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Element Six and Master Drilling Announce Strategic Partnership for Advanced Tunnel Development Technology

Novel diamond-enabled cutting technology increases tunneling development speed, reduces costs, and minimizes the environmental impact of construction for the mining, infrastructure, transportation and energy sectors.

OXFORD, England and JOHANNESBURG, Feb. 18, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Element Six (E6), a pioneer in the development and manufacturing of polycrystalline diamond (PCD) and ultra-hard materials, and Master Drilling, a global leader in drilling and mechanized rock excavation technology solutions, today announce a new global partnership. The collaboration combines Element Six’s leading patented polycrystalline diamond cutting technology with Master Drilling’s fully mechanized services for the mining, infrastructure, and energy sectors to deliver a new synthetic diamond-enabled tunnelling solution, with a reduction of more than 17% in waste rock generation compared to traditional tunnelling operations. The innovative technology has been tested under both underground and surface conditions in the UK and South Africa with several end-users in the mining and infrastructure industries, demonstrating general higher performance compared to traditional rock excavation methods.

“Achieving high quality, nonexplosive tunnel construction with various aspects of value generated compared to traditional rock excavation methods is a key global challenge for tunnel builders—a challenge that Master Drilling and Element Six are uniquely positioned to address,” said Koos Jordaan, Executive Director of Master Drilling. “By combining our technologies and expertise, we can offer quality tunnel development with competitive productivity, lower costs and reduced waste, enabling safer, faster, and more economical tunnel construction. This innovation holds great potential for expanding underground operations in industries such as mining, energy, transportation, and infrastructure.”

Underground tunnels provide access to critical mineral resources, create efficient transportation routes, and house essential utilities, all while minimizing surface disruption. In mining, tunnels are key for accessing mineral resources and providing transportation and ventilation networks for underground operations. In transportation, they shorten routes through difficult terrain or urban areas. In construction, tunnels house utilities underground, and in energy, they support hydroelectric plants and pipelines.

Despite its importance, building tunnels poses technical and environmental challenges such as geological unpredictability, water ingress, high costs, waste generation, and safety concerns. The Element Six and Master Drilling partnership introduces a groundbreaking diamond-enabled solution designed to tackle these challenges and significantly increase tunneling development speed, reducing costs, and minimizing the environmental impact of tunnel construction.

“This strategic partnership with Master Drilling is another example of the role Element Six plays in De Beers Group’s Origins strategy” said Siobhán Duffy, CEO of Element Six. “Synthetic diamond innovation holds immense potential to shape the future of industrial applications. By extracting a lower amount of rock during tunnel development, the solution we developed in partnership with Master Drilling will significantly reduce waste and environmental impact, ensuring a better tomorrow for generations to come.”

About Element Six
Element Six, part of the De Beers Group, is a world-leader in the design, development and production of synthetic diamond advanced material solutions. The company operates worldwide with primary manufacturing facilities in the US, UK, Ireland, Germany, and South Africa.

For over seventy years, Element Six has harnessed the extreme properties of synthetic diamond to open up new possibilities in areas such as photonics, acoustics, power transmission, water treatment, thermal management and sensors. The company’s advanced material solutions are used in a wide range of applications across multiple industries including manufacturing in the automotive and consumer electronics industries, cutting and drilling in the oil and gas industry, and in components for mining, road, construction and agriculture applications.

https://www.e6.com/

About Master Drilling           
Master Drilling, established in 1986, is a global drilling technology solutions driven company; focused on delivering a fully mechanized range of services to the mining, infrastructure and energy sectors. As the trusted partner of choice, our business model is characterized by cutting-edge technology, innovative solutions and tailor-made designs, coupled with a flexible support and logistics chain. We partner with our clients during every project touchpoint – from the exploration phase to the production and capital stages. Our leading experts and advisors are able to provide a solution for every operational challenge – be it access, transportation, ventilation or analysis – focusing on the continuous research and development of new techniques and methods. Master Drilling is currently listed on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE).

https://masterdrilling.com/

Baidu Announces Fourth Quarter and Fiscal Year 2024 Results

BEIJING, Feb. 18, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Baidu, Inc. (NASDAQ: BIDU and HKEX: 9888 (HKD Counter) and 89888 (RMB Counter)) (“Baidu” or the “Company”), a leading AI company with a strong Internet foundation, today announced its unaudited financial results for the quarter and fiscal year ended December 31, 2024.

“2024 marked a pivotal year in our ongoing transformation from an internet-centric to an AI-first business. AI Cloud gained momentum, fueled by broad market recognition of our full stack AI capabilities. In Mobile Ecosystem, we have been steadfast in advancing the AI transformation, making search more AI-native to deliver a better user experience. Apollo Go, after years of investment, validated its business model, paving the way for global expansion and scalable, asset-light strategies,” said Robin Li, Co-founder and CEO of Baidu. “With our strategic foresight increasingly validated, we expect our AI investments to deliver more significant results in 2025.”

“Our AI Cloud business demonstrated robust momentum with fourth-quarter revenue growth accelerating to 26% year over year, offsetting the softness in online marketing business,” said Junjie He, Interim CFO of Baidu. “While navigating near-term pressures, we are confident that our strategic AI investments will drive meaningful progress and foster long-term success.”

Fourth Quarter and Fiscal Year 2024 Financial Highlights[1]

Baidu, Inc.

(In millions except per

Q4   

Q3   

Q4   

FY   

FY   

ADS, unaudited)

2023

2024

2024

YOY

2023

2024

YOY

 RMB   

   RMB     

 RMB   

US$

 RMB   

RMB  

US$

Total revenues

34,951

33,557

34,124

4,675

(2 %)

134,598

133,125

18,238

(1 %)

Operating income

5,392

5,925

3,917

537

(27 %)

21,856

21,270

2,914

(3 %)

Operating income
(non-GAAP) [2]

7,075

7,014

5,047

691

(29 %)

28,433

26,234

3,594

(8 %)

Net income to Baidu

2,599

7,632

5,192

711

100 %

20,315

23,760

3,255

17 %

Net income to Baidu
(non-GAAP) [2]

7,755

5,886

6,709

919

(13 %)

28,747

27,002

3,699

(6 %)

Diluted earnings per
ADS

6.77

21.60

14.26

1.95

111 %

55.08

65.91

9.03

20 %

Diluted earnings per
ADS (non-GAAP) [2]

21.86

16.60

19.18

2.63

(12 %)

80.85

76.85

10.53

(5 %)

Adjusted EBITDA [2]

9,057

8,733

6,954

953

(23 %)

35,823

33,078

4,532

(8 %)

Adjusted EBITDA
margin

26 %

26 %

20 %

20 %

27 %

25 %

25 %

Baidu Core

Q4   

Q3  

Q4  

 FY    

FY   

(In millions, unaudited)

2023

2024

2024

YOY

2023

2024

YOY

RMB  

RMB   

RMB  

US$

RMB  

RMB  

US$

Total revenues

27,488

26,524

27,698

3,795

1 %

103,465

104,712

14,345

1 %

Operating income

4,668

5,694

3,638

498

(22 %)

18,825

19,478

2,668

3 %

Operating income
(non-GAAP) [2]

6,197

6,652

4,647

637

(25 %)

24,748

23,890

3,273

(3 %)

Net income to Baidu
Core

2,440

7,536

5,283

724

117 %

19,401

23,431

3,210

21 %

Net income to Baidu
Core (non-GAAP) [2]

7,500

5,676

6,741

924

(10 %)

27,418

26,335

3,608

(4 %)

Adjusted EBITDA [2]

8,118

8,336

6,516

893

(20 %)

31,863

30,587

4,190

(4 %)

Adjusted EBITDA
margin

30 %

31 %

24 %

24 %

31 %

29 %

29 %

[1] Unless otherwise noted, RMB to USD was converted at an exchange rate of RMB 7.2993 as of December 31, 2024,
as set forth in the H.10 statistical release of the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System. Translations are
provided solely for the convenience of the reader.

[2] Non-GAAP measures are defined in the Non-GAAP Financial Measures section (see also “Reconciliations of
Non-GAAP Financial Measures to the Nearest Comparable GAAP Measures” for more details).

 

Operational Highlights                                                                                

Corporate

  • Baidu returned US$356 million to shareholders since Q4 2024, bringing the cumulative repurchase to over US$1 billion since 2024 and to US$1.7 billion under the 2023 share repurchase program.
  • Baidu earned a position in the global edition of the S&P Global Sustainability Yearbook for the first time, demonstrating its further advancement in ESG performance. The selection stems from a comprehensive evaluation of 7,690 companies globally as part of the S&P Global 2024 Corporate Sustainability Assessment, underscoring Baidu’s sustainability practices.
  • Forbes China placed Baidu on its 2024 China ESG 50 list.

