Vantone NeoDev Group(SH:600246) Hua Xia Shi Bao·2025-08-20 16:23Core Viewpoint - The recent detention of Wang Yihui, the actual controller and chairman of Wantong Development, raises concerns about the company's ongoing transformation and investment strategy, particularly in light of its recent announcement to invest in a technology firm [2][3][4]. Group 1: Company Developments - On August 19, Wantong Development announced that its chairman Wang Yihui was detained by the Beijing Public Security Bureau, with the investigation unrelated to the company's daily operations [3]. - Following the detention, the company appointed Qian Jinzhu, a board member and CEO, to assume the responsibilities of the chairman until Wang Yihui resumes his duties or a new chairman is elected [3]. - The company maintains that its governance structure and internal control systems are robust, ensuring that daily operations will not be significantly affected by this incident [3]. Group 2: Investment Strategy - Wantong Development plans to invest 854 million yuan (approximately 8.54 billion yuan) to acquire approximately 63% of Beijing Shuduo Information Technology Co., Ltd., which specializes in PCIe high-speed switching chips [5][6]. - The investment in Shuduo Technology is seen as a strategic move to enter the high-tech sector, particularly in the AI and server markets, where PCIe chips are critical [5][6]. - Shuduo Technology is currently in a loss-making position, with a projected net profit of -138 million yuan for 2024, although its revenue is expected to double compared to 2023 [6]. Group 3: Market Reactions - Following the announcement of the chairman's detention, Wantong Development's stock price fluctuated significantly, rising from around 7 yuan to nearly 12 yuan before dropping back to approximately 9 yuan [4]. - The stock experienced a rebound on August 20, closing at 9.59 yuan, reflecting an increase of 8.36% [4]. - Investors have expressed concerns about the company's ability to execute its transformation strategy effectively, especially given the recent history of a failed acquisition attempt earlier in the year [7][8]. Group 4: Regulatory Scrutiny - The company received inquiries from the Shanghai Stock Exchange regarding the rationale behind the investment in Shuduo Technology, particularly concerning its ongoing losses and the potential impact on Wantong Development's operational capabilities [8][9]. - Similar scrutiny was faced during the earlier attempt to acquire Solstice Optoelectronics, which was ultimately terminated due to changes in the transaction environment and disagreements on commercial terms [7][8].