2025-12-08 15:36Summary of China Internet Sector Outlook for 2026 Industry Overview - The report focuses on the China Internet sector, providing insights into the expected developments and stock preferences for 2026 [1][12]. Key Themes and Insights AI and Content Growth - The dominant theme in 2025 was "AI AI AI", but for 2026, the focus will shift to companies demonstrating tangible results in AI implementation and content growth [2][8]. - China is expected to remain a fast follower in AI, leveraging its large user base and data resources to enhance AI capabilities [3][17]. E-commerce Dynamics - The competition in e-commerce, particularly between food delivery and traditional e-commerce, will be a significant focus in 2026. The ability of companies to maintain performance while scaling back spending will be critical [4][22]. - Alibaba is anticipated to exert pressure on Meituan, with average order values (AOVs) converging as merchants utilize multiple platforms [4][22]. Policy Environment - The retail consumption growth in China is projected to remain around 3%, influenced by government policies that may shift from supporting the private sector to revenue generation through taxation [5][10][15]. - The approval pipeline for new video games is expected to remain favorable, which could benefit companies like Tencent and NetEase [5][13]. Stock Preferences Tencent - Tencent is highlighted as the top pick, with expectations of strong gaming revenue growth and advertising growth in 2026. The company is well-positioned to leverage its Mini Programs ecosystem for AI services [6][34]. - The gaming business is performing better than perceived, with new game launches expected to drive revenue [26][34]. Alibaba - Alibaba is viewed as a key player in AI growth, with the potential for its new Qwen app to enhance user engagement across its platforms. The focus will be on consolidating its various ecosystems into a coherent super app experience [6][41][42]. - Concerns about ongoing food delivery losses could impact the valuation of its e-commerce business [42][43]. NetEase - NetEase's outlook has improved, with successful game launches expected to contribute to revenue growth. The company is anticipated to achieve close to 10% growth in gaming and value-added services revenue in 2026 [38][39]. PDD and Meituan - PDD faces challenges in user engagement and competition in quick commerce, with potential headwinds from increased delivery charges and tax changes [48][49]. - Meituan's future performance is uncertain, relying on a reduction in food delivery subsidies and a stable competitive environment [50][51]. Valuation Insights - The average forward PE for the China Internet sector is projected at 16.0x for 2026, indicating that while valuations are not excessively high, they are not as low as in previous years [56][59]. - The shift in investor sentiment towards AI and the competitive landscape in e-commerce could impact share price performance across the sector [54][55]. Conclusion - The China Internet sector is expected to navigate a complex landscape in 2026, with a focus on AI implementation, e-commerce competition, and evolving government policies. Companies that can effectively leverage AI and content growth while managing costs will likely emerge as leaders in this environment [1][8][25].