AI Cloud

  • ERNIE handled approximately 1.65 billion API calls daily in December 2024, with external API calls increasing by 178% quarter over quarter, highlighting particularly strong momentum.
  • The MAU of Baidu Wenku’s AI-enabled features reached 94 million in December 2024, with a 216% year over year and an 83% quarter over quarter increase.

Intelligent Driving

  • Apollo Go, Baidu’s autonomous ride-hailing service, provided over 1.1 million rides in the fourth quarter of 2024, up 36% year over year.
  • In January 2025, accumulated rides provided to the public by Apollo Go surpassed 9 million.
  • In November 2024, Apollo Go was granted permits to conduct autonomous driving testing on public roads in Hong Kong, making Apollo Go the first and only of its kind to receive robotaxi testing authorization in the region. This marks Apollo Go’s first entry into a right-hand drive, left-hand traffic market.
  • Apollo Go has commenced 100% fully driverless operations across China since February 2025.

Mobile Ecosystem

  • In December 2024, Baidu App’s MAUs reached 679 million, up 2% year over year.
  • Managed Page accounted for 48% of Baidu Core’s online marketing revenue in the fourth quarter of 2024.

Fourth Quarter 2024 Financial Results

Total revenues were RMB34.1 billion ($4.68 billion), decreasing 2% year over year.

  • Revenue from Baidu Core was RMB27.7 billion ($3.80 billion), increasing 1% year over year; online marketing revenue was RMB17.9 billion ($2.46 billion), decreasing 7% year over year, and non-online marketing revenue was RMB9.8 billion ($1.34 billion), up 18% year over year, mainly driven by AI Cloud business.
  • Revenue from iQIYI was RMB6.6 billion ($906 million), decreasing 14% year over year.

Cost of revenues was RMB18.0 billion ($2.47 billion), increasing 3% year over year, primarily due to an increase in traffic acquisition costs, costs related to AI Cloud business and a one-time write-down of inventories, partially offset by a decrease in personnel-related expenses and content costs.

Selling, general and administrative expenses were RMB6.7 billion ($915 million), increasing 14% year over year, primarily due to an increase in expected credit losses, and channel spending and promotional marketing expenses, partially offset by a decrease in personnel-related expenses. RMB561 million of the increase in expected credit losses was pertaining to a one-time accrual.

Research and development expenses were RMB5.5 billion ($756 million), decreasing 12% year over year, primarily due to a decrease in personnel-related expenses, partially offset by an increase in server depreciation expenses and server custody fees which support Gen-AI research and development inputs.

Operating income was RMB3.9 billion ($537 million) in Q4, compared to RMB5.4 billion for the same period last year. Baidu Core operating income was RMB3.6 billion ($498 million), and Baidu Core operating margin was 13% in Q4, compared to RMB4.7 billion and 17% for the same period last year. The decrease was due to one-time losses of RMB1.0 billion including accrual of expected credit losses, write-down of inventories and others. Non-GAAP operating income was RMB5.0 billion ($691 million). Non-GAAP Baidu Core operating income was RMB4.6 billion ($637 million), and non-GAAP Baidu Core operating margin was 17%.

Total other income, net was RMB2.7 billion ($364 million), compared to total other loss, net of RMB2.5 billion for the same period last year, mainly due to an increase in net foreign exchange gain arising from exchange rate fluctuation between Renminbi and U.S. dollar, and a decrease in pickup of losses from an equity method investment, which modified certain terms of its preferred shares and resulted in significant loss pickup in 2023.

Income tax expense was RMB1.6 billion ($222 million), compared to income tax benefit of RMB96 million for the same period last year.

Net income attributable to Baidu was RMB5.2 billion ($711 million), and diluted earnings per ADS was RMB14.26 ($1.95). Net income attributable to Baidu Core was RMB5.3 billion ($724 million), and net margin for Baidu Core was 19%. Non-GAAP net income attributable to Baidu was RMB6.7 billion ($919 million). Non-GAAP diluted earnings per ADS was RMB19.18 ($2.63). Non-GAAP net income attributable to Baidu Core was RMB6.7 billion ($924 million), and non-GAAP net margin for Baidu Core was 24%.

Adjusted EBITDA was RMB7.0 billion ($953 million) and adjusted EBITDA margin was 20%. Adjusted EBITDA for Baidu Core was RMB6.5 billion ($893 million) and adjusted EBITDA margin for Baidu Core was 24%.

As of December 31, 2024, cash, cash equivalents, restricted cash and short-term investments were RMB139.1 billion ($19.06 billion), and cash, cash equivalents, restricted cash and short-term investments excluding iQIYI were RMB134.7 billion ($18.45 billion). Free cash flow was RMB23 million ($3 million), and free cash flow excluding iQIYI was negative RMB476 million (negative $65 million).

Fiscal Year 2024 Results

Total revenues were RMB133.1 billion ($18.24 billion), decreasing 1% year over year.

  • Revenue from Baidu Core was RMB104.7 billion ($14.35 billion), increasing 1% year over year; online marketing revenue was RMB73.0 billion ($10.00 billion), decreasing 3% year over year, and non-online marketing revenue was RMB31.7 billion ($4.35 billion), up 12% year over year, mainly driven by AI Cloud business.
  • Revenue from iQIYI was RMB29.2 billion ($4.00 billion), decreasing 8% year over year.

Cost of revenues was RMB66.1 billion ($9.06 billion), increasing 2% year over year, primarily due to an increase in traffic acquisition costs, bandwidth costs and server custody fees, partially offset by a decrease in personnel-related expenses and content costs.

Selling, general and administrative expenses were RMB23.6 billion ($3.24 billion), which remained flat compared to the same period last year.

Research and development expenses were RMB22.1 billion ($3.03 billion), decreasing 9% year over year, primarily due to a decrease in personnel-related expenses.

Operating income was RMB21.3 billion ($2.91 billion). Baidu Core operating income was RMB19.5 billion ($2.67 billion), and Baidu Core operating margin was 19%. Non-GAAP operating income was RMB26.2 billion ($3.59 billion). Non-GAAP Baidu Core operating income was RMB23.9 billion ($3.27 billion), and non-GAAP Baidu Core operating margin was 23%.

Total other income, net was RMB7.4 billion ($1.01 billion), increasing 120% year over year, primarily due to a decrease in pickup of losses from an equity method investment, which modified certain terms of its preferred shares and resulted in significant loss pickup in 2023.

Income tax expense was RMB4.4 billion ($609 million), compared to RMB3.6 billion in the same period last year.

Net income attributable to Baidu was RMB23.8 billion ($3.26 billion), and diluted earnings per ADS was RMB65.91 ($9.03). Net income attributable to Baidu Core was RMB23.4 billion ($3.21 billion), and net margin for Baidu Core was 22%. Non-GAAP net income attributable to Baidu was RMB27.0 billion ($3.70 billion). Non-GAAP diluted earnings per ADS was RMB76.85 ($10.53). Non-GAAP net income attributable to Baidu Core was RMB26.3 billion ($3.61 billion), and non-GAAP net margin for Baidu Core was 25%.

Adjusted EBITDA was RMB33.1 billion ($4.53 billion) and adjusted EBITDA margin was 25%. Adjusted EBITDA for Baidu Core was RMB30.6 billion ($4.19 billion) and adjusted EBITDA margin for Baidu Core was 29%.

Free cash flow was RMB13.1 billion ($1.80 billion), and free cash flow excluding iQIYI was RMB11.1 billion ($1.52 billion).

Conference Call Information

Baidu’s management will hold an earnings conference call at 7.30 AM on February 18, 2025, U.S. Eastern Time (8.30 PM on February 18, 2025, Beijing Time).

Please register in advance of the conference call using the link provided below. It will automatically direct you to the registration page of “Baidu Inc. Q4 2024 Earnings Conference Call”. Please follow the steps to enter your registration details, then click “Register”. Upon registering, you will then be provided with the dial-in number, the passcode, and your unique access PIN. This information will also be emailed to you as a calendar invite.

For pre-registration, please click:
https://s1.c-conf.com/diamondpass/10044727-f3pyuq.html

In the 10 minutes prior to the call start time, you may use the conference access information (including dial-in number(s), the passcode and unique access PIN) provided in the calendar invite that you have received following your pre-registration.

Additionally, a live and archived webcast of this conference call will be available at https://ir.baidu.com.

