NetEase Appoints Independent Director to Enhance Board Independence

NetEase has appointed Mr. Kok Chung Johnny Chan to its board of directors as an independent director, enhancing board independence. Chan has over 40 years of experience in investment banking and management, and serves on the Market Misconduct Tribunal and Listing Committee of the Hong Kong Stock Exchange. He will bring fresh insights to the company, aligning with its commitment to excellence and innovation.

NetEase, Inc. (NASDAQ: NTES and HKEX: 9999), a leading internet and game services provider, has announced the appointment of Mr. Kok Chung Johnny Chan as an independent director to its board, effective August 14, 2025 [1]. This move aims to enhance the board's independence and bring in fresh insights, aligning with the company's commitment to excellence and innovation.

Mr. Chan brings over 40 years of experience in investment banking and management. He currently serves as the Chief Investment Officer of the Hong Kong Cyberport Management Company and is a member of the Market Misconduct Tribunal and Securities and Futures Appeals Tribunal [1]. Additionally, he has held various roles such as deputy chairman of the Hong Kong Stock Exchange Listing Committee and serves as an independent director for CNQC International Holdings and Hangzhou SF Intra-city Industrial [1, 2].

The appointment of Mr. Chan is significant as it strengthens NetEase's governance structure. His extensive background in the investment industry and regulatory affairs is expected to provide valuable insights to the board, particularly in navigating the complexities of the capital markets and regulatory environment.

NetEase's latest appointment comes at a critical time as the company is scheduled to announce its Q2 2025 earnings results on August 14, after market close [3]. The consensus EPS estimate is $2.10, representing a 26.5% year-over-year increase, while the consensus revenue estimate is $3.98 billion, a 13.7% year-over-year increase [3]. Over the last two years, NetEase has beaten EPS estimates 50% of the time and revenue estimates 38% of the time [3].

The appointment of Mr. Chan underscores NetEase's ongoing efforts to bolster its corporate governance and attract top talent. With Mr. Chan's expertise, NetEase is well-positioned to navigate the challenges and opportunities in the rapidly evolving internet and gaming landscape.

References:
[1] https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/netease-enhances-board-independence-with-new-director-appointment-302529929.html
[2] https://www.stocktitan.net/news/NTES/net-ease-enhances-board-independence-with-new-director-joh6ng6gxn5d.html
[3] https://seekingalpha.com/news/4484802-netease-q2-2025-earnings-preview