Core Viewpoint - JD.com is intensifying its competition in the global e-commerce landscape by acquiring CECONOMY, Germany's largest consumer electronics group, for approximately €2.2 billion (over ¥18 billion), marking a significant step in its international expansion strategy [5][6][10]. Group 1: Acquisition Details - JD.com announced the acquisition of CECONOMY, which operates over 1,000 stores across 12 European countries and holds a market share of over 30% in Germany through its brands MediaMarkt and Saturn [9][10]. - The acquisition aims to enhance CECONOMY's growth and maintain its independent operations while transitioning into a leading omnichannel consumer electronics platform in Europe [10][12]. - JD.com plans to leverage CECONOMY's existing management team and infrastructure to expedite its entry into the European market [10][16]. Group 2: Strategic Rationale - The acquisition provides JD.com with a robust offline channel network, allowing it to bypass complex distribution systems in Europe and gain immediate access to retail markets [16]. - CECONOMY's stores and warehouses will serve as "front warehouses" for JD.com, improving its supply chain capabilities and addressing cross-border logistics challenges [16]. - JD.com is adopting a "self-built + acquisition + cooperation" strategy for internationalization, emphasizing the importance of local operations and infrastructure [14][16]. Group 3: Competitive Landscape - JD.com is competing against major players like Alibaba, Pinduoduo, SHEIN, and TikTok in the global e-commerce arena, with a focus on differentiation through service and experience rather than price wars [18][19]. - The competitive environment is intensifying, with Pinduoduo's Temu facing growth challenges and SHEIN evolving into a major e-commerce platform [17][18]. - The article highlights a broader trend of consumer mergers and acquisitions, with various companies seeking to strengthen their market positions amid economic fluctuations [20][24].