Baidu Reports Q2 Results Shares Down 1.33% in Premarket TradingBaidu (NASDAQ: NASDAQ:BIDU ), the Chinese tech giant known for its dominance in internet search, recently reported its second-quarter earnings for 2024, presenting a mixed picture that underscores both the challenges and opportunities facing the company. While Baidu (NASDAQ: NASDAQ:BIDU ) managed to surpass earnings expectations, the company’s flat revenue growth and decline in net income reflect broader economic headwinds in China, particularly in the digital advertising sector.
Economic Slowdown Dampens Ad Revenue
For the quarter ending in June, Baidu’s revenue remained largely stagnant at 33.93 billion yuan ($4.67 billion), just slightly above the analyst consensus of 33.55 billion yuan. This flat growth is primarily due to a 2% decline in Baidu’s online marketing revenue, which fell to 19.2 billion yuan. The drop in ad spending is indicative of the ongoing economic challenges in China, where a sluggish recovery from a property market slump has led many advertisers to tighten their budgets. The economic slowdown has weighed heavily on Baidu, which, like Google in the U.S., relies heavily on digital advertising for a significant portion of its revenue.
Net income for the quarter also declined, falling by 8% to 7.4 billion yuan. However, this was still better than the expected 6.45 billion yuan, showcasing Baidu's ability to manage costs and maintain profitability in a tough market environment. Despite these challenges, Baidu’s U.S.-listed shares were up over 1% in premarket trading, signaling cautious optimism among investors.
Strategic Shift Towards AI and Autonomous Vehicles
Amid these economic challenges, Baidu has been aggressively pivoting towards artificial intelligence and autonomous vehicles, sectors that it believes will drive future growth. The company has branded itself as an “AI company,” and its investments in this area are starting to bear fruit. Baidu’s large language model platform, Ernie, which is touted as a rival to OpenAI’s GPT, has been integrated into various app services to enhance user experience. Baidu has also launched a paid version of its Ernie-powered chatbot for public use, as well as API services for developers through its cloud computing platform.
Another significant area of investment is Baidu’s autonomous vehicle division. The company’s Apollo Go robotaxi service now operates in several Chinese cities, with the largest fleet of 500 vehicles in Wuhan. While this division is not yet a significant revenue driver, Baidu has ambitious plans for growth. The company expects its Wuhan operations to reach break-even by the end of 2024, signaling a potential turning point for its autonomous driving initiatives.
Stock Performance and Market Position
Despite these efforts, Baidu’s stock performance has been lackluster. Year-to-date, Baidu shares are down 25%, reflecting broader investor concerns about the company’s growth prospects in a slowing economy. The stock is also down nearly 30% compared to a year ago. Baidu’s IBD Composite Rating of 43 and Relative Strength Rating of 14 out of 99 further highlight its struggles in outperforming the broader market.
However, there are reasons for cautious optimism. Baidu’s continued investment in AI and autonomous vehicles positions it well for long-term growth, particularly as these sectors mature. The company’s ability to beat earnings expectations, despite economic headwinds, also suggests that it is managing its business efficiently.
Conclusion
Baidu’s second-quarter earnings report is a reflection of the broader challenges facing the Chinese economy and the digital advertising sector. While the company’s revenue growth remains flat, its strategic investments in AI and autonomous vehicles offer a glimpse of potential future growth drivers. Investors will be closely watching Baidu’s ability to navigate the current economic environment while continuing to innovate and expand into new markets. As China’s economy stabilizes, Baidu’s focus on AI could very well pay off, positioning the company as a leader in the next wave of technological advancement.
Baidustock
Baidu Announces First Quarter 2024 ResultsBaidu ( NASDAQ:BIDU ), a leading AI company with a strong Internet foundation, announced its unaudited financial results for the first quarter ended March 31, 2024. The company's online marketing revenue remained stable, while the end-to-end optimization of its AI technology stack continued to propel the growth of AI Cloud revenue during the quarter. Robin Li, Co-founder and CEO of Baidu, said that as a new era of Gen-AI unfolds in China, foundation models like ERNIE will serve as the underlying infrastructure, infusing various facets of people's lives.
