Core Viewpoint - The return of Zhao Yancai, the founder and chairperson of Huaxi Biological, has initiated a significant internal restructuring and reform within the company, amidst declining financial performance and organizational turmoil [1][3][20]. Group 1: Organizational Changes - Huaxi Biological has seen over 10 executives leave or change positions since the beginning of the year, indicating a major organizational overhaul [3]. - Employees have reported a shift from direct employment to outsourcing, with inconsistent severance packages being offered, leading to uncertainty and dissatisfaction among staff [2][3]. - The company is reportedly relocating a significant portion of its operations from Beijing to Hangzhou, retaining only a small part of its business in Beijing [2][3]. Group 2: Financial Performance - The company's half-year report revealed a revenue of 2.261 billion yuan, a year-on-year decrease of 19.57%, and a net profit of 221 million yuan, down 35.38% [3][22]. - The functional skincare segment, which accounted for 72.45% of the company's main business revenue, saw a significant decline in growth, with a projected revenue of 2.569 billion yuan in 2024, down 31.62% year-on-year [9][22]. - Marketing expenses have surged, with sales costs rising from 5.21 billion yuan in 2019 to 30.49 billion yuan in 2022, constituting nearly 48% of revenue [9]. Group 3: Market Position and Strategy - Huaxi Biological, once a leader in the hyaluronic acid market with a 44% global share, is facing intensified competition and a shift in consumer preferences, leading to a decline in brand loyalty [5][21]. - The company has decided to phase out underperforming brands like Runxiquan, focusing instead on its core brands, Runbaiyan and Kuaidi, in response to market pressures [8][18]. - Zhao Yancai's return is seen as a potential turning point, with efforts to restore governance and strategic direction, although the effectiveness of these measures remains to be seen in upcoming quarters [20][22].

Core Viewpoint - Huaxi Biological has reported its worst semi-annual financial results since going public, with significant declines in both revenue and net profit, indicating a challenging period for the company [1][6]. Financial Performance - In the first half of 2025, Huaxi Biological's revenue was 2.26 billion yuan, a year-on-year decrease of 19.57% [2]. - The net profit attributable to shareholders was 220.85 million yuan, down 35.38% year-on-year, with a 45% decline in net profit after excluding non-recurring gains and losses [2][1]. - The company's total assets decreased by 0.97% compared to the previous year, while net assets attributable to shareholders increased by 3.27% [2]. Organizational Changes - The company is undergoing significant internal restructuring, with reports of major layoffs, particularly in the teams of its skincare brands, which have seen staff numbers drop from over a hundred to just a few dozen [2][24]. - The return of founder Zhao Yan has led to a wave of organizational changes, including the departure of over 10 senior executives and a shift towards a more entrepreneurial management style [4][28]. Market Position and Strategy - Huaxi Biological, once a leader in the hyaluronic acid market with a 44% global market share, has seen its competitive edge erode, leading to a decline in its skincare product sales [8][11]. - The company’s functional skincare products generated 4.61 billion yuan in sales in 2022, but this segment has faced a significant downturn, with a 31.62% year-on-year decline in 2024 [9][11]. - The company is shifting its focus from a reliance on influencer marketing to a more sustainable business model, as the previous strategies have become less effective in a competitive market [12][30]. Internal Challenges - Huaxi Biological is facing a crisis of trust internally, with allegations of financial misconduct and workplace bullying surfacing, further complicating its operational challenges [17][26]. - The company has implemented strict measures against corruption, demanding accountability from its staff and restructuring its management to restore confidence [21][28]. Future Outlook - While Zhao Yan's return has sparked hope for a turnaround, the company still faces significant challenges in a competitive market, with consumer preferences shifting away from hyaluronic acid products [30][32]. - The performance of Huaxi Biological in the coming quarters will be critical in determining the effectiveness of its restructuring efforts and market strategy [32].