Intel heads into its April 23 earnings with rising investor expectations , but the key question remains whether AI-driven CPU demand can offset ongoing margin weakness . Revenue Stable, But Margins Under Pressure Intel is expected to deliver Q1 revenue around US$12.4 billion , slightly above the midpoint of its guidance range. However, the real concern lies in profitability: Gross margin guided at 34.5% , down from 39.2% a year ago EPS near breakeven (~US$0.00) vs US$0.13 last year This highlights continued pressure from costs, utilisation, and product mix , despite improving demand signals. AI CPUs: A Key Growth Driver Intel’s near-term bullish case centers on AI-related CPU demand , particularly its Xeon processors. A key development is its partnership with Alphabet , which reinforces: Intel’s role in AI data centre infrastructure Growing demand for AI inference and general-purpose computing Investors will watch c...
Chinese IT Firm Picks Banks for Second Listing Amid China’s Market Shift
- Unisplendour Corp, a Beijing-based IT services provider, is planning a second listing in Hong Kong to raise around US$1 billion (RM4.42 billion) to fuel its overseas expansion.
- BNP Paribas SA, China Merchants Bank International, and CSC Financial Co have been tapped as lead banks for the offering, with more banks potentially joining the deal.
- The company confirmed it is exploring equity financing in Hong Kong but has not finalized the plan or a listing timeline.
China’s IPO Shift to Hong Kong
- Chinese firms are increasingly turning to Hong Kong for capital as China limits domestic stock sales to stabilize its equity market.
- Other major Chinese companies seeking Hong Kong listings include:
- Contemporary Amperex Technology Co Ltd (CATL) – the world’s largest battery maker
- Jiangsu Hengrui Pharmaceuticals Co – a major drugmaker
- Foshan Haitian Flavouring & Food Co – a leading condiment producer
- These deals support Hong Kong’s IPO revival, with 2025 listings projected to more than double to US$22 billion, as market confidence improves following a 17% rise in the Hang Seng Index.
Unisplendour’s Market Position & Growth Strategy
- The company specializes in cloud computing, software development, servers, and storage systems.
- Its Shenzhen-listed shares have risen 12% in 2025, valuing the company at approximately 90 billion yuan (RM54.85 billion).
Hong Kong’s IPO Rebound
- The influx of Chinese firms listing in Hong Kong signals confidence in the city’s financial market recovery.
- Higher valuations and regulatory easing could further boost IPO activity, making Hong Kong a preferred listing destination for Chinese firms eyeing global expansion.
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