Core Insights - 36Kr Holdings Inc. hosted the "2025 AI Partner Conference" focusing on AI-powered super applications and scenario-based innovation, featuring prominent speakers from academia and industry [1][2] Group 1: Conference Highlights - The conference included two main segments: "The Arrival of the Super App" and "Who Is the Next Super App," discussing emerging dynamics in the AI era and the potential of next-generation AI applications [2] - Sessions under "The Arrival of the Super App" examined trends in AI super app development from commercialization and investor perspectives, including topics like "Growing Up in the AI World" and "Competing for Super Apps in 2025" [2] - Executives from various leading companies shared insights on "AI+ Empowering Countless Industries," highlighting innovation across sectors [2] Group 2: Awards and Recognition - 36Kr unveiled the "2025 AI-Native Application Innovation Cases" and "2025 AI Partner Innovation Awards," recognizing outstanding AI applications in various domains such as intelligent manufacturing and smart healthcare [3] - The awards emphasized AI-native products that enhance efficiency and drive industry transformation, showcasing the integration of AI in real-world applications [3] Group 3: Future Initiatives - Following the conference, 36Kr aims to empower transformative AI companies in China through the "Disruptor Initiative," identifying enterprises with disruptive potential and acting as their partner [4] - The initiative will leverage global resources and industry-academic collaboration to elevate Chinese AI companies on the global stage [4] Group 4: Company Overview - 36Kr Holdings Inc. is dedicated to serving New Economy participants in China, offering high-quality content and business services to meet the evolving needs of various industries [5] - The company has a strong data analytics capability and aims to capture the growth potential of China's New Economy through diverse service offerings [5]

Core Insights - 36Kr Holdings Inc. hosted the "2025 AI Partner Conference" focusing on AI-powered super applications and scenario-based innovation, featuring prominent speakers from academia and industry [1][2] - The conference included discussions on emerging dynamics in the AI era and the potential of next-generation AI applications, with segments dedicated to identifying future super apps [2] - 36Kr introduced the "2025 AI-Native Application Innovation Cases" and "2025 AI Partner Innovation Awards," recognizing innovative AI applications across various sectors [3] Group 1: Conference Highlights - The conference featured key segments such as "The Arrival of the Super App" and "Who Is the Next Super App," exploring commercialization trends and investor perspectives in AI super app development [2] - Notable speakers included leading figures from companies like AMD, Baidu, and Qualcomm, emphasizing the collaborative nature of the event [1][2] - Discussions highlighted the integration of AI across industries, showcasing innovation and breakthroughs that drive market-wide intelligent transformation [2] Group 2: Awards and Recognition - The "2025 AI-Native Application Innovation Cases" and "2025 AI Partner Innovation Awards" were unveiled to spotlight outstanding AI applications in sectors like intelligent manufacturing and healthcare [3] - The awards aimed to recognize AI solutions that enhance efficiency and quality, addressing real-world challenges and generating measurable value [3] Group 3: Future Initiatives - Following the conference, 36Kr plans to launch the "Disruptor Initiative" to support transformative AI companies in China, leveraging insights from successful enterprises like DeepSeek [4] - The initiative aims to identify and partner with forward-thinking companies to replicate successful innovation models, enhancing the global presence of Chinese technology [4] - 36Kr's commitment to integrating global resources and fostering collaboration between industry and academia positions it as a key player in the AI landscape [4]

Core Viewpoint - 36Kr Holdings Inc. has filed its annual report on Form 20-F for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2024, with the SEC, highlighting its commitment to transparency and regulatory compliance [1]. Company Overview - 36Kr Holdings Inc. is a leading brand and platform focused on serving New Economy participants in China, aiming to empower them to achieve more [3]. - The company began with high-quality content offerings related to the New Economy, covering various industries and utilizing diverse distribution channels [3]. - It has expanded its services to include online advertising, enterprise value-added services, and subscription services, addressing the evolving needs of New Economy companies and the upgrading needs of traditional companies [3]. - The company is supported by a comprehensive database and strong data analytics capabilities, positioning it to capture growth opportunities in China's New Economy [3].