About Baidu

Founded in 2000, Baidu’s mission is to make the complicated world simpler through technology. Baidu is a leading AI company with strong Internet foundation, trading on NASDAQ under “BIDU” and HKEX under “9888”. One Baidu ADS represents eight Class A ordinary shares.

Safe Harbor Statement

This announcement contains forward-looking statements. These statements are made under the “safe harbor” provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements can be identified by terminology such as “will,” “expects,” “anticipates,” “future,” “intends,” “plans,” “believes,” “estimates,” “confident” and similar statements. Among other things, Baidu’s and other parties’ strategic and operational plans, contain forward-looking statements. Baidu may also make written or oral forward-looking statements in its periodic reports to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, in announcements made on the website of The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited (the “Hong Kong Stock Exchange”), in its annual report to shareholders, in press releases and other written materials and in oral statements made by its officers, directors or employees to third parties. Statements that are not historical facts, including but not limited to statements about Baidu’s beliefs and expectations, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements involve inherent risks and uncertainties. A number of factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statement, including but not limited to the following: Baidu’s growth strategies; its future business development, including development of new products and services; its ability to attract and retain users and customers; competition in the Chinese Internet search and newsfeed market; competition for online marketing customers; changes in the Company’s revenues and certain cost or expense items as a percentage of its revenues; the outcome of ongoing, or any future, litigation or arbitration, including those relating to intellectual property rights; the expected growth of the Chinese-language Internet search and newsfeed market and the number of Internet and broadband users in China; Chinese governmental policies relating to the Internet and Internet search providers, and general economic conditions in China and elsewhere. Further information regarding these and other risks is included in the Company’s annual report on Form 20-F and other documents filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission, and announcements on the website of the Hong Kong Stock Exchange. Baidu does not undertake any obligation to update any forward-looking statement, except as required under applicable law. All information provided in this press release and in the attachments is as of the date of the press release, and Baidu undertakes no duty to update such information, except as required under applicable law.

Non-GAAP Financial Measures

To supplement Baidu’s consolidated financial results presented in accordance with GAAP, Baidu uses the following non-GAAP financial measures: non-GAAP operating income, non-GAAP operating margin, non-GAAP net income (loss) attributable to Baidu, non-GAAP net margin, non-GAAP diluted earnings per ADS, adjusted EBITDA, adjusted EBITDA margin and free cash flow. The presentation of these non-GAAP financial measures is not intended to be considered in isolation or as a substitute for the financial information prepared and presented in accordance with GAAP.

Baidu believes that these non-GAAP financial measures provide meaningful supplemental information regarding its performance and liquidity by excluding certain items that may not be indicative of its recurring core business operating results, such as operating performance excluding non-cash charges or non-operating in nature. The Company believes that both management and investors benefit from referring to these non-GAAP financial measures in assessing its performance and when planning and forecasting future periods. These non-GAAP financial measures also facilitate management’s internal comparisons to Baidu’s historical performance and liquidity. The Company believes these non-GAAP financial measures are useful to investors in allowing for greater transparency with respect to supplemental information used by management in its financial and operational decision making. A limitation of using these non-GAAP financial measures is that these non-GAAP measures exclude certain items that have been and will continue to be for the foreseeable future a significant component in the Company’s results of operations. These non-GAAP financial measures presented here may not be comparable to similarly titled measures presented by other companies. Other companies may calculate similarly titled measures differently, limiting their usefulness as comparative measures to the Company’s data.

Non-GAAP operating income represents operating income excluding share-based compensation expenses, and amortization and impairment of intangible assets resulting from business combinations.

Non-GAAP net income attributable to Baidu represents net income attributable to Baidu excluding share-based compensation expenses, amortization and impairment of intangible assets resulting from business combinations, disposal gain or loss, impairment of long-term investments, and fair value gain or loss of long-term investments, adjusted for related income tax effects. Baidu’s share of equity method investments for these non-GAAP reconciling items, amortization and impairment of intangible assets not on the investees’ books, accretion of their redeemable non-controlling interests, and the gain or loss associated with the issuance of shares by the investees at a price higher or lower than the carrying value per share, adjusted for related income tax effects, are also excluded.

Non-GAAP diluted earnings per ADS represents diluted earnings per ADS calculated by dividing non-GAAP net income attributable to Baidu, by the weighted average number of ordinary shares expressed in ADS. Adjusted EBITDA represents operating income excluding depreciation, amortization and impairment of intangible assets resulting from business combinations, and share-based compensation expenses.

For more information on non-GAAP financial measures, please see the tables captioned “Reconciliations of non-GAAP financial measures to the nearest comparable GAAP measure.”

 

 

 

Baidu, Inc. 

Condensed Consolidated Statements of  Income 

(In millions except for per share (or ADS) information, unaudited)

Three Months Ended

Twelve Months Ended

December 31,

September 30,

December 31,

December 31,

December 31,

December 31,

December 31,

2023

2024

2024

2024

2023

2024

2024

RMB

RMB

RMB

US$(2)

RMB

RMB

US$(2)

Revenues:

Online marketing services

20,804

20,108

19,340

2,650

81,203

78,563

10,763

Others

14,147

13,449

14,784

2,025

53,395

54,562

7,475

Total revenues 

34,951

33,557

34,124

4,675

134,598

133,125

18,238

Costs and expenses:

Cost of revenues(1)

17,418

16,399

18,014

2,467

65,031

66,102

9,056

Selling, general and administrative(1)

5,854

5,867

6,678

915

23,519

23,620

3,236

Research and development(1)

6,287

5,366

5,515

756

24,192

22,133

3,032

Total costs and expenses

29,559

27,632

30,207

4,138

112,742

111,855

15,324

Operating income

5,392

5,925

3,917

537

21,856

21,270

2,914

Other (loss) income:

Interest income

2,064

1,877

2,001

274

8,009

7,962

1,091

Interest expense

(774)

(673)

(643)

(88)

(3,248)

(2,824)

(387)

Foreign exchange (loss) gain, net

(449)

(1,096)

1,678

230

595

1,076

147

Share of (losses) earnings from equity method investments

(2,970)

32

(399)

(55)

(3,799)

(691)

(95)

Others, net

(398)

2,535

23

3

1,785

1,829

251

Total other (loss) income, net

(2,527)

2,675

2,660

364

3,342

7,352

1,007

Income before income taxes

2,865

8,600

6,577

901

25,198

28,622

3,921

Income tax (benefit) expense

(96)

814

1,619

222

3,649

4,447

609

Net income 

2,961

7,786

4,958

679

21,549

24,175

3,312

Net income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests

362

154

(234)

(32)

1,234

415

57

Net income attributable to Baidu

2,599

7,632

5,192

711

20,315

23,760

3,255

Earnings per ADS (1 ADS representing 8 Class A ordinary shares):

 -Basic

6.85

21.93

14.41

1.97

55.83

66.40

9.10

 -Diluted

6.77

21.60

14.26

1.95

55.08

65.91

9.03

Earnings per share for Class A and Class B ordinary shares:

 -Basic

0.86

2.74

1.80

0.25

6.98

8.31

1.14

 -Diluted

0.85

2.70

1.78

0.24

6.89

8.24

1.13

Weighted average number of Class A and Class B ordinary shares outstanding (in millions):

 -Basic 

2,812

2,785

2,775

2,775

2,807

2,790

2,790

 -Diluted

2,830

2,789

2,783

2,783

2,837

2,798

2,798

(1) Includes share-based compensation expenses as follows:

 Cost of revenues 

159

104

103

14

590

461

63

 Selling, general and administrative 

411

328

297

41

1,678

1,427

195

 Research and development 

1,068

612

685

93

4,077

2,896

397

 Total share-based compensation expenses 

1,638

1,044

1,085

148

6,345

4,784

655

(2) All translations from RMB to U.S. dollars are made at a rate of RMB7.2993 to US$1.00, the exchange rate in effect as of December 31, 2024 as set forth in the H.10 statistical release of The Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System.

 

 

 

Baidu, Inc. 

Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets

(In millions, unaudited)

December 31,

December 31,

December 31,

2023

2024

2024

RMB

RMB

US$

ASSETS

Current assets:

Cash and cash equivalents

25,231

24,832

3,402

Restricted cash

11,503

11,697

1,602

Short-term investments, net

168,670

102,608

14,057

Accounts receivable, net

10,848

10,104

1,384

Amounts due from related parties

1,424

790

108

Other current assets, net

12,579

18,818

2,580

Total current assets

230,255

168,849

23,133

Non-current assets:

Fixed assets, net

27,960

30,102

4,124

Licensed copyrights, net

6,967

6,930

949

Produced content, net

13,377

14,695

2,013

Intangible assets, net

881

772

106

Goodwill

22,586

22,586

3,094

Long-term investments, net

47,957

41,721

5,716

Long-term time deposits and held-to-maturity investments

24,666

98,535

13,499

Amounts due from related parties

195

137

19

Deferred tax assets, net

2,100

2,193

300

Operating lease right-of-use assets

10,851

10,898

1,493

Prepayments and receivables related to the proposed acquisition of YY Live, net

13,198

13,547

1,856

Other non-current assets

5,766

16,815

2,304

Total non-current assets

176,504

258,931

35,473

Total assets

406,759

427,780

58,606

LIABILITIES, REDEEMABLE NONCONTROLLING INTERESTS AND EQUITY

Current liabilities:

Short-term loans

10,257

10,669

1,462

Accounts payable and accrued liabilities

37,717

41,443

5,677

Customer deposits and deferred revenue

14,627

14,624

2,003

Deferred income

306

684

94

Long-term loans, current portion

2

168

23

Convertible senior notes, current portion

2,802

242

33

Notes payable, current portion

6,029

8,026

1,100

Amounts due to related parties

1,603

1,794

246

Operating lease liabilities

3,108

3,303

453

Total current liabilities

76,451

80,953

11,091

Non-current liabilities:

Deferred income

200

231

32

Deferred revenue

481

585

80

Amounts due to related parties

77

56

8

Long-term loans

14,223

15,596

2,137

Notes payable

34,990

27,996

3,835

Convertible senior notes

8,144

8,351

1,144

Deferred tax liabilities

2,725

3,870

530

Operating lease liabilities

5,040

4,973

681

Other non-current liabilities

1,820

1,557

213

Total non-current liabilities

67,700

63,215

8,660

Total liabilities

144,151

144,168

19,751

Redeemable noncontrolling interests

9,465

9,870

1,352

Equity

Total Baidu shareholders’ equity

243,626

263,620

36,116

Noncontrolling interests

9,517

10,122

1,387

Total equity

253,143

273,742

37,503

Total liabilities, redeemable noncontrolling interests, and equity

406,759

427,780

58,606

 

 

 

Baidu, Inc. 

Selected Information

(In millions, unaudited)

Three months ended
December 31, 2023 (RMB)

Three months ended
September 30, 2024 (RMB)

Three months ended
December 31, 2024 (RMB)

Three months ended
December 31, 2024 (US$)

Baidu
Core

iQIYI

Elim &
adj(2)

Baidu,
Inc.

Baidu
Core

iQIYI

Elim &
adj(2)

Baidu,
Inc.

Baidu
Core

iQIYI

Elim &
adj(2)

Baidu,
Inc.

Baidu
Core

iQIYI

Elim &
adj(2)

Baidu,
Inc.

Total revenues 

27,488

7,707

(244)

34,951

26,524

7,246

(213)

33,557

27,698

6,613

(187)

34,124

3,795

906

(26)

4,675

  YOY

1 %

(14 %)

(2 %)

  QOQ

4 %

(9 %)

2 %

Costs and expenses: 

  Cost of revenues (1)

12,050

5,533

(165)

17,418

10,923

5,650

(174)

16,399

13,180

4,995

(161)

18,014

1,806

684

(23)

2,467

  Selling, general and administrative (1)

4,936

948

(30)

5,854

4,990

908

(31)

5,867

5,816

882

(20)

6,678

797

121

(3)

915

  Research and development (1)

5,834

453

6,287

4,917

449

5,366

5,064

451

5,515

694

62

756

Total costs and expenses 

22,820

6,934

(195)

29,559

20,830

7,007

(205)

27,632

24,060

6,328

(181)

30,207

3,297

867

(26)

4,138

  YOY 

  Cost of revenues 

9 %

(10 %)

3 %

  Selling, general and administrative 

18 %

(7 %)

14 %

  Research and development 

(13 %)

(0 %)

(12 %)

  Costs and expenses

5 %

(9 %)

2 %

Operating income (loss)

4,668

773

(49)

5,392

5,694

239

(8)

5,925

3,638

285

(6)

3,917

498

39

537

  YOY

(22 %)

(63 %)

(27 %)

  QOQ

(36 %)

19 %

(34 %)

Operating margin 

17 %

10 %

15 %

21 %

3 %

18 %

13 %

4 %

11 %

  Add: total other (loss) income, net

(2,267)

(260)

(2,527)

2,667

8

2,675

3,125

(465)

2,660

428

(64)

364

  Less: income tax (benefit) expense

(134)

38

(96)

803

11

814

1,612

7

1,619

221

1

222

  Less: net income (loss) attributable to NCI

95

9

258(3)

362

22

7

125(3)

154

(132)

2

(104)(3)

(234)

(19)

(13)(3)

(32)

Net income (loss) attributable to Baidu

2,440

466

(307)

2,599

7,536

229

(133)

7,632

5,283

(189)

98

5,192

724

(26)

13

711

  YOY

117 %

100 %

  QOQ

(30 %)

(32 %)

Net margin 

9 %

6 %

7 %

28 %

3 %

23 %

19 %

(3 %)

15 %

Non-GAAP financial measures:

Operating income (non-GAAP)

6,197

927

7,075

6,652

370

7,014

4,647

406

5,047

637

54

691

  YOY

(25 %)

(56 %)

(29 %)

  QOQ

(30 %)

10 %

(28 %)

Operating margin (non-GAAP)

23 %

12 %

20 %

25 %

5 %

21 %

17 %

6 %

15 %

Net income (loss) attributable to Baidu (non-GAAP)

7,500

681

7,755

5,676

480

5,886

6,741

(59)

6,709

924

(9)

919

  YOY

(10 %)

(13 %)

  QOQ

19 %

14 %

Net margin (non-GAAP)

27 %

9 %

22 %

21 %

7 %

18 %

24 %

(1 %)

20 %

Adjusted EBITDA

8,118

988

9,057

8,336

405

8,733

6,516

444

6,954

893

60

953

  YOY

(20 %)

(55 %)

(23 %)

  QOQ

(22 %)

10 %

(20 %)

Adjusted EBITDA margin 

30 %

13 %

26 %

31 %

6 %

26 %

24 %

7 %

20 %

(1) Includes share-based compensation as follows:

 Cost of revenues 

125

34

159

73

31

104

74

29

103

10

4

14

 Selling, general and administrative 

340

71

411

268

60

328

240

57

297

33

8

41

 Research and development 

1,020

48

1,068

574

38

612

652

33

685

90

3

93

 Total share-based compensation 

1,485

153

1,638

915

129

1,044

966

119

1,085

133

15

148

(2) Relates to intersegment eliminations and adjustments

(3) Relates to the net income attributable to iQIYI noncontrolling interests

 

 

 

Baidu, Inc. 

Selected Information

(In millions except for per ADS information, unaudited)

Twelve months ended
December 31, 2023 (RMB)

Twelve months ended
December 31, 2024 (RMB)

Twelve months ended
December 31, 2024 (US$)

Baidu
Core

iQIYI

Elim &
adj(2)

Baidu,
Inc.

Baidu
Core

iQIYI

Elim &
adj(2)

Baidu,
Inc.

Baidu
Core

iQIYI

Elim &
adj(2)

Baidu,
Inc.

