driven by a large population, strong consumer spending, and government support [12] - Saudi Arabia's government has elevated the gaming industry as a national strategy, planning to invest $38 billion in gaming and esports [14] - The market is characterized by high consumer spending, with Saudi users' average revenue per user (ARPU) being twice that of the U.S. and five times that of China [14] Group 5: Russia's Gaming Market - Russia's mobile game downloads reached 1.18 billion in the first half of 2024, making it the fifth largest globally, supported by a smartphone penetration rate of 83% [17] - The local digital ecosystem has shown resilience despite international sanctions, with in-app purchase revenue expected to reach $247 million in 2024, growing 12% year-on-year [17] - The exit of Western companies has created a "window of opportunity" for Chinese developers to fill the gap in the market [20] Group 6: Latin America's Gaming Market - Latin America is a growing market with approximately 150 million gamers and a market size of around $3.8 billion, with Brazil being the largest market [21] - The effectiveness of marketing strategies has shifted towards leveraging KOLs (Key Opinion Leaders) for brand promotion, especially in gaming [23] - The market is in a recovery phase, with Chinese companies increasingly establishing local teams for customized operations [24] Group 7: Future Outlook - The Chinese gaming industry is entering a new phase focused on strategic depth and localization, moving away from a reliance on traffic and short-term gains [25] - The next decade will see competition driven by the ability to transition from "game developers" to "localization partners," enabling sustainable global development [26]

Core Insights - Apple's CEO Tim Cook's visit to a gaming experience room in Guangzhou highlighted the city's growing prominence in the gaming industry [1][3] - The game "Mingchao" developed by Guangzhou's Kuro Technology topped the iOS free game charts in 42 countries upon its release in 2024, generating 600 million yuan in its first month [3][4] - Guangzhou's gaming industry generated 140.67 billion yuan in revenue in 2024, accounting for 43.2% of China's total gaming revenue, with overseas markets contributing 19.058 billion yuan [4][5] Industry Performance - In 2023-2024, nine gaming companies from Guangzhou were listed among the "Key Cultural Export Enterprises," showcasing the city's leadership in the gaming sector [5] - Sensor Tower reported that 33 Chinese companies made it to the global mobile game publisher revenue list TOP100, collectively earning 2 billion USD, which is 38.4% of the total revenue of the top 100 [5] - 37 Interactive Entertainment, a pioneer in overseas gaming, achieved overseas revenue of 5.722 billion yuan in 2024, nearly one-third of its total revenue [5][9] Successful Game Titles - "Mingchao" reached over 30 million downloads globally by June 2023, receiving public praise from Tim Cook [9] - "Identity V," developed by NetEase, gained significant traction in the global market and was selected as an esports event for the 2026 Asian Games [10] - The mini-game "Mushroom Hero Legend" generated nearly 400 million yuan in a single month in Japan and South Korea in early 2024, exemplifying the success of smaller titles [12] Industry Ecosystem - Guangzhou's gaming industry is supported by a dense network of nearly 150 companies in the Tianhe district, fostering collaboration and resource sharing [14][16] - The local government has implemented supportive policies, including a dedicated gaming eSports industrial park and a service center for overseas expansion, enhancing the industry's growth [20][18] - The commitment to high-quality game development is evident in the significant investment in R&D, with Kuro Technology spending over 300 million yuan on "Mingchao" [20][21] Future Outlook - The integration of AI technology in game development is becoming a trend, with companies exploring AI applications to enhance game design and player experience [21][22] - The gaming industry in Guangzhou is expected to continue thriving due to its established ecosystem, supportive policies, and dedication to quality [23]

Core Viewpoint - The article highlights the significant growth and global impact of the gaming industry in Guangzhou, showcasing successful games and companies that have established a strong presence in international markets [3][5][6]. Group 1: Industry Performance - In 2024, the gaming industry in Guangzhou achieved a revenue of 1,406.67 billion yuan, accounting for 43.2% of the national gaming industry's total revenue [5][6]. - Guangzhou's gaming companies generated overseas revenue of 190.58 billion yuan, representing 45% of Guangdong province's total gaming export revenue [3][5]. - The game "Ming Chao" launched in 2024 topped the iOS free game charts in 42 countries and regions, with overseas revenue reaching 600 million yuan in its first month [3][4]. Group 2: Successful Case Studies - 37 Interactive Entertainment, a pioneer in overseas gaming, reported overseas revenue of 57.22 billion yuan in 2024, nearly one-third of its total revenue [6]. - NetEase's "荒野行动" (Knives Out) achieved significant success in Japan, with 25 million registered users by August 2019, indicating that one in five Japanese people had played the game [6]. - The game "菇勇者传说" (Mushroom Hero) generated nearly 400 million yuan in a single month in Japan and South Korea in early 2024, showcasing the success of smaller games [13][15]. Group 3: Industry Ecosystem - The gaming industry in Guangzhou benefits from a dense cluster of nearly 150 companies in the Tianhe District, fostering collaboration and resource sharing [19][20]. - The local government has implemented supportive policies, including the establishment of a "Guangdong (Guangzhou) Game Export Service Center" to assist companies in entering global markets [23][24]. - The integration of AI technology in game development is being explored by many companies, enhancing design and gameplay experiences [24][25][26]. Group 4: Future Outlook - The article emphasizes that the success of Guangzhou's gaming industry is built on years of development, a mature ecosystem, and a commitment to quality [27]. - The upcoming "Phoenix Bay Area Finance Forum 2025" aims to discuss global trends and opportunities for companies looking to expand internationally [28].