Financial Performance and Structure - In 2022, 2023, and 2024, the revenue generated by the VIE accounted for 99%, 100%, and 100% of the total net revenues, respectively[30]. - As of December 31, 2022, 2023, and 2024, total assets of the VIE represented 87%, 90%, and 92% of the consolidated total assets[30]. - Revenue from online advertising services accounted for 68.7%, 70.2%, and 78.2% of total revenues in 2022, 2023, and 2024, respectively[54]. - A significant portion of revenues is derived from a limited number of customers, which may lead to fluctuations or declines in revenues[98]. - The VIE and its subsidiaries contributed substantially all of the company's revenues in 2022, 2023, and 2024[127]. Regulatory and Compliance Risks - The company faces risks associated with operating in rapidly evolving New Economy sectors, which could materially affect financial conditions and results of operations[42]. - The company must comply with PRC regulations regarding Internet content, and violations could materially affect business operations and financial condition[51]. - The PRC has enacted new laws on data security and personal information protection, which may impose additional operational restrictions and costs[59]. - The company faces uncertainties regarding the legality of foreign investments and operations in the Chinese Internet industry, which may disrupt business[61]. - The approval from the China Securities Regulatory Commission (CSRC) may be required for future overseas securities offerings, which could delay or restrict operations[118]. - The Foreign Investment Law of the PRC, effective January 1, 2020, introduces uncertainties regarding the company's corporate structure and governance[126]. - The PRC government's oversight could materially affect the company's operations and the value of its American Depositary Shares (ADSs)[119]. - The PRC tax authorities may scrutinize the contractual arrangements with the VIE, potentially resulting in additional tax liabilities that could adversely affect the financial condition of the company[131]. - The company may face penalties under PRC tax laws if it fails to comply with tax obligations related to indirect transfers of assets[176]. Operational Challenges - The company has experienced significant user growth, which is critical for attracting and retaining users[45]. - The company faces significant competition in the New Economy-focused business services market, particularly in online advertising and enterprise value-added services[70]. - The company must successfully compete with other companies in the industry and adapt to the evolving regulatory environment[46]. - Negative publicity could adversely affect the company's brand and reputation, impacting user acquisition and retention[44]. - The company may face challenges in retaining key management personnel, which is crucial for its success[81]. - Service disruptions or failures to scale technology could hinder the company's ability to retain and attract users[90]. Financial Health and Cash Flow - The company recorded net cash used in operating activities of RMB5.0 million in 2022, RMB122.2 million in 2023, and RMB33.0 million (US$4.5 million) in 2024, indicating a trend of negative cash flows from operating activities[77]. - The company incurred sales and marketing expenses of RMB122.1 million, RMB127.5 million, and RMB82.6 million (US$11.3 million) in 2022, 2023, and 2024, respectively, accounting for 37.9%, 37.5%, and 35.7% of total revenues[72]. - The company may need to sell additional equity or debt securities to meet future capital needs, which could dilute existing shareholders[78]. - The company relies on dividends and other distributions from its PRC subsidiaries to meet cash requirements, which may be limited by regulations[150]. - The People's Bank of China has implemented capital control measures that may restrict the ability of PRC subsidiaries to remit foreign currency for dividends and acquisitions[151]. Corporate Governance and Shareholder Rights - Dagang Feng, the CEO, holds approximately 74.5% voting power, allowing him to control significant corporate decisions[202]. - The dual-class share structure consists of Class A ordinary shares with one vote each and Class B ordinary shares with 25 votes each, limiting influence of Class A shareholders[203]. - Class B ordinary shares represent about 9.6% of total issued shares but account for 73.0% of voting power, concentrating control[204]. - The company is classified as a "controlled company" under Nasdaq rules, allowing it to rely on exemptions from certain corporate governance requirements[206]. - The difference in voting rights may harm the value and liquidity of Class A ordinary shares, potentially leading to lower market prices[208]. Market and Economic Conditions - The company faces significant risks from a potential global economic recession and a slowdown in the Chinese economy, which could negatively impact business operations and financial condition[107]. - The trading price of the ADSs is likely to be volatile, influenced by various factors including revenue variations, new investments, and regulatory announcements[181]. - The company does not expect to pay cash dividends in the foreseeable future, relying instead on price appreciation for returns on investment[190]. Legal and Tax Considerations - The company may face litigation or claims that could result in substantial costs and negatively impact its financial condition[88]. - The enforcement of labor laws in China may increase labor costs and expose the company to potential penalties for non-compliance[169]. - The company is obligated to withhold individual income taxes for employees exercising share options, with potential sanctions for failure to comply[168]. - Regulatory uncertainties regarding foreign exchange and outbound investment may restrict the company's acquisition strategy and financial operations[166]. Internal Controls and Reporting - The company identified a material weakness in its internal control over financial reporting, specifically a lack of sufficient competent personnel knowledgeable in U.S. GAAP, which could adversely affect the accuracy and timeliness of financial reporting[100]. - The company's financial statements could be impacted by ongoing SEC proceedings against PRC-based accounting firms, potentially affecting compliance with SEC requirements[178]. - The company expects to incur significant legal, accounting, and compliance costs due to its status as a public company, particularly following the cessation of its "emerging growth company" status[213].

