Zheng Quan Ri Bao Wang·2025-12-02 11:45Core Insights - Haitong International initiates coverage on Zhihu with an "outperform" rating, highlighting its unique positioning in the Q&A community and the potential of AI applications [1][2] Financial Performance - In Q3 2025, Zhihu reported total revenue of approximately 659 million yuan, with a non-GAAP operating loss narrowing by 16.3% year-on-year, indicating improved operational efficiency and quality [1] - Zhihu's cash reserves are robust, totaling 4.58 billion yuan as of the end of Q3, which includes cash and cash equivalents, time deposits, restricted funds, and short-term investments [1] Strategic Initiatives - The company is actively optimizing operations to eliminate inefficiencies, which has resulted in a slight loss as part of its investment in sustainable long-term operations [1] - Zhihu has implemented share buybacks and cost-reduction measures to strengthen its capital and profit flexibility, with positive expectations for profitability and margin improvement in 2025-2026 [1] AI Development - Zhihu's AI application, Zhihu Zhidao, has seen significant growth, with its penetration rate exceeding 15% by the end of Q3, nearly four times the level from the same period last year [1] - Future upgrades for Zhihu Zhidao will enhance AI capabilities across various scenarios, including search, content creation, and consumption, further increasing AI usage within the community [1] Market Outlook - Haitong International anticipates Zhihu's total revenue for Q4 2025 and the fiscal year 2025 to be 640 million yuan and 2.75 billion yuan, respectively, with a projected price-to-sales ratio of 1.2 times for FY 2025 [2]