Core Viewpoint - Aixin Yuanzhi, an AI chip unicorn based in Ningbo, Zhejiang, is preparing for its IPO on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange, showcasing its significant growth in the AI chip market and its strategic focus on high-performance AI inference systems for edge computing and terminal devices [2][4]. Company Overview - Aixin Yuanzhi was founded in May 2019 by former CTO of Unisoc, Qiu Xiaoxin, and specializes in AI inference system chips (SoC) [4][17]. - The company has developed five generations of SoCs by September 30, 2025, with over 165 million units delivered, focusing on applications in visual terminal computing, smart vehicles, and edge AI inference [4][30]. Market Position - Aixin Yuanzhi is the largest provider of mid-to-high-end visual edge AI inference chips globally, with a market share of 24.1% in 2024, and ranks fifth in overall visual edge AI inference chips with a 6.8% market share [5][6]. - The company is the second-largest domestic supplier of smart driving SoCs in China, having sold over 518,000 units, and ranks third in edge AI inference chips with a 12.2% market share [5][7]. Financial Performance - Revenue figures for Aixin Yuanzhi from 2022 to the first nine months of 2025 are as follows: 0.50 billion, 2.30 billion, 4.73 billion, and 2.69 billion RMB, respectively. Net profits during the same period were -6.12 billion, -7.43 billion, -9.04 billion, and -8.56 billion RMB [7][10]. - The adjusted net profits were -4.44 billion, -5.42 billion, -6.28 billion, and -4.62 billion RMB, totaling -20.76 billion RMB [10]. Research and Development - Aixin Yuanzhi invests heavily in R&D, with expenses of 4.46 billion, 5.15 billion, and 6.28 billion RMB in 2022, 2023, and 2024, respectively [7][12]. - As of September 30, 2025, the company employed 499 R&D personnel, accounting for approximately 80% of its total workforce, with over half holding master's degrees or higher [38][39]. Product Development - The company has launched several SoC series, including the AX520, AX620, AX630, AX650, and M55H, with applications in smart vehicles and edge AI inference [31][34]. - Aixin Yuanzhi's core technology includes the Axera Neutron NPU and Axera Proton AI-ISP, which enhance AI inference performance and image processing capabilities [35][37]. Sales and Distribution - The majority of Aixin Yuanzhi's revenue comes from direct sales and distribution, with significant contributions from major clients, accounting for 91.5% of total revenue in 2022 [40][41]. - The company anticipates continued growth in its smart vehicle and edge computing SoC sales, with substantial year-on-year increases projected [27][34].