Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported a 47% year-over-year increase in net revenues to RMB 808 million in the first quarter of 2025 [7] - Non-GAAP operating profit reached RMB 106 million, marking the sixth consecutive quarter of positive operating profit [15] - Gross profit margin improved to 28.6%, a 2.7 percentage point increase year-over-year [15] - Operating cash inflow was RMB 207 million, significantly up from RMB 4 million in the same quarter of the previous year [15][17] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The strategic emphasis on international markets contributed to a 46.5% year-over-year increase in net revenue [14] - The company launched several new large capacity products, including disposable and cartridge-based devices, to adapt to market trends [12][13] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The e-vapor industry faced a decline in exports from China due to regulatory changes, including bans on disposable products and increased taxes in various countries [7][8] - The transition from disposable e-cigarettes to big puff products is gaining traction, particularly in Europe, with expectations of a significant shift by the end of 2025 [27][28] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focusing on product development and localized channel strategies to capture market share [30][31] - It aims to adapt quickly to regulatory changes and user trends, leveraging in-house product development capabilities [12][22] - The company is committed to sustainable growth and creating long-term value for shareholders [17][18] Management Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management acknowledged the challenging macro and regulatory environment but expressed confidence in achieving positive dollar growth while the industry faces negative growth [14][23] - The evolving regulatory landscape is expected to favor companies with robust product development and compliance capabilities, positioning the company for long-term success [23][35] Other Important Information - The company maintains a solid cash position with total financial assets of RMB 16.2 billion as of March 31, 2025 [17] - The company is experiencing a negative cash conversion cycle, with inventory turnover days of 25 days [16] Q&A Session Summary Question: Update on overseas expansion and regulatory impact - Management indicated a cautious approach to international expansion due to evolving regulatory environments, expecting to evaluate further market entry in one to two quarters [21][22] Question: Progress of Europe's transition to big puff products and strategies for market share - Management noted a proactive response from distributors in the UK to the upcoming disposable ban, with expectations of a shift to big puff products [27][28] - Strategies for capturing market share include optimizing product portfolios and refining channel strategies [30][31] Question: Competitive landscape in Europe and domestic growth potential - Management highlighted a strong position to capture market share due to a comprehensive product portfolio and agile supply chain [34] - In Mainland China, the regulatory framework has remained stable, with modest growth expected in legal markets [36]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported a 47% year-over-year increase in net revenues to RMB808 million in the first quarter of 2025, with a non-GAAP operating profit of RMB106 million [6][13]. - Gross profit margin improved to 28.6%, a 2.7 percentage point increase year-over-year and 1.6 percentage points quarter-over-quarter [14]. - Operating cash inflow reached RMB207 million, significantly up from RMB4 million in the same quarter of the previous year [15]. Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The strategic emphasis on international markets contributed to a 46.5% year-over-year increase in net revenue [13]. - The company launched several new large capacity products, including disposable and cartridge-based devices, to adapt to market trends [12]. Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The e-vapor industry is facing a decline in exports from China due to regulatory changes, including bans on disposable products and increased taxes in various countries [6][7]. - The trend of "big puff" products is gaining traction globally, with increased e-liquid consumption but lower average selling prices affecting overall revenue growth [10][11]. Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focusing on product development and adapting to regulatory changes by creating compliant products tailored to market needs [12][22]. - A robust inventory management system and a diversified global market presence are strategies employed to mitigate risks associated with regulatory changes [12]. Management Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in achieving positive dollar growth despite the industry's negative growth this year, emphasizing the company's ability to adapt to regulatory changes [11][13]. - The evolving regulatory landscape is seen as a challenge but also an opportunity for innovation, with the company well-positioned to meet these challenges [22]. Other Important Information - The company maintains a solid cash position, with total financial assets amounting to RMB16.2 billion as of March 31, 2025 [15]. - The company is committed to sustainable growth and creating long-term value for shareholders [16]. Q&A Session Summary Question: Update on overseas expansion and regulatory impact - Management indicated a cautious approach to international expansion due to evolving regulatory environments, with plans to evaluate new market entries over the next one to two quarters [20][21]. Question: Progress of Europe's transition to big puff products and strategies for market share - Management noted increasing demand for big puff products in response to the upcoming disposable ban in the UK, with expectations for a significant market shift by the end of the year [25][26]. Question: Competitive landscape in Europe and domestic business growth - The company is well-prepared to capture market share during the transition, leveraging its product portfolio and agile supply chain [32]. - In Mainland China, the regulatory framework remains stable, with modest growth expected in legal markets due to ongoing enforcement against illegal products [34].

