Core Insights - The DOTA2 International Invitational (TI 2026) will return to Shanghai in August 2024, marking a significant event in the esports industry after a seven-year hiatus [1][2] - Perfect World, which previously hosted TI9 in 2019, is once again collaborating with Shanghai, indicating an upgraded challenge for the upcoming event [2] Esports Ecosystem - Perfect World has established a pyramid-like esports event system since 2012, focusing on games like DOTA2 and CS, and has created a comprehensive competitive channel from professional to amateur levels [3] - The successful hosting of major events like TI9 and the 2024 CS Shanghai Major has built market trust and experience for Perfect World, solidifying its competitive edge in the esports sector [4] Strategic Importance of Esports - Major gaming companies, including Tencent and NetEase, are increasingly focusing on esports as a core business strategy, recognizing its potential to drive game growth and longevity [5][6] - Esports events not only attract new players but also enhance the sales of related merchandise, contributing to the overall gaming ecosystem [6] Financial Performance - Perfect World reported a revenue of 5.417 billion yuan in the first three quarters of 2025, a 33% year-on-year increase, and achieved a net profit of 666 million yuan, marking a turnaround from previous losses [6][7] - The company's esports products have consistently provided stable revenue, serving as a financial anchor amid industry growth challenges [7] Future Prospects - The upcoming TI 2026 will focus on innovating the event experience and revitalizing the DOTA2 ecosystem in China [7] - The esports industry is projected to continue growing, with China's esports market generating 12.761 billion yuan in sales revenue in the first half of 2025, a 6.1% increase year-on-year [8][9] Commercialization and Ecosystem Development - Esports is seen as a lucrative business, with leading companies extending their reach into various commercial and ecological aspects [8] - Perfect World aims to strengthen its market position by forming partnerships with hardware giants like NVIDIA and Intel, enhancing the technological integration of esports events [8][9] Integration with Broader Economy - The integration of esports with tourism and commerce is accelerating, with large-scale offline events driving urban consumption and providing new opportunities for growth [9] - TI 2026 is expected to showcase esports as a new force driving digital economic growth, beyond just the confines of sports venues [9]