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UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
Form 20-F
(Mark One)
REGISTRATION STATEMENT PURSUANT TO SECTION 12(b) OR 12(g) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
☐
or
ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
☒
For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2023.
or
TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
☐
For the transition period from
to
or
SHELL COMPANY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
☐
Date of event requiring this shell company report
For the transition period from
to
Commission file number: 000-51469
Baidu, Inc.
(Exact name of Registrant as specified in its charter)
N/A
(Translation of Registrant’s name into English)
Cayman Islands
(Jurisdiction of incorporation or organization)
Baidu Campus
No. 10 Shangdi 10th Street
Haidian District, Beijing 100085
The People’s Republic of China
(Address of principal executive offices)
Rong Luo, Chief Financial Officer
Telephone: +(86 10) 5992-8888
Email: ir@baidu.com
Facsimile: +(86 10) 5992-0000
Baidu Campus
No. 10 Shangdi 10th Street,
Haidian District, Beijing 100085
The People’s Republic of China
(Name, Telephone, Email and/or Facsimile number and Address of Company Contact Person)
Securities registered or to be registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:
Title of Each Class
American depositary shares (each American depositary share representing eight Class A
ordinary shares, par value US$0.000000625 per share)
Class A ordinary shares, par value US$0.000000625 per share*
Trading Symbol
BIDU
Class A ordinary shares, par value US$0.000000625 per share
9888
*
Not for trading, but only in connection with the listing on The Nasdaq Global Select Market of American depositary shares.
Name of Each Exchange on Which Registered
The Nasdaq Stock Market LLC
(The Nasdaq Global Select Market)
The Nasdaq Stock Market LLC
(The Nasdaq Global Select Market)
The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited
Securities registered or to be registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act:
None
(Title of Class)
Securities for which there is a reporting obligation pursuant to Section 15(d) of the Act:
None
(Title of Class)
Indicate the number of outstanding shares of each of the Issuer’s classes of capital or common stock as of the close of the period covered by the annual report 2,280,411,080 Class A ordinary shares and 524,780,320 Class B ordinary shares, par value
US$0.000000625 per share, as of December 31, 2023.
Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act. Yes ☒ No ☐
If this report is an annual or transition report, indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Yes ☐ No ☒
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such
reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes ☒ No ☐
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter
period that the registrant was required to submit such files). Yes ☒ No ☐
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer or an emerging growth company. See definition of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer” “emerging growth company” in Rule 12b-2
of the Exchange Act.
Large accelerated filer ☒
Accelerated filer ☐
Non-accelerated filer ☐
Emerging growth company ☐
If an emerging growth company that prepares its financial statements in accordance with U.S. GAAP, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting
standards† provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act. ☐
† The term “new or revised financial accounting standard” refers to any update issued by the Financial Accounting Standards Board to its Accounting Standards Codification after April 5, 2012.
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has filed a report on and attestation to its management’s assessment of the effectiveness of its internal control over financial reporting under Section 404(b) of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act (15 U.S.C. 7262(b)) by
the registered public accounting firm that prepared or issued its audit report. ☒
If securities are registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act, indicate by check mark whether the financial statements of the registrant included in the filing reflect the correction of an error to previously issued financial statements. ☐
Indicate by check mark whether any of those error corrections are restatements that required a recovery analysis of incentive-based compensation received by any of the registrant’s executive officers during the relevant recovery period pursuant to
§240.10D-1(b). ☐
Indicate by check mark which basis of accounting the registrant has used to prepare the financial statements included in this filing:
U.S. GAAP ☒
International Financial Reporting Standards as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board ☐
Other ☐
If “Other” has been checked in response to the previous question, indicate by check mark which financial statement item the registrant has elected to follow.
Item 17 ☐
Item 18 ☐
If this is an annual report, indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act). Yes ☐ No ☒
(APPLICABLE ONLY TO ISSUERS INVOLVED IN BANKRUPTCY PROCEEDINGS DURING THE PAST FIVE YEARS)
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has filed all documents and reports required to be filed by Sections 12, 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 subsequent to the distribution of securities under a plan confirmed by a court. Yes
☐ No ☐
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION
FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION
PART I
Item 1.
Item 2.
Item 3.
Item 4.
Item 4A.
Item 5.
Item 6.
Item 7.
Item 8.
Item 9.
Item 10.
Item 11.
Item 12.
PART II
Identity of Directors, Senior Management and Advisers
Offer Statistics and Expected Timetable
Key Information
Information on the Company
Unresolved Staff Comments
Operating and Financial Review and Prospects
Directors, Senior Management and Employees
Major Shareholders and Related Party Transactions
Financial Information
The Offer and Listing
Additional Information
Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk
Description of Securities Other than Equity Securities
Item 13.
Item 14.
Item 15.
Item 16A.
Item 16B.
Item 16C.
Item 16D.
Item 16E.
Item 16F.
Item 16G.
Item 16H.
Item 16I.
Item 16J.
Item 16K.
Defaults, Dividend Arrearages and Delinquencies
Material Modifications to the Rights of Security Holders and Use of Proceeds
Controls and Procedures
Audit Committee Financial Expert
Code of Ethics
Principal Accountant Fees and Services
Exemptions from the Listing Standards for Audit Committees
Purchases of Equity Securities by the Issuer and Affiliated Purchasers
Change in Registrant’s Certifying Accountant
Corporate Governance
Mine Safety Disclosure
Disclosure Regarding Foreign Jurisdictions that Prevent Inspections
Insider Trading Policies
Cybersecurity
PART III
Item 17.
Item 18.
Item 19.
Financial Statements
Financial Statements
Exhibits
SIGNATURES
INDEX TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
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In this annual report, except where the context otherwise requires and for purposes of this annual report only:
INTRODUCTION
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“ADSs” refer to our American depositary shares, each ADSs representing eight Class A ordinary shares;
“China” or “PRC” refers to the People’s Republic of China, including Hong Kong, Macau and Taiwan; and “mainland China” refers to the
People’s Republic of China, excluding Hong Kong, Macau and Taiwan;
“Class A ordinary shares” refer to Class A ordinary shares of the share capital of our company with a par value of US$0.000000625 each,
conferring a holder of a Class A ordinary share one vote per share on all matters submitted for voting at general meetings of our company;
“Class B ordinary shares” refer to Class B ordinary shares of the share capital of our company with a par value of US$0.000000625 each,
conferring weighted voting rights in our company such that a holder of a Class B ordinary share is entitled to 10 votes per share on all
matters submitted for voting at general meetings of our company;
“Hong Kong” or “HK” or “Hong Kong S.A.R.” refers to the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of the PRC;
“Hong Kong Listing Rules” refer to the Rules Governing the Listing of Securities on The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited, as
amended or supplemented from time to time;
“Hong Kong Share Registrar” refers to Computershare Hong Kong Investor Services Limited;
“Hong Kong Stock Exchange” refers to The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited;
“Main Board” refers to the stock market (excluding the option market) operated by the Hong Kong Stock Exchange which is independent
from and operated in parallel with the Growth Enterprise Market of the Hong Kong Stock Exchange;
“MAU”, or monthly active user, refers to the number of mobile devices that launched our mobile apps during a given month;
“our company” refers to Baidu, Inc., which is not a PRC operating company but a Cayman Islands holding company with operations
primarily conducted through (i) our mainland China subsidiaries and (ii) contractual arrangements with the variable interest entities, or the
VIEs, based in mainland China. This structure entails unique risks to investors, see “Item 3.D. Key Information—Risk Factors—Risks
Related to our Corporate Structure” for more details;
“RMB” or “Renminbi” refers to the legal currency of mainland China;
“SFO” refers to the Securities and Futures Ordinance (Chapter 571 of the Laws of Hong Kong), as amended or supplemented from time to
time;
“shares” or “ordinary shares” refer to our ordinary shares, which include both Class A ordinary shares and Class B ordinary shares;
“user traffic” or “traffic” refers generally to page views of a website, with “page views” measuring the number of web pages viewed by
internet users over a specified period of time except that multiple page views of the same page viewed by the same user on the same day
are counted only once;
“U.S. GAAP” refers to generally accepted accounting principles in the United States;
“we,” “us,” “our,” or “Baidu” refers to Baidu, Inc., its subsidiaries, and, in the context of describing our operations and consolidated
financial information, the variable interest entities established in mainland China and other consolidated affiliated entities in which we do
not have any equity ownership but
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whose financial results have been consolidated into our consolidated financial statements based solely on contractual arrangements in
accordance with U.S. GAAP. These variable interest entities include, but are not limited to, Beijing Baidu Netcom Science Technology
Co., Ltd., or Baidu Netcom, Beijing Perusal Technology Co., Ltd., or Beijing Perusal, Beijing iQIYI Science & Technology Co., Ltd., or
Beijing iQIYI. See “Item 4. Information on the Company—C. Organizational Structure” for an illustrative diagram of our corporate
structure;
“iQIYI” refers to iQIYI, Inc., a company incorporated in the Cayman Islands listed on Nasdaq under the symbol “IQ” and one of our
subsidiaries;
“$,” “dollars,” “US$” or “U.S. dollars” refers to the legal currency of the United States; and
all discrepancies in any table between the amounts identified as total amounts and the sum of the amounts listed therein are due to
rounding.
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•
On March 1, 2021, Baidu, Inc. effected a change to its authorized share capital by 1-to-80 subdivision of shares. Concurrently, Baidu, Inc. effected
a proportionate change in ADS to Class A ordinary share ratio from 10 ADSs representing 1 Class A ordinary share to each ADS representing 8 Class A
ordinary shares, or the Share Subdivision. Such changes been reflected retroactively throughout this document.
FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION
This annual report on Form 20-F contains forward-looking statements that reflect our current expectations and views of future events. These
statements are made under the “safe harbor” provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. You can identify these forward-
looking statements by terminology such as “may,” “will,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “future,” “intend,” “plan,” “believe,” “estimate,” “is/are likely to” or
other similar expressions. We have based these forward-looking statements largely on our current expectations and projections about future events and
financial trends that we believe may affect our financial condition, results of operations, business strategy and financial needs. These forward-looking
statements include, but are not limited to:
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our operations and business prospects;
our business and operating strategies and our ability to implement such strategies;
our ability to develop and manage our operations and business;
competition for, among other things, capital, technology and skilled personnel;
our ability to control costs;
our ability to identify and conduct investments and acquisitions, obtain regulatory approvals from government authorities, as well as
integrate acquired target(s);
changes to regulatory and operating conditions in the industry and geographical markets in which we operate;
our dividend policy; and
all other risks and uncertainties described in “Item 3.D. Key Information—Risk Factors.”
We would like to caution you not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements and you should read these statements in conjunction
with the risk factors disclosed in “Item 3.D. Key Information—Risk Factors.” Those risks are not exhaustive. We operate in a rapidly evolving
environment. New risks emerge from time to time and it is impossible for our management to predict all risk factors, nor can we assess the impact of all
factors on our business or the extent to which any factor, or combination of factors, may cause actual results
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to differ from those contained in any forward-looking statement. We do not undertake any obligation to update or revise the forward-looking statements
except as required under applicable law.
Unless otherwise noted, all translations from Renminbi to U.S. dollars and from U.S. dollars to Renminbi in this annual report are made at a rate
of RMB7.0999 to US$1.00, the exchange rate in effect as of December 29, 2023 as set forth in the H.10 statistical release of The Board of Governors of
the Federal Reserve System. We make no representation that any Renminbi or U.S. dollar amounts could have been, or could be, converted into U.S.
dollars or Renminbi, as the case may be, at any particular rate, or at all.
PART I
Item 1.
Identity of Directors, Senior Management and Advisers
Not applicable.
Item 2.
Offer Statistics and Expected Timetable
Not applicable.
Item 3.
Key Information
Our Corporate Structure and Contractual Arrangements with the Variable Interest Entities
Baidu, Inc. is not a PRC operating company but a Cayman Islands holding company with operations primarily conducted through (i) our
subsidiaries incorporated in mainland China, or mainland China subsidiaries, and (ii) contractual arrangements with the variable interest entities based in
mainland China. Our internet content services, value-added telecommunication-based services, internet map services, online audio and video services
and mobile application distribution businesses in mainland China have been conducted through the applicable VIEs in order to comply with the laws and
regulations of mainland China, which restrict and impose conditions on foreign direct investment in companies involved in the provision of such
businesses. Accordingly, we operate these businesses in mainland China through the variable interest entities, and rely on contractual arrangements
among Baidu, Inc./iQIYI, Inc., our mainland China subsidiaries, the variable interest entities and their nominee shareholders to control the business
operations of the variable interest entities. External revenues contributed by the variable interest entities accounted for 44%, 47% and 45% of our total
external revenues for the years ended December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023, respectively. As used in this annual report, “our company” refers to Baidu,
Inc., whereas “we,” “us,” “our,” or “Baidu” refers to Baidu, Inc., its subsidiaries, and, in the context of describing our operations and consolidated
financial information, the variable interest entities in mainland China and all of the variable interest entities are domestic companies incorporated in
mainland China in which we do not have any equity ownership but whose financial results have been consolidated into our consolidated financial
statements based solely on contractual arrangements in accordance with U.S. GAAP. Investors in our ADSs are not purchasing equity interest in the
variable interest entities in mainland China but instead are purchasing equity interest in a holding company incorporated in the Cayman Islands.
Baidu, Inc./iQIYI, Inc., our mainland China subsidiaries, the variable interest entities and their nominee shareholders have entered into a series of
contractual agreements. These contractual arrangements:
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enable us to receive the economic benefits that could potentially be significant to the variable interest entities in consideration for the
services provided by our subsidiaries;
effectively assigned all of the voting rights underlying the nominee shareholders’ equity interest in the variable interest entities to us; and
enable us to hold an exclusive option to purchase all or part of the equity interests in the variable interest entities when and to the extent
permitted by the laws of mainland China.
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These contractual arrangements generally include shareholder voting rights trust agreements or proxy agreements, exclusive equity purchase and
transfer option agreements or exclusive purchase option agreements, loan agreements, operating agreements or business operation agreements, exclusive
technology consulting and services agreements, and equity pledge agreements, as the case may be. As for some of the variable interest entities, our
subsidiaries have entered into additional business cooperation agreements, power of attorney, license agreements and/or commitment letters (as the case
may be) with these variable interest entities and their respective shareholders. Terms contained in each set of contractual arrangements with the variable
interest entities and their respective shareholders are substantially similar. As a result of the contractual arrangements, the shareholders of the variable
interest entities effectively assigned all of their voting rights underlying their equity interest in the variable interest entities to the primary beneficiaries
of these companies, which gives our company or its subsidiaries/iQIYI the power to direct the activities that most significantly impact the variable
interest entities’ economic performance. The nominee shareholders of Baidu Netcom, Beijing Perusal and Beijing iQIYI, the variable interest entities,
are directors or members of senior management of us or iQIYI. We or iQIYI consider such people suitable to act as the nominee shareholders of these
variable interest entities because of, among other considerations, their contribution to us or iQIYI, their competence and their length of service with and
loyalty to us or iQIYI. For more details of these contractual arrangements, see “Item 4. Information on the Company—C. Organizational Structure—
Contractual Arrangements with the Variable Interest Entities and Other Consolidated Affiliated Entities and their Shareholders.”
However, the contractual arrangements may not be as effective as direct ownership in providing us with control over the variable interest entities
and we may incur substantial costs to enforce the terms of the arrangements. If the variable interest entities or the nominee shareholders fail to perform
their respective obligations under the contractual arrangements, we could be limited in our ability to enforce the contractual arrangements that
effectively assigned us the voting rights in the variable interest entities, and these agreements have not been tested in the courts of mainland China.
Furthermore, if we are unable to maintain such effective assignment, we would not be able to continue to consolidate the financial results of these
entities in our financial statements. See “Item 3.D. Key Information—Risk Factors—Risks Related to Our Corporate Structure—Our contractual
arrangements with the variable interest entities in mainland China and the individual nominee shareholders may not be as effective in providing control
over these entities as direct ownership” and “Item 3.D. Key Information—Risk Factors—Risks Related to Our Corporate Structure—The individual
nominee shareholders of the variable interest entities may have potential conflicts of interest with us, which may adversely affect our business. We do
not have any arrangements in place to address such potential conflicts.”
There are also substantial uncertainties regarding the interpretation and application of current and future laws, regulations and rules of mainland
China regarding the status of the rights of our Cayman Islands holding company with respect to its contractual arrangements with the variable interest
entities and their nominee shareholders. It is uncertain whether any new laws or regulations of mainland China relating to variable interest entity
structures will be adopted or if adopted, what they would provide. If we or any of the variable interest entities is found to be in violation of any existing
or future laws or regulations of mainland China, or fail to obtain or maintain any of the required permits or approvals, the PRC regulatory authorities
would have broad discretion in accordance with the applicable laws and regulations to take action in dealing with such violations or failures. See “Item
3.D. Key Information—Risk Factors—Risks Related to Our Corporate Structure—Laws and regulations of mainland China governing our businesses
and the validity of certain of our contractual arrangements are uncertain. If we are found to be in violation, we could be subject to sanctions. In addition,
changes in the laws and regulations of mainland China or changes in interpretations thereof may materially and adversely affect our business.”
Our operations are primarily conducted in mainland China through (i) our mainland China subsidiaries and (ii) contractual arrangements with the
variable interest entities based in mainland China, and revenues are primarily generated from mainland China. Though the PRC Foreign Investment Law
does not explicitly classify contractual arrangements as a form of foreign investment, the definition of “foreign investment” thereunder is relatively wide
and contains a catch-all provision which includes investments made by foreign investors through
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means stipulated in laws or administrative regulations or other methods prescribed by the State Council. Therefore, there is no assurance that foreign
investment via contractual arrangement would not be interpreted as a type of indirect foreign investment activities in the future. If any of the variable
interest entities were deemed as a foreign-invested enterprise under any such future laws, administrative regulations or provisions and any of our
business would be included in any negative list or other form of restrictions on foreign investment, we may need to take further actions to comply with
such future laws, administrative regulations or provisions. Such actions may have a material and adverse impact on our business, financial condition,
result of operations and prospects. In addition, if the PRC regulatory authorities were to find our legal structure and contractual arrangements to be in
violation of any laws, administrative regulations or provisions of mainland China, we are uncertain what impact of above PRC regulatory authorities’
actions would have on us and our ability to consolidate the variable interest entities in the consolidated financial statements. For more details, see “Item
3.D. Key Information—Risk Factors—Risks Related to Doing Business in China—Uncertainties exist with respect to the interpretation and
implementation of the PRC Foreign Investment Law and its implementation regulations and how it may impact the viability of our current corporate
structure, corporate governance and business operations.”
Our corporate structure is subject to risks associated with our contractual arrangements with the variable interest entities. Our company and its
investors may never have a direct ownership interest in the businesses that are conducted by the variable interest entities. Uncertainties in the PRC legal
system could limit our ability to enforce these contractual arrangements, and these contractual arrangements have not been tested in a court of law. If the
PRC government finds that the agreements that establish the structure for operating our business in mainland China do not comply with the laws and
regulations of mainland China, or if these regulations or the interpretation of existing regulations change or are interpreted differently in the future, we
and the variable interest entities could be subject to severe penalties or be forced to relinquish our interests in those operations. This would result in the
variable interest entities being deconsolidated. The majority of our assets, including the necessary licenses to conduct business in mainland China, are
held by the variable interest entities. A significant part of our revenues are generated by the variable interest entities. An event that results in the
deconsolidation of the variable interest entities would have a material effect on our operations and result in the value of the securities of our company
diminish substantially or even become worthless. Our company, our mainland China subsidiaries and the variable interest entities, and investors of our
company face uncertainty about potential future actions by the PRC government that could affect the enforceability of the contractual arrangements with
the variable interest entities and, consequently, significantly affect the financial performance of the variable interest entities and our company as a
whole. Baidu, Inc. may not be able to repay its indebtedness, and the Class A ordinary shares or ADSs of our company may decline in value or become
worthless, if we are unable to assert our contractual control rights over the assets of our mainland China subsidiaries and the variable interest entities
that conduct all or substantially all of our operations. For a detailed description of the risks associated with our corporate structure, please refer to risks
disclosed under “Item 3.D. Key Information—Risk Factors—Risks Related to Our Corporate Structure.”
Our company and the variable interest entities face various risks and uncertainties related to doing business in China. For example, we face risks
associated with regulatory approvals on offshore offerings, antimonopoly regulatory actions, and oversight on cybersecurity and data privacy. These
risks could result in a material adverse change in our operations and the value of our ADSs, significantly limit or completely hinder our ability to
continue to offer securities to investors, or adversely affect the value of such securities. For a detailed description of risks related to doing business in
China, see “Item 3.D. Key Information—Risk Factors—Risks Related to Doing Business in China.”
PRC government’s certain administrative measures in regulating (i) our operations and (ii) offerings conducted overseas by, and foreign
investment in, China-based issuers, could significantly limit or completely hinder our ability to offer or continue to offer securities to investors.
Implementation of industry-wide regulations, including data security or anti-monopoly related regulations, in this nature may result in adverse effect on
the value of such securities. For more details, see “Item 3.D. Key Information—Risk Factors—Risks
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Related to Doing Business in China—Failure to meet the PRC government’s complex regulatory requirements on our business operation could have a
material adverse effect on our operations and the value of our securities.”
Risks and uncertainties arising from the PRC legal system, including risks and uncertainties regarding the enforcement of laws and quickly
evolving rules and regulations in mainland China, could result in a material adverse change in our operations and the value of our ADSs. For more
details, see “Item 3.D. Key Information—Risk Factors—Risks Related to Doing Business in China—Uncertainties exist with respect to the
interpretation and implementation of the PRC Foreign Investment Law and its implementation regulations and how it may impact the viability of our
current corporate structure, corporate governance and business operations.”
