Core Insights - The report from CICC highlights a significant surge in AI model development and application, driven by the listing of independent model vendors and upcoming model releases, indicating a robust investment opportunity in the AI sector [1][2]. AI Model Layer - Domestic models such as DeepSeek and ByteDance's Doubao are expected to update their foundational models around the Spring Festival, with DeepSeek's open-source model V4 anticipated to be released in mid-February, showcasing capabilities comparable to Anthropic's Claude [2]. - Major overseas models like Anthropic, OpenAI, and Gemini are also expected to enhance their model capabilities in the first two quarters of the year, with leading model vendors focusing on breakthroughs through reinforcement learning and long-context engineering, which is likely to accelerate revenue growth [2]. AI Application Layer - Despite not exceeding market expectations in the past year, AI applications are increasingly integrating with models and scenarios to accelerate revenue realization. The report anticipates a rise in AI application penetration rates this year due to improved model capabilities and the integration of vertical scenario data [3]. - Key areas of focus for investment include AI Coding with high revenue certainty, AI Health with strong user payment willingness, and AI Pharmaceuticals within the AI for Science sector [3]. - Currently, AI revenue constitutes a small portion of total revenue for application companies, suggesting that the market may apply a Sum of the Parts (SOTP) valuation to these companies, potentially reshaping the overall valuation framework [3]. AI Infra Layer - Ongoing research in academia and industry is focused on enhancing models' continuous learning and long-context memory capabilities, which are essential for achieving Artificial General Intelligence (AGI) [4]. - The need for increased memory capacity due to long-context requirements is driving demand for storage and database solutions, as model vendors explore ways to optimize memory for continuous and online learning [4]. Related Companies - Recommended AI application-related companies include Kingsoft Office (688111.SH), Dingjie Zhizhi (300378.SZ), Foxit Software (688095.SH), and Tax Friend (603171.SH) [5]. - Recommended AI infrastructure-related company is Sangfor Technologies (300454.SZ) [5].