Core Viewpoint - Zhibao Technology Inc. has demonstrated a significant turnaround in financial performance, achieving strong revenue growth and operational profitability in H1 FY 2025, driven by its digital insurance brokerage services and strategic partnerships [1][6]. Financial Performance - For H1 FY 2025, Zhibao reported total revenue of RMB 146.4 million ($20.1 million), a 73.7% increase year-over-year from RMB 84.3 million in H1 FY 2024, exceeding estimates of $18.65 million [1]. - The revenue growth was primarily attributed to a RMB 69.6 million increase in insurance brokerage service fees, totaling RMB 145.0 million, despite a RMB 7.5 million decline in managing general underwriting (MGU) fees [1]. - The cost of revenues rose by 91.5% to RMB 103.8 million ($14.2 million), leading to a 660-basis point contraction in gross margins [1]. - Operating expenses as a percentage of revenue decreased from 45.6% to 26.5%, indicating improved operational efficiency [1]. - Zhibao reported an operating income of RMB 3.8 million ($0.5 million), compared to an operating loss of RMB 8.4 million in the prior year [1]. - The net loss narrowed to RMB 1.5 million ($0.2 million) from RMB 8.5 million in the same period last year, with an adjusted net profit of RMB 5.0 million ($0.7 million) on a non-GAAP basis [1]. Strategic Developments - Zhibao expanded its natural gas insurance portfolio through a Marketing Agreement with YipinSmart, covering five cities in Zhejiang and Jiangsu provinces, targeting a population of over 36 million [1]. - The company is also pursuing international expansion through partnerships and plans to establish an in-house reinsurance company in Malaysia, enhancing its revenue potential and bargaining power [1][2]. - Sunshine Insurance Brokers secured a contract for Huiminbao Inclusive Medical Insurance in Yunnan, adding a low-premium health insurance product to its offerings, which positions Zhibao to tap into the underpenetrated Western Chinese market [6]. Market Position and Future Outlook - Zhibao's distribution network expanded, increasing the number of B-channel partners from approximately 1,500 to over 2,000, allowing the company to serve more than 20 million end users [6]. - The company aims to leverage its digital platform for long-term strategic partnerships, diversify its revenue mix, and explore targeted acquisitions to enhance cash flow visibility and margin expansion [6]. - A revised valuation estimate of $7.05 per share reflects the company's strong growth trajectory and operational improvements [6].
Diamond Equity Research Releases Update Note on Zhibao Technology Inc. (NASDAQ: ZBAO)