Di Yi Cai Jing·2026-02-03 08:28Core Viewpoint - The credibility of rumors regarding potential tax rate adjustments for the gaming and internet value-added services industry is considered low by industry insiders [1][4][6]. Market Reaction - On February 3, a rumor caused significant fluctuations in the gaming stock market, with Tencent's shares dropping over 6% and NetEase's shares falling more than 3% at one point. However, by the end of the trading day, A-share gaming stocks rebounded, with Century Huatong and Jiubang Technology both rising over 2% [1]. - The gaming index (BK1406) increased by more than 3.4%, with notable gains from companies like Shunwang Technology, which surged by 13.8% [1][2]. Tax Rumor Details - A rumor suggested that the gaming and internet value-added services sectors might face a tax rate increase from 6% to align with the 32% rate applicable to the liquor industry, which could compress profit margins for companies like Tencent [3]. - Industry analysts have expressed skepticism about the feasibility of such a tax increase, citing the complexity of revenue structures in large companies and the existing tax rates already being in the 15%-25% range [4][5]. Industry Response - Various industry representatives have denied receiving any information regarding the rumored tax changes, with Century Huatong stating that their operations remain normal [4]. - Analysts from Dolphin Investment Research and other firms have indicated that the market reaction is likely an overreaction to the rumors, emphasizing that significant tax changes would require extensive procedural groundwork [5][6]. Legal and Policy Considerations - Legal experts and analysts have pointed out that the rumor lacks a solid legal basis, as the current tax structure is defined by the Value-Added Tax Law, which specifies three tax rates: 13%, 9%, and 6% [6][7]. - The current policy focus is on stabilizing growth and supporting innovation, making a broad tax increase counterproductive to government objectives [8].