The Holding Foreign Companies Accountable Act
Pursuant to the Holding Foreign Companies Accountable Act, which was enacted on December 18, 2020 and further amended by the
Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2023 signed into law on December 29, 2022, or the HFCAA, if the Securities and Exchange Commission, or the SEC,
determines that we have filed audit reports issued by a registered public accounting firm that has not been subject to inspections by the Public Company
Accounting Oversight Board, or the PCAOB, for two consecutive years, the SEC will prohibit our shares or the ADSs from being traded on a national
securities exchange or in the over-the-counter trading market in the United States. On December 16, 2021, the PCAOB issued a report to notify the SEC
of its determination that the PCAOB was unable to inspect or investigate completely registered public accounting firms headquartered in mainland
China and Hong Kong, including our auditor. In April 2022, the SEC conclusively listed us as a Commission-Identified Issuer under the HFCAA
following the filing of our annual report on Form 20-F for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2021. On December 15, 2022, the PCAOB issued a report
that vacated its December 16, 2021 determination and removed mainland China and Hong Kong from the list of jurisdictions where it is unable to
inspect or investigate completely registered public accounting firms. For this reason, we were not identified as a Commission-Identified Issuer under the
HFCAA after we filed our annual report on Form 20-F for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2022 and do not expect to be so identified after we file
this annual report on Form 20-F for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2023. Each year, the PCAOB will determine whether it can inspect and
investigate completely audit firms in mainland China and Hong Kong, among other jurisdictions. If the PCAOB determines in the future that it no
longer has full access to inspect and investigate completely accounting firms in mainland China and Hong Kong and we use an accounting firm
headquartered in one of these jurisdictions to issue an audit report on our financial statements filed with the SEC, we would be identified as a
Commission-Identified Issuer following the filing of the annual report on Form 20-F for the relevant fiscal year. There can be no assurance that we
would not be identified as a Commission-Identified Issuer for any future fiscal year, and if we were so identified for two consecutive years, we would
become subject to the prohibition on trading under the HFCAA. See “Item 3.D. Key Information—Risk Factors—Risks Related to Doing Business in
China—The PCAOB had historically been unable to inspect our auditor in relation to their audit work performed for our financial statements and the
inability of the PCAOB to conduct inspections of our auditor in the past has deprived our investors with the benefits of such inspections.” and “Item
3.D. Key Information—Risk Factors—Risks Related to Doing Business in China—Our ADSs may be prohibited from trading in the United States under
the HFCAA in the future if the PCAOB is unable to inspect or investigate completely auditors located in China. The delisting or prohibition of trading
of the ADSs, or the threat of their being delisted or prohibited from trading, may materially and adversely affect the value of your investment.”
Permissions Required from the PRC Government Authorities for Our Operations
We conduct our business primarily through our subsidiaries and the variable interest entities in mainland China. Our operations in mainland China
are governed by the laws and regulations of mainland China. As of the date of this annual report, our mainland China subsidiaries and the variable
interest entities have obtained the requisite licenses and permits from the PRC government authorities that are material for the business operations of our
subsidiaries and the variable interest entities in mainland China, including, among others, the Value-Added Telecommunication Business Operating
License, the Internet News Information Service License, the
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Short Messaging Service Access Code Certificate, the Online Audio/Video Program Transmission License, the Radio and Television Program
Production License, the Surveying and Mapping Qualification Certificate for internet map services, the Internet Culture Business Permit, the Publication
Business Operating License, the Filing Certificate for Internet Drug and Medical Devices Information Services/the Qualification Certificate for Internet
Drug Information Services, the Human Resource Services License, the Filing Certificate for the Online Transaction Platform, the Filing Certificate for
Business of Category II Medical Devices, the Registration Certificate for Medical Devices, the Food Business License, the Medicine Business License,
the Filing Certificate for the Online Publication Transaction Platform, the Internet Domain Name Services License, the Medical Device Operation
License, the Medical Device Production License, the Filing Certificate for Third-Party Platform Provider of Online Trading Service for Drugs and the
Filing Certificate for Third-Party Platform Provider of Online Trading Service for Medical Device, the Practice License of Medical Institutions, the
Internet Religious Information Service License, the Filing Certificate of Artworks Operators, the Filing Information Form of Third Party Platform
Providers of Online Food Trading, the Aquatic Wildlife Operation and Utilization License, the Online Taxi-Hailing Operation License and certain
permits for road testing and demonstration application and/or commercial operations of autonomous driving vehicles. Given the uncertainties of
interpretation and implementation of relevant laws and regulations and the enforcement practice by the government authorities, we may be required to
obtain additional licenses, permits, filings or approvals for our businesses and services in the future. For more detailed information, see “Item 3.D. Key
Information—Risk Factors—Risks Related to Doing Business in China—We may be adversely affected by the complexity, uncertainties and changes in
the regulations of internet and related business and companies in mainland China.”
Furthermore, in connection with our historical issuance of securities to foreign investors, we, our mainland China subsidiaries and the variable
interest entities, (i) are not required to obtain permission from the China Securities Regulatory Commission, or the CSRC, (ii) are not required to go
through a cybersecurity review by the Cyberspace Administration of China, or the CAC, and (iii) have not been asked to obtain permission by any PRC
government authority.
However, the PRC government has promulgated certain regulations and rules to exert more oversight and control over offerings that are conducted
overseas and/or foreign investment in China-based issuers. On February 17, 2023, the CSRC released the Trial Administrative Measures of Overseas
Securities Offering and Listing by Domestic Companies and five supporting guidelines, or, collectively, the Filing Rules, which took effect on
March 31, 2023. According to the Filing Rules, domestic companies in mainland China that directly or indirectly offer or list their securities in an
overseas market are required to file with the CSRC. In addition, an overseas listed company must also submit the filing with respect to its follow-on
offerings, issuance of convertible corporate bonds and exchangeable bonds, and other equivalent offering activities, within a specific time frame
requested under the Filing Rules. Therefore, we will be required to file with the CSRC for our overseas offering of equity and equity linked securities in
the future within the applicable scope of the Filing Rules. For more detailed information, see “Item 3.D. Key Information—Risk Factors—Risks Related
to Doing Business in China—The approval of and/or filing with the CSRC or other PRC government authorities may be required in connection with our
offshore offerings under the laws of mainland China, and, if required, we cannot predict whether or for how long we will be able to obtain such approval
or complete such filing.”
Cash Flows through Our Organization
Baidu, Inc. is a holding company with no operations of its own. We conduct our operations in mainland China primarily through our subsidiaries
and the variable interest entities in mainland China. As a result, although other means are available for us to obtain financing at the holding company
level, Baidu, Inc.’s ability to pay dividends to the shareholders and to service any debt it may incur may depend upon dividends paid by our mainland
China subsidiaries and license and service fees paid by the variable interest entities. If any of our subsidiaries incurs debt on its own behalf, the
instruments governing such debt may restrict its ability to pay dividends to Baidu, Inc. In addition, our mainland China subsidiaries are permitted to pay
dividends to Baidu, Inc. only out of their retained earnings, if any, as determined in accordance with PRC accounting standards and
7
Table of Contents
regulations. Further, our mainland China subsidiaries and the variable interest entities are required to make appropriations to certain statutory reserve
funds or may make appropriations to certain discretionary funds, which are not distributable as cash dividends except in the event of a solvent
liquidation of the companies. For more details, see “Item 5.B. Operating and Financial Review and Prospects—Liquidity and Capital Resources—
Holding Company Structure.”
Under the laws and regulations of mainland China, our mainland China subsidiaries and the variable interest entities are subject to certain
restrictions with respect to paying dividends or otherwise transferring any of their net assets to us. Remittance of dividends by a wholly foreign-owned
enterprise out of mainland China is also subject to examination by the banks designated by State Administration of Foreign Exchange, or SAFE. The
amounts restricted include the paid-up capital and the statutory reserve funds of our mainland China subsidiaries and the net assets of the variable
interest entities in which we have no legal ownership, totaling RMB45.9 billion, RMB47.3 billion and RMB48.0 billion (US$6.8 billion) as of
December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023, respectively. For risks relating to the fund flows of our operations in mainland China, see “Item 3.D. Key
Information—Risk Factors—Risks Related to Doing Business in China—Our subsidiaries and the variable interest entities in mainland China are
subject to restrictions on paying dividends and making other payments to our holding company.”
From 2021 to 2023, certain of our mainland China subsidiaries have declared and distributed profits earned to Baidu (Hong Kong) Limited for an
aggregate amount of RMB23.1 billion (US$3.2 billion); the dividend payments are subject to withholding tax. We have made tax provisions based on
the corresponding tax rate. If our mainland China subsidiaries further declare and distribute profits earned after January 1, 2008 in the future, the
dividend payments will be subject to withholding tax, which will increase our tax liability and reduce the amount of cash available to our company. For
the potential distributable profits to be distributed to our qualified Hong Kong incorporated subsidiary, the deferred tax liabilities are accrued at a 5%
withholding tax rate. For more information on related risks, please see “Item 3.D. Key Information—Risk Factors—Risks Related to Doing Business in
China—If our mainland China subsidiaries declare and distribute dividends to their respective offshore parent companies, we will be required to pay
more taxes, which could have a material and adverse effect on our result of operations.”
Under the laws of mainland China, Baidu Inc. may provide funding to our mainland China subsidiaries only through capital contributions or loans,
and to the variable interest entities only through loans, subject to satisfaction of applicable government registration and approval requirements.
For the years ended December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023, Baidu, Inc. provided loans with principal amount of RMB14.5 billion, RMB11.0 billion
and RMB24.4 billion (US$3.4 billion), respectively, to its subsidiaries, and the subsidiaries repaid principal amount of RMB4.9 billion,
RMB12.6 billion and RMB27.1 billion (US$3.8 billion), respectively, to Baidu, Inc.
For the years ended December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023, the subsidiaries of Baidu, Inc. provided loans with principal amount of RMB3.1 billion,
RMB22.3 billion and RMB21.4 billion (US$3.0 billion), respectively, to Baidu, Inc. and Baidu, Inc. repaid principal amount of RMB3.0 billion,
RMB3.1 billion and RMB23.3 billion (US$3.3 billion), respectively, to its subsidiaries.
For the years ended December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023, loans for the amounts of RMB409 million, RMB65 million and RMB58 million (US$8
million), respectively, were provided to the nominee shareholders to fund the capitalization of the variable interest entities for which the Company does
not intend to seek repayment, and nil was repaid by the nominee shareholders.
For the years ended December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023, the variable interest entities received RMB6.9 billion, RMB5.4 billion and
RMB1.5 billion (US$218 million), respectively, as capital contributions or loans from the subsidiaries of Baidu, Inc. and the variable interest entities
repaid principal amount of nil, RMB6.5 billion and RMB5.2 billion (US$725 million), respectively, to the subsidiaries.
8
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For the years ended December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023, the variable interest entities provided loans with principal amount of RMB450 million,
nil and nil, respectively, to the subsidiaries of Baidu, Inc. and the subsidiaries repaid principal amount of RMB10 million, RMB200 million and
RMB345 million (US$49 million), respectively, to the variable interest entities.
Baidu, Inc. has not declared or paid any cash dividends, nor does it has any present plan to pay any cash dividends on its ordinary shares in the
foreseeable future. We currently intend to retain most, if not all, of our available funds and any future earnings to operate and expand our business. See
“Item 8. Financial Information—A. Consolidated Statements and Other Financial Information—Dividend Policy.” For mainland China and United
States federal income tax considerations of an investment in our ADSs, see “Item 10. Additional Information—E. Taxation.”
A.
[Reserved]
The following table presents the selected consolidated financial information for our company. The selected consolidated statements of
comprehensive income data and cash flow data for the three years ended December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023 and the consolidated balance sheets data as
of December 31, 2022 and 2023 have been derived from our audited consolidated financial statements, which are included in this annual report
beginning on page F-1. The selected consolidated statements of comprehensive income data and cash flow data for the years ended December 31, 2019
and 2020 and the selected consolidated balance sheets data as of December 31, 2019, 2020 and 2021 have been derived from our audited consolidated
financial statements for the years ended December 31, 2019, 2020 and 2021, which are not included in this annual report. Our historical results do not
necessarily indicate results expected for any future periods. The selected consolidated financial data should be read in conjunction with, and are
qualified in their entirety by reference to, our audited consolidated financial statements and related notes and “Item 5. Operating and Financial Review
and Prospects” below. Our audited consolidated financial statements are prepared and presented in accordance with U.S. GAAP.
Year Ended December 31,
2019
RMB
2020
RMB
2021
RMB
2022
RMB
2023
RMB US$
(In millions, except per share and per ADS data)
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income Data:
Revenues:
Online marketing services
Others
Total revenues
Operating costs and expenses:
Cost of revenues
Selling, general and administrative
Research and development
Total operating costs and expenses
Operating profit
Total other (loss) income, net
(Loss) income before income taxes
Income taxes
Net (loss) income
Less: Net (loss) income attributable to non-controlling interests
Net income attributable to Baidu, Inc.
9
81,203 11,437
78,093 72,840
29,320 34,234
7,521
53,395
107,413 107,074 124,493 123,675 134,598 18,958
74,711
48,964
80,695
43,798
65,031
23,519
24,192
64,314
24,723
24,938
63,935
20,514
23,315
9,159
62,850 55,158
3,314
19,910 18,063
18,346 19,513
3,407
101,106 92,734 113,975 107,764 112,742 15,880
3,078
472
3,550
514
3,036
175
2,861
6,307 14,340
8,750
(6,647)
(340) 23,090
1,948
4,064
(2,288) 19,026
(3,446)
(4,345)
2,057 22,472
10,518
260
10,778
3,187
7,591
(2,635)
10,226
15,911
(5,799)
10,112
2,578
7,534
(25)
7,559
21,856
3,342
25,198
3,649
21,549
1,234
20,315
Table of Contents
Consolidated Balance Sheets Data:
Cash and cash equivalents
Restricted cash
Short-term investments, net(1)
Total assets
Short-term loans
Long-term loans, current portion
Long-term loans
Notes payable, current portion
Notes payable
Convertible senior notes, current portion(2)
Convertible senior notes(2)
Total liabilities
Total Baidu, Inc. shareholders’ equity
2019
2020
As of December 31,
2022
2021
2023
RMB RMB RMB RMB RMB US$
(In millions)
996
3,016
7,427
2,618
737
7,804
5,219
33,443 35,782 36,850 53,156 25,231 3,554
758 10,821 11,330 11,503 1,620
112,924 126,402 143,243 120,839 168,670 23,757
301,316 332,708 380,034 390,973 406,759 57,291
5,343 10,257 1,445
2 —
— 12,629 13,722 14,223 2,003
849
6,904
— 10,505
38,090 48,408 43,120 39,893 34,990 4,928
2,802
395
—
12,297 11,927 12,652
8,144 1,147
128,501 140,865 156,082 153,168 144,151 20,304
163,599 182,696 211,459 223,478 243,626 34,314
4,168
2
8,305
9,568
6,029
4,752
—
—
(1) We adopted Accounting Standards Update (ASU) No. 2016-13, Financial Instruments-Credit Losses (Topic 326): Measurement of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments on
January 1, 2020, which requires the measurement and recognition of expected credit losses for financial assets held at amortized cost. ASU 2016-13 replaces the existing incurred loss
impairment model with an expected loss methodology, resulting in more timely recognition of credit losses.
(2) We adopted ASU No. 2020-06, Accounting for Convertible Instruments and Contracts in an Entity’s Own Equity on January 1, 2022 using a modified retrospective transition method.
Following the adoption of ASU 2020-06, all of the proceeds received from the issuance of the existing notes have been recorded as a liability on the balance sheet in accordance with
ASC 470-20. The difference between the principal amount of each of the existing notes and net proceeds from the issuance is considered debt discount and is amortized at their
respective effective interest rates to accrete the carrying value of the existing notes to its face value on the respective put dates of the existing notes.
Consolidated Cash Flow Data:
Net cash provided by operating activities
Net cash used in investing activities
Net cash (used in)/provided by financing activities
Net increase/(decrease) in cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash
Financial Information Related to the Variable Interest Entities
2019
RMB
2020
RMB
2021
RMB
2022
RMB
2023
RMB
US$
Year Ended December 31,
(In millions)
28,458 24,200 20,122 26,170 36,615 5,157
(19,974) (27,552) (31,444) (3,944) (50,397) (7,098)
5,665 23,396 (6,390) (14,162) (1,995)
2,101 11,131 17,565 (27,662) (3,896)
(3,873)
4,612
The following tables present the condensed consolidating schedule of financial performance, financial position and cash flows for Baidu, Inc., its
wholly owned subsidiaries that are the Primary Beneficiaries of the VIEs under U.S. GAAP, or the Primary Beneficiaries of VIEs excluding Baidu, Inc.,
its other subsidiaries that are not the Primary Beneficiaries of VIEs, or the “Other Subsidiaries, the VIEs and VIEs’ subsidiaries that we consolidate for
the periods and as of the dates presented.
•
“Baidu Inc.” is our holding company in the Cayman Islands, and the primary beneficiary of the VIEs including Beijing Baidu Netcom
Science Technology Co., Ltd., or Baidu Netcom, and Beijing Perusal Technology Co., Ltd., or Beijing Perusal, and other VIEs. “Primary
Beneficiaries of VIEs excluding Baidu, Inc.” mainly refer to iQIYI, Inc., the primary beneficiary of Beijing iQIYI Science & Technology
Co., Ltd., Beijing iQIYI, and other iQIYI VIEs.
•
“Other Subsidiaries” refer to the sum of non-VIE subsidiaries, which mainly include Baidu Online Network Technology (Beijing) Co.,
Ltd., or Baidu Online, Baidu (China) Co., Ltd., or Baidu China,
10
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Baidu.com Times Technology (Beijing) Co., Ltd., or Baidu Times, Beijing QIYI Century Science & Technology Co., Ltd., or Beijing QIYI
Century, a wholly-owned foreign enterprise of iQIYI, Inc., and other wholly-owned subsidiaries, which mainly provide online marketing
services to external customers. In addition, as instructed by the primary beneficiaries of the VIEs, certain wholly-owned subsidiaries
including Baidu Online and Beijing QIYI Century also provide long-term loans to the nominee shareholders of the VIEs to fund the
capitalization of these entities as well as exclusive technology consulting and services to the VIEs.
•
“VIEs and VIEs’ subsidiaries” refer to the sum of Baidu Netcom, Beijing Perusal, Beijing iQIYI and other iQIYI VIEs, and other VIEs.
Selected Condensed Consolidating Statements of Comprehensive Income Information
Revenues
Share of income of the VIEs and VIEs’ subsidiaries
Net income
Revenues
Share of income of the VIEs and VIEs’ subsidiaries
Net income (loss)
Revenues
Share of loss of the VIEs and VIEs’ subsidiaries
Net income (loss)
Primary
Beneficiaries
of VIEs
excluding
Baidu, Inc.
22
501
1,819
Primary
Beneficiaries
of VIEs
excluding
Baidu, Inc.
14
164
(272)
Baidu
Inc.
—
4,021
20,315
Baidu
Inc.
—
158
7,559
Baidu
Inc.
—
(276)
10,226
Primary
Beneficiaries
of VIEs
excluding
Baidu, Inc.
4
(2,067)
(6,248)
11
For the Year Ended December 31, 2023
Other
Subsidiaries
VIEs and
VIEs’
subsidiaries
RMB
(In millions)
92,326
—
19,235
67,001
—
4,202
Eliminations
Consolidated
Total
(24,751)
(4,522)
(24,022)
134,598
—
21,549
For the Year Ended December 31, 2022
Other
Subsidiaries
VIEs and
VIEs’
subsidiaries
RMB
(In millions)
82,471
—
11,640
62,121
—
212
Eliminations
Consolidated
Total
(20,931)
(322)
(11,605)
123,675
—
7,534
For the Year Ended December 31, 2021
Other
Subsidiaries
VIEs and
VIEs’
subsidiaries
RMB
(In millions)
83,424
—
16,330
61,380
—
(220)
Eliminations
Consolidated
Total
(20,315)
2,343
(12,497)
124,493
—
7,591
Table of Contents
Selected Condensed Consolidating Balance Sheets Information
Assets
Cash and cash equivalents
Short-term investments, net
Accounts receivable, net
Others
Total current assets
Fixed assets, net
Intangible assets, net
Licensed copyrights, net
Produced content, net
Long-term investments, net
Long-term time deposits and held-to-maturity investments
Investments in subsidiaries
Contractual interests in the VIEs and VIEs’ subsidiaries(1)
Operating lease right-of-use assets
Others
Total non-current assets
Amounts due from the entities within Baidu(2)
Total assets
Liabilities
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities
Customers’ deposits and deferred revenue
Operating lease liabilities
Others
Total current liabilities
Operating lease liabilities
Others
Total non-current liabilities
Amounts due to the entities within Baidu(2)
Total liabilities
Redeemable noncontrolling interests
Equity
Total Baidu shareholders’ equity(3)
Noncontrolling interests
Total equity
Total liabilities, redeemable noncontrolling interests and
Primary
Beneficiaries
of VIEs
excluding
Baidu, Inc.
Baidu,
Inc.
