BIDU(US:BIDU) Mei Ri Jing Ji Xin Wen·2026-01-02 02:17Core Viewpoint - Baidu's subsidiary Kunlun Core has submitted a listing application to the Hong Kong Stock Exchange, aiming for an independent public offering to enhance its operational and financial transparency, attract specialized investors, and improve its market position [1][3]. Group 1: Listing and Financial Impact - Kunlun Core's listing is expected to reflect its value based on its strengths, allowing investors to independently assess its performance and potential [3]. - The company aims to attract investors focused on general AI computing chips and related hardware and software systems, differentiating itself from Baidu's diversified business model [3]. - Following the announcement, Baidu's stock surged by 6.92%, with a market capitalization of HKD 386.7 billion [3]. Group 2: Company Background and Valuation - Kunlun Core, previously part of Baidu's smart chip division, completed independent financing in April 2021, with an initial valuation of approximately RMB 13 billion [4]. - The latest financing round in July 2023 valued Kunlun Core at around RMB 21 billion (approximately USD 2.97 billion), with Baidu holding a 59.45% stake [5]. - If successfully listed, Kunlun Core's valuation increase could positively impact Baidu's long-term equity investment value, leading to a potential revaluation of Baidu's overall market capitalization [5]. Group 3: Product Development and Market Position - Morgan Stanley predicts Kunlun Core's revenue will soar from approximately RMB 1.3 billion in 2025 to RMB 8.3 billion in 2026, a sixfold increase, with a potential valuation exceeding RMB 80 billion based on a price-to-sales ratio of 10 [7]. - Kunlun Core's third-generation P800 series has been deployed in thousands of units, with significant internal usage for AI model training, demonstrating high performance and cost efficiency [8]. - The company has secured a significant order from China Mobile worth over RMB 1 billion, enhancing its position as a neutral supplier and increasing its appeal to external clients [8]. Group 4: Competitive Landscape - Kunlun Core is positioned in the top tier of the domestic AI chip market, with its P800 chip recognized for its performance and energy efficiency, supporting configurations that achieve high throughput [9]. - IDC forecasts that Kunlun Core's shipment volume will reach 69,000 units in 2024, significantly outpacing competitors like Cambricon, which is expected to ship 26,000 units [10].