Core Viewpoint - NetEase Cloud Music Inc. reported its financial results for the first half of 2025, showing a mixed performance with a decrease in overall revenue but significant growth in operating profit and net profit, driven by a focus on core music services and subscription-based revenue growth. Financial Performance - Revenue for the first half of 2025 was RMB3.83 billion, a decrease of 6.0% compared to RMB4.07 billion in the same period of 2024 [5] - Gross profit was RMB1.39 billion, a slight decrease of 2.3% from RMB1.43 billion in the same period of 2024, but gross margin improved to 36.4% from 35.0% [5][11] - Operating profit increased by 40.8% to RMB844.5 million from RMB599.9 million in the same period of 2024 [5] - Profit for the period reached RMB1.88 billion, compared to RMB809.9 million in the same period of 2024 [12] - Adjusted operating profit was RMB905.4 million, an increase of 35.0% compared to RMB670.9 million in the same period of 2024 [12] - Adjusted net profit reached RMB1.95 billion, compared to RMB880.7 million in the same period of 2024 [12] Revenue Breakdown - Revenue from online music services was RMB3.0 billion, an increase of 15.9% compared to RMB2.6 billion for the same period of 2024 [4] - Revenue from membership subscriptions increased to RMB2.5 billion from RMB2.1 billion for the same period of 2024 [4] - Revenue from social entertainment services decreased to RMB859.8 million from RMB1,510.8 million for the same period of 2024, attributed to a more prudent operational approach [5] User Engagement and Community - Total monthly active users (MAUs) showed steady growth, with a daily active user/monthly active user (DAU/MAU) ratio consistently exceeding 30% [7] - Users spent more time listening to music on the mobile app, indicating higher engagement [7] - The platform had over 819,000 registered independent artists contributing 4.8 million music tracks by June 2025 [17] Content and Product Innovation - The company expanded its music label catalogue, securing partnerships with popular K-Pop labels and renowned Chinese artists [19] - Enhanced product features, such as the "Magic Light Player," improved the music listening experience [9][27] - The introduction of new roles for music creators, such as AI Musician and Trainee Musician, aims to nurture emerging talent [20] Strategic Focus - The company plans to deepen collaborations with copyright holders and enhance its differentiated content offerings [13][15] - Future initiatives include optimizing the music listening experience and improving profitability through cost optimization and enhanced operating efficiency [18]

Core Insights - NetEase (NTES) is set to announce its second-quarter 2025 results on August 14, with revenue expectations of $3.86 billion, reflecting a 10.02% year-over-year growth [1] - The consensus estimate for earnings per share (EPS) is $2.04, an increase of 2 cents over the past month, compared to $1.66 in the same quarter last year [1][9] - NTES has exceeded earnings expectations in three of the last four quarters, with an average surprise of 9.17% [2] Revenue Drivers - The anticipated growth in Q2 2025 is attributed to strong gaming revenues and successful global launches, building on the momentum from Q1 [3] - Key titles such as Marvel Rivals, FragPunk, and Once Human are expected to contribute significantly to revenue, with Marvel Rivals maintaining high engagement after its Season 2 update [4][9] - Established titles like Where Winds Meet and Identity V are also projected to provide stable contributions, supported by ongoing content releases and regional expansions [5] Challenges - Despite the positive outlook, certain segments are expected to face challenges, particularly Youdao's learning services and NetEase Cloud Music, which may continue to struggle with revenue pressures [6] - The innovative businesses segment, including the Yanxuan e-commerce platform, is likely to experience intensified competition, impacting revenue growth [6] Earnings Expectations - The Zacks model indicates that NTES currently has an Earnings ESP of -0.25% and a Zacks Rank of 2 (Buy), suggesting a lower likelihood of an earnings beat compared to previous quarters [7]

Group 1 - NetEase Cloud Music Inc. will report its financial results for the first half of 2025 on August 14, 2025, after the Hong Kong market closes [1] - The management will host an earnings conference call at 7:00 p.m. Beijing/Hong Kong Time on the same day [2] - A replay of the earnings call will be available until August 21, 2025, with specific phone numbers provided for different regions [3] Group 2 - NetEase Cloud Music Inc. was launched in 2013 and is recognized as a leading online music platform in China, focusing on personalized recommendations and user interaction [4] - The platform has gained popularity among China's Generation Z community, making it a preferred destination for discovering new and independent music [4]