RLX TECH First Quarter 2025 Earnings Presentation Contents Financial Highlights Performance Highlights Appendix Operational Highlights RLX TECH Contents Performance Highlights Financial Highlights Revenues Gross Profit Non-GAAP Operating Expenses Profitability Capital Resources Operational Highlights Product Portfolio Domestic Products International Products Regulation and Compliance Appendix Key Ratios Income Statements Balance Sheets Statements of Cash Flows E-cigarettes Product Overview Vaping Myths and ...

Core Viewpoint - RLX Technology Inc. reported strong financial results for Q1 2025 despite challenges in the e-vapor industry, driven by international expansion and effective cost management strategies [2][3][10]. Financial Performance - Net revenues reached RMB808.3 million (US$111.4 million) in Q1 2025, a 46.5% increase from RMB551.6 million in Q1 2024, primarily due to international expansion [3][10]. - Gross profit was RMB231.0 million (US$31.8 million) in Q1 2025, up from RMB142.8 million in the same period of 2024 [3]. - Gross margin improved to 28.6% in Q1 2025 from 25.9% in Q1 2024, attributed to a favorable revenue mix and cost optimization initiatives [4]. Operating Expenses - Operating expenses decreased to RMB153.5 million (US$21.2 million) in Q1 2025 from RMB194.4 million in Q1 2024, mainly due to fluctuations in share-based compensation expenses [5]. - Selling expenses increased to RMB59.0 million (US$8.1 million) in Q1 2025 from RMB52.9 million in Q1 2024, driven by higher branding expenses [6]. - General and administrative expenses fell to RMB67.5 million (US$9.3 million) in Q1 2025 from RMB110.0 million in Q1 2024, primarily due to reduced share-based compensation expenses [7]. Income and Profitability - U.S. GAAP income from operations was RMB77.4 million (US$10.7 million) in Q1 2025, compared to a loss of RMB51.6 million in Q1 2024 [8]. - Non-GAAP income from operations surged to RMB105.8 million (US$14.6 million) in Q1 2025 from RMB23.3 million in Q1 2024 [8]. - U.S. GAAP net income was RMB222.7 million (US$30.7 million) in Q1 2025, up from RMB132.6 million in Q1 2024 [9][10]. Cash Flow and Balance Sheet - As of March 31, 2025, the company had cash and cash equivalents totaling RMB16,159.6 million (US$2,226.9 million), an increase from RMB15,870.8 million as of December 31, 2024 [13]. - Net cash generated from operating activities was RMB207.2 million (US$28.5 million) in Q1 2025 [13]. Market Dynamics - The e-vapor industry is facing challenges due to regulatory changes, including bans on disposable products and excise taxes, which are expected to impact the market throughout 2025 [2]. - There is a global trend towards larger-volume e-liquid products, reflecting consumer demand for convenience and cost-effectiveness [2].

Core Viewpoint - RLX Technology Inc. is set to report its unaudited financial results for the first quarter ended March 31, 2025, before the U.S. markets open on May 16, 2025 [1]. Group 1: Earnings Call Details - The earnings conference call is scheduled for 8:00 AM U.S. Eastern Time on May 16, 2025, which corresponds to 8:00 PM Beijing/Hong Kong Time on the same day [2]. - Dial-in details for the earnings conference call include a toll-free number for the United States and specific numbers for international participants, including Hong Kong and Mainland China [2]. - Participants are advised to dial in 10 minutes prior to the scheduled start time and use the provided Participant Code to connect to the call [2]. Group 2: Webcast and Replay Information - A live and archived webcast of the conference call will be available on the Company's investor relations website [3]. - A replay of the conference call will be accessible approximately two hours after the conclusion of the call until May 23, 2025, with specific numbers provided for replay access [3]. Group 3: Company Overview - RLX Technology Inc. is recognized as a leading global branded e-vapor company, utilizing strong in-house technology and product development capabilities to meet the needs of adult smokers [3].

Group 1 - Pomerantz LLP is investigating claims on behalf of investors of RLX Technology Inc. regarding potential securities fraud or unlawful business practices by the company and its officers or directors [1] - On March 17, 2025, Citi downgraded RLX stock from Buy to Neutral due to overseas regulatory challenges and an unfavorable product mix, predicting a deceleration in organic growth for RLX's overseas business in 2025 [3] - Following the downgrade, RLX's American Depositary Receipt (ADR) price fell by $0.30, or 13.27%, closing at $1.96 per ADR on the same day [3] Group 2 - Pomerantz LLP is recognized as a leading firm in corporate, securities, and antitrust class litigation, with a history of recovering multimillion-dollar damages for victims of securities fraud and corporate misconduct [4]

Core Viewpoint - RLX Technology Inc. has filed its annual report on Form 20-F for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2024, with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission [1]. Company Overview - RLX Technology Inc. is a leading global branded e-vapor company that utilizes strong in-house technology and product development capabilities to create superior e-vapor products tailored to adult smokers' needs [3]. - The company provides access to its annual report on the SEC's website and its investor relations website, and offers hard copies of its audited consolidated financial statements free of charge to shareholders and ADS holders upon request [2].

