Nan Fang Du Shi Bao·2026-01-13 11:04Core Insights - The recent surge in IPOs for AI and semiconductor companies in China has attracted significant market attention, with notable performances from companies like MiniMax and Zhipu [1][2][3] - Major gaming companies such as Tencent, Mihayou, and others are increasingly investing in AI and semiconductor firms, indicating a trend of deep integration between the gaming industry and advanced technologies [1][12][15] Investment Highlights - MiniMax, an AI unicorn, debuted on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange with a first-day increase of 109%, reaching a market capitalization of over HKD 100 billion [1] - Mihayou, an early investor in MiniMax, holds approximately 6.1% of the company, with a current stake valued at around HKD 6.5 billion, reflecting a nearly 70-fold increase in valuation since its initial investment [2] - Zhipu, another AI company, saw its market cap exceed HKD 570 billion upon listing, with significant price increases shortly after [2][3] Strategic Investments by Gaming Companies - Tencent led a USD 250 million Series B funding round for MiniMax and has also invested in Zhipu, holding 1.58% and 2.58% stakes in these companies, respectively [3][12] - Other gaming companies, such as 37 Interactive Entertainment and Youzu Interactive, are also making strategic investments in AI and semiconductor firms, indicating a broader trend within the industry [3][11] Market Dynamics - The gaming industry is increasingly viewed as a significant player in the tech investment landscape, with analysts noting that gaming companies are leveraging their cash flow to support advancements in AI and semiconductor technologies [12][15] - The shift in perception of gaming companies from mere entertainment providers to strategic investors in high-tech sectors reflects a growing recognition of their role in driving technological innovation [15][16] Future Outlook - Analysts suggest that the investments made by gaming companies are not merely opportunistic but are driven by internal needs for enhanced computational power and AI tools to improve game development processes [13][14] - The trend of gaming companies investing in upstream technologies is expected to continue, fostering a symbiotic relationship between gaming and technological advancements [14][15]