马云李彦宏，把最烧钱的业务送上IPO

Core Viewpoint - The independent progress of major internet companies in chip manufacturing has accelerated, with several companies preparing for IPOs, indicating a shift towards commercialization in the chip industry [5][6]. Group 1: Industry Background - The chip manufacturing wave among internet giants began in 2018, driven by geopolitical tensions and the surge in AI computing demand [7][14]. - Initially, these companies focused on creating chips to support their internal operations, but now they face the challenge of proving their viability as independent entities [8][22]. - The shift from internal cost-saving measures to providing market supply of computing power marks a significant evolution in the chip manufacturing strategy of these companies [23][30]. Group 2: Company Developments - Baidu was the first major internet company to enter the chip market, launching its first AI chip, Kunlun, in 2018 [11]. - Alibaba's chip company, Pingtouge, is preparing for an independent IPO, while Baidu's Kunlun chip has also submitted a listing application [5][22]. - Tencent's Suiyuan Technology is also planning to go public, indicating a broader trend of internet companies moving towards independent chip commercialization [5][6]. Group 3: Market Position and Financial Projections - Kunlun's revenue is projected to grow from approximately 2 billion RMB in 2024 to over 3.5 billion RMB in 2025, with expectations of achieving breakeven [23][25]. - Alibaba's Pingtouge has developed a comprehensive product line, including AI inference and general-purpose CPUs, with significant market penetration [27]. - The domestic AI chip market is rapidly evolving, with local manufacturers increasing their market share, projected to reach a 30% penetration rate by 2024 [29]. Group 4: IPO Trends and Valuations - A new wave of IPOs in the semiconductor sector is anticipated, with around 30 companies expected to enter the A-share market by 2025, aiming to raise nearly 100 billion RMB [34]. - The valuation of Kunlun is estimated to be around 21 billion RMB, with market rumors suggesting it could reach 100 billion HKD upon IPO [37]. - Morgan Stanley predicts Pingtouge's potential valuation could range from 25 billion to 62 billion USD, representing 6% to 14% of Alibaba's current market value [38]. Group 5: Challenges and Investment Needs - Despite the optimistic market outlook, many domestic AI chip companies face profitability challenges due to high R&D costs, which often exceed their revenue [39][43]. - The reliance on external funding through IPOs is becoming essential for these companies to sustain their R&D efforts and maintain their growth trajectory [43].