Core Viewpoint - NetEase, Inc. is set to report its financial results for the second quarter of 2025 on August 14, 2025, before the U.S. markets open [1] Group 1: Financial Reporting - The earnings teleconference call will occur at 8:00 a.m. Eastern Time on August 14, 2025, with management discussing quarterly results and answering questions [2] - Interested parties can participate in the conference call by dialing 1-914-202-3258 and providing conference ID: 10049137, 15 minutes prior to the call [3] - A replay of the call will be available until August 21, 2025, and will also be webcast live for 12 months on NetEase's Investor Relations website [3] Group 2: Company Overview - NetEase, Inc. is a leading internet and game services provider, known for its premium content and extensive gaming ecosystem [4] - The company operates popular mobile and PC games in China and globally, supported by one of the largest in-house game R&D teams [5] - Beyond gaming, NetEase offers services through subsidiaries like Youdao, an intelligent learning and advertising solutions provider, and NetEase Cloud Music, an online music platform [6]

Group 1 - RBW Inc. has entered a strategic copyright partnership with NetEase Cloud Music to enhance K-POP's presence in the Chinese market [1][3] - The partnership allows RBW to provide its entire music catalog on NetEase Cloud Music, including exclusive future releases for Chinese fans [2][4] - This collaboration aims to foster deeper industry cooperation and cultural exchange between Korea and China, reflecting a commitment to long-term strategic goals [3][5] Group 2 - NetEase Cloud Music boasts over 200 million monthly active users, particularly appealing to the Gen-Z demographic [4][7] - The platform is recognized for its vibrant content community and personalized user experience, making it a popular choice for discovering new music in China [7] - RBW holds rights to over 8,500 pieces of musical intellectual property, which supports its global content production and distribution efforts [5]

Investment Rating - The report maintains a "BUY" rating for NetEase, indicating a potential return of over 15% over the next 12 months [19]. Core Insights - NetEase reported strong 1Q25 results with total revenue growing by 7% YoY to RMB28.8 billion, aligning with consensus estimates. Operating profit surged by 37% YoY to RMB10.4 billion, exceeding consensus by 25%, primarily due to disciplined operating expense control, which decreased by 14% YoY [1][2]. - The games business showed a reacceleration in revenue growth, increasing by 12% YoY in 1Q25, supported by a 19% YoY growth in contract liabilities, which is expected to bolster future revenue [1][7]. - The target price for NetEase has been raised to US$136.5 from the previous US$125.5, reflecting a 27.4% upside from the current price of US$107.11 [3][11]. Financial Performance Summary - **Revenue Forecasts**: The revenue for FY25 is estimated at RMB113.1 billion, with projections for FY26 and FY27 at RMB121.1 billion and RMB128.9 billion, respectively [2][8]. - **Profitability Metrics**: Adjusted net profit is expected to reach RMB40.1 billion in FY25, with a growth trajectory continuing into FY26 and FY27 [2][8]. - **Valuation Metrics**: NetEase is currently trading at a P/E ratio of 13.6x for FY25, which is in line with its two-year historical average [7][11]. Business Segment Analysis - **Online Games**: The online games segment is valued at US$121.8 billion, accounting for 89.2% of the total valuation, based on a multiple of 16x 2025E EV/EBIT, consistent with industry averages [11][12]. - **Youdao and Cloud Music**: Youdao is valued at US$0.7 billion, while the Cloud Music business is valued at US$3.8 billion, both based on industry-standard multiples [11][12]. - **Innovative Businesses**: The innovative businesses segment is valued at US$1.6 billion, reflecting a growing diversification strategy [11][12]. Market Position and Growth Drivers - The games business is expected to benefit from several highly anticipated global launches, including titles like MARVEL Mystic Mayhem and Destiny: Rising, which should further enhance revenue growth [7]. - Non-gaming segments are also improving efficiency, with a notable increase in gross profit margin for the Cloud Music segment despite a decline in revenue [7][8]. Share Performance - The market capitalization of NetEase stands at approximately US$67.99 billion, with a 52-week high of US$109.80 and a low of US$76.28 [3][4]. - Over the past month, the stock has seen an absolute increase of 9.3% [4].

