WeRide Inc.(US:WRD) 3 6 Ke·2025-10-24 12:22Core Insights - Chinese Robotaxi players Pony.AI and WeRide are moving towards the Hong Kong stock market for their IPOs, with both companies completing their filings on October 14 and passing the Hong Kong Stock Exchange hearings shortly after [1][2]. Group 1: Market Context - The decision for both companies to list in Hong Kong is influenced by geopolitical uncertainties affecting Chinese tech companies listed in the U.S., particularly the risk of being classified as "identified issuers" under the HFCAA, which could lead to trading restrictions [3]. - The Hong Kong market offers a more stable capital environment, attracting long-term investors and providing a buffer against geopolitical risks, which is crucial for the capital-intensive nature of the autonomous driving industry [4]. Group 2: Financial Performance - In the first half of 2025, Pony.AI reported total revenue of approximately $35.43 million, a 43.3% increase year-over-year, with significant growth in its Robotaxi business, which surged by 178.8% [6][7]. - WeRide's total revenue for the same period was approximately $27.87 million, reflecting a 32.8% year-over-year increase, with its Robotaxi services growing by 385% [6][7]. Group 3: Business Strategies - Pony.AI's revenue structure shows a heavy reliance on technology licensing and application services, which accounted for 42% of its total revenue, while its Robotaxi services contributed 9.2% [6][7]. - WeRide has a more balanced revenue structure, with its Robotaxi services contributing 31.1% of total revenue, indicating a diversified approach to revenue generation [6][7]. Group 4: Cash Flow and Investment - As of the first half of 2025, Pony.AI's cash flow from operating activities showed a net outflow of $79.57 million, a 34.6% increase year-over-year, indicating significant investments in scaling operations [22][24]. - WeRide's cash flow from operating activities also showed a net outflow of $92.61 million, but its investment activities reflected a more cautious approach with a net outflow of only $3.05 million, down 51.7% year-over-year [22][24]. Group 5: Market Valuation - Despite higher operational losses, Pony.AI's market valuation is approximately $6.3 billion, significantly higher than WeRide's $2.8 billion, highlighting market preferences for companies with aggressive growth strategies [20][24].