Total revenues 

103,465

31,873

(740)

134,598

104,712

29,225

(812)

133,125

14,345

4,004

(111)

18,238

  YOY

1 %

(8 %)

(1 %)

Costs and expenses: 

  Cost of revenues (1)

42,592

23,103

(664)

65,031

44,830

21,954

(682)

66,102

6,142

3,008

(94)

9,056

  Selling, general and administrative (1)

19,623

4,014

(118)

23,519

20,049

3,682

(111)

23,620

2,747

504

(15)

3,236

  Research and development (1)

22,425

1,767

24,192

20,355

1,778

22,133

2,788

244

3,032

Total costs and expenses 

84,640

28,884

(782)

112,742

85,234

27,414

(793)

111,855

11,677

3,756

(109)

15,324

  YOY 

  Cost of revenues 

5 %

(5 %)

2 %

  Selling, general and administrative 

2 %

(8 %)

0 %

  Research and development 

(9 %)

1 %

(9 %)

  Cost and expenses

1 %

(5 %)

(1 %)

Operating income (loss)

18,825

2,989

42

21,856

19,478

1,811

(19)

21,270

2,668

248

(2)

2,914

  YOY

3 %

(39 %)

(3 %)

Operating margin 

18 %

9 %

16 %

19 %

6 %

16 %

  Add: total other income (loss), net

4,298

(956)

3,342

8,311

(959)

7,352

1,139

(132)

1,007

  Less: income tax expense

3,568

81

3,649

4,386

61

4,447

601

8

609

  Less: net income (loss) attributable to NCI

154

27

1,053(3)

1,234

(28)

27

416(3)

415

(4)

4

57(3)

57

Net income (loss) attributable to Baidu

19,401

1,925

(1,011)

20,315

23,431

764

(435)

23,760

3,210

104

(59)

3,255

  YOY

21 %

(60 %)

17 %

Net margin 

19 %

6 %

15 %

22 %

3 %

18 %

Non-GAAP financial measures:

Operating income (non-GAAP)

24,748

3,643

28,433

23,890

2,363

26,234

3,273

323

3,594

  YOY

(3 %)

(35 %)

(8 %)

Operating margin (non-GAAP)

24 %

11 %

21 %

23 %

8 %

20 %

Net income attributable to Baidu (non-GAAP)

27,418

2,838

28,747

26,335

1,512

27,002

3,608

206

3,699

  YOY

(4 %)

(47 %)

(6 %)

Net margin (non-GAAP)

26 %

9 %

21 %

25 %

5 %

20 %

Adjusted EBITDA

31,863

3,918

35,823

30,587

2,510

33,078

4,190

344

4,532

  YOY

(4 %)

(36 %)

(8 %)

Adjusted EBITDA margin 

31 %

12 %

27 %

29 %

9 %

25 %

(1) Includes share-based compensation as follows:

 Cost of revenues 

457

133

590

340

121

461

47

16

63

 Selling, general and administrative 

1,363

315

1,678

1,153

274

1,427

158

37

195

 Research and development 

3,888

189

4,077

2,746

150

2,896

376

21

397

 Total share-based compensation 

5,708

637

6,345

4,239

545

4,784

581

74

655

(2) Relates to intersegment eliminations and adjustments

(3) Relates to the net loss attributable to iQIYI noncontrolling interests

 

 

 

Baidu, Inc. 

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows

(In millions,unaudited)

Three months ended 

Three months ended 

Three months ended 

Three months ended 

December 31, 2023 (RMB)

September 30, 2024 (RMB)

December 31, 2024 (RMB)

December 31, 2024 (US$)

 Baidu

 excl.
iQIYI

iQIYI

Baidu,
Inc.

 Baidu
excl.
iQIYI

iQIYI

Baidu,
Inc.

 Baidu
excl.
iQIYI

iQIYI

Baidu,
Inc.

 Baidu
excl.
iQIYI

iQIYI

Baidu,
Inc.

Net cash provided by operating activities

9,985

633

10,618

4,036

243

4,279

1,836

520

2,356

252

71

323

Net cash used in investing activities 

(11,805)

(1,431)

(13,236)

(12,300)

(1,663)

(13,963)

(4,741)

(896)

(5,637)

(649)

(123)

(772)

Net cash (used in) provided by financing activities

(7,586)

(22)

(7,608)

(2,787)

(2,612)

(5,399)

(1,784)

114

(1,670)

(245)

16

(229)

Effect of exchange rate changes on cash, cash equivalents and restricted
cash

(364)

(31)

(395)

(721)

(84)

(805)

582

61

643

80

8

88

Net decrease in cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash 

(9,770)

(851)

(10,621)

(11,772)

(4,116)

(15,888)

(4,107)

(201)

(4,308)

(562)

(28)

(590)

Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash

  At beginning of period

42,063

6,132

48,195

48,878

7,907

56,785

37,106

3,791

40,897

5,084

519

5,603

  At end of period

32,293

5,281

37,574

37,106

3,791

40,897

32,999

3,590

36,589

4,522

491

5,013

Net cash provided by operating activities

9,985

633

10,618

4,036

243

4,279

1,836

520

2,356

252

71

323

Less: Capital expenditures

(3,641)

(19)

(3,660)

(1,637)

(8)

(1,645)

(2,312)

(21)

(2,333)

(317)

(3)

(320)

Free cash flow

6,344

614

6,958

2,399

235

2,634

(476)

499

23

(65)

68

3

Note: Baidu excl. iQIYI represents Baidu, Inc. minus iQIYI’s consolidated cash flows.

 

 

 

Baidu, Inc. 

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows

(In millions,unaudited)

Twelve months ended

Twelve months ended

Twelve months ended

December 31, 2023 (RMB)

December 31, 2024 (RMB)

December 31, 2024 (US$)

 Baidu
excl.
iQIYI

iQIYI

Baidu,
Inc.

 Baidu
excl.
iQIYI

iQIYI

Baidu,
Inc.

 Baidu
excl.
iQIYI

iQIYI

Baidu,
Inc.

Net cash provided by operating activities

33,263

3,352

36,615

19,126

2,108

21,234

2,620

289

2,909

Net cash used in investing activities 

(48,657)

(1,740)

(50,397)

(6,110)

(2,445)

(8,555)

(837)

(335)

(1,172)

Net cash used in financing activities

(9,876)

(4,286)

(14,162)

(12,391)

(1,368)

(13,759)

(1,698)

(187)

(1,885)

Effect of exchange rate changes on cash, cash equivalents and
restricted cash

189

93

282

81

14

95

11

2

13

Net (decrease) increase in cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash 

(25,081)

(2,581)

(27,662)

706

(1,691)

(985)

96

(231)

(135)

Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash

  At beginning of period

57,374

7,862

65,236

32,293

5,281

37,574

4,426

722

5,148

  At end of period

32,293

5,281

37,574

32,999

3,590

36,589

4,522

491

5,013

Net cash provided by operating activities

33,263

3,352

36,615

19,126

2,108

21,234

2,620

289

2,909

Less: Capital expenditures

(11,154)

(36)

(11,190)

(8,055)

(79)

(8,134)

(1,103)

(11)

(1,114)

Free cash flow

22,109

3,316

25,425

11,071

2,029

13,100

1,517

278

1,795

Note: Baidu excl. iQIYI represents Baidu, Inc. minus iQIYI’s consolidated cash flows.

 

 

 

Baidu, Inc. 

Reconciliations of Non-GAAP Financial Measures to the Nearest Comparable GAAP Measures  

(In millions except for per ADS information, unaudited)

Three months ended 

Three months ended 

Three months ended 

Three months ended 

December 31, 2023 (RMB)

September 30, 2024 (RMB)

December 31, 2024 (RMB)

December 31, 2024 (US$)

Baidu
Core

iQIYI

Baidu,
Inc.

Baidu
Core

iQIYI

Baidu,
Inc.

Baidu
Core

iQIYI

Baidu,

 Inc.

Baidu
Core

iQIYI

Baidu,
Inc.

Operating income

4,668

773

5,392

5,694

239

5,925

3,638

285

3,917

498

39

537

Add: Share-based compensation expenses

1,485

153

1,638

915

129

1,044

966

119

1,085

133

15

148

Add: Amortization and impairment of intangible assets(1)

44

1

45

43

2

45

43

2

45

6

6

Operating income (non-GAAP)

6,197

927

7,075

6,652

370

7,014

4,647

406

5,047

637

54

691

Add:  Depreciation of fixed assets

1,921

61

1,982

1,684

35

1,719

1,869

38

1,907

256

6

262

Adjusted EBITDA

8,118

988

9,057

8,336

405

8,733

6,516

444

6,954

893

60

953

Net income (loss) attributable to Baidu

2,440

466

2,599

7,536

229

7,632

5,283

(189)

5,192

724

(26)

711

Add: Share-based compensation expenses

1,484

153

1,553

914

129

972

965

119

1,019

131

16

140

Add: Amortization and impairment of intangible assets(1)

42

1

42

41

2

42

41

2

42

6

6

Add: Disposal (gain) loss

(37)

(1)

(38)

(1,501)

22

(1,491)

7

7

1

1

Add: Impairment of long-term investments

132

62

160

26

91

68

84

14

90

12

2

12

Add: Fair value loss (gain) of long-term investments

403

403

(1,361)

7

(1,358)

(288)

(5)

(290)

(39)

(1)

(40)

Add: Reconciling items on equity method investments(2)

3,172

3,172

8

8

679

679

93

93

Add: Tax effects on non-GAAP adjustments(3)

(136)

(136)

13

13

(30)

(30)

(4)

(4)

Net income (loss) attributable to Baidu (non-GAAP)

7,500

681

7,755

5,676

480

5,886

6,741

(59)

6,709

924

(9)

919

Diluted earnings per ADS

6.77

21.60

14.26

1.95

Add:  Accretion of the redeemable noncontrolling interests

0.53

0.01

0.55

0.08

Add:  Non-GAAP adjustments to earnings per ADS

14.56

(5.01)

4.37

0.60

Diluted earnings per ADS (non-GAAP)

21.86

16.60

19.18

2.63

(1) This represents amortization and impairment of intangible assets resulting from business combinations.