In the first quarter of 2024, Baidu Core's non-GAAP operating margin expanded both year-over-year and quarter-over-quarter to 23.5%. The company has established a track record of consistently improving operational efficiency. In the coming quarters, they will execute on what is needed to optimize their operational efficiency in support of their AI enabled businesses and high-quality growth, and maintain a healthy non-GAAP operating margin.
Total revenues were RMB31.5 billion ($4.37 billion), increasing 1% year over year. Revenue from Baidu Core was RMB23.8 billion ($3.30 billion), increasing 4% year over year; online marketing revenue was RMB17.0 billion ($2.36 billion), up 3% year over year, and non-online marketing revenue was RMB6.8 billion ($935 million), up 6% year over year, mainly driven by AI Cloud business.
Revenue from iQIYI was RMB7.9 billion ($1.10 billion), decreasing 5% year over year. Cost of revenues was RMB15.3 billion ($2.12 billion), increasing 1% year over year, primarily due to an increase in traffic acquisition costs and costs related to AI Cloud business, partially offset by the decrease in content costs. Selling, general and administrative expenses were RMB5.4 billion ($745 million), accounting for 17% of total revenues in the quarter, compared to 18% in the same period last year.
Research and development expenses were RMB5.4 billion ($742 million), decreasing 1% year over year, primarily due to a decrease in personnel related expenses and other R&D expenditures, partially offset by the increase in server depreciation expenses and server custody fees which support Gen-AI research and development inputs. Operating income was RMB5.5 billion ($760 million), and Baidu Core operating income was RMB4.5 billion ($629 million), and Baidu Core operating margin was 19%. Total other income, net was RMB1.2 billion ($173 million), decreasing 52% year over year, primarily due to a decrease in fair value gain from long-term investments, partially offset by the increase in net foreign exchange gain.
As of March 31, 2024, cash, cash equivalents, restricted cash and short-term investments were RMB191.8 billion ($26.56 billion), and cash, cash equivalents, restricted cash and short-term investments excluding iQIYI were RMB185.8 billion ($25.73 billion). Free cash flow was RMB4.2 billion ($579 million), and free cash flow excluding iQIYI was RMB3.3 billion ($452 million).
Baidu ( NASDAQ:BIDU ), China's largest search engine provider, still generates the majority of its revenue from online ad sales, which are under pressure due to slower Chinese economic growth. The company reported adjusted net income of 7 billion yuan for the quarter, beating the analysts' average estimate of 5.57 billion yuan, according to LSEG data.
Technical Outlook
Baidu ( NASDAQ:BIDU ) stock is down 0.78% as of the time of writing. NASDAQ:BIDU has a Relative Strength Index (RSI) of 56 which is down from the previous 60.
Tesla Collaborate With Baidu to Allow Self-Driving Mode in ChinaTesla ( NASDAQ:TSLA ) has reportedly struck a deal with Baidu ( NASDAQ:BIDU ), China's leading search engine, to enable its Full Self-Driving (FSD) system in the country. The agreement, which grants Tesla access to Baidu's mapping license for data collection on Chinese roads, marks a pivotal moment in Tesla's expansion efforts in the world's largest automotive market.
The deal, recently finalized, signals a strategic move for Tesla CEO Elon Musk, who has been actively seeking regulatory approvals for the FSD software rollout in China during his recent visit to the country. With Baidu's lane-level navigation system also included in the agreement, Tesla ( NASDAQ:TSLA ) is poised to leverage Baidu's extensive mapping expertise to enhance its autonomous driving capabilities.