As of December 31, 2023
Other
VIEs and
VIEs’
Subsidiaries
subsidiaries Eliminations
Consolidated
Total
RMB
(In millions)
5,463
4,338
—
13
9,814
217
—
—
—
423
2,528
298,642
3,654
—
—
305,464
—
315,278
572
—
—
6,029
6,601
—
49,115
49,115
15,936
71,652
—
243,626
—
243,626
406
—
—
42
448
—
—
—
—
354
—
958
—
—
152
1,464
24,823
26,735
41
—
—
2,802
2,843
—
8,144
8,144
—
10,987
6,090
14,524
159,277
3,206
17,165
194,172
18,659
46
5,016
1,028
29,752
21,808
—
23,859
4,610
32,427
137,205
—
331,377
20,719
6,620
225
5,387
32,951
120
3,568
3,688
696
37,335
3,261
3,060
6,598
9,658
290,746
35
290,781
4,838
5,055
7,642
8,286
25,821
9,084
835
1,951
12,349
17,428
330
—
—
6,241
11,266
59,484
—
85,305
16,385
8,007
2,883
6,781
34,056
4,920
1,833
6,753
13,985
54,794
114
27,513
2,884
30,397
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
(299,600)
(27,513)
—
—
(327,113)
(24,823)
(351,936)
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
(30,617)
(30,617)
—
(321,319)
—
(321,319)
25,231
168,670
10,848
25,506
230,255
27,960
881
6,967
13,377
47,957
24,666
—
—
10,851
43,845
176,504
—
406,759
37,717
14,627
3,108
20,999
76,451
5,040
62,660
67,700
—
144,151
9,465
243,626
9,517
253,143
equity
315,278
26,735
331,377
85,305
(351,936)
406,759
12
Table of Contents
Assets
Cash and cash equivalents
Short-term investments, net
Accounts receivable, net
Others
Total current assets
Fixed assets, net
Intangible assets, net
Licensed copyrights, net
Produced content, net
Long-term investments, net
Long-term time deposits and held-to-maturity investments
Investments in subsidiaries
Contractual interests in the VIEs and VIEs’ subsidiaries(1)
Operating lease right-of-use assets
Others
Total non-current assets
Amounts due from the entities within Baidu(2)
Total assets
Liabilities
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities
Customers’ deposits and deferred revenue
Operating lease liabilities
Others
Total current liabilities
Operating lease liabilities
Others
Total non-current liabilities
Amounts due to the entities within Baidu(2)
Total liabilities
Redeemable noncontrolling interests
Equity
Total Baidu shareholders’ equity(3)
Noncontrolling interests
Total equity
Total liabilities, redeemable noncontrolling interests and
Primary
Beneficiaries
of VIEs
excluding
Baidu, Inc.
Baidu,
Inc.
As of December 31, 2022
Other
Subsidiaries
VIEs and
VIEs’
subsidiaries Eliminations
Consolidated
Total
RMB
(In millions)
18,691
5,485
—
—
24,176
225
—
—
—
—
—
274,483
884
—
—
275,592
—
299,768
616
—
—
6,904
7,520
—
53,614
53,614
15,156
76,290
—
223,478
—
223,478
4,351
—
—
48
4,399
—
—
—
—
365
—
243
—
—
152
760
22,648
27,807
167
—
—
8,305
8,472
—
9,568
9,568
—
18,040
5,604
26,333
110,704
3,325
18,587
158,949
16,124
45
4,889
468
36,775
23,329
—
23,778
4,905
32,781
143,094
3,206
305,249
21,482
5,729
255
5,804
33,270
245
3,448
3,693
—
36,963
2,678
1,041
3,122
4,163
265,640
(32)
265,608
3,781
4,650
8,408
8,487
25,326
7,624
1,209
1,952
12,534
18,157
300
—
—
5,460
10,829
58,065
—
83,391
15,749
7,387
2,554
4,678
30,368
4,565
2,098
6,663
18,743
55,774
111
24,662
2,844
27,506
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
(274,726)
(24,662)
—
—
(299,388)
(25,854)
(325,242)
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
(33,899)
(33,899)
—
(291,343)
—
(291,343)
53,156
120,839
11,733
27,122
212,850
23,973
1,254
6,841
13,002
55,297
23,629
—
—
10,365
43,762
178,123
—
390,973
38,014
13,116
2,809
25,691
79,630
4,810
68,728
73,538
—
153,168
8,393
223,478
5,934
229,412
equity
299,768
27,807
305,249
83,391
(325,242)
390,973
Note:
(1)
It represents the elimination of the contractual interests in the VIEs and VIEs’ subsidiaries, which includes contractual interests in the VIEs through loans to
nominee shareholders or capital contributions and the primary beneficiaries’ share of income (loss) from the VIEs and VIEs’ subsidiaries.
13
Table of Contents
(2)
(3)
It represents the elimination of intercompany balances among Baidu, Inc., the primary beneficiaries, other subsidiaries and the VIEs and VIEs’ subsidiaries. The
short-term loans and long-term loans provided to the VIEs and VIEs’ subsidiaries were RMB9.9 billion (US$1.4 billion) and RMB3.4 billion (US$479 million),
respectively, as of December 31, 2023 and RMB8.8 billion and RMB8.1 billion, respectively, as of December 31, 2022.
The loans provided to the nominee shareholders were RMB19.2 billion (US$2.7 billion) and RMB19.1 billion as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively,
which will mature from 2027 to 2047. The loans provided to the nominee shareholders were to fund the capitalization of the VIEs for which the Company does not
intend to seek repayment. The term of all such loans provided to the nominee shareholders has historically been extended prior to their respective original maturity
dates, and we will continue to extend the term of all outstanding loans before they become due.
Selected Condensed Consolidating Cash Flows Information
Net cash (used in)/provided by operating activities
Net cash provided by/ (used in) investing activities
Including: Cash contribution to VIEs and VIEs’
subsidiaries(1)(2)
Loans provided to VIEs and VIEs’ subsidiaries(3)
Loans repayments from VIEs and VIEs’
subsidiaries(3)
Net cash used in financing activities
Including: Cash contribution to VIEs and VIEs’
subsidiaries(1)(2)
Loans provided to VIEs and VIEs’ subsidiaries(3)
Loans repayments from VIEs and VIEs’
subsidiaries(3)
For the Year Ended December 31, 2023
Primary
Beneficiaries
of VIEs
excluding
Baidu, Inc.
(361)
237
—
—
—
(3,863)
—
—
—
Baidu,
Inc.
(2,012)
2,592
—
—
—
(13,881)
—
—
—
14
Other
Subsidiaries
VIEs and
VIEs’
subsidiaries
Eliminations
Consolidated
Total
RMB
(In millions)
33,660
(41,608)
5,328
(2,381)
—
(9,237)
36,615
(50,397)
(58)
(1,492)
5,150
(3,657)
—
—
—
—
—
(1,998)
58
1,492
58
1,492
(5,150)
9,237
(58)
(1,492)
—
(5,150)
5,150
—
—
—
(14,162)
—
—
—
Table of Contents
Net cash (used in)/provided by operating activities
Net cash provided by/ (used in) investing activities
Including: Cash contribution to VIEs and VIEs’
subsidiaries(1)(2)
Loans provided to VIEs and VIEs’ subsidiaries(3)
Loans repayments from VIEs and VIEs’
subsidiaries(3)
Net cash provided by/ (used in) financing activities
Including: Cash contribution to VIEs and VIEs’
subsidiaries(1)(2)
Loans provided to VIEs and VIEs’ subsidiaries(3)
Loans repayments from VIEs and VIEs’
subsidiaries(3)
Primary
Beneficiaries
of VIEs
excluding
Baidu, Inc.
For the Year Ended December 31, 2022
Other
Subsidiaries
VIEs and
VIEs’
subsidiaries
Eliminations
Consolidated
Total
RMB
(In millions)
(161)
(2,773)
25,664
(21,268)
2,938
(1,898)
147
19,242
26,170
(3,944)
—
—
—
5,580
—
—
—
(65)
(5,313)
6,480
1,429
—
—
—
(64)
65
5,313
—
—
(6,480)
(19,389)
—
(6,390)
—
—
65
5,313
(65)
(5,313)
—
(6,480)
6,480
—
—
—
Baidu,
Inc.
(2,418)
2,753
—
—
—
6,054
—
—
—
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Table of Contents
Net cash (used in)/provided by operating activities
Net cash used in investing activities
Including: Cash contribution to VIEs and VIEs’
subsidiaries(1)(2)
Loans provided to VIEs and VIEs’ subsidiaries(3)
Net cash provided by/(used in) financing activities
Including: Cash contribution to VIEs and VIEs’
subsidiaries(1)(2)
Loans provided to VIEs and VIEs’ subsidiaries(3)
Primary
Beneficiaries
of VIEs
excluding
Baidu, Inc.
For the Year Ended December 31, 2021
Other
Subsidiaries
VIEs and
VIEs’
subsidiaries
Eliminations
Consolidated
Total
RMB
(In millions)
(371)
(3,564)
18,080
(25,522)
4,121
(7,551)
145
21,376
20,122
(31,444)
—
—
(272)
—
—
(1,408)
(5,520)
15,562
—
—
—
—
3,999
1,408
5,520
1,408
5,520
(21,521)
(1,408)
(5,520)
—
—
23,396
—
—
Baidu,
Inc.
(1,853)
(16,183)
—
—
25,628
—
—
Note:
(1)
(2)
(3)
For the years ended December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023, the primary beneficiaries designated its subsidiaries to provide loans totaling RMB409 million,
RMB65 million and RMB58 million (US$8 million), respectively, to the nominee shareholders to fund the capitalization of the VIEs and VIEs’ subsidiaries for
which the primary beneficiaries do not intend to seek repayment, and nil was repaid by the nominee shareholders.
For the years ended December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023, the VIEs and VIEs’ subsidiaries received RMB1.0 billion, nil and nil, respectively, as capital contribution
from other subsidiaries.
For the years ended December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023, the VIEs and VIEs’ subsidiaries received RMB5.5 billion, RMB5.3 billion and RMB1.5 billion (US$210
million), respectively, as loans from other subsidiaries and the VIEs and VIEs’ subsidiaries repaid principal amounts of nil, RMB6.5 billion and RMB5.2 billion
(US$725 million), respectively, to other subsidiaries.
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B.
Capitalization and Indebtedness
Not applicable.
C. Reasons for the Offer and Use of Proceeds
Not applicable.
D. Risk Factors
Summary of Risk Factors
An investment in our ADSs or Class A ordinary shares involves significant risks. Below is a summary of material risks we face, organized under
relevant headings. All the operational risks associated with being based in and having operations in mainland China also apply to operations in Hong
Kong. With respect to the legal risks associated with being based in and having operations in mainland China, the laws, regulations and the discretion of
mainland China government authorities discussed in this annual report are expected to apply to mainland China entities and businesses, rather than
entities or businesses in Hong Kong which operate under a different set of laws from mainland China. These risks are discussed more fully in Item 3.D.
Key Information—Risk Factors.
Risks Related to Our Business and Industry
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
If we fail to retain existing customers or attract new customers for our online marketing services, our business, results of operations and
growth prospects could be seriously harmed;
Our business and results of operations could continue to be materially and adversely affected by the challenging macroeconomic
environment impacting online marketing demand;
Our business depends on a strong brand, and if we are unable to maintain and enhance our brand, our business and results of operations
may be harmed;
We face risks arising from our termination of the share purchase agreement for our proposed acquisition of YY Live;
We face significant competition and may suffer from loss of users and customers as a result;
If our expansions into new businesses are not successful, our results of operation and growth prospects may be materially and adversely
affected;
We have made significant investments in foundation models and generative AI and may face uncertainties with respect to their
commercialization and the evolving laws and regulations applicable to us;
We have experienced slowdowns and declines in our revenues, and we may sustain net loss from time to time, and we may experience
downward pressure on our operating and profit margins in the future;
Potential issues in the adoption and use of artificial intelligence in our product offerings may result in reputational harm or liability; and
If we fail to continue to innovate and provide products, services and high-quality internet experience that attract and retain users, we may
not be able to remain competitive; we may expend significant resources in order to remain competitive.
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Risks Related to Our Corporate Structure
•
•
•
Our company is a Cayman Islands holding company with no equity ownership in the variable interest entities and we conduct our
operations in mainland China through (i) our mainland China subsidiaries and (ii) the variable interest entities with which we have
maintained contractual arrangements. Investors in our Class A ordinary shares or the ADSs thus are not purchasing equity interest in the
variable interest entities in mainland China but instead are purchasing equity interest in a Cayman Islands holding company. If the PRC
government deems that our contractual arrangements with the variable interest entities do not comply with mainland China’s regulatory
restrictions on foreign investment in the relevant industries, or if these regulations or the interpretation of existing regulations change or are
interpreted differently in the future, we could be subject to severe penalties or be forced to relinquish our interests in those operations. Our
holding company in the Cayman Islands, the variable interest entities, and investors of our company face uncertainty about potential future
actions by the PRC government that could affect the enforceability of the contractual arrangements with the variable interest entities and,
consequently, significantly affect the financial performance of the variable interest entities and our company as a group;
Our contractual arrangements with the variable interest entities in mainland China and the individual nominee shareholders may not be as
effective in providing control over these entities as direct ownership; and
We are in the process of registering the pledges of equity interests by nominee shareholders of some of the variable interest entities, and we
may not be able to enforce the equity pledges against any third parties who acquire the equity interests in good faith in the relevant variable
interest entities before the pledges are registered.
Risks Related to Doing Business in China
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Changes in China’s economic, political or social conditions or government policies could have a material and adverse effect on our
business and operations;
The approval of and/or filing with the CSRC or other PRC government authorities may be required in connection with our offshore
offerings under the laws of mainland China, and, if required, we cannot predict whether or for how long we will be able to obtain such
approval or complete such filing;
There are uncertainties regarding the interpretation and enforcement of PRC laws, rules and regulations;
We may be adversely affected by the complexity, uncertainties and changes in the regulations of internet and related business and
companies in mainland China;
Failure to meet the PRC government’s complex regulatory requirements on our business operation could have a material adverse effect on
our operations and the value of our securities;
Any failure or perceived failure by us to comply with the enacted Guidelines to Anti-Monopoly in the Field of Internet Platforms and other
anti-monopoly laws and regulations may result in governmental investigations or enforcement actions, litigation or claims against us and
could have an adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations;
It may be difficult for overseas regulators to conduct investigation or collect evidence within mainland China;
The PCAOB had historically been unable to inspect our auditor in relation to their audit work performed for our financial statements and
the inability of the PCAOB to conduct inspections of our auditor in the past has deprived our investors with the benefits of such
inspections; and
Our ADSs may be prohibited from trading in the United States under the HFCAA in the future if the PCAOB is unable to inspect or
investigate completely auditors located in China. The delisting or
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prohibition of trading of the ADSs, or the threat of their being delisted or prohibited from trading, may materially and adversely affect the
value of your investment.
Risks Related to our ADSs and Class A Ordinary Shares
•
•
•
•
The trading price of our ADSs and/or our Class A ordinary shares has been and is likely to continue to be volatile regardless of our
operating performance;
We adopt different practices as to certain matters as compared with many other companies primarily listed on the Hong Kong Stock
Exchange;
Substantial future sales or perceived potential sales of our Class A ordinary shares and/or ADSs in the public market could cause the price
of our Class A ordinary shares and/or ADSs to decline; and
The different characteristics of the capital markets in Hong Kong and the U.S. may negatively affect the trading prices of our Class A
ordinary shares and/or ADSs.
Risks Related to Our Business and Industry
If we fail to retain existing customers or attract new customers for our online marketing services, our business, results of operations and growth
prospects could be seriously harmed.
We generate a substantial majority of our revenues from online marketing services. Our online marketing customers will not continue to do
business with us if their investment does not generate sales leads and ultimately consumers, or if we do not deliver their web pages in an appropriate and
effective manner. Our online marketing customers may choose to discontinue their business with us, which are not subject to fixed-term contracts. In
addition, third parties may develop and use certain technologies to block the display of our customers’ advertisements and other marketing products on
our Baidu platform, which may in turn cause us to lose customers and adversely affect our results of operations. Furthermore, as our P4P services enable
our customers to bid for priority placement of their paid sponsored links, we may lose customers if they find the bidding mechanism not cost effective or
otherwise not attractive. Additionally, if our users do not increase their engagement on our platform, or our content ecosystem fails to offer rich and
quality content that meets users’ tastes and preferences, or our users spend more time with or otherwise satisfy their content consumption demands on
competing platforms, or we otherwise experience user traffic decline due to any reason, it would be difficult for us to attract new customers or retain
existing customers. If our customers determine that their expenditures on our platform do not generate the returns they expect, they may allocate a
greater portion or all of their advertising budgets to other advertising channels, such as other online marketing platforms, television and outdoor media,
and reduce or discontinue business with us. Since most of our customers are not bound by long-term contracts, they may amend or terminate their
advertising arrangements with us with little advance notice under certain circumstances. Failure to retain our existing customers or attract new
customers for our online marketing services could seriously harm our business, results of operations and growth prospects. We have recorded substantial
customer deposits and deferred revenue, which mainly consist of deposits received from certain customers of our online marketing services. If we are
unable to fulfill our obligation in respect of such customer deposits and deferred revenue, we may have to refund the balance to our customers and our
cash flow and liquidity position would be materially adversely affected.
We have in the past removed, and may in the future again remove, questionable listings or advertisements to ensure the quality and reliability of
our search results and/or information feed. Such removal, whether temporary or permanent, may cause affected customers to discontinue their business
with us or negatively impact our relationships with affected Baidu Union partners. We also examine the relevant business licenses and bank accounts of
prospective customers prior to business engagement, as a quality control measure. In addition, we have taken steps to implement measures requested by
PRC regulatory authorities, such as modifying paid search practices and limiting the displays of advertisements in connection with certain industries. We
have also proactively implemented numerous additional measures to deliver a better user experience and build a safer and
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more trustworthy platform for users. Such measures have had a negative impact on the number of customers and our revenues, although we believe such
impact is likely to be temporary. Regulations on online marketing services in mainland China are evolving, and uncertainties remain with respect to the
implementation of and compliance with new regulations that may emerge, which in turn may have a material adverse impact on our business, results of
operations and growth prospects.
Our business and results of operations could continue to be materially and adversely affected by the challenging macroeconomic environment
impacting online marketing demand.
Online marketing services continue to be a primary source of our revenues. While revenues from online marketing services increased in 2021 and
2023, they declined in 2020 and 2022 mainly due to the weakness in online advertising demand as our customers faced a challenging macroeconomic
environment in their respective industries and in the general economy, in part due to the significant adverse impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Our
business and results of operations could continue to be materially and adversely affected by the challenging macroeconomic environment as well as by
trends in online marketing through internet searches or feeds. With the evolution of the internet in China, customers have many channels to conduct
online marketing and promotions. As users may not spend as much time on search-plus-newsfeed as they do on other types of internet platforms, many
current and potential customers may not allocate as much of their marketing budgets to online marketing through search-plus-newsfeed, as compared to
other methods of online marketing. Our ability to increase revenue and profitability from online marketing may be adversely impacted by a number of
factors, many of which are beyond our control, including but not limited to:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
difficulties associated with developing and maintaining a larger user base with demographic characteristics attractive to online marketing
customers and maintaining and increasing user engagement;
increased competition and potential re-allocation of marketing budgets and downward pressure on online marketing prices, for example,
resulting from an oversupply of advertising inventory released into the market;
higher customer acquisition costs due in part to the limited experience of small to medium-sized enterprises, or SMEs, with the internet as
a marketing channel or due to competition;
decreased use of our search and paid click because search queries are increasingly being undertaken via voice-activated smart devices,
apps, social media or other online platforms;
ineffectiveness of our online marketing delivery, tracking and reporting systems;
decreased use of internet or online marketing in China; and
tightened regulatory environment in mainland China’s internet space.
Our business depends on a strong brand, and if we are unable to maintain and enhance our brand, our business and results of operations may be
harmed.
We believe that our brand “Baidu” has contributed significantly to the success of our business. We also believe that maintaining and enhancing the
“Baidu” brand is critical to increasing the number of our users, customers, Baidu Union partners and content providers, as well as to expanding our
developer communities and to attracting and retaining enterprise and public sector customers and partners. We have conducted various marketing and
brand promotion activities, but we cannot assure you that these activities will achieve the brand promotion effect that we expect. If we fail to maintain
and further promote the “Baidu” brand, or if we incur excessive expenses in this effort, our business and results of operations may be materially and
adversely affected.
In addition, any negative publicity about us, our products and services, our employees, our business practices, our search results or the platform to
which our search results link, regardless of its veracity, could harm
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our brand image and in turn adversely affect our business and results of operations. We cannot assure you that we will be able to defuse negative
publicity to the satisfaction of our investors, users, customers and business partners. From time to time, there has been negative publicity about us, our
brand image, our value proposition and our business practice, which has adversely affected our public image and reputation during certain periods of
intense negative publicity. Moreover, our platform and services by nature may from time to time be related to, or perceived to be related to, certain
controversial public events or discussion, leading to public criticism against us. The negative publicity surrounding similar incidents have resulted in
significant adverse impact on our public image and reputation. Intense negative publicity may divert our management’s attention and may adversely
impact our business. We cannot assure you that our brand, public image and reputation will not be materially and adversely affected in the future.
We face risks arising from our termination of the share purchase agreement for our proposed acquisition of YY Live.