(2) This represents Baidu’s share of equity method investments for other non-GAAP reconciling items, amortization and impairment of intangible assets not on the investee’s books, accretion of their redeemable noncontrolling interests, and the gain or loss
associated with the issuance of shares by the investees at a price higher or lower than the carrying value per share.

(3) This represents tax impact of all non-GAAP adjustments.

 

 

 

Baidu, Inc. 

Reconciliations of Non-GAAP Financial Measures to the Nearest Comparable GAAP Measures  

(In millions except for per ADS information, unaudited)

Twelve months ended

Twelve months ended

Twelve months ended

December 31, 2023 (RMB)

December 31, 2024 (RMB)

December 31, 2024 (US$)

Baidu Core

iQIYI

Baidu, Inc.

Baidu Core

iQIYI

Baidu, Inc.

Baidu Core

iQIYI

Baidu, Inc.

Operating income

18,825

2,989

21,856

19,478

1,811

21,270

2,668

248

2,914

Add: Share-based compensation expenses

5,708

637

6,345

4,239

545

4,784

581

74

655

Add: Amortization and impairment of intangible assets(1)

215

17

232

173

7

180

24

1

25

Operating income (non-GAAP)

24,748

3,643

28,433

23,890

2,363

26,234

3,273

323

3,594

Add:  Depreciation of fixed assets

7,115

275

7,390

6,697

147

6,844

917

21

938

Adjusted EBITDA

31,863

3,918

35,823

30,587

2,510

33,078

4,190

344

4,532

Net income attributable to Baidu

19,401

1,925

20,315

23,431

764

23,760

3,210

104

3,255

Add: Share-based compensation expenses

5,704

637

5,993

4,235

545

4,482

580

75

613

Add: Amortization and impairment of intangible assets(1)

195

17

204

165

7

168

23

1

23

Add: Disposal (gain) loss

(1,926)

(90)

(1,967)

(1,982)

22

(1,972)

(272)

3

(270)

Add: Impairment of long-term investments

479

336

631

172

193

260

24

26

36

Add: Fair value (gain) loss of long-term investments

(54)

4

(52)

(393)

(19)

(403)

(54)

(3)

(55)

Add: Reconciling items on equity method investments(2)

3,918

9

3,922

1,050

1,050

144

144

Add: Tax effects on non-GAAP adjustments(3)

(299)

(299)

(343)

(343)

(47)

(47)

Net income attributable to Baidu (non-GAAP)

27,418

2,838

28,747

26,335

1,512

27,002

3,608

206

3,699

Diluted earnings per ADS

55.08

65.91

9.03

Add:  Accretion of the redeemable noncontrolling interests

2.02

1.68

0.23

Add:  Non-GAAP adjustments to earnings per ADS

23.75

9.26

1.27

Diluted earnings per ADS (non-GAAP)

80.85

76.85

10.53

(1) This represents amortization and impairment of intangible assets resulting from business combinations.

(2) This represents Baidu’s share of equity method investments for other non-GAAP reconciling items, amortization and impairment of intangible assets not on the investee’s books,
accretion of their redeemable noncontrolling interests, and the gain or loss associated with the issuance of shares by the investees at a price higher or lower than the carrying value per share.

(3) This represents tax impact of all non-GAAP adjustments.

 

WuXi Biologics Awarded Platinum Medal by EcoVadis Sustainability Rating for Second Consecutive Year

  • Ranked among the top 1% of more than 150,000 companies across 185 countries
  • Trusted by global partners for strong sustainability commitment
  • Recognized as a leader in Green CRDMO, driving innovation for a healthier future

SHANGHAI, Feb. 18, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — WuXi Biologics (“WuXi Bio”) (2269.HK), a leading global Contract Research, Development, and Manufacturing Organization (CRDMO), today announced it has been awarded a Platinum Medal by the EcoVadis Sustainability Rating, marking the second year the company has received the rating’s highest level of recognition.

EcoVadis is a leading sustainability intelligence platform for global supply chains. Its sustainability ratings cover seven management indicators, across 21 sustainability criteria, under four main themes: Environment, Labor & Human Rights, Ethics, and Sustainable Procurement. The performance of companies is evaluated by assessing their policies, actions and results, and weighing inputs that come from third-party professionals and external stakeholders. In the newly published ratings scorecard, WuXi Biologics was ranked in the top 1% of more than 150,000 companies evaluated worldwide.

Dr. Chris Chen, CEO of WuXi Biologics and Chairman of its ESG Committee, commented, “We are very pleased to be once again recognized by EcoVadis with the Platinum Medal, which reflects our success in enhancing our sustainability capabilities. As a global leader in Green CRDMO, we are committed to continuously delivering ESG excellence, enabling partners worldwide to fulfill ESG goals, and jointly working with all stakeholders to promote responsible practices throughout the entire value chain.”

As a participant in the United Nations Global Compact (UNGC) and the Pharmaceutical Supply Chain Initiative (PSCI), WuXi Biologics proactively contributes to advocating sustainability, and has earned widespread recognition for its efforts. It was included in the UNGC 20 Case Examples of Sustainable Development for 20 Years Collection for its world-leading green biologics solutions; granted an MSCI AAA Rating and included in Dow Jones Sustainability Indices for two consecutive years; recognized as a Sustainalytics industry and regional ESG top-rated company for five consecutive years; named to the CDP Water Security “A list” and awarded an “A-” CDP Climate Change score; selected as a Constituent of the FTSE4Good Index Series; and listed in the Hang Seng ESG 50 Index.

About WuXi Biologics

WuXi Biologics (stock code: 2269.HK) is a leading global Contract Research, Development and Manufacturing Organization (CRDMO) offering end-to-end solutions that enable partners to discover, develop and manufacture biologics – from concept to commercialization – for the benefit of patients worldwide.

With over 12,000 skilled employees in China, the United States, Ireland, Germany and Singapore, WuXi Biologics leverages its technologies and expertise to provide customers with efficient and cost-effective biologics discovery, development and manufacturing solutions. As of December 31, 2024, WuXi Biologics is supporting 817 integrated client projects, including 21 in commercial manufacturing (excluding COVID CMO projects).

WuXi Biologics views Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) responsibilities as an integral component of our ethos and business strategy, and we aim to be an ESG leader in the biologics CRDMO sector. Our facilities use next-generation biomanufacturing technologies and clean-energy sources. We have also established an ESG committee led by our CEO to steer the comprehensive ESG strategy and its implementation, enhancing our commitment to sustainability.

For more information about WuXi Biologics, please visit: www.wuxibiologics.com.

PIZU GROUP (09893.HK): THE FIRST COMPANY TO SUCCESSFULLY TRANSFER LISTING UNDER THE NEW HKEX GEM RULES

HONG KONG, Feb. 18, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Pizu Group Holdings Limited (“Pizu” or “the Company”, together with its subsidiaries, collectively referred to as “the Group,” is pleased to announce that, it has successfully transferred its listing from the GEM of the Hong Kong Stock Exchange to the Main Board (Main Board Stock Code: 09893.HK) on 18 February 2025.

This marks Pizu Group as the first company to successfully complete the transfer of its listing since the HKEX implemented the streamlined GEM transfer mechanism on 1 January 2024. Following the transfer, the Company’s stock abbreviation in both Chinese and English, the trading lot size, the trading currency of the shares, and the Company’s share transfer registrar will remain unchanged.

This transfer listing is not only an important practice of institutional innovation in the Hong Kong capital market, but also a key measure for the Hong Kong Stock Exchange (HKEX) to enhance market vitality and optimize its listing system. By simplifying the transfer process and reducing compliance costs, HKEX has further strengthened Hong Kong’s inclusivity and competitiveness as an international financial center, providing a more efficient capital growth channel for high-quality small and medium-sized enterprises. The groundbreaking reform of the transfer listing mechanism is a strategic move in Hong Kong’s efforts to solidify its position as an international financial hub. Against the backdrop of intensifying global financial competition and cooperation, HKEX continues to enhance its market attractiveness through institutional innovation, creating a more resilient capital platform for local enterprises while sending a positive signal to international investors about Hong Kong’s deepening capital market reforms.

