3 6 Ke·2026-01-28 10:27Core Viewpoint - The independent listing process of major internet companies' chip businesses has accelerated, indicating a shift towards commercialization in the chip industry driven by AI demand and geopolitical factors [1][2]. Group 1: Background and Development of Chip Manufacturing - The wave of chip manufacturing by internet giants began in 2018, driven by geopolitical tensions and the surge in AI computing power demand [2][8]. - Major companies like Baidu, Alibaba, and Tencent initially developed chips to support their core businesses but are now transitioning to independent commercial viability [2][3]. - Baidu was the first among internet giants to enter the chip market, establishing a chip R&D team in 2011 and launching its first AI chip, Kunlun, in 2018 [5][4]. Group 2: Current Market Dynamics and Future Prospects - The shift from internal support tools to competitive commercial products is crucial for the valuation and long-term growth of these chip companies post-IPO [3]. - Kunlun is expected to achieve revenue growth from 2 billion RMB in 2024 to over 3.5 billion RMB in 2025, with over half of its revenue coming from external sales [14]. - Alibaba's chip subsidiary, Pingtouge, has developed a comprehensive product line and is expected to continue expanding its market presence [15]. Group 3: Competitive Landscape and Market Share - Domestic AI chip manufacturers are rapidly increasing their market share, with local brands like Huawei's Ascend leading the market [16]. - The domestic AI chip market is projected to see significant growth, with a penetration rate expected to rise from 15% in 2023 to 30% in 2024 [16]. - Companies are moving towards replacing reliance on Nvidia in specific scenarios, indicating a strategic shift in the competitive landscape [17]. Group 4: IPO Trends and Financial Challenges - A new wave of IPOs in the semiconductor sector is anticipated, with 30 semiconductor companies expected to enter the A-share IPO process in 2025, aiming to raise nearly 100 billion RMB [20]. - Despite the enthusiasm in the capital market, many domestic AI chip companies face profitability challenges, with significant projected losses for several firms in 2025 [22][23]. - High R&D expenditures are a common challenge for these companies, necessitating IPOs to secure external funding for sustained development [24].