PDD(US:PDD) Sou Hu Cai Jing·2025-05-28 10:57Core Viewpoint - PDD Holdings, the parent company of Temu, reported a significant decline in profits for the first quarter, with revenue growth hitting a three-year low, indicating challenges in its operational model due to tariffs and weak consumer sentiment in its domestic market [1][4]. Financial Performance - Total revenue for Pinduoduo in the first quarter increased by 10% year-on-year to RMB 95.7 billion (approximately $13.7 billion), falling short of analyst expectations by RMB 5.9 billion (approximately $824 million) [4]. - Net income dropped by 47% year-on-year to RMB 14.7 billion (approximately $2.1 billion), missing general expectations by RMB 11 billion (approximately $1.5 billion), highlighting the impact of financial charges on profitability [4]. Market Challenges - The sudden slowdown in Pinduoduo's performance suggests that its business model is struggling to cope with combined pressures from tariffs, the end of minimum exemption, and fierce price competition in China's retail ecosystem [5]. - The macroeconomic and regulatory environment is currently unfavorable for Temu, with increasing trade barriers being set by governments to protect domestic interests [5]. Regulatory Developments - The EU has proposed a unified tax of €2 (approximately $2.27) on small packages valued under €150 (approximately $170.02) entering the European market, which could further impact Temu's pricing strategy [6][8]. - The G7 countries are also discussing imposing tariffs on ultra-low-priced goods from China, which could affect Temu's operations [6][8]. Strategic Adjustments - Temu has begun local warehousing services in Europe since December, with plans for 80% of European orders to be shipped from local warehouses [14]. - The company is adjusting its operational model to address regulatory challenges and consumer quality demands by gradually phasing out ultra-low-priced products and reducing user subsidies [14]. Market Position and Growth - According to Emerce, Temu's market share in Europe is expected to grow significantly to 35%-40%, surpassing North America as its largest market, with active users in Europe exceeding 120 million [11]. - The projected GMV for Temu in Europe is expected to reach €58 billion by 2025, reflecting a 45% increase from 2024 [11].