As the first company to benefit from the new rules, Pizu Group’s successful transition validates the catalytic effect of the GEM reform on the market ecosystem. This landmark achievement will serve as a practical benchmark for other companies and support Hong Kong’s position as a leading global market for new stock listings and refinancing. Its successful case will strongly demonstrate the efficiency and openness of Hong Kong’s capital markets, attracting more domestic and international companies to leverage Hong Kong as a hub for global capital operations, further solidifying Hong Kong’s role as a super-financial gateway connecting China and the world.

Pizu Group is principally engaged in manufacturing and sale of explosives and provision of blasting operation and related services in China and Tajikistan. Additionally, the Group is involved in the mining, processing, and sales of mineral products in China. In terms of manufacture and sale of civil explosives, the Group principally manufactures and sells emulsion explosives and ANFO explosives, which may be used in mine blasting, infrastructure construction, and other fields. The Group also provides blasting operations and related services such as drilling, blasting project design, and related consultation. In terms of mining operations, the Group owns the Anhui Jinding Project and the Tibet Tianren Project. The Anhui Jinding Project has already commenced commercial production, with main products including sulfur concentrates, copper concentrates, iron ore concentrates, and gold. The Tibet Tianren Project is currently in the pre-construction preparation stage, with plans to re-commence mining construction in 2025 and to complete the project in 2027, proceeding to trial production phase as early as in 2027.

The Board believes that, given the Main Board’s larger market capitalisation, higher trading volume, and relatively higher international recognition, the transfer of listing will enhance the corporate profile and public recognition of the Company. The more stringent listing requirements of the Main Board and its corresponding premium status will act as a recognition of the Company’s established business performance and achievements, thereby improving the Company’s ability to attract high-quality clients, suppliers, and business partners, seize new business opportunities, and attract and retain talent. Listing on the Main Board will also broaden the Company’s debt financing options and enable more competitive financing terms, providing the Company with greater flexibility in balancing its debt and equity mix, and enhancing its ability to optimise its overall capital structure.

On the other hand, the Main Board attracts a broad spectrum of active base of professional, institutional, private, and public investors from international to regional and local markets. The transfer of listing will provide the Company with access to a much boarder international investor base, enhancing its investor exposure and international profile. The transfer will also allow the shares to be traded on an exchange platform with notably higher liquidity, providing the shareholders and potential investors with an improved liquidity environment, which is in the overall interests of the Company and its shareholders.

Mr. Ma Tianyi, Executive Director, Chairman, and CEO of Pizu Group, stated: “The successful transfer to the Hong Kong Main Board is an important milestone in Pizu Group’s strategic development, marking further recognition of our leading position in the global civil explosives industry. This will not only help us broaden our financing channels and enhance our capital management capabilities, but also open up broader international markets, continuously driving the Company’s long-term growth in the future.”

About Pizu Group Holdings Limited

Pizu Group Holdings Limited (Main Board Stock Code: 09893.HK) is principally engaged in manufacturing and sale of civil explosives and provision of blasting operation and related services in the PRC and Tajikistan, and mining, processing and sales of mineral products in the PRC. The Group holds a significant market share in the domestic market and is actively expanding its business to boarder markets in Central Asian countries.

Company Website: http://www.pizugroup.com/

This press release is issued by Zhenzhuo Media on behalf of Pizu Group Holdings Limited.

SIG TAX & ACCOUNTING PTE LTD (SIG Global) Wins Singapore Prestige Brand Award 2024

SINGAPORE, Feb. 18, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — SIG Global, a leading provider of comprehensive globalisation solutions, has been honored with the Singapore Prestige Brand Award (SPBA) 2024. This recognition highlights the company’s unwavering commitment to innovation, community engagement, and sustainability in its business practices.

A Testament to Excellence and Transformation

The SPBA celebrates brands that demonstrate excellence in branding, business transformation, and customer-centric practices. SIG’s award reflects the group’s ability to adapt to an evolving economic landscape and set new benchmarks in the corporate services industry.

“Winning the Singapore Prestige Brand Award 2024 is a proud moment for our team,” said Sheena Guan, Managing Director of SIG. “This achievement validates our efforts in embracing digital transformation, enhancing client services, and contributing to a more sustainable and socially responsible future.”

Key Initiatives That Led to the Award

1. Embracing Digital Transformation

  • SIG has integrated advanced digital tools such as Zoho CRM Suite, Xero Accounting, and Million Accounting Software to enhance operational efficiency and improve client engagement.

2. Diversification of Services

  • SIG has expanded its portfolio to include specialized consulting services, such as international tax planning, compliance, and market expansion, meeting the growing demands of global markets.

3. Commitment to Talent Development

  • Continuous training and upskilling initiatives keep employees informed about the latest industry trends and regulations, ensuring clients receive top-notch services.

Dedicated to Community and Sustainability

Social Responsibility

SIG is deeply committed to giving back to the community. Key initiatives include:

  • Charitable Contributions: Supporting local charities through donations and sponsorships.
  • Volunteer Programs: Encouraging employees to engage in community service with off in lieu, fostering team spirit and social impact.

Sustainability Practices

  • Transitioning to digital documentation and communication systems to minimize paper usage.
  • Promoting sustainable transportation among employees to reduce carbon emissions.

A Vision for the Future

With this award, SIG is poised to continue its leadership in the corporate services industry. The group remains committed to driving innovation, enhancing client experiences, and making a positive impact on society and the business development in the region.

About SIG Global

SIG TAX & ACCOUNTING PTE LTD is a Singapore-based firm specializing in tax and accounting solutions for businesses and individuals. SIG GLOBAL is a group providing comprehensive corporate service solutions in assisting businesses establishment and market expansion in Singapore and Southeast Asia. By integrating advanced technology and expert knowledge, the company provides customized services that meet the unique needs of its clients. With a strong focus on innovation, social responsibility, and sustainability, SIG is redefining the future of the industry.

For more information about SIG and its award-winning services, visit our website.

IT Leaders Forum 2025: Shaping the Future of Business and Technology in Africa


JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA – Media OutReach Newswire – 18 February 2025 – IT News Africa is proud to announce the IT Leaders Forum 2025, a premier gathering of top technology and information industry experts. The event is set to take place on March 12, 2025, at the Radisson Blu Gautrain Hotel in Sandton.

As organizations grapple with technology skills gaps, economic uncertainty, and ESG compliance mandates, IT leaders are increasingly turning to technology-driven solutions to enhance efficiency, streamline processes, and drive profitability. The IT Leaders Forum 2025 is designed to equip CIOs and IT executives with the insights, strategies, and tools needed to navigate these challenges and seize new opportunities.

According to Abe Wakama, CEO of IT News Africa, “The IT Leaders Forum 2025 comes at a crucial time when businesses are navigating unprecedented technological advancements, economic shifts, and cybersecurity challenges. This event will provide a platform for IT executives to gain valuable insights, connect with industry leaders, and explore innovative solutions that will drive their organizations forward. Our goal is to empower attendees with the knowledge and tools they need to make informed decisions and stay ahead in this fast-evolving digital era.”

What’s Included at IT Leaders Forum 2025:

This exclusive event will serve as a hub for cutting-edge discussions, industry trends, and innovative solutions shaping Africa’s IT landscape. Attendees can expect:

  • Expert-Led Discussions – Gain insights into IT leadership, cybersecurity, digital transformation, application modernization, and infrastructure management.
  • Industry-Specific Impact – Explore how emerging technologies are revolutionizing banking, healthcare, education, and manufacturing.
  • Networking with Industry Leaders – Connect with top CIOs, IT executives, and technology innovators from across Africa.
  • Actionable Takeaways – Discover practical strategies to stay ahead in the rapidly evolving digital space.

Key Benefits of Attending:

With digital transformation accelerating across industries, businesses must adapt, innovate, and secure their operations. The IT Leaders Forum 2025 will address key challenges and opportunities, covering topics such as:

  • Enhancing cybersecurity frameworks to mitigate risks.
  • Developing effective cloud strategies for business scalability.
  • Leveraging AI, automation, and emerging technologies to gain a competitive edge.
  • Building resilient IT leadership for future-proofing businesses.

