Group 1 - The eighth China International Import Expo (CIIE) was held in Shanghai, where the Bank of China Shandong Branch organized a visit for over 40 distinguished entrepreneurs from Shandong, focusing on the theme "Lu Rhythm and Financial Empowerment for the Future" [1][2] - The event provided a platform for entrepreneurs to experience the expo's charm and successfully held a signing ceremony for the "Entrepreneur Office" and "Family Trust" services, marking a new phase in comprehensive financial services for Shandong entrepreneurs [1][3] Group 2 - Entrepreneurs engaged with various exhibition areas, including technology equipment, medical devices, and consumer goods, broadening their international perspective and capturing the latest industry trends and market opportunities [2][4] - The signing of service agreements for the "Entrepreneur Office" and "Family Trust" services aims to provide a one-stop solution for personal wealth, family inheritance, and corporate development, ensuring asset growth and orderly succession for entrepreneurs [3][4] Group 3 - The delegation participated in the GBIC conference, which aimed to build an open and win-win financial ecosystem, where entrepreneurs gained valuable insights on financing, risk management, and industry collaboration [4] - A highlight of the visit was the tour of SenseTime, an artificial intelligence company, where entrepreneurs experienced cutting-edge technologies in various fields, inspiring innovative thinking for industry upgrades [5]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - In 2024, total revenue was reported at RMB 1,468 million, down 40% year-on-year, with subscription revenue at RMB 918 million, down 31.9%, and merchant solutions revenue at RMB 170 million, down 52% year-on-year [44][52][60] - Adjusted revenue, considering one-off discounts and policy impacts, would be approximately RMB 2,090 million, indicating a more reasonable comparison to 2023 [60] - Operating loss increased to RMB 1,744 million, with significant portions attributed to one-off or non-cash items [64][66] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Subscription revenue accounted for 68% of total revenue, with smart retail solutions contributing 67% of subscription revenue, reflecting a strategic focus on key accounts [45][12] - Merchant solutions revenue saw a significant decline due to Tencent's rebate policy changes, but is expected to stabilize in 2025 [10][11] - Advertising gross billing increased to RMB 18 billion, up 24.5% year-on-year, but profitability was not realized due to missed opportunities [14][49] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The external macro environment remains challenging, particularly for consumption retail, impacting overall revenue and growth [40][42] - The company is focusing on medium to large customers and smart retail, with expectations of improved performance in 2025 [40][45] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is undergoing a transformation, focusing on high-quality development and key accounts, while exiting low-margin businesses [7][53] - Future strategies include enhancing ecosystem capabilities, integrating cross-platform solutions, and investing in AI to improve operational efficiency [85][89] - The company aims to deepen its market share in favorable industries such as fashion, FMCG, and construction materials [83][84] Management Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in 2025, anticipating a rebound in subscription revenue and overall stabilization of business operations [38][72] - The focus will be on improving customer mix and operational efficiency, with expectations of reduced losses and improved cash flow [75][76] Other Important Information - The company has reduced its workforce from 4,584 to 3,563, resulting in a 23.7% decrease in total staff costs [46] - Significant adjustments were made to the balance sheet, including a reduction in interest-bearing debt and improved cash management [48][50] Q&A Session Summary Question: Outlook for subscription business in 2025 - Management expects subscription revenue to stabilize with a growth projection of 5% to 10% in 2025, with a potential turnaround in profitability by 2026 [79][81] Question: Future business strategies and operation strategies - The focus will be on key accounts and smart retail, with an emphasis on enhancing ecosystem capabilities and operational service for merchants [82][86] Question: Impact of WeChat mini shops and AI products - The integration of WeChat mini shops and AI products is expected to enhance merchant confidence and drive business growth, with significant potential for future expansion [90][94] Question: Strategy to maintain advertising revenue amidst rebate declines - The company plans to manage customer relationships effectively and improve operational efficiency to maintain profitability despite rebate reductions [97][100]