Kuaishou Announces First Dividend Post-Hong Kong IPO

Kuaishou Technology declared a special dividend of HK$2 billion (US$256 million) for the first time since its Hong Kong IPO in 2021. The decision follows better-than-expected financial results in the second quarter, driven by gains from its AI tools. Shareholders will receive HK$0.46 per share on October 6.

Second-quarter revenue rose 13.1% to 35 billion yuan (US$4.87 billion), up from 31 billion yuan a year earlier. Profit attributable to equity holders was 4.9 billion yuan, compared to about 4 billion yuan a year ago. First-half revenue increased 12% to 67.7 billion yuan, with profit reaching 8.9 billion yuan.

Kuaishou's shares closed down 0.21% to HK$71.75 ahead of the announcement. The stock has gained nearly 80% this year but remains below its peak of nearly HK$400 in early 2021. The special dividend reflects Kuaishou's confidence in its long-term growth prospects and the role of AI innovation in driving growth.

CEO Cheng Yixiao mentioned potential measures like share repurchases and dividend payments to reward shareholders. Looking ahead to the second half of 2025, the company plans to maintain strong AI investments and explore AI technology's potential in empowering creators, marketing clients, and merchants.