Ideal Attendees for IT Leaders Forum:

The IT Leaders Forum 2025 is tailored for technology professionals and decision-makers, including:

  • Chief Information Officers (CIOs)
  • IT Directors & Managers
  • Tech Entrepreneurs
  • Cybersecurity Experts
  • Digital Transformation Leaders
  • Tech Vendors & Solution Providers
  • Policymakers & Government Officials in Technology

Key Speakers

The event will feature a distinguished lineup of speakers, including:

  • John Bosco Arends – Chairperson, Chartered CIO Council
  • Manish Hira – IS Regional Manager: Asia Pacific, Servier
  • Ruan Schutte – Innovation Specialist, Liberty
  • Henry Abea – Head of ICT, Kimisitu SACCO, Kenya
  • Faith Burn – CIO, Eskom
  • Denisha Jairam-Owthar – CIO, Council for Medical Schemes


Sponsorship & Exhibition Opportunities

Reasons to Sponsor IT Leaders Forum 2025

We offer a range of customizable sponsorship and exhibition opportunities tailored to meet your business objectives. Here’s why you should get involved:

  1. Direct Access to Decision-Makers – Engage with top-level IT executives and industry leaders.
  2. Brand Visibility & Recognition – Position your company as an industry leader among a highly targeted audience.
  3. Unparalleled Networking – Forge valuable relationships with potential clients, partners, and peers.
  4. Showcase Innovations – Present your latest technologies, solutions, and services to an engaged audience.
  5. Market Insights & Trends – Gain insider knowledge on emerging IT challenges and opportunities.
  6. Lead Generation – Connect with CIOs and IT professionals actively seeking solutions.

Save the Date & Special Offer

Don’t miss this exclusive opportunity to engage with some of the most influential IT leaders in Africa. Mark your calendars for March 12, 2025, and be part of a transformative event that will shape the future of IT.

Register before February 28, 2025, using the discount code ‘ITLEADERS50’ and save 50% on delegate passes!

Stay tuned for updates on the event agenda, speakers, and registration details.

For more information, visit IT News Africa and join the conversation on shaping Africa’s digital future.Hashtag: #ITNewsAfrica

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

Clarivate Unveils Transformative Subscription-Based Access Strategy for Academia

New approach enables broad, simple and affordable access to trusted scholarly content for learning and research

LONDON, Feb. 18, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Clarivate Plc (NYSE:CLVT), a leading global provider of transformative intelligence, today announced a new subscription-based content access strategy. The new approach breaks down barriers through broad and affordable access to highly curated, trusted academic resources, including Ebooks and primary digital collections, enabling every library to support research, teaching and learning goals.

The way institutions purchase books, journals and other content for their users has shifted in recent years, particularly post-pandemic. Increasingly, libraries are faced with complex buying models that do not offer the content they require to support curricula and research needs. Libraries continue to prioritize solutions that offer affordability in a sustainable way.

At the same time, AI-powered chatbots are becoming ubiquitous as a method of discovery for students and researchers. The ability of academic AI tools to deliver reliable outputs depends on access to broad, vetted academic content.

Bar Veinstein, President, Academia & Government at Clarivate said: “We’re addressing libraries’ evolving needs by breaking down barriers and delivering seamless access to our curated content. Our goal is to make learning and research more accessible and affordable at a large scale, unlocking opportunities for every library, in every classroom and at every research department.

“Through this transformative approach, we’re helping institutions connect end users with academic AI tools grounded in comprehensive curated content, reinforcing libraries’ essential role in upholding academic integrity and excellence.”

The new strategy includes the introduction of two market-leading solutions that are now available.

ProQuest Ebooks offers the world’s largest subscription of high-quality, multidisciplinary scholarly Ebooks, including:

  • Over 700,000 Ebooks, across 10 core disciplines, plus additional essential interdisciplinary titles, enabling librarians to meet the needs of their faculty and students with broad discovery and access to the Ebooks they need
  • A new Ebook Central Reader app to enable students to read and bookmark on the go
  • The addition of Ebook Central Research Assistant, a powerful new AI tool designed to enhance student learning and streamline research.

ProQuest Digital Collections offers subscription to unparalleled breadth, value and access to primary sources across a rich variety of content formats:

  • Over 160 million primary source items complemented by over 2,500 full-text scholarly journals, more than 24,000 video titles, and 15 million audio tracks. The subscription builds upon over 30 years of digitizing primary sources, including many rare and unique resources.
  • Broad and interdisciplinary in scope, the subscription provides access to nine ProQuest One discipline solutions including Anthropology, Entertainment & Popular Culture, Global Studies & International Relations, History, Literature, Performing Arts, Visual Arts & Design.
  • ProQuest Research Assistant will continue to help students and researchers use academic AI responsibly, rooted in trusted academic content. The research assistant will expand over time to fully support ProQuest Digital Collections.

As part of this transformative strategy and following changes in demand from libraries, Clarivate will also phase out one-time perpetual purchases of digital collections, print and digital books for libraries. These transitions will take place throughout 2025, in close co-operation with customers. For more details see our support page.

Veinstein said: “From the introduction of Ebook subscriptions to index-based linking and discovery, creating cloud-based library management systems and academic AI research assistants, we have a proven history of pioneering and collaborating at the forefront of the industry.

“We’re now embarking on a new era in how institutions and their users access and consume content. We are committed to working as closely as ever with libraries and publishers, providing the guidance and solutions needed to meet the evolving needs of the community.”

For more information on ProQuest Ebooks, see here.

For more information on ProQuest Digital Collections click here.

About Clarivate
Clarivate™ is a leading global provider of transformative intelligence. We offer enriched data, insights & analytics, workflow solutions and expert services in the areas of Academia & Government, Intellectual Property and Life Sciences & Healthcare. For more information, please visit www.clarivate.com

Media contact:
Amy Bourke-Waite
Amy.bourkewaite@clarivate.com
newsroom@clarivate.com

oneZero acquires Autochartist

BOSTON, Feb. 18, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — oneZero, the global leading provider of multi-asset enterprise technology solutions for trade execution and risk management for banks, brokers and buy side market participants, today announced the acquisition of Autochartist, a leading provider of client engagement automation through market data-driven content.

The acquisition creates a mutually beneficial relationship, enhancing both companies’ offerings by bringing two respective leaders in brokerage technology under one umbrella. Autochartist will continue to service its clients as the leading provider of client engagement automation for delivering market data driven content via email, CMS, messaging and social media platforms. In addition, the powerful cloud-based analytics and data engine that drives Autochartist will be integrated into oneZero’s market-leading offering, adding capabilities that empower clients with personalized, scalable market content that help drive customer engagement and retention.

“The acquisition of Autochartist represents a significant milestone for oneZero,” said Andrew Ralich, CEO and Co-Founder of oneZero. “It underscores our commitment to delivering industry-first technology solutions, powered by data intelligence, that deliver unique value for our clients and foster loyalty with their customers. Our vision for the future of capital markets – centered on customer focus and data-driven insights – dovetails perfectly with Autochartist technology and their commitment to driving retention, education and engagement through market data.”

“Joining oneZero marks an exciting new chapter for Autochartist and our clients. Our clients will continue to benefit from the products and services they know and trust, now enhanced by oneZero’s industry-leading customer support, robust infrastructure, and extensive data resources. Over time, the integration with oneZero will empower our clients to deliver smarter, more personalized content – driving higher customer engagement and retention,” said Ilan Azbel, founder of Autochartist and now a member of the oneZero team.

This transaction follows oneZero’s recent strategic investment from Golden Gate Capital, announced in November 2024, which is fueling both organic growth and strategic acquisitions. The addition of Autochartist marks a pivotal step in oneZero’s expansion and innovation strategy.

Financial terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

About oneZero

oneZero Financial Systems has been a leading innovator in multi-asset class enterprise trading technology since 2009. Its powerful software encompasses the Hub, EcoSystem and Data Source – three components that together provide a complete solution for execution, distribution and analytics. Through reliable connectivity, technology, infrastructure and market access, oneZero empowers financial institutions and brokers to compete effectively in the global financial markets through a globally compliant, liquidity-neutral solution. oneZero is certified to the standards of ISO 27001 information security management systems, and has development and operations centers in Asia, Australia, Europe, North America and, with the acquisition of Autochartist, Africa.

About Autochartist

Autochartist is a financial market analytics company that leverages big data and proprietary technology to help traders make more informed trading and investment decisions. Since its inception in 2004, Autochartist has become a global leader in technical analysis, automated financial content generation and trade execution analytics for many leading Stock, Currency, Futures, and CFD brokerage firms. Thanks to strategic partnerships with top-tier online brokers, they service millions of traders in over 100 countries.

For more information, please contact:

Talia Geberovich
Head of Marketing and Communications
tgeberovich@onezero.com