In China, where stringent regulations govern intelligent driving systems, the acquisition of a mapping qualification is a prerequisite for operating on public roads. By partnering with Baidu ( NASDAQ:BIDU ), Tesla gains access to crucial mapping data necessary for its FSD software to function effectively and legally in the Chinese market. Moreover, Tesla's fleets will now be able to gather valuable data about their surroundings, contributing to the refinement of autonomous driving technology.
While the specifics of data ownership remain unclear, the collaboration underscores the growing synergy between Tesla ( NASDAQ:TSLA ) and Baidu ( NASDAQ:BIDU ) in advancing self-driving technology. Notably, this partnership builds upon their existing relationship established in early 2020 when Tesla began incorporating Baidu's navigation map into its vehicles in China.
Although the announcement of the collaboration came during a broader news conference by Baidu ( NASDAQ:BIDU ) and did not explicitly mention the FSD feature, the implications for Tesla's expansion in China are substantial.
Technical Outlook
Baidu Inc. ( NASDAQ:BIDU ) stock is up 0.62% on Monday's pre-market trading session with the stock closing with a Relative Strength Index (RSI) of 49.31 making it prime for a bullish start for the first day of the week.
However, NASDAQ:BIDU has been trading below the 200-day Moving Average (MA) for over 7 months.
Samsung is Integrating Baidu's Ernie Bot to Catapult Galaxy S24
In a strategic maneuver to overcome the challenges posed by the Chinese government's stringent restrictions on Google services, Samsung Electronics Co. has chosen to collaborate with Baidu Inc., ( NASDAQ:BIDU ) integrating the renowned Ernie Bot into its upcoming Galaxy S24 smartphone series for the Chinese market. This groundbreaking partnership marks a pivotal moment for Samsung, positioning the Galaxy S24 as the vanguard of a new era of AI smartphones tailored for the Chinese audience.
The integration of Baidu's ( NASDAQ:BIDU ) Ernie Bot is set to redefine the user experience by offering advanced AI functionalities, including text summarization, organization, translation, and the innovative "circle to search" feature. Baidu's ( NASDAQ:BIDU ) artificial intelligence tools are expected to seamlessly handle tasks involving vast amounts of information, streamlining user interactions and enhancing overall device performance. The move to include Ernie Bot also addresses the absence of Google services, crucial for AI functionalities in the international version of the Galaxy S24.
One of the standout features of the collaboration is the incorporation of visual search capabilities within the chatbot, allowing users to explore the internet for items using photos or images. This not only adds a layer of convenience for users but also aligns with the growing trend of integrating visual AI solutions into smartphones.
Samsung's decision to leverage Baidu's ( NASDAQ:BIDU ) AI prowess is a direct response to the challenges posed by the Chinese government's restrictions on major Google services. Despite holding a relatively modest market share in China (1-2%), Samsung aims to carve a significant niche by embracing local solutions, thereby ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements and fostering a more tailored user experience.
The Chinese market, known for its unique preferences and regulations, has become a battleground for smartphone manufacturers seeking to establish a foothold. Samsung's adoption of Baidu's ( NASDAQ:BIDU ) Ernie Bot represents a strategic pivot, as it not only addresses regulatory constraints but also positions the Galaxy S24 as a tech-savvy, locally compliant smartphone. By embracing this collaboration, Samsung hopes to not only boost sales in the Chinese market but also resonate with a broader audience, potentially attracting new customers who prioritize seamless AI interactions.
The integration of Ernie Bot into the Galaxy S24 showcases Samsung's commitment to adapting to regional nuances, acknowledging the importance of aligning with local tech ecosystems for sustained success. As the Galaxy S24 hits the shelves, all eyes will be on Samsung to observe how this innovative partnership unfolds and whether it indeed propels the smartphone giant to new heights in the competitive Chinese market.
Baidu Posts Better-Than-Expected EarningsBIDU stock rose early Tuesday, after Chinese internet giant Baidu (BIDU) reported earnings and sales ahead of expectations for its third quarter.