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Total net revenue for Q1 2025 was RMB 28.8 billion (approximately USD 4.0 billion), representing a 7.4% year-over-year increase [34] - Total net revenue from games and related value-added services was RMB 24.0 billion, up 12% year-over-year [34] - Gross profit for Q1 2025 was RMB 18.5 billion, up 9% year-over-year and 14% quarter-over-quarter [36] - Non-GAAP net income attributable to shareholders for Q1 totaled RMB 11.2 billion (approximately USD 1.5 billion), up 32% year-over-year [38] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Net revenues from online games were RMB 22.5 billion, up 14% quarter-over-quarter and 15% year-over-year, driven by key PC games and established mobile games [34][35] - NetEase Cloud Music's revenue was RMB 1.9 billion, declining 8% year-over-year and 1% quarter-over-quarter, primarily due to decreased revenue from social entertainment services [36] - Innovative businesses and others saw a revenue decline of 17% year-over-year and 29% quarter-over-quarter, mainly due to decreased revenue from advertising services [36] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The gaming segment continues to show strong performance, with flagship titles achieving record highs in player engagement and revenue [5][6] - The mobile version of Once Human quickly gained global attention, reaching the top spot on iOS download charts in over 160 regions [10] - The game Identity V surpassed 400 million registered players globally during its seventh anniversary celebration [17] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on globalizing and diversifying its game portfolio, with a commitment to innovative content and exceptional operations [5][6] - Plans to deepen connections with player communities through more frequent content updates and esports events [48][49] - The company aims to enhance its esports operations and leverage its successful titles in international competitions [80][81] Management Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about the global momentum established and the breadth of opportunities across the diversified game portfolio [33] - The company is committed to investing in long-term sustainability and innovation, particularly through AI technologies [30][85] - Management highlighted the importance of continuous improvement and adaptation in response to market demands and player feedback [44][59] Other Important Information - The effective tax rate for Q1 was 15.3%, and the company reported a robust cash position with net cash of approximately RMB 131.5 billion as of March 31, 2025 [39] - The Board of Directors approved a dividend of USD 0.135 per share [39] - The company has a share repurchase program with approximately USD 1.9 billion spent as of March 31, 2025 [39] Q&A Session Summary Question: About Identity V's strong performance and future growth - Management attributed Identity V's success to continuous investment and optimization over six years, with plans to keep enhancing the game [42][44] Question: On mobile title Marvel Rivals and its lifecycle - Management acknowledged user number volatility but emphasized the introduction of shorter seasonal updates and esports events to maintain engagement [46][48] Question: Strategy for overseas markets amid studio closures - Management clarified that studio closures were based on product positioning and quality, with a focus on creating games suitable for global markets [52][53] Question: Performance and monetization of Once Human - Management reported significant user growth and increased monetization on PC following the mobile launch, with plans for new gameplay features [61][63] Question: Differentiation strategy for Fragpunk in the FPS market - Management expressed satisfaction with Fragpunk's foundation and emphasized ongoing support and market engagement strategies [67][70] Question: Resource allocation between domestic and overseas markets - Management confirmed sufficient resources to support both domestic and overseas markets simultaneously [72][73] Question: Evaluation metrics for new titles and esports strategy - Management highlighted the importance of team passion and experience in evaluating new projects, with ongoing investment in esports operations [76][78][80]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Total net revenue for Q1 2025 was RMB28.8 billion (approximately USD4.0 billion), representing a 7.4% increase year over year [32] - Total net revenue from gaming and value-added services increased by 12% year over year to RMB24.0 billion [6][33] - Gross profit for Q1 2025 was RMB18.5 billion, up 9% year over year and 14% quarter over quarter [35] - Non-GAAP net income attributable to shareholders for Q1 totaled RMB11.2 billion (approximately USD1.5 billion), up 32% year over year [37] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Net revenues from online games were RMB22.0 billion, up 14% quarter over quarter and 15% year over year, driven by new titles and established games [33] - NetEase Cloud Music's revenue declined by 8% year over year to RMB1.9 billion, primarily due to decreased revenue from social entertainment services [34] - Innovative businesses and others saw a revenue decline of 17% year over year to RMB1.6 billion, mainly due to decreased revenue from advertising services [34] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The gaming segment's revenue growth was supported by key PC games, with PC games accounting for approximately 34% of total online games revenue, representing an increase of 85% year over year [33] - The mobile version of Once Human achieved the top spot on iOS download charts in over 160 regions shortly after its launch [9] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on globalizing and diversifying its game portfolio, with a commitment to innovative content and exceptional operations [5] - Plans to deepen connections with player communities through more frequent content updates and the introduction of esports events [47] - The company aims to enhance its esports operations and has invested in esports stadiums in Hangzhou and Shanghai [78] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about the global momentum and opportunities across the diversified game portfolio [31] - The company is committed to investing in long-term operations and enhancing player engagement through continuous updates and community involvement [56] - Management highlighted the importance of AI technology in game development and its role in improving operational efficiency [82] Other Important Information - The effective tax rate for Q1 was 15.3%, and the company has a robust cash position with net cash of approximately RMB131.5 billion as of March 31, 2025 [38] - The Board of Directors approved a dividend of USD0.135 per share [38] - The company has a share repurchase program with approximately USD1.9 billion spent as of March 31, 2025 [38] Q&A Session Summary Question: What are the reasons behind Identity V's strong performance and future growth? - Management attributed Identity V's success to continuous investment and optimization over six years, with plans to keep investing in the game to maintain its leading position [42][43] Question: How will the company ensure the longevity of Marvel Rivals? - Management mentioned the introduction of a two-month seasonal update cycle and the initiation of esports events to enhance player engagement and retention [47] Question: What is the strategy for overseas markets following the closure of some studios? - Management clarified that the studio closures were based on product positioning and quality considerations, and they plan to develop more games suitable for global markets [51] Question: What are the next steps for the operation of Where Wings Meet? - Management plans to continue investing in the game, focusing on enhancing art representation and gameplay to ensure its long-term success [56] Question: How does the company plan to enhance monetization for Once Human? - Management highlighted the game's cross-play feature and plans to introduce new gameplay elements to satisfy user demand and enhance monetization [61] Question: What is the company's approach to resource allocation between domestic and overseas markets? - Management stated that they have sufficient resources to support both markets simultaneously and will continue to improve understanding of overseas gamer demands [70]