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company's total revenue for the second half of 2024 was RMB 128.7 million, a decrease from RMB 200.3 million in the same period of 2023. For the full year, total revenue was RMB 231.1 million, down from RMB 340.2 million in the previous year [38] - Online advertising services revenue for the second half of 2024 was RMB 100.2 million, compared to RMB 139.8 million in the same period of 2023. For the full year, it was RMB 180.6 million, down from RMB 238.7 million [38] - Gross profit for the second half of 2024 was RMB 66.9 million, with a gross margin of 52%, compared to RMB 112.2 million and 56% in the same period of 2023. For the full year, gross profit was RMB 112.3 million, with a gross margin of 48.6%, down from RMB 182 million and 53.5% in the previous year [39][40] - Operating expenses decreased by 50% year-over-year in the second half of 2024, totaling RMB 73.1 million, and by 31.2% for the full year, totaling RMB 119.1 million [40] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Revenue from enterprise value-added services was RMB 19.4 million in the second half of 2024, down from RMB 40.5 million in the same period of 2023. For the full year, it was RMB 32.8 million, compared to RMB 67.3 million in the previous year [38] - Subscription services revenue was RMB 9 million in the second half of 2024, down from RMB 20 million in the same period of 2023. For the full year, it was RMB 17.6 million, compared to RMB 34.2 million in the previous year [39] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported a significant increase in live streaming revenue, which surged by 68.5% year-over-year [19] - The number of followers across various content accounts reached over 35.9 million, marking 16 consecutive quarters of growth [15] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company focused on optimizing its advertising operations and enhancing its content ecosystem, which included launching new content-specific accounts and engaging younger audiences through diverse media formats [10][12] - Global expansion was identified as a crucial opportunity, with the establishment of a presence in Japan and Southeast Asia, and the launch of the 36 Kr European Central Station [26][27] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed cautious optimism regarding advertising growth in 2025, despite macroeconomic headwinds, emphasizing the importance of maintaining strong partnerships with key accounts [47] - The company plans to continue refining its product offerings and organizational structure to enhance overall profitability in 2025 [52] Other Important Information - The company has a cash and cash equivalent and short-term investments totaling RMB 92.5 million as of December 31, 2024 [43] - The company launched several AI-powered tools in 2024, including AI text-to-image and AI financial report interpretation, to enhance content production efficiency [32][34] Q&A Session Summary Question: What is the company's outlook for its advertising business moving forward? - Management noted that while overall advertising revenue declined, they maintained strong partnerships with key accounts and are cautiously optimistic about advertising growth in 2025 [46][47] Question: What progress has the company made in reducing costs and improving efficiency? - Management highlighted rigorous cost control measures, including relocating to lower-cost office spaces and streamlining teams, which led to a significant reduction in operating expenses [50][52] Question: What led to the decline in revenue from enterprise value-added services? - The decline was attributed to economic uncertainties affecting small and medium enterprises and government institutions, along with a strategic restructuring of regional operations [56][57] Question: How does the company position itself in generative AI across content and product offerings? - Management emphasized their early engagement with AI technologies and the launch of AI-powered products, maintaining a strong position in the AI content ecosystem [60][62]

36Kr Holdings (KRKR) Q4 2024 Earnings Call March 11, 2025 08:00 AM ET Company Participants Dagang Feng - Chairman & CEOXiang Li - CFO & Director Operator Today's conference call is being recorded. I'll now turn the call over to your host, Shin Huang, IR Manager of the company. Please go ahead, Shin. Moderator Thank you very much. Hello, everyone, and welcome to thirty six KR Holdings' Second Half and the Fiscal Year twenty twenty four Earnings Conference Call. The company's financial and operational results ...

