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BIDUBIDU(US:BIDU)2025-09-17 14:59

Summary of Baidu's Conference Call Company Overview - Company: Baidu - Date: September 17, 2025 Key Points Industry and Company Valuation - Baidu's current market capitalization is undervalued, with a remaining valuation of only 10.9 billion RMB after deducting net cash, investment assets, and cloud business valuation [2][3][4] - The SOTP (Sum-of-the-Parts) valuation method indicates significant investment opportunities as the market shifts from packaged PE multiples to SOTP distribution valuation [3][5] Advertising Business Developments - AI transformation in Baidu's advertising business is notable, with 64% of search content generated by AI as of July 2024, enhancing user experience and driving MAU growth [2][5][6] - AI Agent's contribution to core advertising revenue rose from 9% in Q1 2025 to 13% in Q2 2025, while digital human advertising accounted for 3% [2][7] - Total expected AI-related advertising revenue for 2025 is projected to reach 8 to 10 billion RMB [2][7] Kunlun Chip Business - Kunlun chip shipments are expected to reach 69,000 units in 2024, ranking third among domestic chip manufacturers [2][9] - Strategic partnerships include a 1 billion RMB order from China Mobile and collaboration with China Merchants Group, with anticipated external revenue of 6 to 7 billion RMB in 2025 [2][9] Autonomous Driving Business - The "Luobo Kuaipao" fleet has surpassed 1,000 vehicles, with daily order volumes expected to exceed 200,000 in Q3 2025 [2][10] - The latest model, RT6, has a manufacturing cost reduced to approximately 30,000 USD, providing a competitive edge for overseas market expansion [2][10] Cloud and Personal Cloud Services - Baidu Cloud is a leading internet cloud service provider with full-stack capabilities, benefiting from increased AI demand across industries [8] - Innovations in personal cloud services, such as enhanced features in cloud storage and document services, are expected to improve user engagement and profitability [8] Governance and Management Changes - The appointment of new CFO Han Rui, who has extensive capital market experience, is viewed positively and is expected to contribute to the company's future development [5] Future Valuation Considerations - The valuation of Baidu is expected to increase as the potential of its business segments becomes more recognized, with a target price raised to over 200 RMB [4][13] - The company holds net cash of 155.1 billion RMB, providing a safety margin for overall valuation [12] Investment Recommendations - Investors are advised to closely monitor Baidu's business developments in the near term, as the company is positioned for potential valuation reappraisal similar to Alibaba's recent experience [15][16] Additional Insights - The significant progress in AI-related businesses and the introduction of new advertising tools are crucial for Baidu's growth trajectory [6][7] - The overall market perception of Baidu's business potential has shifted, indicating a broader recognition of its value [5][13]