BIDU(HK:09888) Mei Ri Jing Ji Xin Wen·2025-12-09 14:40Core Viewpoint - The market is increasingly focused on AI underlying computing power, with Baidu Group announcing plans to evaluate the spin-off and independent listing of its subsidiary Kunlun Chip, which could potentially be submitted for IPO in early 2026 and completed by early 2027 [1][2]. Group 1: Company Overview - Kunlun Chip, originally part of Baidu's AI chip and architecture department, was established as an independent entity in 2021 and has completed multiple rounds of financing, with a valuation of approximately 13 billion yuan in its first round [2][3]. - The company has developed its first-generation AI chip, Kunlun 1, which was launched in July 2018 and achieved mass production in 2020, utilizing Baidu's self-developed XPU architecture [2][3]. Group 2: Market Dynamics - The demand for AI chips in China is surging as the industry is in a rapid growth phase, creating a favorable window for domestic AI chip manufacturers [3]. - Baidu's decision to consider a spin-off aligns with the current industry cycle and Kunlun Chip's development stage, as it has begun external sales and received positive feedback from domestic applications [3][4]. Group 3: Competitive Landscape - The competition in the domestic AI chip market is evolving from a focus on technology to engineering capabilities, ecosystem development, and scalability [4][5]. - Major internet companies in China, including Baidu, Alibaba, and Tencent, are increasingly investing in chip development to reduce costs and ensure supply chain security, with each adopting different strategies for chip development [6][7]. Group 4: Strategic Implications - The spin-off of Kunlun Chip is seen as a strategic move to shed its identity as a Baidu subsidiary, allowing it to compete more effectively in the market [7]. - The trend of large companies developing their own AI chips is common globally, driven by the need to enhance efficiency and meet internal demands, but it also presents challenges in terms of market competition and collaboration [7].