Core Viewpoint - The A-share gaming sector has shown resilience with multiple stocks experiencing significant gains, indicating a positive market sentiment towards the industry [1][2]. Group 1: Stock Performance - Giant Network (002558.SZ) saw a rise of over 9%, while Shenzhou Taiyue (300002.SZ) and G-bits (603444.SH) increased by over 4% [1]. - As of September 3, the Wind gaming concept index has recorded a year-to-date increase of 37.96%, with four companies, including ST Huatuo and Giant Network, seeing their stock prices double [3][10]. - ST Huatuo led the revenue rankings among 35 listed companies with 17.207 billion yuan, a year-on-year increase of 85.5% [4][6]. Group 2: Company Financials - In the first half of 2025, ST Huatuo, Sanqi Interactive Entertainment, and Kunlun Wanwei reported the highest revenues, with ST Huatuo's net profit reaching 2.656 billion yuan [4][6]. - 20 out of 35 listed companies reported an increase in net profit, with nine companies achieving over 100% growth [7]. - Notable performers include Tuowei Information and Sheng Tian Network, with net profit growth rates of 2262.83% and 1186.02%, respectively [7]. Group 3: Product Performance and Strategy - ST Huatuo's success is attributed to its popular games like "Whiteout Survival" and "Kingshot," which have performed well in both domestic and international markets [4][5]. - Sanqi Interactive Entertainment has focused on a diversified strategy, launching multiple successful games, including "Time Explosion" and "Heroes Have No Flash," which have achieved high rankings in app stores [5][6]. - Kunlun Wanwei has emphasized AI technology, with significant growth in overseas revenue, which accounted for 92.17% of its total revenue [6][11]. Group 4: Market Trends - The gaming sector's growth is partly driven by the broader market trends and the integration of AI technologies within gaming [11][12]. - The overall positive sentiment in the gaming sector is reflected in the substantial stock price increases following the release of quarterly financial reports [10][11].

Core Viewpoint - Company reported a decline in revenue for the first half of 2025, but a significant increase in net profit, indicating improved profitability despite revenue challenges [1][2] Financial Performance - For the first half of 2025, the company achieved revenue of 8.486 billion yuan, a year-on-year decrease of 8.08%, while net profit attributable to shareholders was 1.4 billion yuan, an increase of 10.72% [1] - In Q2 2025, the company reported revenue of 4.243 billion yuan, down 5.33% year-on-year, but net profit increased by 31.24% to 851 million yuan [1][2] - The company announced a cash dividend of 2.10 yuan per share, totaling 926 million yuan for the first half of 2025, representing 66% of net profit [1] Cost Management and Profitability - The significant improvement in Q2 2025 net profit was attributed to a reduction in sales expenses, which decreased by 19.3% to 1.99 billion yuan [1] - The sales expense ratio fell by 8.1 percentage points to 46.9%, primarily due to the transition of key games into maturity, leading to reduced marketing spend [1] - AI-driven advertising has enhanced the efficiency of user acquisition, with AI advertising accounting for 50% of total ad spend, improving efficiency by 70% [1] Product Performance and Future Outlook - The decline in Q2 revenue was influenced by the introduction of new games, which are still in the launch phase, compared to stable revenue from mature games in the previous year [2] - The company is set to launch its self-developed game "Douluo Dalu: Hunting World," which has already topped the iOS free chart, expected to contribute to revenue in Q3 [2] - The company has a rich product pipeline, with a focus on the release schedule of new games, including various genres such as SLG and MMORPG [2] Investment Outlook - Projections for 2025-2027 indicate revenues of 18.838 billion, 20.322 billion, and 21.546 billion yuan, with net profits of 2.931 billion, 3.334 billion, and 3.819 billion yuan respectively [2] - The company is expected to maintain a "buy" rating due to its recovering user acquisition costs and promising new game performance [2]

