国泰海通｜传媒：AI应用加速发展，文娱产业周期向上

Core Viewpoint - The media industry is at a critical juncture with the accelerated development of AI applications and an upward cycle in the entertainment sector, with expectations for strong performance in 2025 and continued strength in 2026 due to product and policy resonance [1][2]. Group 1: Industry Performance - The media index has seen a maximum increase of over 40% within the year, with the gaming sector leading the gains [1]. - The media index recorded its lowest point on January 13 and its highest on September 25, with a maximum decline of 6.42% and a maximum increase of 42.24%, resulting in an overall increase of over 50% from the lowest to the highest point [1]. - The gaming index exhibited the most remarkable performance with a maximum increase of 98.45%, while the film and cinema index benefited from the 2025 Spring Festival, achieving a maximum increase close to 50% [1]. Group 2: Financial Performance - In the first three quarters of 2025, the media industry maintained steady total operating revenue, with a nearly 40% year-on-year growth in net profit attributable to shareholders [1]. - The gaming sector's net profit attributable to shareholders grew nearly 90% year-on-year in the same period, serving as the main driver for the industry's growth [1]. Group 3: AI and Entertainment Trends - The rapid development of AI applications and the upward cycle of the entertainment industry represent a golden period, with AI now elevated to a national strategic level following the August 2025 issuance of the "Artificial Intelligence +" action plan by the State Council [2]. - Domestic IPs like "Nezha" and "Black Myth: Wukong" have gained popularity not only in China but also globally, showcasing the strong vitality of entertainment content forms born during the internet era [2]. Group 4: Future Outlook - The launch of multiple new games in 2025 has shown high traffic and revenue, which is expected to enhance the performance of related companies, with similar trends anticipated to continue into 2026 [3]. - The implementation of new regulations in the film and television sector, including adjustments to policies like "costume drama ratio" and "one drama, two stars," is expected to lead to a reversal in both policy and performance for the entertainment industry [3]. - The company recommends focusing on sectors such as gaming, film, AI applications, and IP due to the upward trend in the cultural and entertainment sector [4].