Baidu (Hong Kong) Limited, our wholly-owned subsidiary, entered into definitive agreements with JOYY Inc. and certain of its affiliates, which
are collectively referred to as JOYY, to acquire JOYY’s domestic video-based entertainment live streaming business in China, known as YY Live, on
November 16, 2020, and subsequently amended and supplemented the share purchase agreement, including on February 7, 2021. The closing of this
acquisition was subject to certain conditions, including, among others, obtaining necessary regulatory approvals from government authorities, and the
share purchase agreement was subject to termination by either party if the closing did not occur by the long stop date. We have paid an aggregate of
US$1.9 billion, after considering working capital adjustment of US$0.1 billion, to JOYY and its designated escrow account, and deposited an aggregate
of US$1.6 billion into several escrow accounts, in accordance with the terms and schedule set forth in the share purchase agreement. Despite good faith
efforts, the closing conditions provided for in the share purchase agreement had not been fully satisfied as of December 31, 2023, the long stop date, and
on January 1, 2024, we exercised our right to terminate the share purchase agreement based on the terms of the share purchase agreement. As a result of
the termination, we are not able to achieve the intended objectives, benefits or opportunities associated with the proposed acquisition, despite the
significant diversion of resources and management attention to date. We are in discussion with JOYY on the next steps following the termination of the
share purchase agreement. However, there is no guarantee that a mutually satisfactory solution can be reached between both parties. If no mutually
satisfactory solution is reached by both parties, we may be subject to claims, disputes or legal proceedings in connection with this transaction. Resolving
such claims, disputes or legal proceedings could be time-consuming and would divert the attention and efforts of our management. There is no guarantee
that we will prevail in these claims, disputes or legal proceedings. There may be uncertainties related to our recovery as to our payments and deposits
held in escrow accounts. As a result, our business, prospects, reputation, liquidity, financial condition and operating results and the value of our
securities could be materially and adversely affected.
We face significant competition and may suffer from loss of users and customers as a result.
We face significant competition in almost every aspect of our business. For our Baidu Core businesses, our primary competitors are mainly
internet companies, online marketing platforms in China and other search engines. We compete with these entities for both users and customers on the
basis of user traffic, cyber security quality (relevance) of search (and other marketing and advertising) results, availability and user experience products
and services, distribution channels and the number of associated third-party websites. iQIYI competes with other internet media and entertainment
services, such as internet and social platforms and short-form video platforms, as well as major TV stations. iQIYI competes with these market players
for both users and advertising customers, and primarily on the basis of obtaining IP rights to popular content, conducting brand promotions and other
marketing activities, and making investments in and acquisitions of business partners. See “Item 4.B. Information on the Company—Business Overview
—Competition.” Some of our competitors have significant financial resources and long operating histories and are experienced in attracting and
retaining their users,
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accommodating their users’ habits and preferences and managing customers. They may use their experience and resources to compete with us in a
variety of ways, including competing for users and their time, customers, third-party agents, content, strategic partners and networks of third-party
websites/wapsites, investing more heavily in research and development and making investments and acquisitions. Our business environment is rapidly
evolving and competitive. Our business faces changing technologies, shifting user needs, and frequent introductions of rival products and services.
Some of our competitors in the search sector may have innovative business models, extensive distribution network or proprietary content or
technologies that may provide users with better user experience and customers with better services. They may use their resources in ways that could
affect our competitive position, including developing new products, making acquisitions, continuing to invest heavily in research and development and
in talent, and continuing to compete aggressively for users, advertisers, customers, the acquisition of traffic and content. If any of our competitors
provides comparable or better Chinese language search and feed experience or internet video services, our user traffic could decline significantly.
Additionally, if the channels and properties that we use to distribute services or products to our users and customers are no longer available to us, we
may experience a decline in user traffic. Any such decline in traffic could weaken our brand and result in loss of users and customers, which could have
a material and adverse effect on our results of operations.
There are vertical service providers in the forms of mobile apps and/or websites that allow users to search within their closed ecosystems. These
players often purchase traffic from search engines and try to retain their users by offering comprehensive services on their platforms. As these vertical
service providers expand, though they will continue to acquire traffic from search engines, their reliance on search engines may decline, especially if
they can consolidate their industry verticals.
We also face competition from other types of advertising media, including traditional advertising media, such as newspapers, magazines, yellow
pages, billboards, other forms of outdoor media, television and radio, mobile apps, webcasting and online video. Large companies in China generally
allocate, and may continue to allocate, a limited portion of their budgets to online marketing, as opposed to traditional advertising and other forms of
advertising media. If these companies do not devote a larger portion of their marketing budgets to online marketing services provided by us, or if our
existing customers reduce the amount they spend on online marketing, our results of operations and growth prospects could be adversely affected.
If our expansions into new businesses are not successful, our results of operation and growth prospects may be materially and adversely affected.
As part of our growth strategy, we enter into new businesses from time to time to generate additional revenue streams and through our
development of new business lines or strategic investments in or acquisitions of other businesses. Expansions into new businesses may present
operating, marketing and compliance challenges that differ from those that we currently encounter.
We have invested significant resources in the research and development of AI technology and have made significant progress in the
commercialization of AI-enabled offerings, including in-app services, cloud services and solutions, intelligent driving services and solutions and smart
devices and services. We plan to continue to invest capital and other resources into our AI-enabled business operations, in particular, generative AI and
foundation models. However, AI technology is rapidly evolving with significant uncertainties, and we cannot assure you that our investment and
exploration in AI technology and AI-enabled products and services will be successful. Our operating results may also suffer if our innovation is not
responsive to the needs of our users, customers and partners, inappropriately timed with market opportunities, or marketed ineffectively. For example,
we have limited experience with operating and scaling AI-enabled business, including cloud services and solutions, intelligent driving services and
solutions and smart devices and services, which could subject us to various challenges and risks, including developing and managing relationships with
enterprises and public sector customers and partners, who are likely to have different needs and preferences from our existing customers, users and
partners, highly competitive procurement processes, instances of corrupt practices or other illegal gains,
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longer receivable payment cycles and lower collection rates. We also may not alter our business practices in time to avoid or reduce adverse effects from
any of the foregoing risks. In addition, our AI-enabled business requires very different products and services, sales and marketing channels and internal
operational systems and processes. These requirements could disrupt our current operations and harm our financial condition and operating results,
especially during the initial stage of investment, development and scaling of our new AI-enabled offerings.
We may also enter into other markets and industries/industry verticals that are new to us through organic business initiatives or investment and
acquisitions, such as generative AI, robotaxis, intelligent electric vehicles, e-commerce, short-video, and healthcare vertical including internet hospital,
which may subject us to different and unforeseen risks. However, we cannot assure you that such efforts will be successful due to various factors such as
potential regulatory actions taken by government authorities in these new markets. For these new markets and industries/industry verticals, we may not
have sufficient experience and may not be able to navigate the rapidly evolving regulatory environment or forecast and meet the continually changing
demands and preferences for products and services. Some of these new markets and industries/industry verticals are emerging with relatively novel and
untested business models. Any of the foregoing could pose significant challenges to us. We may not realize the anticipated benefits of our investments or
acquisitions due to the uncertainties related to the performance and valuation of the relevant targets, or failure to integrate the targets into our existing
business, or difficulty in operating the acquired business with our existing expertise and resources. See also “—Our strategy of investments and
acquiring complementary businesses and assets may fail.”
It is uncertain whether our strategies will attract users and customers or generate the revenue required to succeed. If we fail to generate sufficient
usage of our new products and services, we may not grow revenue in line with the significant resources we invest in these new businesses. This may
negatively impact gross margins and operating income. Commercial success of our expansion into new business areas depends on many factors,
including innovativeness, competitiveness, effectiveness of distribution and marketing, and pricing and investments strategies, especially in the early
stage of competition for market share. For example, the smart transportation industry is highly competitive and fragmented. Our current and potential
competitors in this industry range from large and established technology companies to emerging start-ups. Some competitors have longer operating
histories in the sector. They can use their experience, resources and network in ways that could affect our competitive position, including making
acquisitions, continuing to invest heavily in research and development and in talents, aggressively initiating intellectual property claims (whether or not
meritorious), and continuing to compete aggressively for customers, partners and investees. Our competitors may be able to innovate and provide
products and services faster than we can or may foresee product-and-service needs before we do. As a result, we may not achieve significant revenues
from our new business areas for several years, or at all, and may incur significant losses during the process and fail to recoup our investments. On the
other hand, market conditions and general acceptance of products and services could be adversely impacted if other players in the market fail to adopt
appropriate business and operational model, develop and offer successful products and services and develop and adapt appropriate technologies and
infrastructure. If the markets of our new businesses, such as intelligent driving and electric vehicle, do not develop and grow as we anticipate, we may
incur significant loss from our new businesses and our growth prospects may be materially adversely impacted.
In addition, we may encounter regulatory uncertainties related to new business areas that we enter into. The laws and regulations related to AI
technology and products are at an early stage of development and still evolving in mainland China. The effects of such laws and regulations remain
unclear and may add uncertainties to the development and operation of our AI-related business. For example, as mainland China’s regulatory framework
on autonomous driving evolves, we may be required to comply with approval and other compliance requirements for autonomous driving road test,
operation and commercialization, internet security and related data collection and sharing promulgated by PRC government authorities from time to
time. See “Item 4.B. Information on the Company—Business Overview—Regulations—Regulations on Artificial Intelligence.” We may confront other
challenges as we enter new business domains, including the lack of adoption of new products and services, the
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lack of management talent in the new business, cost management and other factors required for the expansion of new businesses.
We have made significant investments in foundation models and generative AI and may face uncertainties with respect to their commercialization
and the evolving laws and regulations applicable to us.
Foundation models and generative AI technologies have developed rapidly in recent years. For instance, the ChatGPT, a chatbot developed by
OpenAI, has been tested by people all over the world since its launch in November 2022. We have made significant investments in foundation models
and generative AI and have also allocated significant resources in these areas, including human resources and infrastructure updates. However,
foundation models and generative AI are in the initial stages of development and there is no proven business model for commercializing the new
technologies. We also face intense competition in these fields as many players in these fields have also devoted significant resources in the research and
development of these technologies. In addition, the regulatory and legal framework on generative AI of mainland China is also evolving rapidly. In
recent years, the PRC government authorities have released a series of laws and regulations related to generative AI services, including the
Administration Provisions on Algorithmic Recommendation of Internet Information Services, the Administrative Provisions on Deep Synthesis of
Internet Information Services and the Interim Measures on the Management of Generative AI Services. See “Item 4.B. Information on the Company—
Business Overview—Regulations—Regulations on Artificial Intelligence—Regulations on Generative AI.” However, these laws and regulations related
to generative AI services are relatively new, and the competent government authorities of mainland China may introduce additional or more detailed
laws and regulations to oversee the generative AI services. Therefore, we may need to comply with more compliance requirements in the field of
generative AI, which may increase our compliance costs. We also face uncertainties with respect to such evolving laws and regulations as well as their
interpretations and our business operations and development may be affected as a result.
We have experienced slowdowns and declines in our revenues, and we may sustain net loss from time to time, and we may experience downward
pressure on our operating and profit margins in the future.
From 2019 to 2023, we experienced a slow-down in revenue growth, including decreases from 2019 to 2020 and again from 2021 to 2022, due to
various factors such as macroeconomic environment and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. We could continue to experience a decline in our
revenues, as a result of a number of factors, including changes in the mix of products and services, customer demographics, industry and channel,
changes in policy or policy implementation, increase in market competition for marketing and/or new AI offerings, and decrease in pricing arising from
an oversupply of advertising inventory in the market, which has been witnessed since 2019. We may also experience a decline in our revenue or revenue
growth rate, if there is a decrease in the rate of adoption for our products, services and technologies, or deceleration or decline in demand for platforms
used to access our services, among other factors.
Our operating margin and net income attributable to us as a percentage of revenue fluctuated notably from 2019 to 2023 due to various factors
such as the macroeconomic environment and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. We may experience downward pressure on our operating margin
from increasing competition, revenue growth slower than expenses, and increased costs and expenses from many aspects of our business, including
within online marketing where revenue growth does not keep up with traffic cost growth and related infrastructure costs to support our online properties,
such as Baidu App, video-related and other products requiring huge data transmission and computing power. We may also pay increased fees for our
distribution channels, as well as increased content acquisition costs to content providers. Additionally, an increase in personnel-related costs, an increase
in spending to promote new products and services, and the expiration of temporary tax exemptions or reductions may dampen our operating margin. We
may also experience downward pressure on our operating margin resulting from a variety of factors, such as the expansion of our business into new
areas, including generative AI, foundation models, AI cloud, intelligent driving, voice assistant & smart device, all of which have margins much lower
than that of online marketing. Our operating margin may also be
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negatively impacted from a greater proportion of revenue contributed by new business areas, which has grown faster than online marketing.
In addition, we may also sustain net loss from time to time due to investment impairment and foreign currency fluctuation. The declining
operating margin and investment impairment have led to our experiencing net losses in several quarters since 2020, and there is no guarantee that we
will not experience loss in the future.
Due to these factors and the evolving nature of our business, our historical revenue growth rate, historical operating margin and historical
profitability may not be indicative of our future performance.
Potential issues in the adoption and use of artificial intelligence in our product offerings may result in reputational harm or liability.
We are building AI, including foundation models and generative AI, into many of our product offerings and we expect this element of our
business to be a driver for our future growth. We envision a future in which AI operates in our services and applications, such as search-plus-feed, cloud
services and solutions, intelligent driving services and solutions and Xiaodu smart devices and services, and the cloud helps our customers become more
productive. As with many disruptive innovations, AI presents risks and challenges that could affect its adoption, and, therefore, our business. Our
products and services based on AI may not be adopted by our users or customers. AI algorithms may be flawed. Datasets may be insufficient or contain
biased information. Inappropriate or controversial data practices by us or others could impair the acceptance of our AI solutions. Our AI-generated
content offerings may not be able to compete against those of our competitors. In addition, AI services may involve complex intellectual property issues.
However, the laws and regulations in mainland China are still evolving and are subject to further interpretation and implementation. Therefore,
AI-generated content could lead to copyright and other legal disputes. Such deficiencies could undermine the decisions, predictions or analysis produced
by AI applications, subjecting us to legal liability and potential harm to our brand or reputation. The laws and regulations in mainland China regarding
AI are gradually improving, and they require AI service providers or technology supporters to avoid such deficiencies to the maximum extent possible.
Although we believe that we have taken necessary measures according to the applicable laws, we cannot guarantee that we will always meet the
regulatory requirements in the future. If we fail to meet legal and regulatory requirements, we may be subject to penalties. In addition, some AI
scenarios present ethical issues. If we enable or offer AI solutions that are controversial because of their impact on human rights, privacy, employment,
or other social issues, we may experience reputational harm or be exposed to liability.
If we fail to continue to innovate and provide products, services and high-quality internet experience that attract and retain users, we may not be
able to remain competitive; we may expend significant resources in order to remain competitive.
Our success depends on providing products and services to attract users and enable users to have a high-quality internet experience. In order to
attract and retain users and compete against our competitors, we must continue to invest significant resources in research and development to enhance
our AI or other new technologies, improve our existing products and services, and introduce additional high-quality products and services. If we are
unable to anticipate user preferences or industry changes, enhance the quality of our products and services on a timely basis or fail to provide sufficient
content, or provide other consumer-facing services and products, including our maps and smart devices, to our users’ satisfaction, we may suffer a
decline in the size of our user base. Our results of operations may also suffer if our innovations do not respond to the needs of our users, are not
appropriately timed with market opportunities or are not effectively brought to market. As search, marketing and AI technologies and new forms of
devices and apps continue to develop, we may expend significant resources in research and development and strategic investments and acquisitions in
order to remain competitive.
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If we fail to keep up with technological advancements and upgrades, our business, results of operations and financial condition may be materially
and adversely affected.
Our businesses operate in industries that are subject to rapid technological advancements, upgrades and changing consumer needs. Our success
will depend on our ability to keep up with the latest developments in technology innovations and commercialization and if we fail to do so successfully,
the demand for our products, solutions and services may decline. For instance, applications of technologies similar to ChatGPT to our products and
services to cater to consumer needs may be essential for us to remain competitive in the market. In addition, research and development of technological
changes and innovations will typically require substantial capital expenditures as well as upgrades of products or services. Furthermore, we may not
execute successfully on our development strategy, including because of challenges with regard to technical hurdles that we fail to overcome in a timely
fashion. In addition, changes in user behavior resulting from technological developments may also adversely affect us. For example, the number of
people accessing the internet through mobile devices and internet of things, or IoTs, such as smartphones, tablets and smart (voice-activated internet)
home devices, has increased in recent years, and we expect this trend to continue while 5G and more advanced mobile communications technologies are
broadly implemented. If we fail to develop products and technologies that are compatible with all mobile devices, IoTs and operating systems, or if the
products and services we develop are not widely accepted and used by users of various mobile devices and IoTs, our position in the internet and AI
sectors may be adversely affected. In addition, the widespread adoption of new internet, networking or telecommunications technologies or other
technological changes could require substantial expenditures to modify or integrate our products, services or infrastructure. As such, if we fail to adapt
our products and services to technological innovations in an effective and timely manner, our business, financial condition and results of operations
could be materially and adversely affected.
If our content ecosystem fails to continually offer quality content in a cost effective manner, we may experience declines in user traffic and user
engagement, our business and results of operations may be harmed.
Our content ecosystem consists of products developed for our partners, such as Baijiahao, Smart Mini Program, Managed Page, Baidu Union, and
internally developed content and services products, such as Baidu Knows, Baidu Wiki, Baidu Health, Baidu Wenku, Baidu Experience, Baidu Post,
Haokan, and iQIYI. The success of our content ecosystem depends on our ability to attract content creators and producers to contribute quality content
to our platform by leveraging our user traffic and enhance user engagement through the provision of attractive content, so as to create a virtuous cycle.
We have relied, and will continue to rely, on third parties for the majority of the content offered in our content ecosystem and some of our products
include third party intellectual property. As the competition for quality content becomes increasingly intense in China, we cannot assure you that we will
be able to manage our content acquisition costs effectively and generate sufficient revenues to outpace future increase in content spending. We may also
be unable to renew some of our content or intellectual property licensing agreements upon their expiration or termination and any renewal of the content
or intellectual property licensing agreements may involve higher costs or less favorable terms. If we are not able to license popular premium content on
commercially reasonable terms or renew our content or intellectual property licensing agreements, our financial condition and results of operations may
be materially and adversely affected. We have undertaken commitments of future minimum payments under non-cancellable agreements for produced
content and licensed copyrights. If the content does not achieve anticipated popularity and commercial success, such commitments may not be
recoverable. In addition, we rely on users to contribute content to our various products, including Baijiahao, Baidu Knows, Baidu Wiki, Baidu Health,
Baidu Experience, Baidu Post, Baidu Wenku, Haokan and iQIYI’s user generated content. If these parties fail to develop and maintain high-quality and
engaging content, if our desired premium content becomes exclusive to our competitors, if we are unable to continue to grow our content offerings and
stay competitive vis-à-vis other content platforms, or if a large number of our existing relationships are terminated, the attractiveness of our content
offerings to users may be severely impaired. If we are unable to offer content that meets users’ tastes and preferences on a continuing basis,
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including continually upgrading our content recommendation engines and in a cost effective manner, our user experience may deteriorate, we may suffer
from reduced user traffic, our business and results of operations may be harmed.
We have been and may again be subject to legal proceedings, claims and investigations and could be adversely impacted by unfavorable results of
legal proceedings and investigations.
We are subject to various legal proceedings, claims and government investigations, penalties or actions that have arisen in the ordinary course of
business and have not yet been fully resolved, and new legal proceedings, claims, regulatory investigations, penalties or actions may arise in the future.
In addition, agreements entered into by us sometimes include indemnification provisions which may subject us to costs and damages in the event of a
claim against an indemnified third party. The existence of litigation, claims, governmental investigations and proceedings have adversely affected and
may continue to adversely affect our reputation, business and the trading price of our securities. For example, in 2020, we and certain of our current and
former officers, along with iQIYI and certain of its current and former officers and directors, were named as defendants in various federal putative
securities class actions, including two ongoing related actions alleging that defendants made false and misleading statements concerning various
reported financial and operational results in violation of the federal securities laws. In the event that a court finds that iQIYI, Baidu and/or other
defendants violated any of the applicable securities laws, or in the event that iQIYI, Baidu and/or other defendants choose to reach a settlement with the
plaintiffs, iQIYI and/or Baidu may be liable for civil monetary damages and the potential financial, operational and reputational impact on iQIYI and/or
Baidu may be material. However, we cannot predict the timing, outcome or consequences of these class actions, and there is no basis to conclude at this
point whether such actions will be successful or whether we will be subject to any damages, let alone how much. For more details, see “Item 8.A.
Financial Information—Consolidated Statements and Other Financial Information—Legal Proceedings.” Regardless of the merit of particular claims,
legal proceedings, government investigations and proceedings may result in reputational harm, be expensive to respond, time consuming, disruptive to
our operations and distracting to management. In the event we or iQIYI does not prevail or we or iQIYI enters into settlement arrangements in any of
these proceedings or investigations, we or iQIYI may incur significant expenses which may materially adversely affect our results of operations.
The outcome of legal proceedings and investigations is inherently uncertain. If one or more legal matters were resolved against us or an
indemnified third party in a reporting period for amounts in excess of management’s expectations, our financial condition and operating results for that
reporting period could be materially adversely affected. Further, such an outcome could result in significant compensatory, punitive or trebled monetary
damages, disgorgement of revenue or profits, remedial corporate measures or injunctive relief against us that could materially adversely affect our
financial condition and operating results.
