iQIYI (IQ) Q2 Earnings call transcript Aug 22, 2024

In the latest earnings call, iQIYI, a leading Chinese video streaming platform, discussed its second-quarter performance, highlighting key trends and strategies for future growth. With a focus on premium content and membership services, the company showcased its commitment to maintaining market leadership and expanding its presence overseas.

Competing in the Long-Form Video Market

iQIYI acknowledged the intense competition within the long-form video sector, emphasizing the importance of high-quality content and balancing commercial success. Despite market fluctuations, the company maintained its leading position in the drama and film categories, with successful series like "To the Winter" and "The Strange Tales of Tang Dynasty Season 2" demonstrating the company's ability to deliver high-quality content tailored for mainstream and female audiences.

Membership Growth and ARPU

The company's membership business remains a cornerstone of its growth strategy, with a focus on expanding the scale of membership and maximizing revenue. In the second quarter, the average revenue per member (ARPU) maintained a solid year-over-year growth, providing flexibility for operational tactics. iQIYI plans to optimize account sharing and combat piracy to support the long-term healthy growth of its membership business.

Overseas Expansion and Localization

iQIYI's overseas business continues to grow, with a focus on high-quality local production and distribution of premium Mandarin content. The company aims to boost revenue growth while increasing profit, with the goal of making its overseas platform the home of beloved Asian content. iQIYI also plans to expand partnerships with telecom operators and local partners to enhance brand awareness and content influence overseas.

Maximizing IP Value

Leveraging its extensive library of high-quality video content IP, iQIYI is exploring opportunities to monetize its content beyond membership and advertising. The company is exploring off-line business opportunities, such as VR experiences and IP merchandise stores, to maximize the value of its content across different markets and platforms. This diversification strategy aims to create engaging experiences for consumers and tap into the growing demand for premium content in various sectors.

Looking Ahead

iQIYI's focus on premium content, membership growth, and overseas expansion reflects its commitment to capitalizing on the growing demand for high-quality video content. With a robust content pipeline, innovative technology, and strategic partnerships, the company is well-positioned to continue leading the Chinese video streaming market and expand its influence globally.