For the three months ending Sept. 30, Baidu said it earned an adjusted $2.80 per share, ahead of analysts expectations of $2.39 per share, according to FactSet. Meanwhile, sales climbed 6% year over year to RMB 34.4 billion ($4.7 billon), topping expectations of RMB 34.2 billion.
In premarket trading on the stock market today, American-listed BIDU stock was up 1.2% at 112.65 in recent action.
BIDU Stock: AI Push
Baidu, which operates the second-largest search engine in the world, said average monthly active users for its app reached 663 million in September, up 5% from the same period last year. Online advertising revenue climbed 5% in local currency, totaling $2.7 billion.
In October, Baidu launched the latest version of it Ernie artificial intelligence chatbot. The company credited its AI efforts with helping its results for the quarter. AI tools have been integrated within Baidu's consumer and enterprise products.
Price Momentum
BIDU is trading in the middle of its 52-week range and below its 200-day simple moving average.
What does this mean?
Investors are still evaluating the share price, but the stock still appears to have some downward momentum. This is a neutral sign for the stock's future value.
BIDU, Inversed Head and Shoulders patternMy eyes are glued to Baidu stock, ticker BIDU, as it is forming a perfect trade/invest opportunity for me. Pattern I love the most, Inverse Head and Shoulders on the Weekly time frame.
Things to consider:
1. My first entry point would be right above the 200MA on the Weekly time frame, though the pattern would not be finished on that price level sitting at $146-147, I would like to get some action once the stock breaks this level.
2. My stop loss for this entry would be a bit tight, I don't want to let the action plays around. I want a straight up move and clean progress to the higher price levels. So, the SL will be sitting at $137 level.
3. My second entry will be placed right at the break of the neckline of the Inverse Head and Shoulders pattern. Price level to watch and consider as potential adding to a position would be around $154 to $161 price range. I know, it is a bit large price gap but I am willing to add to positions on those levels.
4. My stop loss for the second entry will be sitting at $147, just above the 200MA level.
5. I will be targeting the $255 level, as that price level would be the same length as the length from Head to Neckline is.
Of course, as always, please do your due diligence. I am aware of the risks of trading and investing, also, I am investing my own cash. Please take care of your money!
BIDU Baidu Options Ahead Of EarningsIf you haven`t sold BIDU here:
Then you should know that looking at the BIDU Baidu options chain ahead of earnings , i would buy the $105 strike price Calls with
2022-12-16 expiration date for about
$4.75 premium.
If the options turn out to be profitable Before the earnings release, i would sell at least 50%.
Looking forward to read your opinion about it.
Time to Buy(du)?Baidu
Short Term
We look to Buy a break of 157.74 (stop at 147.55)
Further upside is expected and we look to set longs in early trade. A break of yesterdays high would confirm bullish momentum. Bespoke resistance is located at 155.00. The trend of higher lows is located at 147.00.
Our profit targets will be 181.51 and 199.50
Resistance: 155.00 / 182.00 / 207.00
Support: 140.00 / 115.00 / 102.00
Disclaimer – Saxo Bank Group. Please be reminded – you alone are responsible for your trading – both gains and losses. There is a very high degree of risk involved in trading. The technical analysis , like any and all indicators, strategies, columns, articles and other features accessible on/though this site (including those from Signal Centre) are for informational purposes only and should not be construed as investment advice by you. Such technical analysis are believed to be obtained from sources believed to be reliable, but not warrant their respective completeness or accuracy, or warrant any results from the use of the information. Your use of the technical analysis , as would also your use of any and all mentioned indicators, strategies, columns, articles and all other features, is entirely at your own risk and it is your sole responsibility to evaluate the accuracy, completeness and usefulness (including suitability) of the information. You should assess the risk of any trade with your financial adviser and make your own independent decision(s) regarding any tradable products which may be the subject matter of the technical analysis or any of the said indicators, strategies, columns, articles and all other features.