In addition to the content developed and posted on our platform by ourselves, our users may post information on Baidu Post, Baidu Knows, Baidu
Wiki, Baidu Wenku and other sections of our platform, our content providers may provide content through Baijiahao platform and our P4P customers
may create text-based descriptions, image descriptions and other phrases to be used as text, images or keywords in our search listings, and users can also
use our personal cloud computing service to upload, store and share documents, images, audio and videos on our cloud servers. We have been and may
continue to be subject to claims and investigations for intellectual property ownership and infringement, defamation, negligence or other legal theories
based on the content found on our platform, the results in our paid search listings or our other products and services, which, with or without merit, may
result in diversion of management attention and financial resources and negative publicity for our brand and reputation. See “Item 8.A. Financial
Information—Consolidated Statements and Other Financial Information—Legal Proceedings.” Furthermore, if the content posted on our platform or
found, stored or shared through our other products and services contains information that government authorities find objectionable, our platform or
relevant products or services may be shut down and we may be subject to other penalties. See “—Risks Related to Doing Business in China—We may
be subject to liability for information displayed on or linked to our websites, mobile apps, Smart Mini Program or Managed Page and negative publicity
in international media, and our business may be adversely affected as a result.”
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We have been, and may again in the future be, subject to claims, investigations or negative publicity based on the results in our paid search
listings. Claims have been filed against us after we allowed certain customers to register keywords containing trademarks, trade names or brand names
owned by others and displayed links to such customers’ websites in our paid search listings. While we maintain a database of certain well-known
trademarks and continually update our system algorithms and functions to guard against customers keywords containing the well-known trademarks that
are owned by others, it is not possible for us to completely prevent our customers from bidding on keywords that contain trademarks, trade names or
brand names owned by others. There has been negative publicity about fraudulent information in our paid search listings. Although we have been
continually enhancing our technology, control and oversight to prevent fraudulent websites, web pages and information from appearing in our paid
search listings, there is no guarantee that the measures we have taken are effective at all times. Claims, investigations and negative publicity based on
the results in our paid search listings, regardless of their merit, may divert management attention, severely disrupt our operations, adversely affect our
results of operations and harm our reputation.
Our increasing focus on cloud-based services presents execution, competitive and compliance risks; Baidu Core’s results of operations and financial
performance may be materially adversely affected by our ability to develop cloud-based services and generate sufficient usage of such services.
A growing part of our business involves cloud-based services available across a spectrum of computing devices. Our Baidu Core cloud services
revenue was RMB18.7 billion (US$2.6 billion) in 2023, increasing by 6% from 2022. We are devoting significant resources to provide cloud
infrastructure and other services to enterprises and individuals. At the same time, our competitors are rapidly developing and deploying their cloud-
based solutions and services. Pricing, technology and delivery models are evolving. Devices and form factors influence how users access services in the
cloud and sometimes the user’s choice of which suite of cloud-based services to use. Our success in cloud-based services strategy will depend on the
level of adoption of our products and services. We may not establish market share sufficient to achieve scale necessary to achieve our business
objectives or recoup costs incurred to build and maintain infrastructure to support our cloud-based services. It is uncertain whether our strategies will
attract the users or generate the revenue required to succeed. If we fail to generate sufficient usage of our new products and services, we may not grow
revenue in line with the costs associated with infrastructure development and research and development investments. This may negatively and materially
impact our results of operations and financial performance.
The development of cloud-based services is accompanied by regulatory compliance risks. For example, PRC government authorities are
increasing enforcement efforts against non-compliance relating to companies operating content delivery networks, internet data centers, and internet
service providers. However, the interpretation and application of laws in mainland China and other jurisdictions are often uncertain and in flux, and any
failure or perceived failure to comply with all applicable laws and regulations may result in legal proceedings or regulatory actions against us, and could
have a material adverse effect on our business and results of operations.
In the past, our peers have experienced data security and infrastructure stability issues arising out of their cloud services. Our cloud services may
also encounter similar issues, which could have a material and adverse impact on our brand, operations and financial performance.
Liability claims against, or any unauthorized control or manipulation of our autonomous driving systems, could result in the loss of confidence in
us, our brands and our products, and harm our business.
Our Intelligent Driving platform contains complex information technology systems. We have designed, implemented and tested security measures
intended to prevent unauthorized access to our Intelligent Driving platform, but there can be no assurance that vulnerabilities will not be identified in the
future, or that our remediation efforts will be successful. Hackers have reportedly attempted, and may attempt in the future, to gain unauthorized access
to modify, alter and use our Intelligent Driving platform to gain control of, or to change,
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functionality, user interface and performance characteristics of vehicles utilizing our Intelligent Driving platform, or to gain access to data stored in or
generated by the vehicles. Any unauthorized access to or control of autonomous driving vehicles or their systems or any loss of data could result in
death and personal injury, and legal claims or proceedings against us.
Our Intelligent Driving platform may be involved in crashes resulting in property damage, death or personal injury in the future, and such crashes
may be the subject of significant public attention. We may face claims related to any misuse or failure of new technologies that we are pioneering,
including our Intelligent Driving platform and related solutions, such as smart transportation. A successful product liability claim against us could
require us to pay substantial monetary damages.
Moreover, product liability claims or reports of unauthorized access to our Intelligent Driving platform or data, regardless of their veracity, could
generate substantial negative publicity about our products and business and could have material adverse impact on our brand, business, prospects and
operating results.
We may face challenges in connection with developing, manufacturing and marketing new Xiaodu smart products in response to changing customer
requirements, new technologies and market competition.
The market for our Xiaodu smart products is characterized by rapidly changing technology, evolving industry standards, short product life cycles,
frequent new product introductions, continual improvement in product price and performance characteristics, and price and feature sensitivity on the
part of consumers and businesses. As a result, we must continually introduce new products and technologies and enhance existing products in order to
remain competitive.
The success of our Xiaodu smart products depends on several factors, including our ability to:
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anticipate technology and market trends;
develop innovative new products and enhancements on a timely basis;
distinguish our products from those of our competitors;
manufacture and deliver high-quality products in sufficient volumes at competitive cost structure;
establish strong, efficient online and offline distribution channels;
price our products competitively;
develop a vibrant DuerOS skills store and a large developer community to increase user stickiness and loyalty; and
innovate post-hardware sales monetization models.
If we are unable to develop, manufacture, market and introduce enhanced or new Xiaodu smart products in a timely manner in response to
changing market conditions or customer requirements, including changing fashion trends and styles, it will materially adversely affect our business,
revenue growth, financial condition and results of operations. Furthermore, as we develop new generations of products more quickly, we expect that the
pace of product obsolescence will increase concurrently. The disposition of inventories of excess or obsolete products may result in reductions to our
operating margins and materially and adversely affect our earnings and results of operations. We also face uncertainties with respect to the evolving laws
and regulations that are or may be applicable to our Xiaodu smart products. For example, there is no guarantee that our Xiaodu smart products will not
be subject to new regulatory requirements in the future that could potentially impose limits on various aspects such as sales, marketing, and pricing
strategies associated with our products.
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The success of our Xiaodu smart products depends on the continued growth of the smart device market, our ability to establish and maintain the
brand and market share and compete with other companies, and our ability to monetize through services after the initial hardware sale.
We have invested significant resources in the “Xiaodu” brand and the research and development of Xiaodu smart products. If the smart device
market does not continue to grow or grow in unpredictable ways, or we fail to maintain and further promote the “Xiaodu” brand, our revenue may fall
short of expectations and our operating results may be harmed. Also, we have continued to offer sales discounts on Xiaodu smart products to attract
customers, build our brand and gain market share. Offering such discounts negatively affects our financial performance in the short term. We cannot
assure you that our decision to offer such sales discounts is producing, or will produce, positive outcomes for our results of operations. The market for
smart devices may not continue to grow; even if it does, we may not be successful in developing and selling devices that appeal to consumers or gain
sufficient market acceptance, which typically takes longer in the smart device market. To succeed in this market, we will need to design, produce and
sell innovative and compelling products and partner with other businesses that enable us to capitalize on new technologies, some of which have
developed or may develop and sell smart devices of their own. We are currently exploring different business models with Xiaodu smart devices, and
exploring different monetization model through services after hardware sales, such as membership, advertising and revenue sharing from distribution of
third-party skills. Whether we will be able to achieve profitability in smart devices depends in part on our ability to generate revenue through services
after the initial hardware sale at a level sufficient to cover associated operating expenses, but there can be no assurance that we will succeed in
formulating and implementing the appropriate business and monetization model. Moreover, competition from other companies that seek to provide
smart devices will adversely affect our profitability.
We face a number of manufacturing, supply chain, distribution channel and inventory risks as well as product quality and financing risks that, if
not properly managed, could harm our financial condition, operating results, and prospects.
We rely on third parties to manufacture our Xiaodu smart products, to design certain of our components and parts, and to participate in the
distribution of our products. Our business could be negatively affected if we are not able to engage these companies with the necessary capabilities or
capacity on reasonable terms, or if those we engage fail to meet their obligations (whether due to financial difficulties or other reasons), or make adverse
changes in the pricing or other material terms of our arrangements with them.
We may experience supply shortages and price increases driven by a variety of factors, such as raw material availability, manufacturing capacity,
labor shortages, tariffs, trade disputes and barriers, natural disasters, and significant changes in the financial or business condition of our suppliers. We
may experience shortages or other supply chain disruptions that could negatively affect our operations. In addition, some of the components we use in
our Xiaodu smart products are available only from a single source or limited sources, and we may not be able to find replacement vendors on favorable
terms in the event of a supply chain disruption.
Our Xiaodu smart products may have quality issues resulting from design, manufacturing, or operations. Sometimes, these issues may be caused
by components we purchase from other manufacturers or suppliers. If the quality of our Xiaodu smart products does not meet expectations or are
defective, it could harm our reputation, financial condition, and operating results.
We are exposed to significant inventory risks that may adversely affect our operating results as a result of seasonality, new product launches, rapid
changes in product cycles and pricing, defective merchandise, changes in consumer demand and consumer spending patterns, and other factors. We
endeavor to accurately predict these trends and avoid overstocking or understocking issues. Demand for our Xiaodu smart products, however, can
change significantly between the time inventory or components are ordered and the date of sale. We may misjudge customer demand, resulting in
inventory buildup and possible significant inventory write-down. It may also make it more difficult for us to inspect and control quality and ensure
proper handling, storage and delivery.
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We may experience higher return rates on new products, receive more customer complaints about them and face costly product liability claims as a
result of selling them, which would harm our brand and reputation as well as our financial performance.
Smart Living Group (SLG) encompasses our DuerOS and Xiaodu operations. Our majority-owned subsidiary, which operates SLG, completed its
first and second rounds of funding between 2020 and 2022. Historically, it has experienced operating losses. If SLG is unable to satisfy its cashflow
needs by generating sufficient cash from its operations in the near future, it may have to rely on subsequent round(s) of financing. If SLG’s operating
cashflow does not improve and if SLG fails to conduct financing on reasonable terms, it may not be able to continue its business operations, which may
adversely impact our results of operations and financial performance.
Du Xiaoman’s financial services business may subject us to operational and reputational risks, which may have a material adverse effect on our
business, results of operations and financial condition.
In August 2018, we completed the divestiture of a majority equity stake in our financial services business unit, which has been rebranded as Du
Xiaoman Financial and subsequently further rebranded as Du Xiaoman. After the divestiture, we hold a non-controlling equity interest in Du Xiaoman
and have since then deconsolidated the financial results of Du Xiaoman from our consolidated financial statements in accordance with U.S. GAAP. Du
Xiaoman runs a one-stop financial services platform which offers end-consumer credit enablement, supply chain financing, wealth management, digital
payment and fintech solutions services, in order to serve end-users’ needs. We are still the largest shareholder of Du Xiaoman and would be exposed to
losses from Du Xiaoman.
The laws and regulations of mainland China concerning the Internet finance industry are continually evolving and improving. Although to our
knowledge Du Xiaoman has taken careful measures to comply with the laws and regulations that are applicable to its financial services, the PRC
government authorities may promulgate new policies, rules and regulations regulating the internet finance industry. For example, the People’s Bank of
China issued the Announcement of the People’s Bank of China [2021] No. 3 on March 12, 2021. In accordance with this announcement, when credit
business institutions market loan products through websites, mobile applications, posters or similar channels, they must explicitly indicate the applicable
annualized loan interest rate to the borrower in a conspicuous manner, and specify such annualized interest rate in the loan contract. It is allowed to
indicate the daily interest rate or the monthly interest rate at the same time only if they are not displayed in a manner more conspicuous than the
annualized interest rate. Under this announcement, “credit business institutions” include, among others, deposit financial institutions, consumer
financing companies, micro-loan companies and online platforms providing advertisement and displaying services to credit business operators.
In order to thoroughly implement the risk-based anti-money laundering method and improve the ability of financial institutions to identify the
risks on money laundering and terrorist financing, the Anti-Money Laundering Bureau of the People’s Bank of China formulated and issued the
Guidelines on Self-Assessment of Money Laundering and Terrorist Financing Risks of Corporate Financial Institutions in 2021, which are applicable to
all types of financial institutions and non-bank payment institutions. These guidelines provide guidance for such institutions to implement risk self-
assessment and effectively make use of the results of such assessment, and require such institutions to complete the comprehensive risk self-assessment
consistent with these guidelines for the first time by the end of 2022. Du Xiaoman has set up an institutional money laundering risk assessment
mechanism to fully understand the key money laundering and terrorist financing risks faced it faces, fully optimize the allocation of anti-money
laundering resources, and prevent its financial products and businesses from being exploited by criminals in illegal and criminal fund cleaning activities.
In order to comply with the Interim Measures for the Administration on Online Micro-loan Business (Draft for Comment) issued in November
2020, Du Xiaoman has rectified its loan limit control, and adjust the joint loan
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ratio and the shareholding of client platform. Furthermore, the People’s Bank of China and other six PRC government authorities issued a draft of
Administration Measures for Online Marketing of Financial Products for public comments on December 31, 2021. These draft administration measures
regulate the actions of third-party platform operators who are entrusted by financial institutions to promote financial products on the internet, as well as
the content and methods of marketing and propagandizing financial products. However, since all these draft measures have not been formally
promulgated and become effective as of the date of this annual report, substantial uncertainties still exist with respect to the final content, interpretation
and implementation of these draft measures.
As we hold a non-controlling equity interest in Du Xiaoman and do not control Du Xiaoman’s business conduct and operations, we cannot assure
you that the practices of Du Xiaoman would not be deemed to violate any applicable laws or regulations, nor can we ensure that all business cooperators
on Du Xiaoman’s platform meet all the regulatory compliance requirements. If Du Xiaoman were deemed to violate any current or future applicable
laws or regulations, such as the exposure draft of the Interim Measures for the Administration of Internet Small Loan Business released in November
2020, we may be exposed to negative publicity as a result of the potential misconception that Du Xiaoman is still part of our consolidated group. Many
internet financial platforms, including Du Xiaoman, have removed deposit products from their platforms. Events like this may expose us to negative
publicity as well.
Interruption or failure of our own information technology and communications systems or those of third-party service providers we rely upon could
impair our ability to provide products and services, which could damage our reputation and harm our results of operations.
Our ability to provide products and services depends on the continuing operation of our information technology and communications systems.
Any damage to or failure of our systems could interrupt our services. Service interruptions could reduce our revenue and profit and damage our brand if
our systems are perceived to be unreliable. Our systems are vulnerable to damage or interruption as a result of terrorist attacks, wars, earthquakes,
floods, fires, power loss, telecommunications failures, health epidemics, undetected errors or “bugs” in our software, computer viruses, interruptions in
access to our platform through the use of “denial of service” or similar attacks, hacking or other attempts to harm our systems, and similar events. Some
of our systems are not fully redundant, and our disaster recovery planning does not account for all possible scenarios. We have experienced service
disruptions in the past which adversely affected our user experience.
Our servers, which are hosted at third-party or our own internet data centers, are vulnerable to break-ins, sabotage and vandalism. The occurrence
of natural disasters or closure of an internet data center by a third-party provider without adequate notice could result in lengthy service interruptions. In
addition, our domain names are resolved into internet protocol (IP) addresses by systems of third-party domain name registrars and registries. Any
interruptions or failures of those service providers’ systems, which are beyond our control, could significantly disrupt our own services. If we experience
frequent or persistent system failures on our platform, whether due to interruptions and failures of our own information technology and communications
systems or those of third-party service providers that we rely upon, our reputation and brand could be severely harmed. The steps we take to increase the
reliability and redundancy of our systems may cause us to incur heavy costs and reduce our operating margin, and may not be successful in reducing the
frequency or duration of service interruptions.
We may not be able to manage our expanding operations effectively.
We expect to continue to expand our operations as we grow our user and customer base and explore new opportunities. To manage the further
expansion of our business and growth of our operations and personnel, we need to continually improve our operational and financial systems,
procedures and controls, and expand, train, manage and maintain good relations with our growing employee base. We have experienced labor disputes in
the past and may experience the same in the future. Although these disputes were resolved promptly, we cannot assure you that there will not be any
new labor disputes in the future.
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We expect our AI-enabled business to become a key revenue driver for Baidu Core, and believe our future growth relies on the success of our
AI-enabled business. Our systems and processes were designed in the past to support our mobile ecosystem business operations. For our AI-enabled
business operations to be successful, we must be able to attract industry expertise and talents, and adapt to systems and processes suitable for the
enterprise and public sector business environment. If we are unable to do so, we may not be competitive in these markets and our AI-enabled business
offerings will not be successful. In addition, we must maintain and expand our relationships with other websites, internet companies and other third
parties. Our current and future personnel, systems, procedures and controls may not be adequate to support our expanding operations, and consequently
our financial condition and operating results may be materially and adversely affected.
We may face intellectual property infringement claims and other related claims, which could be time-consuming and costly to defend and may result
in an adverse impact over our operations.
Internet, technology and media companies are frequently involved in litigation based on allegations of infringement of intellectual property rights,
unfair competition, invasion of privacy, defamation and other violations of other parties’ rights. The validity, enforceability and scope of protection of
intellectual property in internet-related and AI-related industries, particularly in mainland China, are still evolving and subject to further clarification and
interpretation. The evolving laws and regulations on the protection of intellectual property may require us to take more actions to prevent from
infringing third-parties’ intellectual property. If we cannot take the necessary actions in time, disputes may arise alleging us to infringe certain third-
parties’ intellectual property. As we face increasing competition and as litigation becomes more common in mainland China in resolving commercial
disputes, we face a higher risk of being the subject of intellectual property infringement claims. We may be subject to administrative actions brought by
the PRC competent government authorities such as the PRC National Copyright Administration and in the most severe scenario, criminal prosecution
for alleged copyright infringement, and as a result may be subject to fines and other penalties and be required to discontinue infringing activities.
Furthermore, as we expand our operations outside of China, we may be subject to claims brought against us in jurisdictions outside of China.
Our search products and services link to materials in which third parties may claim ownership of trademarks, copyrights or other rights. As we
adopt new technologies and roll out new products and services, we face the risk of being subject to intellectual property infringement claims that may
arise from our use of new technologies and provision of new products and services. Our products and services including those based on content storage
and sharing, such as Baidu Knows, Baidu Wiki, Baidu Wenku, Baidu Post, Baidu Drive, Baijiahao, Haokan, and iQIYI’s user-generated content, allow
our users to upload, store and share documents, images, audio and videos on our servers, or share, link to or otherwise provide access to contents from
other websites, and we also operate distribution platforms whereby developers can upload, share and sell their apps or games to users. Although we have
made commercially reasonable efforts to request users or developers to comply with applicable intellectual property laws, we cannot ensure that all of
our users or developers have the rights to upload or share these contents or apps. In addition, we have been and may continue to be subject to copyright
or trademark infringement and other related claims from time to time, in China and internationally.
We have been making continuous efforts to keep ourselves informed of and to comply with all applicable laws and regulations affecting our
business. However, the laws and regulations of mainland China are complex and evolving, and uncertainties still exist with respect to the interpretation
of the legal standards for determining liabilities of internet search and other internet service providers for (a) providing links to content on third-party
websites that infringe upon others’ copyrights or hosting such content, (b) providing information storage space, file sharing technology or other internet
services that are used by internet users to disseminate such content, or (c) providing information generated by AI. The Supreme People’s Court of the
PRC promulgated a judicial interpretation on infringement of the right of dissemination through the internet in December 2012, with amendments that
came into effect on January 1, 2021. This judicial interpretation, like certain court rulings and certain other judicial interpretations, provides that the
courts will place the burden on internet service providers to remove not only links or contents that have been specifically mentioned in the notices of
infringement from
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right holders, but also links or contents they “should have known” to contain infringing content. The interpretation further provides that where an
internet service provider has directly obtained economic benefits from any content made available by an internet user, it has a higher duty of care with
respect to internet users’ infringement of third-party copyrights. A guidance on the trial of audio/video sharing copyright disputes promulgated by the
Higher People’s Court of Beijing in December 2012 provides that where an internet service provider has directly obtained economic benefits from any
audio/video content made available by an internet user who has no authorization for sharing such content, the internet service provider shall be
presumed to be at fault. These interpretations could subject us to significant administrative burdens and litigation risks. The PRC Civil Code
promulgated in 2020 has further elaborated the circumstances where internet service providers may be found liable for the infringement of third parties.
See “Item 4.B. Information on the Company—Business Overview—Regulations—Regulations on Tort Liability.” The PRC Copyright Law, which
became effective in June 2021, further provides that the competent copyright authority may require compliance from the relevant parties in the process
of investigating the infringing activities.
We conduct our business operations primarily in mainland China. However, we could be subject to claims under U.S. copyright laws, including
the legal standards for determining indirect liability for copyright infringement. Although we believe such claims would be without merit, we cannot
assure you that we will not be subject to copyright infringement lawsuits or other proceedings in the U.S. or elsewhere in the future.