Core Viewpoint - 36Kr Holdings Inc. reported a significant decline in revenues and increased net losses for the fiscal year 2024, while also achieving operational efficiency improvements and a 10% increase in followers year-over-year [1][5][6]. Financial and Operational Highlights for the Second Half of 2024 - Total revenues were RMB128.7 million (US$17.6 million) in the second half of 2024, down from RMB200.3 million in the same period of 2023 [5][9]. - Revenues from online advertising services decreased to RMB100.2 million (US$13.7 million) from RMB139.8 million [5][10]. - General and administrative expenses were reduced by 58% to RMB30.3 million (US$4.1 million) compared to RMB72.2 million in the same period of 2023 [5][18]. - Net loss was RMB44.9 million (US$6.1 million), compared to RMB36.6 million in the same period of 2023 [5][14]. Financial and Operational Highlights for the Fiscal Year 2024 - Total revenues for fiscal year 2024 were RMB231.1 million (US$31.7 million), down from RMB340.2 million in fiscal year 2023 [5][17]. - Revenues from online advertising services decreased to RMB180.6 million (US$24.7 million) from RMB238.7 million [5][19]. - The net loss for fiscal year 2024 was RMB140.8 million (US$19.3 million), compared to RMB89.2 million in fiscal year 2023 [5][24]. - Operating expenses decreased by 31.2% to RMB190.1 million (US$26.0 million) from RMB276.2 million in fiscal year 2023 [5][21]. Selected Operating Data - The number of online advertising services end customers decreased from 488 in 2023 to 411 in 2024, with average revenue per customer dropping from RMB489.1 thousand to RMB439.4 thousand [4]. - The number of enterprise value-added services end customers fell from 306 to 158, with average revenue per customer decreasing from RMB219.9 thousand to RMB207.8 thousand [4]. - The number of individual subscribers dropped from 46 to 16, with average revenue per subscriber declining from RMB143,091 to RMB24,637.5 [4]. Other Key Metrics - The number of followers increased by 10% year-over-year to 35.9 million as of December 31, 2024 [5][6]. - The gross profit margin for the second half of 2024 was 52.0%, compared to 56.0% in the same period of 2023 [10][11]. - Cash, cash equivalents, and short-term investments totaled RMB91.7 million (US$12.6 million) as of December 31, 2024 [16].

Core Viewpoint - 36Kr Holdings Inc. is set to report its unaudited financial results for the second half and fiscal year 2024 on March 11, 2025, before U.S. market opening [1] Group 1: Earnings Conference Call - The management will host an earnings conference call at 8:00 a.m. U.S. Eastern Time on March 11, 2025 [2] - Participants can join the call by pre-registering and must dial in 5 minutes prior to the scheduled start time [2][3] - A live and archived webcast of the conference call will be available on the Company's investor relations website [3] Group 2: Company Overview - 36Kr Holdings Inc. is a leading platform serving New Economy participants in China, focusing on empowering them to achieve more [4] - The Company began with high-quality New Economy-focused content and has expanded to include business services such as online advertising and enterprise value-added services [4] - 36Kr is supported by a comprehensive database and strong data analytics capabilities, positioning it to capture growth in China's New Economy [4]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Total revenues for the first half of 2024 were RMB102.4 million, down from RMB139.9 million in the same period last year, indicating a decrease of approximately 26.7% [22] - Online advertising services revenue decreased to RMB80.4 million from RMB98.9 million, a decline of about 18.6% [22] - Gross profit was RMB45.5 million, down from RMB69.8 million, with a gross profit margin of 44.4% compared to 49.9% in the previous year [24] - Net loss increased to RMB95.9 million from RMB52.7 million, with a basic and diluted net loss per ADS of RMB2.245 compared to RMB1.258 in the same period last year [26] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Enterprise value-added services revenues fell to RMB13.4 million from RMB26.8 million, a decrease of approximately 50% [23] - Subscription services revenues decreased to RMB8.6 million from RMB14.2 million, reflecting a decline of about 39.4% [23] - The company reported a significant reduction in operating expenses by 9% to RMB117 million, with sales and marketing expenses decreasing by 29.9% [24] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company had over 33.28 million followers, a 9% increase year over