NetEase (NTES 0.34%), the Chinese technology company best known for its online and mobile video games, released its first-quarter earnings on May 23. The company reported revenue of 26.9 billion yuan ($3.7 billion), a 7.2% year-over-year increase. This figure, driven by strong performances from its self-developed games, was in line with management's expectations. Net income attributable to shareholders was 7.6 billion yuan ($1.1 billion), an improvement over the previous year.
Non-GAAP net income also increased significantly to 8.5 billion yuan ($1.2 billion). Overall, the quarter was marked by solid performance across key business segments, including video games, educational services, and music streaming.
| Metric | Q1 2024 | Q1 2023 | Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| Revenue | 26.9 billion yuan ($3.7 billion) | 25.0 billion yuan | 7.2% |
| Net income | 7.6 billion yuan ($1.1 billion) | 6.8 billion yuan | 11.8% |
| Non-GAAP net income | 8.5 billion yuan ($1.2 billion) | 7.6 billion yuan | 11.8% |
| Gross profit margin | 63.2% | 59.4% | 3.8 percentage points |
| Youdao revenue | 1.4 billion yuan ($192.8 million) | 1.2 billion yuan | 19.7% |
Source: Company data from company.
Company overview and recent focus
NetEase is well-known for its online video games and related services, which dominate the company's revenue streams. It develops and operates both PC and mobile games, with several hit titles that sustain user engagement. Additionally, the company provides educational and translation services through its Youdao segment and music streaming via Cloud Music.
Recently, NetEase has been focusing on leveraging artificial intelligence in its Youdao segment, and expanding its video game portfolio through strategic partnerships. Another critical focus area is its Cloud Music segment, which has shown improved profitability and an increase in gross margins.
Quarter highlights
NetEase's Q1 financial results indicated substantial year-over-year growth across several segments. Here are some notable developments:
Online game services: Games and related value-added services generated 21.5 billion yuan ($3.0 billion) in net revenues, marking a 7% rise from Q1 2023. Popular games like Eggy Party, Identity V, and Infinite Borders maintained high user engagement. In particular, Dunk City Dynasty and Racing Master were highlighted by management for their strong performances.
Youdao: Revenues in the segment reached 1.4 billion yuan ($192.8 million), a 19.7% year-over-year increase. For the first time, Youdao reported a sequential quarter of positive net income. That result was driven by its enhanced focus on AI-powered subscription services.
Cloud Music: The segment's net revenues rose 3.6% year over year to 2.0 billion yuan ($281.1 million). It also significantly improved its gross profit margin, primarily through cost optimization and copyright adjustments.
Innovative businesses: Revenue from this segment, which includes units such as private label consumer lifestyle brand Yanxuan, NetEase Pay, and NetEase Mail, rose 6.1% year over year to 2.0 billion yuan ($272.8 million). While the segment's profitability has been under pressure, the company has shown positive momentum in these areas.
The period also included a notable event with the revival of NetEase's partnership with Microsoft, leading to the relaunch of popular games like World of Warcraft in China. This is expected to significantly enhance the company's market position and revenue in the Chinese video game market.
Future outlook
NetEase's management is optimistic about further revenue growth driven by its self-developed games and international market expansion. They anticipate continued growth in net revenue, particularly from new game titles and deeper market penetration globally. No updated guidance was provided for the upcoming quarter, but management's focus remains on creating innovative and high-quality content.
Investors should closely monitor how NetEase navigates competitive pressures, the effectiveness of its strategy in leveraging AI for Youdao, and the impact of the Microsoft partnership on gaming revenues. The company's ability to manage operating expenses while sustaining growth will be crucial in the coming quarters.