Intellectual property litigation is expensive, time-consuming and could divert resources and management attention from the operations of our
business. We are currently named as defendant in certain copyright infringement suits in connection with Baidu Feed, P4P, Baidu Post, Baidu Search,
iQIYI, Baidu Wenku, Baidu Drive, Baijiahao, Haokan, Xiaodu and certain other products or services. See “Item 8.A. Financial Information—
Consolidated Statements and Other Financial Information—Legal Proceedings.” There is no guarantee that the courts will accept our defenses and rule
in our favor. If there is a successful claim of infringement, we may be required to discontinue the infringing activities, pay substantial fines and damages
and enter into royalty or license agreements that may not be available on commercially acceptable terms, if at all. Our failure to obtain a license of the
rights on a timely basis could harm our business. Any intellectual property litigation by third parties and/or negative publicity alleging our intellectual
property infringement could have an adverse effect on our business, reputation, financial condition or results of operations. To address the risks relating
to intellectual property infringement, we may have to substantially modify, limit or terminate some of our search services. Any such change could
materially affect user experience and in turn have an adverse impact on our business.
Our strategy of investments and acquiring complementary businesses and assets may fail.
As part of our business strategy, we have pursued, and intend to continue to pursue, selective strategic investments and acquisitions of businesses
and assets that complement our existing business and help us execute our growth strategies. For example, we invested in Trip.com Group Limited
(formerly known as Ctrip).
We intend to make other strategic investments and acquisitions in the future if suitable opportunities arise. Investments and acquisitions involve
uncertainties and risks, including, but not limited to:
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potential ongoing financial obligations and unforeseen or hidden liabilities, including liability for infringement of third-party copyrights or
other intellectual property;
failure to achieve the intended objectives, benefits or revenue-enhancing opportunities,
non-occurrence of anticipated or speculative transactions and any resulting negative impact;
costs and difficulties of integrating acquired businesses and managing a larger business;
in the case of investments where we do not obtain management and operational control, lack of influence over the controlling partner or
shareholder, which may prevent us from achieving our strategic goals in the investments;
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possible unsatisfactory operational or financial performance, including financial loss, or fraudulent activities of a target business;
possible loss of key employees of a target business;
potential claims or litigation regarding our board’s exercise of its duty of care and other duties required under applicable law in connection
with any of our significant acquisitions or investments approved by the board;
diversion of resources and management attention;
regulatory hurdles and compliance risks, including the anti-monopoly and competition laws, rules and regulations of mainland China and
other jurisdictions and the enhanced compliance requirement for outbound acquisitions and investment under the laws and regulations of
mainland China;
in the case of acquisitions of businesses or assets outside of China, the need to integrate operations across different business cultures and
languages and to address the particular economic, currency, political, and regulatory risks associated with specific countries; and
potential fair value changes, which impact our profits.
Any failure to address these risks successfully may have a material and adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations.
Investments and acquisitions may require a significant amount of capital, which would decrease the amount of cash available for working capital or
capital expenditures. In addition, if we use our equity securities to pay for investments and acquisitions, the value of our listed securities may be diluted.
If we borrow funds to finance investments and acquisitions, such debt instruments may contain restrictive covenants that could, among other things,
restrict us from distributing dividends. Moreover, acquisitions may also generate significant amortization expenses related to intangible assets. We are
required to test our intangible assets and goodwill for impairment annually or more frequently if events or changes in circumstances indicate that they
may be impaired. We may also incur investment loss or impairment charges to acquired businesses and assets.
Our business is subject to complex and evolving Chinese and international laws and regulations, including those regarding data privacy and
cybersecurity. Failure to comply with these laws and regulations would result in claims, penalties, damages to our reputation and brand, or declines
in user growth or engagement, or otherwise harm our business.
We are required by privacy and data protection laws in mainland China and other jurisdictions, including, without limitation, the PRC Cyber
Security Law and the PRC Data Security Law, to ensure the confidentiality, integrity and availability of the information of our users, customers, third-
party agents, content providers and Baidu Union partners, and other data, which is also essential to maintaining their confidence in our online products
and services.
In recent years, the PRC government authorities have increasingly focused on safeguarding information and data security. The PRC Cyber
Security Law provides that network operators must fulfill their obligations to safeguard network security during the course of conducting business and
providing services. Network service providers must take technical and other necessary measures as required by laws, regulations and mandatory
requirements to safeguard the operation of networks, respond to network security effectively, prevent illegal and criminal activities and maintain the
integrity, confidentiality and usability of network data. Pursuant to the Regulations on Protection of Critical Information Infrastructure, which became
effective in September 2021, critical information infrastructure means any important network facilities or information systems of the important industry
or field, which may endanger national security, people’s livelihood and public interest in case of damage, function loss or data leakage. If a company is
designated as a critical information infrastructure operator, it must comply with specific obligations mandated by applicable cybersecurity laws and
regulations, which include, among others, that any personal information and important data collected and generated in
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operations within mainland China must be stored within the territory of mainland China. However, these PRC laws and regulations relating to
cybersecurity are relatively new, and the applicable scope of these laws and regulations, including the applicable scope of “critical information
infrastructure” under the current regulatory regime, remains unclear and shall be subject to more interpretation from the competent government
authorities.
Since 2021, the PRC government authorities have also promulgated a series of laws and regulations to build a system for cybersecurity review.
The PRC Data Security Law, which took effect in September 2021, provides for a security review procedure for the data activities that may affect
national security. Pursuant to the Cybersecurity Review Measures, which was published by the CAC and became effective in February 2022, critical
information infrastructure operators that procure internet products and services, as well as network platform operators engaging in data processing
activities, must be subject to a cybersecurity review if their activities affect or may affect national security. A cybersecurity review could result in
significant costs and expose such critical information infrastructure operators to various challenges, both throughout the review process and in the
course of implementing the required improvements to their cybersecurity protocols. Since the Cybersecurity Review Measures provide no further
explanation or interpretation on the determination of “affecting national security,” there remain uncertainties as to whether our data processing activities
may be deemed to affect national security. In addition, network platform operators holding over one million users’ personal information must apply for a
cybersecurity review with the Cybersecurity Review Office before any public offering in a foreign country. Moreover, the CAC also publicly solicited
comments on the Regulations on the Network Data Security (Draft for Comments) on November 14, 2021, which have not yet been promulgated into
law as of the date of this annual report. The Regulations on the Network Data Security (Draft for Comments) set forth different scenarios where data
processors are required to apply for cybersecurity reviews, including, among others, listing abroad of data processors which process over one million
users’ personal information, listing in Hong Kong which affects or may affect national security, and other data processing activities that affect or may
affect national security. See “Item 4.B. Information on the Company—Business Overview—Regulations—Regulations on Information Security” for
more details.
Moreover, the PRC government authorities are also improving the legal system on the protection of the personal information. On August 20, 2021,
the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress promulgated the PRC Personal Information Protection Law, which integrates the scattered
rules with respect to personal information rights and privacy protection and took effect on November 1, 2021. In addition, the CAC and three other
authorities jointly issued the Rules on the Scope of Necessary Personal Information for Common Types of Mobile Internet Applications, which specify
the scope of necessary personal information to be collected each for a variety of common mobile internet applications, such as maps and navigation
apps, online ride-hailing apps, instant messaging apps and online community apps. See “Item 4.B. Information on the Company—Business Overview—
Regulations—Regulations on Internet Privacy” for more details.
The PRC government authorities also further enhanced the supervision and regulation of cross-border data transmission. Pursuant to the Measures
for the Security Assessment of Cross-border Data Transfer, which became effective in September 2022, data processors will be subject to security
assessment conducted by the CAC prior to any cross-border transfer of data if the transfer involves certain types of data such as important data. See
“Item 4.B. Information on the Company—Business Overview—Regulations—Regulations on Information Security” for more details.
The PRC Cyber Security Law, the PRC Data Security Law, the PRC Personal Information Protection Law and the other related laws and
regulations as mentioned above are relatively new and subject to interpretation by the regulators. Although we only gain access to user information that
is necessary for, and relevant to, the services we provide, the data we obtain and use may include information that is deemed as “personal information,”
“network data” or “important data” under the relevant data privacy and protection laws and regulations. As such, we have implemented a series of
measures to ensure that we comply with the laws and regulations in the collection, use, disclosure, sharing, storage, and security of user information and
other data. Although we believe that we have complied with such laws and regulations related to cybersecurity, data privacy
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and personal information protection in all material aspects, the measures we have implemented could still be deemed insufficient, improper, or even
invasive of user privacy by the government authorities, which may result in penalties, including fines, suspension of business activities, restrictions on
new user registrations (even temporarily) and revocation of licenses. Consequently, our reputation and results of operations could be materially and
adversely affected. In addition, the activities of third parties such as our customers and business partners are beyond our control. If our business partners
violate the laws and regulations relating to cybersecurity, data privacy and personal information protection, or fail to fully comply with the service
agreements with us, or if any of our employees fails to comply with our internal control measures and misuse the information, we may be subject to
penalties and other legal liabilities. As part of the efforts by the CAC and other regulators to enhance data protection, a wide number of apps and
companies have been reprimanded since the first half of 2021, including certain Baidu apps. We have updated the apps and are committed to keeping
our apps fully compliant with the requirements of the CAC. Nevertheless, due to the rapidly evolving regulatory requirements, we still cannot guarantee
you that we will not be subject to more similar rectification requests from the government authorities or that we will fully comply with all applicable
rules and regulations at all times. In addition, as the enforcement regime with regard to cybersecurity, data security, data privacy and personal
information protection has been evolving and PRC regulators have been increasingly focusing on regulation in these areas, some of our business
operations, in particular our cloud services, may be subject to enhanced oversight and scrutiny. As a result, we may be involved with enquiries, claims,
complaints or other administrative actions from time to time, which are subject to the uncertainties associated with the evolving legislative activities and
varied local enforcement practices. Any failure or perceived failure to comply with all applicable data privacy and protection laws and regulations or to
take prompt rectification actions as required by the enforcement authorities, any failure or perceived failure of our business partners to do so, or any
failure or perceived failure of our employees to comply with our internal control measures, may result in negative publicity and legal proceedings or
regulatory actions against us, and could damage our reputation, discourage current and potential users and customers from using our products or services
and subject us to fines, damages and rectification, which could have a material adverse effect on our business and results of operations.
Besides the evolving regulatory requirements on cybersecurity and data privacy in mainland China, there are also a number of legislative
proposals in the European Union, the United States, at both the federal and state level, as well as other jurisdictions that could impose new obligations in
areas affecting our business. For instance, on February 28, 2024, the Biden administration issued an executive order titled “Preventing Access to
Americans’ Bulk Sensitive Personal Data and United States Government-Related Data by Countries of Concern.” This executive order aims to prohibit
and restrict the transfer of substantial quantities of personal data belonging to U.S. individuals, as well as certain data pertaining to the U.S. government,
to countries of concern, including China. The types of personal data of U.S. citizens that fall under the purview of this executive order encompass, but
are not limited to, biometric identifiers, human genomic information, and confidential health and financial records, subject to bulk collection thresholds
that range from one hundred to one million. Our data practices may be deemed inconsistent with new laws or regulations concerning data protection and
transfer, or the interpretation and application of existing laws or regulations concerning data protection and transfer, which are often uncertain and in
flux. The introduction of new products or other actions that we may take may subject us to additional laws, regulations or other government scrutiny.
Complying with new laws and regulations could cause us to incur substantial costs or require us to change our business practices in a manner materially
adverse to our business. For example, if new laws and regulations promulgated in the future impose restrictions on selling demographically targeted
advertising, it could increase our cost and the complexity to provide such services such that we may become less attractive to online advertising
customers. In addition, some countries are considering or have passed legislation implementing data protection requirements or requiring local storage
and processing of data or similar requirements that could increase the cost and complexity of delivering our services.
Any failure or perceived failure by us to prevent information security breaches or to comply with data security and privacy policies or related legal
obligations, or any compromise of security that results in the unauthorized use, release or transfer of personally identifiable information or other data,
could cause our users to lose trust in us and expose us to legal claims or penalties. Any perception by the public that privacy of user
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information or data security are becoming increasingly unsafe or vulnerable to attacks could inhibit the growth of our products and services generally.
We expect that these areas will be subject to greater public scrutiny and attention from regulators and more frequent and rigid investigation or review by
regulators, which will increase our compliance costs and subject us to heightened risks and challenges. We may have to spend much more personnel cost
and time evaluating and managing these risks and challenges in connection with our products and services in the ordinary course of our business
operations, and cooperated and will keep cooperating in the future with the competent regulators in these respects. If we are unable to manage these
risks, we could become subject to penalties, including fines, suspension of business and revocation of required licenses, and our reputation and results of
operations could be materially and adversely affected.
Our business may be adversely affected if we were found to have failed to fulfill the additional obligations under the online advertising rules.
Although the PRC Advertising Law has not specified “paid search results” as a form of advertising, the Administrative Measures for Internet
Advertising, which was promulgated and amended by the State Administration for Market Regulation, or the SAMR, on February 25, 2023 and became
effective on May 1, 2023, characterize “paid search results” as a form of internet advertising from the perspective of regulating the online advertising
business. Pursuant to such measures, we are subject to additional legal obligations to monitor our P4P customers’ listings on our website during the
course of our provision of P4P services. For example, we must examine, verify and record identity information of our P4P customers, such as the
customer’s name, address and contact information, and maintain an updated verification of such information on a regular basis. Moreover, we must
examine supporting documentation provided by our P4P customers. Where a special government review is required for specific categories of
advertisements before posting, we must confirm that the review has been performed and approval has been obtained. If the content of the advertisement
is inconsistent with the supporting documentation, or the supporting documentation is incomplete, the advertisement cannot be published. With respect
to the promotion of goods or services in the form of paid listing, advertising distributors shall indicate them conspicuously as an advertisement to
distinguish them from the natural search results. Publishing and distributing advertisements by means of internet shall not affect the normal internet
access by users, and it is prohibited to insert advertisements in the form of paid listing into the search results of government service websites, webpages,
internet apps, official accounts, etc. The advertisers, operators and publishers of internet advertisements containing links shall examine the contents in
the next level link that are related to the front-end advertisements. In addition to the Administrative Measures for Internet Advertising, the PRC
government may, from time to time, promulgate more detailed or new advertising laws and regulations to impose further requirements on online
advertising services in specific fields, such as medical, pharmaceutical, health care, after-school tutoring and other similar businesses. For example, the
Circular on the Administration of After-School Tutoring Advertisement jointly issued by the SAMR and seven other authorities on November 3, 2021
prohibits new media, internet platforms and other mainstream media from publishing or broadcasting any advertisement of after-school tutoring services
targeted at pre-school children and primary and middle school students. Similarly, the Administrative Measures for Internet Advertising also propose to
ban internet advertisement of such after-school tutoring services. We cannot assure you that we will be in compliance with the requirements under these
more detailed or new laws and regulations and failure to comply with these obligations may subject us to fines and other administrative penalties. If
advertisements shown on our platform are in violation of applicable advertising laws and regulations, or if the supporting documentation and
government approvals provided to us by our P4P customers in connection with the advertising content are not complete or accurate, we may be subject
to legal liabilities and our reputation could be harmed. Furthermore, we may modify the operation of our online marketing business and curb
advertisements of certain restricted sectors in order to meet the evolving compliance requirements on the industry, which may adversely affect our
online marketing revenue. See “Item 4.B. Information on the Company—Business Overview—Regulations—Regulations on Advertisements and
Online Advertising.”
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We may be subject to patent infringement claims with respect to our P4P platform.
Our technologies and business methods, including those relating to our P4P platform, may be subject to third-party claims or rights that limit or
prevent their use. We applied for certain patents in mainland China for our P4P platform, but some of our applications were rejected on the ground that
they are not patentable. Certain companies have been granted patents in the United States relating to P4P platforms and similar business methods and
related technologies. While we believe that we are not subject to U.S. patent laws since we conduct our business operations primarily in mainland
China, we cannot assure you that U.S. patent laws would not be applicable to our business operations, or that holders of patents relating to a P4P
platform would not seek to enforce such patents against us in the United States or mainland China.
Many parties are actively developing and seeking protection for internet-related technologies, including patent protection. They may hold patents
issued or pending that relate to certain aspects of our technologies, products, business methods or services. Any patent infringement claims, regardless
of their merits, could be time-consuming and costly to us. If we were sued for patent infringement claims with respect to our P4P platform and were
found to infringe upon the patents and were not able to adopt non-infringing technologies, we may be severely limited in our ability to operate our P4P
platform, which would have a material and adverse effect on our results of operations and prospects.
Our business may be adversely affected by third-party software apps or practices that interfere with our receipt of information from, or provision of
information to, our users, which may impair our users’ experience.
Our business may be adversely affected by third-party malicious or unintentional software apps that make changes to our users’ computers and
interfere with our products and services. These software apps may change our users’ internet experience by hijacking queries to our platform, altering or
replacing our search results, or otherwise interfering with our ability to connect with our users. The interference often occurs without disclosure to or
consent from users, resulting in a negative experience, which users may associate with our platform. These software apps may be difficult to remove or
disable, may reinstall themselves and may circumvent other apps’ efforts to block or remove them.
In addition, our business may be adversely affected by the practices of third-party website owners, content providers and developers which
interfere with our ability to crawl and index their web pages and contents including apps. The ability to provide a superior user experience is critical to
our success. If we are unable to successfully combat malicious third-party software apps that interfere with our products and services, our reputation
may be harmed. If a significant number of website owners, content providers and developers prevent us from indexing and including their high-quality
web pages and content including apps in our search results, or if we cannot effectively combat web spam from low-quality and irrelevant content
websites, the quality of our search results may be impaired, which may damage our reputation and deter our current and potential users from using our
products and services.
We may not be able to prevent others from unauthorized use of our intellectual property, which could harm our business and competitive position.
We rely on a combination of copyright, trademark and trade secret laws, as well as nondisclosure agreements and other methods to protect our
intellectual property rights. The protection of intellectual property rights in mainland China may not be as effective as those in the United States or other
jurisdictions. The steps we have taken may be inadequate to prevent the misappropriation of our technology. Reverse engineering, unauthorized copying
or other misappropriation of our technologies could enable third parties to benefit from our technologies without paying us. Moreover, unauthorized use
of our technology could enable our competitors to offer products and services that compete with ours, which could harm our business and competitive
position. We have in the past resorted to litigation to enforce our intellectual property rights, and may have to do so from time to time in the future.
There is no guarantee that the competent courts will accept our claims and rule in our favor. Such litigation may result in substantial costs and diversion
of resources and management attention.
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Our success depends on the continuing and collaborative efforts of our management team and other key personnel, and our business may be
disrupted if we lose their services and are not able to find their successors in a timely manner.
Our success depends heavily upon the continuing services of our management team, in particular our chairman and chief executive officer, Robin
Yanhong Li. If one or more of our executives or other key personnel are unable or unwilling to continue in their present positions and we are not able to
find their successors in a timely manner, our business may be disrupted and our financial condition and results of operations may be adversely affected.
Competition for management and key personnel is intense, the pool of qualified candidates is limited, and we may not be able to retain the services of
our executives or key personnel, or attract and retain experienced executives or key personnel in the future.
If any of our executives or other key personnel joins a competitor or forms a competing company, we may not be able to successfully retain
customers, key agents, know-how and key personnel. Each of our executive officers and key employees has entered into an employment agreement with
us, containing confidentiality and non-competition provisions. If any disputes arise between any of our executives or key personnel and us, we cannot
assure you the extent to which any of these agreements may be enforced.
We rely on highly skilled personnel. If we are unable to retain or motivate them or hire additional qualified personnel, we may not be able to grow
effectively.
Our performance and future success depend on the talents and efforts of highly skilled individuals. We will need to continue to identify, hire,
develop, motivate and retain highly skilled personnel for all areas of our organization and business operations. Competition for qualified employees in
the industries we operate in is intense. Our continued ability to compete effectively depends on our ability to attract new employees and to retain and
motivate our existing employees. As competitions in our industries intensify, it may be more difficult for us to hire, motivate and retain highly skilled
personnel. In general, if we do not succeed in attracting additional highly skilled personnel or retaining or motivating our existing personnel, we may be
unable to grow effectively. In certain emerging industry, such as autonomous driving, foundation models and generative AI, many players with sufficient
funds would heavily devote their resources to compete for talents with us. To keep our competitiveness and market position, we would need to, among
others, recruit, train and retain our key talents and employees, in particular research and development personnel. If we fail to do so, we may lag behind
with respect to the ever-emerging and cutting-edge technologies in the emerging industry, and our prospects in such industry would be ultimately
harmed.
We are exposed to significant downward adjustments or impairments in the market values of our investments, which may materially affect our
financial results.
As part of our business strategy, we have investments in both private and public companies. Fair values of these investments can be negatively
impacted by fluctuations in the share prices of public companies we own, the fair value of private companies we own, liquidity, credit deterioration or
losses, financial results, foreign exchange rates, changes in interest rates, or other factors. For equity securities without readily determinable fair value
and do not qualify for the net asset value practical expedient of the investment, we elected to use the measurement alternative to measure those
investments at cost, less any impairment, plus or minus changes resulting from observable price changes in orderly transactions for identical or similar
investments of the same issuer, if any. Equity securities with readily determinable fair values are measured at fair value, and any changes in fair value
are recognized in earnings. The impairment and change of equity securities’ fair value could result in significant fluctuation of our financial condition
and operating results.
For example, we have recognized impairment charges on our long-term investments from 2021 to 2023 due to the impact of COVID-19,
regulatory and competitive environment of the industries, circumstances of our invested companies and other factors. We may still suffer significant
impairment loss or downward adjustments
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of our investments in the future, due to deterioration in global economic conditions or escalation of geopolitical conflicts or other factors. The carrying
amounts of short-term investments, long-term investments, and long-term time deposits and held-to-maturity investments as of December 31, 2023 were
RMB168.7 billion (US$23.8 billion), RMB48.0 billion (US$6.8 billion) and RMB24.7 billion (US$3.5 billion), respectively. The value or liquidity of
our investments could decline and result in a material impairment, which could materially adversely affect our financial condition and operating results.
