TME(US:TME) Di Yi Cai Jing·2025-06-10 16:30Core Viewpoint - Tencent Music Entertainment Group (TME) has signed an acquisition agreement to fully acquire Ximalaya for a total consideration of approximately $1.26 billion in cash and stock, marking a significant shift in the online audio industry landscape in China [1][4][14]. Acquisition Details - The acquisition involves a cash payment of $1.26 billion and approximately 5.2% of Tencent Music's equity, totaling nearly $2.8 billion (around RMB 20.1 billion) based on current stock prices [1]. - Ximalaya's founders will also receive Tencent Music Class A common stock valued at approximately $108 million in installments [1]. - Post-acquisition, Ximalaya will maintain its brand, core management team, and strategic direction, continuing independent operations [1]. Financial Context - Ximalaya's peak valuation reached RMB 30 billion, but the current acquisition price reflects a significant decrease, with a valuation drop of about RMB 10 billion compared to its previous funding rounds [4]. - In 2023, Ximalaya reported revenues of RMB 6.16 billion, achieving adjusted earnings of RMB 224 million, marking its first annual adjusted profit after three years of losses exceeding RMB 2 billion from 2019 to 2021 [6]. Market Position - Ximalaya remains a leading online audio platform in China, with an average monthly active user base of 303 million in 2023, holding a 25% market share in the online audio industry [8]. - Despite its strong user base, Ximalaya has faced challenges, including failed IPO attempts and increased competition, leading to a more rational valuation from investors [5][6]. Strategic Implications - The acquisition is seen as a strategic move for both companies, with Ximalaya gaining access to Tencent's extensive resources and ecosystem, while Tencent aims to enhance its content distribution channels and user engagement [9][10]. - Tencent Music has experienced a decline in active users, with a 4% year-over-year decrease, making the acquisition a potential avenue for user growth and new business opportunities [11]. Historical Context - Ximalaya has undergone a tumultuous journey with four failed IPO attempts, which included plans to list on NASDAQ and the Hong Kong Stock Exchange [6]. - Tencent has been a significant investor in Ximalaya, holding a 5.33% stake prior to the acquisition, indicating a long-standing relationship between the two entities [4]. Future Outlook - The acquisition is expected to reshape the online audio industry landscape in China, with a focus on the synergistic effects of resource integration between Tencent and Ximalaya [14].