WANDA FILM(SZ:002739) Sou Hu Cai Jing·2025-10-16 10:23Core Insights - Wang Jianlin, the founder of Wanda Group, has faced significant financial challenges, including two failed bets that have led to over 7 billion yuan in enforced debt collection and asset sales over the past eight years [2][3][4] - Despite a drastic reduction in personal wealth by nearly 80%, Wang continues to actively sell assets to repay debts, earning respect for his resilience and commitment to his employees [3][5][6] Company Overview - At its peak in 2016, Wanda Group was valued at 800 billion yuan, with a vast portfolio including over 70 high-end hotels and the world's largest cinema chain, AMC [3][4] - The company has been selling assets since 2017, starting with a landmark deal that involved selling 13 cultural tourism projects and 76 hotels for 63.75 billion yuan [4] - As of 2023, Wanda has sold at least 85 shopping mall projects, including a recent sale of 48 malls to a consortium led by Tai Meng, Tencent, and JD [5][6] Financial Challenges - Wanda's debt crisis began in 2017 due to high leverage, with a debt ratio exceeding 70%, leading to a series of asset sales to manage financial obligations [4] - The company has faced multiple failed attempts to list its subsidiary, Zhuhai Wanda Commercial Management, on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange, resulting in a 38 billion yuan equity buyback crisis [4][5] - Despite a projected funding gap of over 50 billion yuan by 2025, Wanda has prioritized employee salaries and benefits, maintaining a commitment to its workforce [6] Leadership and Strategy - Wang Jianlin's military background has instilled a strong sense of determination, leading him to continue asset sales rather than retreating from challenges [5] - The company has established three key principles: avoiding unfinished properties, timely salary payments to 150,000 employees, and prioritizing small creditors [6] - Wang's recent public appearances indicate a significant personal toll from the ongoing challenges, yet he remains actively involved in seeking solutions for Wanda [6]