智通财经网·2025-09-04 05:52Core Viewpoint - The company, NetDragon, has announced a shareholder return plan of over HKD 600 million, instilling significant confidence in the market while continuing to create value for shareholders through its AI-driven strategies in both education and gaming sectors [1][6]. Financial Performance - For the first half of 2025, the company reported revenue of HKD 2.38 billion, with a gross profit of HKD 1.66 billion and a gross margin of 69.5%, reflecting a year-on-year increase of 2.9 percentage points [1]. - Operating expenses decreased by 15.6% year-on-year to HKD 1.35 billion, showcasing the effectiveness of AI in cost optimization and efficiency enhancement [1]. AI Strategy - The company is pursuing a dual strategy of "AI + Education" and "AI + Gaming," leveraging technological innovation and ecosystem collaboration to seize new growth opportunities globally [1][4]. - AI has significantly improved operational efficiency, with an estimated 15% enhancement in overall effectiveness within the gaming sector [1][2]. Gaming Sector Developments - The company has established AI production centers to enhance collaboration and content generation across different game teams, leading to the efficient launch of multilingual versions of flagship IPs like "Magic Domain" [2]. - Notable game products such as "Conquest" and "Spirit of the Heroes" have seen revenue growth of 2.1% and 18% year-on-year, respectively, while the core mobile game "Magic Domain" has experienced a MAU growth of over 30% [2]. Education Sector Initiatives - The company has made early investments in AI for education since 2017, developing AI-driven educational content and tools, and is now focusing on expanding its market share both domestically and internationally [3]. - Collaborations with educational institutions in Thailand and Cameroon aim to enhance digital education and improve educational equity and quality [3]. Industry Positioning - The company is strategically positioned to capitalize on the global AI technology landscape by integrating cutting-edge technologies and expanding its AI ecosystem [4][5]. - Future investments will focus on AI, XR, robotics, and blockchain technologies, reinforcing synergies with the company's core business [5]. Shareholder Returns - The company has a history of shareholder return plans, including a recent announcement of a plan to return up to HKD 600 million, which includes dividends and buybacks, reflecting a commitment to shareholder value [6][7]. - The proposed dividend of HKD 0.50 per share represents a year-on-year increase of 25%, with an annualized dividend yield exceeding 9%, making it one of the most attractive in the tech sector [6][7].