We are subject to risks and uncertainties faced by companies in a rapidly evolving industry.
We operate in the rapidly evolving internet industry, which makes it difficult to predict our future results of operations. Accordingly, you should
consider our future prospects in light of the risks and uncertainties experienced by companies in evolving industries. Some of these risks and
uncertainties relate to our ability to:
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maintain our leading position in the Chinese-language internet search market;
offer attractive, useful and innovative products and services to attract and retain a larger user base;
procure content from studios and other content providers, as well as distribution channels and other licensors of content;
attract users’ continuing use of internet search services;
retain existing customers and attract additional customers and increase spending per customer;
evaluate the credit worthiness and collectability of accounts receivables from an evolving variety of customers, whose failure to pay us in a
timely manner may adversely affect our liquidity position;
retain members and attract new members of iQIYI’s membership services;
upgrade our technology to support increased traffic and expanded product-and-service offerings;
further enhance our brand;
respond to competitive market conditions;
respond to evolving user preferences or industry changes;
respond to changes in the regulatory environment and manage legal risks, including those associated with intellectual property rights;
maintain effective control of our costs and expenses;
execute our strategic investments and acquisitions and post-acquisition integrations effectively;
attract, retain and motivate qualified personnel and maintain good relations with a young and growing work force; and
build profitable operations in new markets and other overseas internet markets we have entered into.
If we are unsuccessful in addressing any of these risks and uncertainties, our business may be materially and adversely affected.
Our indebtedness could adversely affect our financial condition and our ability to obtain additional capital on reasonable terms when necessary.
As of December 31, 2023, we had an aggregate of RMB76.4 billion (US$10.8 billion) of outstanding indebtedness (including loans, convertible
senior notes and notes payable), which will mature between 2024 and 2031, which include RMB14.6 billion (US$2.1 billion) of outstanding
indebtedness of iQIYI. On April 2, 2021, we entered into a five-year term and revolving facilities agreement with a group of 22 arrangers, pursuant to
which we are entitled to borrow US$3.0 billion with a term of five years and we have drawn down US$2.0 billion
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(RMB14.2 billion) loan under the facility commitment. See “Item 5.B. Operating and Financial Review and Prospects—Liquidity and Capital
Resources.” We may incur additional indebtedness in the future. Our current and future debt requires us to dedicate a portion of our cash flow to service
interest and principal payments and may limit our ability to engage in other transactions. Our ability to pay interest and repay the principal for our
indebtedness is dependent upon our ability to manage our business operations, generate sufficient cash flows, raise additional capital and the other
factors discussed in this section. There can be no assurance that we will be able to manage any of these risks successfully.
Certain of our outstanding indebtedness include financial and other covenants. For example, certain of these covenants require iQIYI to maintain
minimum liquidity or pertain to iQIYI’s solvency or listing status. If we fail to comply with these covenants and are unable to remedy or obtain a waiver
or amendment, an event of default would result. If an event of default were to occur, the lenders could, among other things, declare outstanding amounts
due and payable. In addition, outstanding notes of Baidu, Inc. contain customary cross default and cross acceleration provisions, which would permit the
notes holders to accelerate the repayment of these notes. In particular, for certain of the outstanding notes of Baidu, Inc., an event of default or
declaration of acceleration under the indebtedness of principal controlled entities, such as iQIYI, could also result in an event of default under such notes
of Baidu, Inc., which would permit the notes holders to accelerate the repayment of such notes of Baidu, Inc. For more detailed description of cross
default and cross acceleration provisions under these notes, see “Item 5.B. Operating and Financial Review and Prospects—Liquidity and Capital
Resources.” If the payment of any of our outstanding notes is accelerated, we may be required to renegotiate, repay or refinance these obligations and
may not have sufficient funds available to repay it, and our liquidity and financial position would be materially and adversely affected.
We may require additional capital to support our business growth or to respond to business opportunities, challenges or unforeseen circumstances.
Our ability to obtain additional capital, if and when required, will depend on our business plans, investor demand, our operating performance, the
condition of the capital markets, and other factors, and our indebtedness may limit our ability to borrow additional funds. We may have difficulty
incurring new debt on terms that we would consider to be commercially reasonable. In addition, we may also need to refinance a portion or all of our
outstanding debt as it matures. There is a risk that we may not be able to refinance existing debt or that the terms of any refinancing may not be as
favorable as the terms of our existing debt.
iQIYI has significant working capital requirements, and our controlling interest in iQIYI may be diluted if iQIYI raises additional capital by issuing
and selling additional equity in the future.
iQIYI, our controlled subsidiary listed on the Nasdaq Global Select Market, had experienced a working capital deficit as of December 31, 2021,
2022 and 2023. There is no assurance that iQIYI will be able to improve its working capital position and achieve working capital surplus, although
iQIYI will take actions to manage its working capital. In March 2022, iQIYI issued ordinary shares for a total cash purchase price of US$285 million in
a private placement transaction. In December 2022, iQIYI issued US$500 million convertible senior notes due January 2028 to PAGAC IV-1 (Cayman)
Limited, PAG Pegasus Fund LP and/or their affiliates, collectively referred to as PAG in this annual report. In February 2023, iQIYI issued to PAG an
additional US$50 million principal amount of the such notes upon its exercise to subscribe for additional notes in full. In January 2023, iQIYI completed
a registered follow-on public offering of iQIYI’s ordinary shares in the form of ADSs and received net proceeds of US$500 million in aggregate. In
March 2023, iQIYI completed an offering of US$600 million in aggregate principal amount of 6.50% convertible senior notes due March 2028, or the
iQIYI 2028 Convertible Notes. Concurrently with and shortly after the offering of the iQIYI 2028 Convertible Notes, iQIYI entered into separate
individually and privately negotiated agreements with certain holders of the iQIYI 2026 Convertible Notes to repurchase US$340 million principal
amount of such notes for cash. There can be no assurance that iQIYI will be able to raise additional equity or debt financing on terms that are acceptable
to iQIYI in the future. Any failure to do so as and when necessary could materially adversely affect iQIYI’s liquidity, results of operations, financial
condition and ability to operate. In addition, when iQIYI obtains
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additional financing by issuing and selling additional equity or equity-linked securities, such as convertible bonds, our interest in iQIYI will be diluted.
iQIYI operates in a capital intensive industry and requires a significant amount of cash to fund its operations, content acquisitions and technology
investments. If iQIYI cannot obtain sufficient capital, its business, financial condition and prospects may be materially and adversely affected.
The operation of an internet video streaming platform requires significant and continuous investment in content and technology. Producing high-
quality original content is costly and time-consuming and will typically take a long period of time to realize returns on investment, if at all. To date,
iQIYI has financed its operations primarily with net cash generated from financing activities such as placements of shares, convertible senior notes and
asset-based securities, bank loans, and the proceeds from its initial public offering and offering of securities. In order to implement its growth strategies,
iQIYI will incur additional capital in the future to cover, among others, costs to produce and license content. iQIYI may need to obtain additional
financing, including equity offerings or debt financing, to fund the operation and expansion of business. iQIYI’s ability to obtain additional financing in
the future, however, is subject to a number of uncertainties, including those relating to:
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iQIYI’s future business development, financial condition and results of operations;
general market conditions for financing activities by companies in iQIYI’s industry; and
macro-economic and other conditions in mainland China and elsewhere.
As a public company with a growing business, iQIYI expects to increasingly rely on net cash provided by operating activities, financing through
capital markets and commercial banks for its liquidity needs. However, iQIYI cannot assure you that it will be successful in its efforts to further
diversify its sources of liquidity and obtain financing. In addition, certain financing may pose additional capital needs on iQIYI, for example, the
potential redemption by holders of iQIYI’s convertible notes. Further, inability to maintain liquidity or solvency might result in default under iQIYI’s
existing indebtedness, which would pose additional repayment needs and negatively impact iQIYI’s ability to raise more funds through new financing.
Moreover, deterioration in global economic conditions or escalation of geopolitical conflicts may adversely impact iQIYI’s ability to secure additional
financing. If iQIYI cannot obtain sufficient capital to meet its capital needs, iQIYI may not be able to execute its growth strategies and its business,
financial condition and prospects may be materially and adversely affected.
Our results of operations may fluctuate, which makes our results difficult to predict and could cause our results to fall short of expectations.
Our results of operations may fluctuate as a result of a number of factors, many of which are beyond our control. For these reasons, comparing our
results of operations on a period-to-period basis may not be meaningful, and you should not rely on our past results as an indication of our future
performance. Our quarterly and annual revenues and costs and expenses as a percentage of our revenues may be significantly different from our
historical or projected figures. Our results of operations in future quarters may fall below expectations. We have ceased or downsized certain of our
business, such as games and education, in the past year due to the changing business and regulatory environment in China, which had an adverse effect
on our financial results. We cannot assure you that similar cessation or downsize of business will not take place in the future, and our financial results
may be adversely affected. Any of the foregoing could cause the price of our ADSs to fall. Any of the risk factors listed in this “Risk Factors” section,
and in particular the following factors, could cause our results of operations to fluctuate from quarter to quarter:
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general economic conditions in China and economic conditions specific to the internet, internet search and feed, and online marketing
industries;
our ability to continue to attract users to our platform despite the emergence of mobile apps and other services;
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our ability to retain existing customers, attract additional customers and increase spending per customer;
the announcement or introduction of new or enhanced products and services by us or our competitors;
the introduction of new technology by us or our competitors;
the amount and timing of operating costs and capital expenditures related to the maintenance and expansion of our businesses, operations
and infrastructure;
the results of our acquisitions of, or investments in, other businesses or assets;
Mainland China’s regulations or government actions pertaining to activities on the internet, including various forms of entertainment,
online payment and activities otherwise affecting our online marketing customers, and those relating to the products and services we
provide;
unforeseen events, such as negative publicity arising from widespread media coverage and other sources and labor disputes, or unexpected
cessation or downsize of existing business; and
geopolitical events, natural disasters or epidemics.
Because of the rapid growth of our business, our historical results of operations may not be useful to you in predicting our future results of
operations. Our user traffic tends to be seasonal. For example, we generally experience less user traffic during public holidays and other special event
periods in China. In addition, advertising and other marketing spending in China has historically been cyclical, reflecting overall economic conditions as
well as budgeting and buying patterns. As we continue to grow, we expect that the cyclicality and seasonality in our business may cause our results of
operations to fluctuate.
A severe and prolonged downturn in the Chinese or global economy could materially and adversely affect our business, results of operations and
financial condition.
COVID-19 had a severe and negative impact on the Chinese and the global economy from 2020 through 2022, and the global macroeconomic
environment still faces numerous challenges. The growth rate of the Chinese economy has been slowing since 2010 and the Chinese population began to
decline in 2022. The Federal Reserve and other central banks outside of China have raised interest rates. The Russia-Ukraine conflict, the Hamas-Israel
conflict and the attacks on shipping in the Red Sea have heightened geopolitical tensions across the world. The impact of the Russia-Ukraine conflict on
Ukraine food exports has contributed to increases in food prices and thus to inflation more generally. There have also been concerns about the
relationship between China and other countries which may potentially have economic effects. In particular, there is significant uncertainty about the
future relationship between the United States and China with respect to a wide range of issues including trade policies, treaties, government regulations
and tariffs. Economic conditions in China are sensitive to global economic conditions, as well as changes in domestic economic and political policies
and the expected or perceived overall economic growth rate in China. In addition, SMEs as our customers are more vulnerable to changes in
macroeconomic conditions. If macroeconomic conditions deteriorate, SMEs may be directly hit, which in turn may lead to higher default rates or
decreasing borrowings. As a result, any severe or prolonged slowdown in the global or Chinese economy may materially and adversely affect our
business, results of operations and financial condition.
Rising international political tensions, including changes in U.S. and international trade policies, particularly with regard to China, may adversely
impact our business and operating results.
The U.S. government has made statements and taken certain actions that may lead to changes in U.S. and international trade policies towards
China. It remains unclear what additional actions, if any, will be taken by the U.S. or other governments with respect to international trade agreements,
the imposition of tariffs on goods imported into the United States, tax policy related to international commerce, or other trade matters. While cross-
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border business may not be an area of focus for us, any unfavorable government policies on international trade, such as capital controls or tariffs, may
affect the demand for our products and services, impact the competitive position of our products or prevent us from selling products in certain countries.
If any new tariffs, legislation and/or regulations are implemented, or if existing trade agreements are renegotiated or, in particular, if the U.S.
government takes retaliatory trade actions due to ongoing U.S.-China trade tensions, such changes could have an adverse effect on our business,
financial condition and results of operations.
In addition, we have been closely monitoring domestic policies in the United States designed to restrict certain Chinese companies from supplying
or operating in the U.S. market. These policies include the Clean Network project initiated by the U.S. Department of State in August 2020, new
authorities granted to the Department of Commerce to prohibit or restrict the use of information and communications technology and services, and the
Executive Order on Protecting America’s Sensitive Data from Foreign Adversaries published in June 2021. While a substantial majority of our business
is conducted in mainland China, policies like these may deter U.S. users from accessing and/or using our search engine, apps and other products in the
United States, which could adversely impact our user experience and reputation. Similarly, India has permanently banned a large number of apps since
2020 out of national security concerns, many of which are China-based apps (including our apps), escalating regional political and trade tensions. From
time to time, in connection with perceived security incidents, the U.S. government may impose more stringent control measures or restrictions on the
products and services of Chinese companies. The government measures taken and potential subsequent developments are beyond our control, and we
could be adversely affected regardless whether or not we were actually involved in the incidents.
Likewise, we are monitoring policies in the United States that are aimed at restricting U.S. persons from investing in or supplying certain Chinese
companies. The United States and various foreign governments have imposed controls, license requirements and restrictions on the import or export of
technologies and products, or voiced the intention to do so. For instance, in October 2022, the U.S. government imposed a set of export control measures
with respect to China. Among other things, these export control measures add certain semiconductor manufacturing equipment, advanced chips, and
items containing such chips to the Commerce Control List, expand the number of items made outside the United States that are subject to U.S. export
controls in the advanced computing and semiconductor context, and impose license requirements for certain items destined for China for use in
supercomputers, the development or production of semiconductors or semiconductor manufacturing equipment, or destined for semiconductor
fabrication facilities in China that produce certain advanced chips. These measures also restrict the ability of U.S. persons to provide “support” for
semiconductor manufacturing and related activities in China and may seriously affect the ability of Chinese companies to purchase or obtain certain
semiconductor manufacturing equipment or advanced chips, which may in turn further affect the operations and development of AI technologies of such
companies. On October 17, 2023, the U.S. government released two additional interim rules expanding and enhancing export controls of semiconductors
under the above export control measures. These interim rules became effective in November 2023 and intend to further restrict China’s access to U.S.
semiconductor technology by setting tighter parameters on existing restrictions on chips and strengthening restrictions on semiconductor manufacturing
equipment. We have invested significant resources in the research and development of AI technology and expect this element to be a driver for our
future growth. However, the introduction of new export control measures could potentially impose limitations on our access to advanced semiconductor
technologies, which may hinder the process of the research and development of our AI technology and AI chips. As a result, our future AI abilities and
our financial performance may be materially and adversely affected.
On August 9, 2023, the Biden administration released an executive order directing the Treasury Department to create an outbound foreign direct
investment review program that will require reporting on or (in more narrow circumstances) will prohibit investments by U.S. persons involving
“covered national security technologies and products,” which is defined to include “sensitive technologies and products in the semiconductors and
microelectronics, quantum information technologies, and AI sectors that are critical for the military, intelligence, surveillance, or cyber-enabled
capabilities” of China (to include Hong Kong and Macau). On the same day, the
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Treasury Department issued an advance notice of proposed rulemaking, which provides a conceptual framework for outbound investment controls
focused on China. As of the date of this annual report, the final rules implementing the executive order has not become effective yet, and the scope of
the outbound foreign direct investment review program may be materially different from what is currently contemplated. Therefore, there are substantial
uncertainties on whether the outbound foreign direct investment review program will have a material impact on our business, results of operations,
financial condition, and prospects.
In addition, the United States is in the process of developing new export controls with respect to “emerging and foundational” technologies, which
may include certain AI and semiconductor technologies. The U.S. government also reportedly is considering imposing new restrictions on the ability of
U.S. persons to make investments in or engage in transactions with certain Chinese companies. The United States has also restricted U.S. persons from
investing in publicly-traded securities of “Chinese Military-Industrial Complex” companies identified by the Treasury Department. Measures such as
these could deter suppliers in the United States and/or other countries that impose export controls and other restrictions from providing technologies and
products to, making investments in, or otherwise engaging in transactions with Chinese companies.
As a result of these and other measures, Chinese companies may have to identify and secure alterative supplies or sources of financing, which they
may not be able to do so in a timely manner and at commercially acceptable terms, or at all. In addition, Chinese companies may have to limit and
reduce their research and development and other business activities, or cease conducting transactions with parties, in the United States and other
countries that impose export controls or other restrictions. Like other Chinese companies, our business, financial condition and results of operations
could be adversely affected as a result.
Failure to retain key third-party agents or attract additional third-party agents, or termination of our relationship with third-party agents could
materially and adversely affect our business. Moreover, there is no assurance that our direct sales model in some key geographic markets will
continue to be successful.
We rely, to a large extent, on a nationwide distribution network of third-party agents for our sales to, and collection of payment from, our
customers. The operations and conduct of such third-party agents are beyond our control. They may fail to provide quality services to our customers or
otherwise breach their contracts with our customers, or experience operational or financial difficulties or run out of business, or engage in misconduct
with respect to our sales and our customers. If any of the foregoing issues arise, we may terminate our relationship with third-party agents, lose
customers and our results of operations may be materially and adversely affected. In addition, since most of third-party agents are not bound by long-
term contracts, we cannot assure you that we will continue to maintain favorable relationships with them. If we fail to retain key third-party agents or
attract additional ones on terms that are commercially reasonable, our business and results of operations could be materially and adversely affected. We
may decide to terminate existing third-party agents and transition to new ones or to our own distribution channel. If we decide and fail to smoothly
transition our business to new third-party agents or to our own distribution channel, our business and results of operations could be materially and
adversely affected.
We have transitioned to using our direct sales force to serve customers in some key geographic markets, such as Beijing, Shanghai and other
cities. There is no assurance that our direct sales model in those markets will continue to be successful. If we fail to maintain an adequate direct sales
force, retain existing customers and continue to attract new customers in those markets, our business, results of operations and prospects could be
materially and adversely affected.
We may not be able to detect or prevent misconduct committed by our employees or third parties.
Misconduct by our employees, such as unauthorized business transactions, bribery, corruption and breach of our internal policies and procedures,
or by consultants or other third parties, such as breach of law, may be difficult to detect or prevent. It could subject us to financial loss and sanctions
imposed by government
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authorities while seriously damaging our reputation. This may also impair our ability to effectively attract prospective users, develop customer loyalty,
obtain financing on favorable terms and conduct other business activities. Our risk management systems, information technology systems and internal
control procedures are designed to monitor our operations and overall compliance. Historically we have identified certain incidents of employee and
third-party misconduct. Although we have zero tolerance towards any illegal activities and have put in place internal policies and procedures against
employee misconduct, however, there can be no assurance we will be able to identify non-compliance or illegal activities promptly, or at all.
Furthermore, it is not always possible to detect and prevent misconduct committed by our employees or third parties, and the precautions we take to
prevent and detect such activities may not be effective. This may materially and adversely affect our business, brand, financial condition and results of
operations.
We rely on Baidu Union partners for a significant portion of our revenues. If we fail to retain existing Baidu Union partners or attract additional
members, our revenue growth and profitability may be adversely affected.
We pay Baidu Union partners a portion of our revenues as we leverage traffic of the Baidu Union partners’ internet properties. Some of Baidu
Union partners, however, may compete with us in one or more areas of our business. Therefore, they may decide in the future to terminate their
relationships with us. If Baidu Union partners decide to use a competitor’s or their own internet search services, or if our competitors offer more
attractive prices to bid for union traffic, our user traffic may decline, which may adversely affect our revenues. If we fail to attract additional Baidu
Union partners, our revenue growth may be adversely affected. In addition, if we have to share a larger portion of our revenues to retain existing Baidu
Union partners or attract additional partners, our profitability may be adversely affected.
Our overseas operations may not be successful.
We have launched products and services in local languages to internet users in several countries. It is uncertain when the operation will become
profitable, if at all. In particular, we rely on local telecommunication operators and service providers to provide us with network services and data center
hosting services, and our systems for these international products and services are not redundant across different regions and data centers. Any
interruption to the internet infrastructure or any data center may render our products and services in the region unavailable.
We face certain risks inherent in doing business internationally, including:
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difficulties in developing, staffing and simultaneously managing a foreign operation as a result of distance, language and cultural
differences;
challenges in formulating effective local sales and marketing strategies targeting users from various jurisdictions and cultures, who have a
diverse range of preferences and demands;
challenges in identifying appropriate local business partners and establishing and maintaining good working relationships with them;
dependence on local platforms in marketing our international products and services overseas;
challenges in selecting suitable geographical regions for international business;
longer customer payment cycles;
currency exchange rate fluctuations;
political or social unrest or economic instability;
compliance with applicable foreign laws and regulations and unexpected changes in laws or regulations;
exposure to different tax jurisdictions that may subject us to greater fluctuations in our effective tax rate and potentially adverse tax
consequences; and
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increased costs associated with doing business in foreign jurisdictions.
