Core Viewpoint - Overall, Ctrip's net revenue for the quarter was 13.8 billion RMB, a year-on-year increase of 16%, aligning closely with market expectations. Adjusted operating profit was 4.04 billion RMB, showing a modest year-on-year growth of 7%, slightly exceeding expectations by nearly 300 million RMB [1][7]. Revenue and Business Performance - The booking volume for inbound travel increased by over 100% year-on-year, while outbound travel bookings exceeded 120% of the same period in 2019, indicating stable demand for both inbound and outbound travel without significant strengthening [1][2]. - Pure overseas bookings grew by 60% year-on-year, a slight decrease from the previous quarter's 70%, but still reflecting a strong growth rate [2]. - Hotel business revenue increased by nearly 23% year-on-year, outperforming market expectations by 1.4 percentage points, although domestic hotel revenue growth may slow to 10%-15% due to a slight decline in average spending [2][3]. - Ticketing business revenue growth fell to 8.4%, returning to single-digit growth, primarily due to a 10%-15% year-on-year decline in domestic and outbound ticket prices [3]. Smaller Business Segments - Revenue from packaged tours dropped to 91% of the same period in 2019, indicating weak performance attributed to travelers' preference for independent travel and competition from platforms like Meituan and Douyin [3]. - Advertising revenue grew by 33%, showing strong momentum, with expectations for continued growth driven by increased ad penetration and community features on Ctrip's platform [3]. Cost and Profitability - Ctrip's gross margin for the quarter was 80.4%, slightly below the expected 81% and showing a year-on-year contraction, influenced by a higher proportion of lower-margin overseas business and declining hotel and ticket prices [5]. - Marketing expenses increased by 30% year-on-year to 3 billion RMB, exceeding revenue growth but still lower than the market expectation of 3.3 billion RMB, resulting in an additional profit of 300 million RMB [4][5]. - Research and development expenses and administrative expenses grew by 14.2% and 11.7% year-on-year, respectively, both below revenue growth rates, indicating no significant expansion [5]. Overall Financial Performance - Despite a 16% increase in total revenue, operating profit only grew by 7% year-on-year due to rising costs and a decrease in gross margin, leading to a noticeable contraction in operating profit margin [6][7]. - The company’s performance remains stable, with revenue growth in line with expectations, while profit growth is modest, reflecting a cautious outlook for the year [7].