Investment Rating - The report maintains a "Buy" rating for the company, indicating an expected stock price increase of over 15% relative to the industry index in the next six months [4][16]. Core Views - The company is experiencing a recovery in profits due to reduced sales expenses and improved advertising efficiency through AI, with a notable 31.24% year-on-year increase in net profit for Q2 2025 [2][3]. - The company has a rich product pipeline, with several new games expected to contribute to revenue growth, particularly the self-developed game "Douluo Dalu: Hunting Soul World" which has already topped the iOS free chart [3][2]. - The financial outlook for the company is positive, with projected revenues and net profits increasing steadily from 2025 to 2027, alongside a decreasing P/E ratio, indicating potential for value appreciation [3][4]. Financial Summary - For 2023, the company reported revenue of 16,547 million yuan, with a slight growth rate of 0.9% year-on-year. The net profit attributable to the parent company was 2,659 million yuan, reflecting a decline of 10.0% year-on-year [1]. - The forecast for 2025 estimates revenue to reach 18,838 million yuan, with a growth rate of 8.0%, and net profit expected to be 2,931 million yuan, marking a 9.7% increase [1][3]. - The company's return on equity (ROE) is projected to remain strong, around 19.3% in 2025, while the earnings per share (EPS) is expected to grow from 1.20 yuan in 2023 to 1.33 yuan in 2025 [1][3]. Product and Market Position - The company has a diverse product portfolio, including self-developed and licensed games, with a significant focus on SLG and MMORPG genres. The upcoming releases are anticipated to enhance revenue streams [3][2]. - The company has successfully reduced its sales expenses by 19.3% in Q2 2025, contributing to improved profit margins and overall financial health [2][3].

Core Insights - Sanqi Interactive Entertainment's self-developed "Xiao Qi Large Model" has officially obtained the qualification for public operation after passing the National Internet Information Office's generative artificial intelligence service filing [1] - This model is one of the first game-specific large models in Guangdong Province to receive such approval [1]

Market Overview - On September 3, the gaming sector rose by 2.13% compared to the previous trading day, with Wento Holdings leading the gains [1] - The Shanghai Composite Index closed at 3813.56, down 1.16%, while the Shenzhen Component Index closed at 12472.0, down 0.65% [1] Top Gainers in Gaming Sector - Wento Holdings (600715) closed at 3.23, up 9.86% with a trading volume of 2.5997 million shares and a transaction value of 830 million yuan [1] - Giant Network (002558) closed at 36.05, up 9.54% with a trading volume of 689,300 shares and a transaction value of 2.457 billion yuan [1] - Shenzhou Taiyue (300002) closed at 13.58, up 4.86% with a trading volume of 1.4441 million shares and a transaction value of 1.953 billion yuan [1] Top Losers in Gaming Sector - Shunwang Technology (300113) closed at 24.39, down 2.87% with a trading volume of 331,400 shares and a transaction value of 826 million yuan [2] - Kunlun Wanwei (300418) closed at 42.27, down 2.76% with a trading volume of 1.3698 million shares and a transaction value of 6.018 billion yuan [2] - Fuchun Co., Ltd. (300299) closed at 6.58, down 2.66% with a trading volume of 308,600 shares and a transaction value of 20.8 million yuan [2] Capital Flow in Gaming Sector - The gaming sector saw a net inflow of 178 million yuan from institutional investors, while retail investors experienced a net outflow of 192 million yuan [2] - Major stocks like Shenzhou Taiyue and Wento Holdings had significant net inflows from institutional investors, while retail investors showed net outflows in these stocks [3]

Group 1 - The A-share gaming sector is experiencing a strong start, with notable stocks such as Giant Network rising over 9%, and other companies like Kaixin Network, Shenzhou Taiyue, and others also seeing gains. The gaming ETF (159869) is up nearly 3.5% [1] - Since 2025, a multi-level and systematic policy support has injected certainty into the healthy development of the gaming industry. The "Special Action Plan to Boost Consumption" issued in March explicitly promotes consumption in gaming, esports, and related derivatives [1] - Various regions including Beijing, Shanghai, Guangdong, Zhejiang, Hainan, and Sichuan have introduced a series of supportive policies for the gaming industry, providing strong support for the innovative development of gaming companies [1] Group 2 - The gaming industry is still driven by innovation, but classic IPs and evergreen games remain a "ballast stone" for gaming companies before new popular gameplay emerges. Under favorable policies, strengthening long-term operational capabilities and increasing new product supply have become dual engines for growth [1] - Leading companies are building a solid performance foundation through classic IPs and continuous content updates, while major enterprises are accelerating the testing and launch pace of new products [1] - Guotai Haitong Securities believes the gaming industry is entering a prosperous cycle, focusing on industry trends and product potential, with the gaming sector benefiting from multiple catalysts such as AI, content, and commercialization model changes [2]