Regulatory Environment - The company operates in China through PRC subsidiaries and the consolidated VIE, which is subject to foreign investment restrictions[30]. - The company faces risks related to the enforcement of its contractual arrangements, which may not be as effective as direct ownership[34]. - The Holding Foreign Companies Accountable Act (HFCAA) poses a risk of trading prohibition if the company's auditor is not subject to PCAOB inspections for two consecutive years[36]. - The PCAOB previously determined it could not inspect auditors in mainland China and Hong Kong, impacting the company's compliance status under the HFCAA[36]. - The company is subject to evolving PRC laws and regulations, which could materially affect its operations and financial performance[35]. - Future changes in PRC regulations regarding foreign investment could lead to severe penalties or operational changes for the company[35]. - The company may face sanctions if it fails to obtain necessary approvals for future offshore offerings, which could adversely affect its operations and financial condition[38]. - The regulatory environment for e-vapor products in China has significantly changed, including prohibitions on sales to minors and online sales, impacting revenue generation from certain distribution channels[82]. - The company has adapted its product design and specifications to comply with the National Standards for E-Cigarettes, effective October 1, 2022[91]. - The E-Cigarettes Administrative Measures impose a flavor ban on e-cigarettes, significantly affecting product offerings and potentially reducing revenues and competitiveness[94]. - The company may require CSRC approval for future capital raising activities, which could delay or complicate offshore offerings[150]. - The 2024 Negative List requires domestic companies in prohibited businesses to obtain governmental approval for overseas offerings, affecting their operational and financial conditions[158]. Financial Performance - The consolidated variable interest entity (VIE) accounted for all total revenues in 2022, and a significant portion of total revenues for 2023 and 2024[30]. - For the years ended December 31, 2022, 2023, and 2024, RLX Technology Inc. provided loans of RMB4,313.9 million, RMB3,226.1 million, and RMB4,357.1 million (US$596.9 million) respectively[40]. - A cash dividend of US$0.01 per ordinary share was approved on November 15, 2024, payable in December 2024[41]. - Future cash dividends will depend on the board's discretion and various financial conditions[42]. - Total third-party revenues for the year ended December 31, 2024, reached RMB 2,748,576 thousand, a significant increase from RMB 1,586,397 thousand in 2023, representing a growth of approximately 73%[50]. - Net income attributable to RLX Technology Inc. for 2024 was RMB 551,837 thousand, compared to RMB 534,328 thousand in 2023, indicating a slight increase of about 3.5%[50]. - The company reported total assets of RMB 16,871,049 thousand as of December 31, 2024, up from RMB 16,871,049 thousand in 2023, reflecting stable asset management[54]. - Cash and cash equivalents amounted to RMB 5,593,492 thousand as of December 31, 2024, compared to RMB 5,332,779 thousand in 2023, showing an increase of approximately 4.9%[54]. - The company incurred third-party operating expenses of RMB 833,662 thousand in 2024, which is a decrease from RMB 884,424 thousand in 2023, representing a reduction of about 5.8%[50]. - The company reported other income of RMB 671,489 thousand for 2024, compared to RMB 1,037,698 thousand in 2023, reflecting a decrease of approximately 35.3%[50]. - The company reported a total comprehensive income of RMB 740,154 for 2023, down from RMB 2,340,735 in 2022[64]. - Net revenues for 2023 were RMB 1,586,397, a decrease of 70.3% compared to RMB 5,332,779 in 2022[64]. - Net income for the years ended December 31, 2022, 2023, and 2024 was RMB 1,408.7 million, RMB 541.0 million, and RMB 564.3 million (US$77.3 million), respectively[75]. Operational Challenges - The company faces risks related to the evolving regulatory landscape, which may affect its ability to maintain profitability and operational efficiency[76]. - The approved manufacturing capacity under the Tobacco Monopoly Licenses may limit the quantity of e-cigarette products that can be produced, impacting market supply[88]. - The company may experience challenges in obtaining timely renewals of licenses and maintaining compliance with regulatory requirements, which could adversely affect operations[85]. - The company is required to sell e-cigarettes through qualified distributors with wholesale licenses via the National Transaction Platform, which may impact product availability and distribution[129]. - There is uncertainty regarding the ability of retailers to obtain sufficient products from qualified distributors, which could affect the supply of e-vapor products to users in China[131]. - The company faces potential product liability claims and user complaints that could adversely impact its reputation and financial performance[117]. - Negative publicity related to product quality or regulatory compliance may discourage users from purchasing the company's products[127]. - The company has undertaken initiatives to combat underage usage and counterfeiting, but success is not guaranteed[123]. - The company has limited product liability insurance, which may not be adequate to cover potential claims[119]. - The overall regulatory landscape for e-vapor products remains uncertain, which could materially impact