Financial Performance - NetEase's total net revenues for 1Q25 were $3.973 billion, a 7.4% increase year-over-year[39] - Games and related value-added services contributed $3.314 billion in net revenues for 1Q25, up 12.1% year-over-year[39] - Net income attributable to the company's shareholders for 1Q25 was $1.42 billion, a 34.9% increase year-over-year[39] - Basic net income per ADS (GAAP) for 1Q25 was $2.24[9] - The company's net cash position as of March 31, 2025, was $18.9 billion[9] Business Segments - Youdao's net revenues for 1Q25 were $179 million, a 6.8% decrease year-over-year[39] - NetEase Cloud Music's net revenues for 1Q25 were $256 million, reflecting an 8.5% decrease year-over-year[39] - Innovative businesses and others generated $224 million in net revenues for 1Q25, a 17.5% decrease year-over-year[39] Games Highlights - Online games accounted for 98% of games and related value-added services net revenues in 1Q25[12] - Where Winds Meet surpassed 30 million registered players as of March 2025[18] - Once Human mobile game quickly claimed the No1 position on the iOS download charts in more than 160 regions upon its April 2025 launch[18]

Core Viewpoint - NetEase, Inc. reported strong financial results for the first quarter of 2025, driven by robust performance in its gaming segment and ongoing innovation across its business lines [1][5][10]. Financial Highlights - Net revenues for Q1 2025 were RMB 28.8 billion (US$ 4.0 billion), a 7.4% increase year-over-year [7][10]. - Net revenues from games and related value-added services reached RMB 24.0 billion (US$ 3.3 billion), marking a 12.1% increase compared to the same quarter of 2024 [8][10]. - Gross profit for the quarter was RMB 18.5 billion (US$ 2.5 billion), an increase of 8.6% year-over-year [13][10]. - Net income attributable to shareholders was RMB 10.3 billion (US$ 1.4 billion), up from RMB 7.6 billion in Q1 2024 [17][10]. - Non-GAAP net income attributable to shareholders was RMB 11.2 billion (US$ 1.5 billion), reflecting a significant increase from RMB 8.5 billion in the same quarter of the previous year [18][10]. Operational Highlights - The company launched several successful titles, including "Marvel Rivals" and "Where Winds Meet," which contributed to increased engagement and revenue [10][8]. - Youdao's net revenues were RMB 1.3 billion (US$ 178.9 million), consistent with the previous quarter but down 6.7% year-over-year due to a focus on core services [9][10]. - NetEase Cloud Music reported revenues of RMB 1.9 billion (US$ 256.1 million), a decrease of 8.4% compared to the same quarter of 2024 [11][10]. - Innovative businesses and others generated RMB 1.6 billion (US$ 223.8 million), down 17.6% year-over-year, primarily due to reduced revenues from advertising services [12][10]. Cash Flow and Dividend - As of March 31, 2025, the company's net cash totaled RMB 137.0 billion (US$ 18.9 billion), an increase from RMB 131.5 billion at the end of 2024 [20][10]. - The board approved a dividend of US$ 0.1350 per share for Q1 2025, payable in June 2025 [21][10]. Share Repurchase Program - The company has repurchased approximately 21.6 million ADSs for a total cost of US$ 1.9 billion under its ongoing share repurchase program [24][10].