Please also be reminded that if despite the above, any of the said technical analysis (or any of the said indicators, strategies, columns, articles and other features accessible on/through this site) is found to be advisory or a recommendation; and not merely informational in nature, the same is in any event provided with the intention of being for general circulation and availability only. As such it is not intended to and does not form part of any offer or recommendation directed at you specifically, or have any regard to the investment objectives, financial situation or needs of yourself or any other specific person. Before committing to a trade or investment therefore, please seek advice from a financial or other professional adviser regarding the suitability of the product for you and (where available) read the relevant product offer/description documents, including the risk disclosures. If you do not wish to seek such financial advice, please still exercise your mind and consider carefully whether the product is suitable for you because you alone remain responsible for your trading – both gains and losses.
BIDU: Sell at Resistance? Baidu - Short Term - We look to Sell at 179.26 (stop at 190.59)
We look to sell rallies. Trading within a Bearish Channel formation. Bespoke resistance is located at 180.00. We look for a temporary move higher. Further downside is expected although we prefer to set shorts at our bespoke resistance levels at 180.00, resulting in improved risk/reward.
Our profit targets will be 146.53 and 138.50
Resistance: 180.00 / 200.00 / 220.00
Support: 150.00 / 140.00 / 135.00
Disclaimer – Saxo Bank Group. Please be reminded – you alone are responsible for your trading – both gains and losses. There is a very high degree of risk involved in trading. The technical analysis, like any and all indicators, strategies, columns, articles and other features accessible on/though this site (including those from Signal Centre) are for informational purposes only and should not be construed as investment advice by you. Such technical analysis are believed to be obtained from sources believed to be reliable, but not warrant their respective completeness or accuracy, or warrant any results from the use of the information. Your use of the technical analysis, as would also your use of any and all mentioned indicators, strategies, columns, articles and all other features, is entirely at your own risk and it is your sole responsibility to evaluate the accuracy, completeness and usefulness (including suitability) of the information. You should assess the risk of any trade with your financial adviser and make your own independent decision(s) regarding any tradable products which may be the subject matter of the technical analysis or any of the said indicators, strategies, columns, articles and all other features.
Please also be reminded that if despite the above, any of the said technical analysis (or any of the said indicators, strategies, columns, articles and other features accessible on/through this site) is found to be advisory or a recommendation; and not merely informational in nature, the same is in any event provided with the intention of being for general circulation and availability only. As such it is not intended to and does not form part of any offer or recommendation directed at you specifically, or have any regard to the investment objectives, financial situation or needs of yourself or any other specific person. Before committing to a trade or investment therefore, please seek advice from a financial or other professional adviser regarding the suitability of the product for you and (where available) read the relevant product offer/description documents, including the risk disclosures. If you do not wish to seek such financial advice, please still exercise your mind and consider carefully whether the product is suitable for you because you alone remain responsible for your trading – both gains and losses.
BIDU Daily TimeframeSNIPER STRATEGY
This magical strategy works like a clock on almost any charts
Although I have to say it can’t predict pullbacks, so I do not suggest this strategy for leverage trading.
It will not give you the whole wave like any other strategy out there but it will give you huge part of the wave.
The best timeframe for this strategy is Daily, Weekly and Monthly however it can work any timeframe above three minutes.
Start believing in this strategy because it will reward believers with huge profit.
There is a lot more about this strategy.
It can predict and also it can give you almost exact buy or sell time on the spot.
I am developing it even more so stay tuned and start to follow me for more signals and forecasts.
Buy the dipThere's a lot that can be said about Baidu and its prospects going forward as well as its current valuation. Needless to say, the data that has come out as well as the analyst's ratings reports show that the prospective growth in earnings is comfortably towards the upside, supported by solid fundamentals. The signals on the weekly chart also look very promising.
Its a nice stock to own along side the likes of Alibaba which operate in the same space.
Please like and follow for daily posts on various asset classes. Please also share your views on the trading ideas and whether or not you find them to be of any value to you as a trader.
Please note, this idea is shared for educational and discussion purposes only and should not result in speculative investment decisions in any asset class.