iQIYI plans to relist in Hong Kong, announces AI video tool testing, stock price surges

Ask AI · How will iQIYI’s return to Hong Kong listing affect its Asia market layout?

On March 30, iQIYI released an announcement, saying it plans to list on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange and will also carry out a share repurchase program.

According to the announcement, the company has secretly submitted the listing application forms to the Hong Kong Stock Exchange, seeking to list on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange and have its Class A ordinary shares admitted to trading. iQIYI said that the return-to-Hong Kong listing is intended to enhance the company’s financing channels in the Hong Kong capital market, by increasing attention from Asian institutional and retail investors, expanding the company’s investor base, and improving its international image.

In the announcement, iQIYI emphasized that the details of the proposed listing have not yet been finalized. The proposed listing can only be implemented with conditions such as approval by the Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing Limited, completion of the filing documents submitted to the China Securities Regulatory Commission, and the company’s final decision. Whether the proposed listing can be carried out, or when it can be carried out, cannot be guaranteed.

It is understood that as early as August last year, there were market rumors that iQIYI was seeking a return-to-Hong Kong listing, with a target of raising $300 million. This approach is very likely intended to raise funds for additional capital strengthening, further improve its debt structure, and enhance financial flexibility. At the time, iQIYI responded that, “For now, there is no more information we can provide.”

In the just-past January, iQIYI announced that its Chief Financial Officer, Wang Jun, stepped down from the position for personal reasons, and going forward will continue to serve as an advisor through May 31, 2026. iQIYI’s Senior Vice President of Finance, Zeng Ying, was appointed as Acting Chief Financial Officer. iQIYI said it will continue to select suitable candidates for the Chief Financial Officer position. Wang Jun previously took part extensively in iQIYI’s U.S. listing.

In addition, iQIYI also announced a share repurchase plan, saying that on March 30, the company’s board of directors approved a share repurchase plan. Under the plan, the company is allowed to repurchase up to $100 million worth of shares within the next 18 months (including repurchasing shares in the form of American depositary shares). The share repurchase plan takes effect immediately upon approval. The share repurchase plan is intended to demonstrate the company’s confidence in its long-term business prospects and to create value for shareholders. The company expects to use its existing cash balance to fund the repurchases.

In the announcement, iQIYI also disclosed that the company has recently launched its self-developed AI smart assistant, “Nadou Pro,” and is conducting public commercial testing. As described, “Nadou Pro” is the first AI assistant in China specifically designed for professional long-form video production. It combines leading foundation models and iQIYI’s deep experience in producing high-quality content, and can effectively simplify the entire production process—from creative ideation to final video generation.

As of the time this was published, iQIYI’s share price is up by as much as 11.25%, reaching $1.34 per share, after being up by 14% at one point before the market opened.

Reporting & writing: Nandu N Video reporter Xu Qinqian