market development and growth prospects[115]. - The company faces risks associated with logistics and supply chain disruptions, including customs delays and rising freight costs, which could materially impact operations[195]. - The company is vulnerable to natural disasters and public health crises, which could disrupt operations and affect financial conditions[169]. Market Expansion - The company successfully expanded into three additional markets in the Asia-Pacific region in 2024, enhancing its international growth strategy[39]. - The company plans to continue its international expansion despite facing various risks associated with regulatory changes and market conditions[70]. - The company plans to expand internationally, having entered three new markets in the Asia Pacific region in 2024 after acquiring SS North Asia Holding Limited[104]. - The international expansion strategy includes collaboration with established partners, acquiring brands, and setting up joint ventures[104]. - A significant portion of the company's revenue in 2024 was generated from supplying e-vapor products to Relx Inc., which operates in overseas markets[109]. - The e-vapor market in China and globally is still in its early stages, with low penetration among adult smokers and uncertainties regarding regulatory developments and market acceptance[114]. Supply Chain and Production - The company relies on a limited number of suppliers and manufacturers, with a significant portion of products produced at an exclusive plant in China, which could adversely affect operations if disruptions occur[174]. - By December 31, 2024, all suppliers and manufacturers are required to obtain licenses under the E-Cigarettes Administrative Measures, which may impact production capabilities if not maintained[176]. - The implementation of the E-Cigarettes Administrative Measures may limit the quantity of e-vapor products produced, potentially leading to supply shortages against market demand[178]. - The exclusive production plant is located on leased properties of over 23,575 square meters, and failure to renew leases could disrupt production activities[186]. - Labor shortages in China could affect production at the e-liquid plant, potentially increasing costs and impacting profitability if not managed[190]. - The company faces risks related to warehousing and logistics, including potential disruptions from natural disasters or regulatory challenges to leased properties[191]. - Third-party logistics service providers are essential for product delivery, and any disruptions in their operations could hinder timely delivery to distributors[192]. - Any failure of suppliers or manufacturers to meet quality and production standards could materially impact the company's business and financial results[183]. Intellectual Property and Cybersecurity - The company relies on a combination of trademark, patent, copyright, and trade secret protections to safeguard its intellectual property rights[220]. - The company faces challenges in effectively protecting its intellectual property rights due to potential breaches of confidentiality agreements[222]. - The company may be subject to intellectual property infringement claims from third parties, which could disrupt operations and incur significant expenses[223]. - The company has not experienced any material breach of its cybersecurity system as of the date of the annual report[215]. - The company is subject to routine inspections by PRC governmental authorities regarding privacy protection and data security[215]. - The company has obtained user consent for data usage and has implemented technical measures for data security[219]. - Compliance with evolving PRC laws on personal information protection may incur additional costs and liabilities for the company[218]. Competition and Market Dynamics - Competition in the e-vapor industry is intense, with competitors potentially having greater resources and market advantages, which may affect market share and profitability[202]. - The company has adapted its business strategies in response to new regulations effective from October 1, 2022, but faces uncertainties regarding user acceptance of new products[206]. - Misconduct by employees or partners could harm the company's brand and reputation, leading to potential liability and negative publicity[211]. - Advertising restrictions imposed by PRC laws limit the company's ability to promote its products, potentially reducing brand awareness and revenue[213]. - The company is exploring new initiatives and strategies for international market expansion, which may require significant investment and could affect profitability if unsuccessful[207].

Group 1 - The Schall Law Firm is investigating claims on behalf of investors of RLX Technology Inc. for potential violations of securities laws [1] - The investigation is centered on whether RLX issued false or misleading statements and failed to disclose important information to investors [2] - RLX experienced a downgrade from buy to neutral by Citi on March 17, 2025, due to overseas regulatory challenges and a negative shift in product mix, leading to a 13.27% drop in ADRs on the same day [2]

Group 1 - RLX Technology is identified as both a growth and recovery story stock that is heavily mispriced in the market [1] - The company is perceived by the market primarily as a domestic recovery story, despite facing strict crackdowns by the Chinese government [1] - There is a belief that RLX Technology offers a good investment opportunity beyond its current market perception [1]