Core Viewpoint - Huolala has initiated its fifth attempt for an IPO in Hong Kong amidst various expectations and skepticism, facing ongoing questions about its business model and long-term growth potential [1][4]. Group 1: IPO Attempts and Challenges - Huolala has made multiple attempts to list on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange, with applications submitted on March 28, 2023, September 28, 2023, April 2, 2024, and October 2, 2024 [1][4]. - The company has faced scrutiny from the Hong Kong Stock Exchange regarding its profitability, high commission rates for drivers, and the founder's history of cashing out shares [1][4]. - Despite having prominent underwriters like Goldman Sachs, Bank of America, and JPMorgan, the uncertainties surrounding Huolala's IPO remain significant [1][4]. Group 2: Financial Performance - In 2024, Huolala reported revenue of $1.593 billion, a year-on-year increase of 19.39%, and an adjusted net profit of $501 million, marking two consecutive years of profitability [6]. - The platform's average monthly active merchants reached approximately 16.7 million, while the average monthly active drivers stood at around 1.7 million [6]. - Over the past three years, the number of global orders processed by Huolala grew from 428 million to 779 million, reflecting a compound annual growth rate of 35% [6]. Group 3: Valuation and Market Position - Huolala's valuation has significantly declined, dropping from $90 billion in 2023 to $65 billion in 2024, returning to its 2021 valuation level [6]. - The company ranked 30th in the 2023 Hurun Global Unicorn List but fell to 64th in 2024 due to this valuation drop [6]. - Competitors like Kuaigou Dache and Manbang Group have successfully completed their IPOs, highlighting Huolala's lag in capital market performance [6]. Group 4: Driver Relations and Regulatory Issues - Huolala has faced criticism for high commission rates and alleged exploitation of drivers, leading to multiple regulatory inquiries and protests from drivers [7][9]. - The company has been subject to over a dozen regulatory discussions from 2021 to 2023, addressing issues such as pricing rules and commission rates [9][10]. - Recent adjustments to commission rates and membership fees have been made in response to regulatory pressure, with non-member commission rates reduced to 15% [10]. Group 5: Strategic Outlook - For Huolala, establishing a healthy relationship among drivers, users, and the platform is crucial for sustainable growth [11]. - The upcoming IPO represents not only a financing opportunity but also a chance for brand enhancement and strategic transformation [11]. - Key challenges include improving monetization efficiency, service quality, and expanding international operations to identify new growth avenues [11].