year, indicating sustained growth in user engagement [7] - Short video followers surpassed 9.2 million, with 2.3 million on Bilibili alone, showcasing strong performance in the short video segment [10] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focusing on premium original content and enhancing its content supply capabilities, aiming to meet diverse customer needs and explore AI applications [8] - A three-step strategy of positioning, expansion, and collaboration is being implemented to drive operational efficiency and diversified development [9][20] - The company is expanding its customer segments, particularly in sectors like food and beverage, sports, and beauty, with notable new customer ratios exceeding 40% in beauty and personal care [16] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed cautious optimism regarding future advertising growth, emphasizing the importance of optimizing products and services to navigate macroeconomic challenges [30] - The company plans to continue enriching its content ecosystem and expanding its reach to new channels while integrating AI technology into content production [30] Other Important Information - The company recognized an investment loss of approximately RMB25.5 million due to fair value changes of long-term investments [26] - Cash and cash equivalents decreased to RMB96.9 million from RMB116.9 million as of December 31, 2023, primarily due to net cash outflow from operating activities [27] Q&A Session Summary Question: Could management outline the expected growth trajectory for the advertising business? - Management remains cautiously optimistic about future advertising growth, focusing on optimizing products and services to support core customers, which has driven a 20% increase in ARPU [30] Question: What are the latest developments in short and long video segments? - The company has expanded its short video content offerings and established high visibility commercialization collaborations, with short video followers surpassing 9.2 million [34] Question: What key strategies will the company implement to drive growth in enterprise value-added services and subscription services? - The company launched a successful event IP and plans to enhance value-added consulting services while refining its service architecture for governmental and public service systems [39]

Core Viewpoint - 36Kr Holdings Inc. reported a decline in total revenues for the first half of 2024, attributed to a challenging macroeconomic environment and reduced advertising spending, while maintaining a solid operational performance with an increase in followers and average revenue per user in certain segments [2][5][6]. Financial and Operational Highlights - The number of followers reached 33.3 million, a 9.2% increase from 30.5 million in the same period of 2023 [2]. - Total revenues were RMB102.4 million (US$14.1 million), down from RMB139.9 million in the first half of 2023 [5]. - Revenues from online advertising services decreased to RMB80.4 million (US$11.1 million) from RMB98.9 million [6]. - Revenues from enterprise value-added services fell to RMB13.4 million (US$1.8 million) from RMB26.8 million [6]. - Subscription services revenues decreased to RMB8.6 million (US$1.2 million) from RMB14.2 million [6]. Selected Operating Data - The number of online advertising services end customers decreased from 330 to 222, while the average revenue per customer increased from RMB299.7 thousand to RMB362.1 thousand [3]. - The number of enterprise value-added services end customers decreased from 90 to 56, with average revenue per customer dropping from RMB297.4 thousand to RMB239.0 thousand [3]. - The number of individual subscribers decreased from 71 to 16, with average revenue per subscriber decreasing from RMB27,105.6 to RMB24,637.5 [3]. Cost and Expenses - Cost of revenues decreased to RMB57.0 million (US$7.8 million) from RMB70.0 million [7]. - Gross profit was RMB45.5 million (US$6.3 million), with a gross profit margin of 44.4%, down from 49.9% [7]. - Operating expenses were RMB117.0 million (US$16.1 million), down from RMB128.7 million [7]. - Sales and marketing expenses decreased by 29.9% to RMB45.4 million (US$6.2 million) [8]. - General and administrative expenses increased by 79.9% to RMB62.8 million (US$8.6 million) [8]. Net Loss and Financial Position - The net loss was RMB95.9 million (US$13.2 million), compared to a net loss of RMB52.7 million in the same period of 2023 [10][11]. - Cash, cash equivalents, and short-term investments as of June 30, 2024, were RMB96.9 million (US$13.3 million) [12].