One or more of these factors could harm our overseas operations and consequently, could harm our overall results of operations.
If we are unable to adapt or expand our existing technology infrastructure to accommodate greater traffic, content or additional customer
requirements, our business may be harmed.
Our Baidu platform regularly serves a large number of users and customers and delivers a large number of daily page views. Our technology
infrastructure is highly complex and may not provide satisfactory service in the future, especially as the number of users and customers increases. We
may be required to upgrade our technology infrastructure to keep up with the increasing traffic on our Baidu platform, such as increasing the capacity of
our servers and the sophistication of our software. If we fail to adapt our technology infrastructure to accommodate greater traffic or customer
requirements, our users and customers may become dissatisfied with our services and switch to our competitors’ websites, which could harm our
business.
If we fail to detect fraudulent click-throughs, our customers’ confidence in us could be damaged and our revenues could decline.
We are exposed to the risk of click-through fraud on our paid search results. Click-through fraud occurs when a person clicks paid search results
for a reason other than to view the underlying content of search results. Although our anti-spam algorithms and tools can identify and respond to spam
web pages quickly and effectively and thus capture and prevent some fraudulent click-throughs, there is no assurance that our anti-spam technology is
able to detect and stop all fraudulent click-throughs. If we fail to detect fraudulent clicks or otherwise are unable to prevent this fraudulent activity, the
affected customers may experience a reduced return on investment in our online marketing services and lose confidence in the effectiveness of our
services, and we may issue refunds to our customers. If this happens, we may be unable to retain existing customers or attract new customers for our
online marketing services, and our online marketing revenues could decline. In addition, affected customers may also file legal actions against us
claiming that we have over-charged or failed to refund them. Any such claims or similar claims, regardless of their merits, could be time-consuming and
costly for us to defend against and could also adversely affect our brand and our customers’ confidence in the effectiveness of our services. We
experienced a number of incidents involving fraudulent click-throughs in recent years. Although the amount of revenue involved in these incidents was
immaterial, such cases of fraudulent click-throughs, if occurring on a large-scale and widespread manner, may damage the reputation of our search
ecosystem.
The successful operation of our business depends upon the performance and reliability of the internet infrastructure and fixed telecommunications
networks in China.
Our business depends on the performance and reliability of the internet infrastructure in China. Almost all access to the internet is maintained
through state-owned telecommunication operators under the administrative control and regulatory supervision of the PRC Ministry of Industry and
Information Technology, or the MIIT. In addition, the national networks in mainland China are connected to the internet through international gateways
controlled by the PRC government. These international gateways are the only channels through which a domestic user can connect to the internet. It is
unpredictable whether a more sophisticated internet infrastructure will be developed in mainland China. We may not have access to alternative networks
in the event of disruptions, failures or other problems with mainland China’s internet infrastructure. In addition, the internet infrastructure in mainland
China may not support the demands associated with continued growth in internet usage.
We rely heavily on China Telecommunications Corporation, or China Telecom, China United Network Communications Group Company
Limited, or China Unicom, and China Mobile Communications Corporation, or China Mobile, to provide us with network services and data center
hosting services. We have entered into
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contracts with various local branches or subsidiaries of China Telecom, China Unicom and China Mobile to obtain data communications capacity. We
have limited access to alternative services in the event of disruptions, failures or other problems with the fixed telecommunications networks of these
companies, or if these companies otherwise fail to provide the services. Any unscheduled service interruption could damage our reputation and result in
a decrease in our revenues. Furthermore, we have no control over the costs of the services provided by these telecommunication companies. If the prices
that we pay for telecommunications and internet services rise significantly, our gross margins could be adversely affected. In addition, if internet access
fees or other charges to internet users increase, our user traffic may decrease, which in turn may harm our revenues.
Security breaches and improper access to or disclosure of our data or user data, or any system failure or compromise of our security, could harm
our reputation and adversely affect our business.
Our business is prone to cyber-attacks seeking unauthorized access to our data or user data or to disrupt our ability to provide services. Any failure
to prevent or mitigate security breaches and improper access to or disclosure of our data or user data, such as personal information, including names,
accounts, user IDs and passwords, and payment or transaction related information, could result in the loss or misuse of such data, which could cause a
loss or give rise to liabilities to the owners of confidential information, such as our users, customers, third-party agents, content providers and Baidu
Union partners, subject us to penalties imposed by administrative authorities, and disrupt our operations. For example, Baidu Drive provides services to
many individual users who may upload sensitive personal information and documents of significance to Baidu Drive. In the event of an unauthorized
access, such information and documents might be leaked or even further sold through illegal means. In addition, computer malware, viruses, social
engineering (predominantly spear phishing attacks), and general hacking have become more prevalent in our industry, have occurred on our systems in
the past, and may occur again on our systems in the future. We also regularly encounter attempts to create false or undesirable user accounts, purchase
ads, or take other actions on our platform for purposes such as spamming, spreading misinformation, or other objectionable ends. As a result of our
prominence, the size of our user base, and the types and volume of personal data on our systems, we believe that we are a particularly attractive target
for such breaches and attacks. Such attacks may cause interruptions to the services we provide, degrade the user experience, cause users or customers to
lose confidence and trust in our products and services, impair our internal systems, or result in financial harm to us.
We have adopted strict information security policies and deployed advanced measures to implement the policies, including, among others,
advanced encryption technologies. However, we may not be able to implement adequate preventative measures or prevent compromises or breaches of
our preventative measures due to the evolution of the sophistication of cyber-attacks, advances in technology, an increased level of sophistication and
diversity of our products and services, an increased level of expertise of hackers, new discoveries in the field of cryptography or others, software bugs or
other technical malfunctions, employee, contractor, or vendor error or malfeasance, government surveillance, or other evolving threats. As a result, we
may incur significant costs in protecting against or remediating cyber-attacks.
In addition, some of our developers or other partners, such as those that help us measure the effectiveness of advertisements, may receive or store
information provided by us or by our users through mobile or web applications integrated with our products. We provide limited information to such
third parties based on the scope of services provided to us. However, if these third parties fail to adopt or adhere to adequate data security practices, or in
the event of a breach of their networks, our data or our users’ data may be improperly accessed, used, or disclosed.
Affected users or government authorities could initiate legal or regulatory actions against us in connection with any actual or perceived security
breaches or improper disclosure of data, which could cause us to incur significant expense and liabilities or result in orders or consent decrees forcing us
to modify our business practices. Such incidents or our efforts to remediate such incidents may also result in a decline in our user base or engagement
levels. Any of these events could have a material and adverse effect on our business, reputation, or results of operations.
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Defects or errors in our products or services could diminish demand for our products or services, harm our business and results of operations and
subject us to liability.
Our customers use our products for important aspects of their personal lives or businesses. Any errors, defects or disruptions to our products and
any other performance problems with our products could damage our customers’ personal lives or businesses and, in turn, hurt our brand and reputation.
We provide regular updates to our products, which have in the past contained, and may in the future contain, undetected errors, failures, vulnerabilities
and bugs when first introduced or released. Real or perceived errors, failures or bugs in our products could result in negative publicity, loss of or delay in
market acceptance of our platform, loss of competitive position, lower customer retention or claims by customers for losses sustained by them. In such
an event, we may be required, or may choose, for customer relations or other reasons, to expend additional resources in order to help correct the
problem. In addition, we may not carry insurance to compensate us for any losses that may result from claims arising from defects or disruptions in our
products. As a result, our reputation and our brand could be harmed, and our business, results of operations and financial condition may be adversely
affected.
Concerns and unfavorable media coverage relating to our privacy practices could damage our reputation, deter current and potential users and
customers from using our products and services and negatively impact our business.
The internet industry is facing significant challenges with respect to information security and privacy, including the storage, transmission and
sharing of confidential information. The general public, our users, customers, third-party agents, content providers and Baidu Union partners are
increasingly aware of the vulnerability of confidential and private information. We will continue to experience media or regulatory scrutiny of our
actions or decisions regarding user privacy, content or advertising. Furthermore, concerns have been expressed from time to time about whether our
products, services or processes could compromise the privacy of users and others.
We transmit and store confidential and private information of our users, customers, third-party agents, content providers and Baidu Union
partners, such as personal information, including names, accounts, user IDs and passwords, and payment or transaction related information. Historically
there has been negative publicity or media reports making allegations about our practice, and we cannot rule out similar possibilities of such in the
future. Although we strive to comply with all privacy related requirements, we cannot guarantee that our products or services are at all times without
defect due to the complexity and rapid evolvement of technology, etc. Concerns about our practices with regard to the collection, use, disclosure, or
security of personal information or other privacy related matters, and any negative publicity on our information safety or privacy protection mechanism
and policy, even if unfounded, has in the past, and could adversely affect our business and results of operations and financial condition. Such concerns
and negative publicity could damage our reputation and brand, and have an adverse effect on the size, engagement and loyalty of our user base, which
could adversely affect our business and results.
If we fail to maintain an effective system of internal control over financial reporting, we may lose investor confidence in the reliability of our
financial statements.
We are subject to reporting obligations under the U.S. securities laws. The SEC, as required by Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002,
adopted rules requiring every public company to include a management report on the company’s internal control over financial reporting in its annual
report, which contains management’s assessment of the effectiveness of its internal control over financial reporting. In addition, an independent
registered public accounting firm must attest to and report on the effectiveness of the company’s internal control over financial reporting.
Our management has concluded that our internal control over financial reporting was effective as of December 31, 2023. See “Item 15. Controls
and Procedures.” Our independent registered public accounting firm
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has issued an attestation report, which has concluded that our internal control over financial reporting was effective in all material aspects as of
December 31, 2023. However, if we fail to maintain an effective system of internal control over financial reporting in the future, our management and
our independent registered public accounting firm may not be able to conclude that we have effective internal control over financial reporting at a
reasonable assurance level. This could in turn result in loss of investor confidence in the reliability of our financial statements and negatively impact the
trading price of our Class A ordinary shares and ADSs. Furthermore, we have incurred and anticipate that we will continue to incur considerable costs,
management time and other resources in an effort to comply with Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act and other requirements.
Termination or other changes of related party transactions in the ordinary course of business may have an adverse impact on our results of
operations and financial performance.
Certain parties with which we transact may be deemed as our related parties by virtual of our equity interests in or significant influence over them.
We have entered into transactions with these related parties in the ordinary course of business such as providing online marketing and/or other services
to them. In 2021, 2022 and 2023, we had related party transactions of RMB4.4 billion, RMB4.4 billion and RMB4.5 billion (US$636 million) in
aggregate, respectively, in connection with online marketing and other services provided to related parties in our ordinary course of business. Please
refer to “Item 7. Major Shareholders and Related Party Transactions” for more details. However, such related party transactions may discontinue in the
future for a variety of reasons, such as the development status of relevant business or our relationship with the relevant parties. For example, a party may
cease to be our related party, when we strategically dispose of our equity interests or otherwise cease to have significant influence over it, and such
change in relationship may adversely affect our transactions and other business collaboration with the party. In addition, if we later on acquire a
controlling stake in a related party or otherwise consolidate its results into our consolidated financial statements, our transactions with such party will no
longer be related party transactions, and will not contribute to our financial results on a consolidated basis. Although we do not rely on these related
party transactions, such change in relationship and/or transactions with related parties may have an adverse impact on our results of operations and
financial performance.
We may have exposure to greater than anticipated tax liabilities.
We are subject to enterprise income tax, value-added tax and other taxes in many provinces and cities in mainland China and our tax structure is
subject to review by various local tax authorities. The determination of our provision for income tax and other tax liabilities requires significant
judgment. In the ordinary course of our business, there are many transactions and calculations where the ultimate tax determination is uncertain. For
example, if our P4P service is classified as a form of advertisement distribution service, we may be required to pay a cultural business construction fee.
See “Item 5.A. Operating and Financial Review and Prospects—Operating Results—Taxation.” In addition, if this classification of P4P services were to
be retroactively applied, we might be subject to sanctions, including payment of delinquent fees and fines for the revenues generated from our P4P
services prior to the classification. Moreover, under the PRC Enterprise Income Tax Law, or the EIT Law, the PRC tax authorities may impose
reasonable adjustments on taxation if they have identified any related party transactions that are inconsistent with arm’s-length principles. Particularly,
pursuant to the Administrative Measures for Special Tax Adjustment and Investigation and Mutual Consultation Procedures issued by the State
Administration of Tax in March 2017, if a mainland China enterprise makes an outbound payment to its overseas related party which undertakes no
functions, bears no risks or has no substantial operation or activities and such payment is inconsistent with arm’s-length principles, the tax authorities
may carry out a special tax adjustment based on the full amount deducted prior to tax. Although we believe all our related party transactions, including
all payments by our mainland China subsidiaries and the variable interest entities to our non-mainland China entities, are made on an arm’s-length basis
and our estimates are reasonable, the ultimate decisions by the tax authorities may differ from the amounts recorded in our financial statements and may
materially affect our financial results in the period or periods for which such determination is made.
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Furthermore, due to shifting economic and political conditions, tax policies and laws, tax rates in various jurisdictions may be subject to
significant changes in ways that could impair our financial results. Various jurisdictions around the world have enacted or are considering enacting
digital services taxes, which could lead to inconsistent and potentially overlapping international tax regimes applicable to highly-digitalized businesses.
In 2021, the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development announced an Inclusive Framework on Base Erosion and Profit Shifting
including Pillar Two Model Rules defining the global minimum tax, which calls for the taxation of large multinational corporations at a minimum rate of
15%. Subsequently, multiple sets of administrative guidance have been issued. Various tax jurisdictions have either recently enacted legislation to adopt
certain components of the Pillar Two Model Rules beginning in 2024 with the adoption of additional components in later years or announced their plans
to enact such legislation in future years. We will continue to evaluate the impact of such legislative initiatives in the tax jurisdictions we operate in.
There are uncertainties on the rules and implementations and there is no guarantee that this will not affect our financial results.
In addition, our mainland China subsidiaries and the variable interest entities providing advertising services are exempted from cultural business
construction fee for 2020 and 2021 and enjoy a 50% reduction of cultural business construction fee from January 1, 2022 to December 31, 2024. There
is no assurance that the 50% reduction will continue after 2024.
We are subject to changing laws and regulations regarding regulatory matters, corporate governance and public disclosures that have increased
both our costs and the risk of non-compliance.
We are subject to rules and regulations by various governing bodies, including, for example, the SEC, which is charged with the protection of
investors and the oversight of companies whose securities are publicly traded, and the various regulatory authorities in China and the Cayman Islands,
and to new and evolving regulatory measures under applicable law. Our efforts to comply with new and changing laws and regulations have resulted in
and are likely to continue to result in, increased general and administrative expenses and a diversion of management time and attention from revenue-
generating activities to compliance activities.
Moreover, because these laws, regulations and standards change over time and are subject to varying interpretations, their application in practice
may evolve as new guidance becomes available. This evolution may result in ongoing uncertainty regarding compliance matters and additional costs due
to continuous revisions of our disclosure and governance practices. If we fail to address and comply with these regulations and any subsequent changes,
we may face penalties and our business could suffer harm. For example, on December 29, 2023, the Standing Committee of the National People’s
Congress promulgated the Amended PRC Company Law, which will come into effect on July 1, 2024 and supersede the existing PRC Company Law.
The amended PRC Company Law imposes stricter requirements on capital contributions for companies established in the PRC. On February 6, 2024,
the SAMR released a draft of the Provisions of the State Council on Implementing the Registered Capital Registration and Management System under
the Amended PRC Company Law for public comments until March 5, 2024. This draft further specifies the detailed requirements and measures for the
registration and management of registered capital under the Amended PRC Company Law. See “Item 4.B. Information on the Company—Business
Overview—Regulations—Regulations on Corporate Governance” for details. According to the Amended PRC Company Law, we may need to fulfill
capital contribution obligations to our subsidiaries or provide financial support to the nominee shareholders of the variable interest entities within a
much shorter time frame than currently required. However, since the amended PRC Company Law is still relatively new and the foregoing draft
implementation measures have only been released for public comment, there remains uncertainty regarding the law’s implementation and interpretation,
as well as the adoption and effective date of the implementation measures. We will closely monitor the legislative developments related to the amended
PRC Company Law and its implementation measures to assess the potential impact on us in a timely manner.
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We have limited business insurance coverage.
We have purchased insurance to cover certain liabilities, properties, product quality and employees in connection with certain aspects of our
businesses. However, we only have limited business liability or disruption insurance coverage for our operations in mainland China. Any business
disruption may result in our incurring substantial costs and the diversion of our resources.
We face risks related to health epidemics, severe weather conditions and other outbreaks.
In recent years, there have been outbreaks of health epidemics in China and globally, including the outbreak of COVID-19 pandemic. COVID-19
resulted in quarantines, travel restrictions, and temporary closure of businesses and facilities in China and worldwide between 2020 and 2022. For its
impact on our financial results, please see “Item 5. Operating and Financial Review and Prospects.” Potential impacts of health epidemics may include,
but are not limited to, the following:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
temporary closure of offices, travel restrictions or suspension of services of our customers and suppliers may negatively affect the demand
for our services;
our customers in industries that are negatively impacted by epidemics, including the healthcare, travel, offline education, franchising,
auto/transportation and real estate/home furnishing sectors, may reduce their budgets on online advertising and marketing, which may
materially adversely impact our revenue from online marketing services;
our customers may require additional time to pay us or fail to pay us at all, which could significantly increase the amount of accounts
receivable and require us to record additional allowances for doubtful accounts;
the business operations of our third-party agents could be negatively impacted, which may negatively impact our distribution channel, or
result in loss of customers or disruption of our services, which may in turn materially adversely affect our financial condition and operating
results;
any disruption of our supply chain, logistics providers or customers could adversely impact our business and results of operations,
including causing us or our suppliers to cease manufacturing Xiaodu smart devices for a period of time or materially delay delivery to
customers, which may also lead to loss of customers, as well as reputational, competitive and business harm to us;
many of our customers, third-party agents, suppliers and other partners are SMEs, which may not have strong cash flows or be well
capitalized, and may be vulnerable to a pandemic and slowing macroeconomic conditions;
the global stock markets may experience significant declines and the private and public companies that we have invested in could be
materially adversely affected, which may lead to significant impairment in the fair values of our investments and in turn materially
adversely affect our financial condition and operating results; and
corporate social responsibility initiatives we put forth in response to epidemics may negatively affect our financial condition and operating
results.
Risks Related to Our Corporate Structure
Laws and regulations of mainland China governing our businesses and the validity of certain of our contractual arrangements are uncertain. If we
are found to be in violation, we could be subject to sanctions. In addition, changes in the laws and regulations of mainland China or changes in
interpretations thereof may materially and adversely affect our business.
Current laws and regulations of mainland China place certain restrictions and conditions on foreign ownership of certain areas of businesses. For
example, pursuant to the Special Administrative Measures
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(Negative List) for Foreign Investment Access (2021 Version), foreign investors are not allowed to own more than 50% of the equity interests in a
value-added telecommunication service provider (excluding e-commerce, domestic multiparty communications, store-and-forward and call centers). In
addition, foreign investors are prohibited from investing in companies engaged in internet culture businesses (except for music) and radio and television
program production businesses.
We and our mainland China subsidiaries are still considered foreign persons or foreign-invested enterprises under the laws related to foreign
investment of mainland China. As a result, we and our mainland China subsidiaries are subject to legal restrictions on or conditions for foreign
ownership of various industries, including the aforementioned ones. Due to these restrictions and conditions, we operate our platform and conduct
business in certain restricted or prohibited industries in mainland China through the variable interest entities. As all the nominee shareholders of the
variable interest entities are either citizens of mainland China or domestic enterprises in mainland China, these entities are therefore considered as
domestic enterprises under the laws of mainland China. The “nominee shareholders” refer to those shareholders who have entered into exclusive equity
purchase and transfer option agreements and equity pledge agreements with us as part of the contractual arrangements. Our contractual arrangements
with the variable interest entities and the nominee shareholders allow us to have the power to direct the activities of these entities that most significantly
impact their economic performance. These contractual arrangements demonstrate our ability and intention to continue to exercise the ability to absorb
losses or receive economic benefits that could potentially be significant to the variable interest entities. In 2021, 2022 and 2023, we derived 44%, 47%
and 45% of our external revenues from the variable interest entities, respectively.
However, our company is a Cayman Islands holding company with no equity ownership in the variable interest entities and we conduct our
operations in mainland China through (i) our mainland China subsidiaries and (ii) the variable interest entities with which we have maintained
contractual arrangements. Investors in our Class A ordinary shares or the ADSs thus are not purchasing equity interest in the variable interest entities in
mainland China but instead are purchasing equity interest in a Cayman Islands holding company. If the PRC government deems that our contractual
arrangements with the variable interest entities do not comply with mainland China’s regulatory restrictions on foreign investment in the relevant
industries, or if these regulations or the interpretation of existing regulations change or are interpreted differently in the future, we could be subject to
severe penalties or be forced to relinquish our interests in those operations. Baidu, Inc. may not be able to repay our indebtedness, and our shares may
decline in value or become worthless, if we are unable to assert our contractual control rights over the assets of the variable interest entities. Our holding
company in the Cayman Islands, the variable interest entities, and investors of our company face uncertainty about potential future actions by the PRC
government that could affect the enforceability of the contractual arrangements with the variable interest entities and, consequently, significantly affect
the financial performance of the variable interest entities and our company as a group.
There are substantial uncertainties regarding the interpretation, application and change of the laws and regulations of mainland China, including,
but not limited to, the laws and regulations governing our business, or the enforcement and performance of our contractual arrangements with the
variable interest entities, including but not limited to Baidu Netcom and the nominee shareholders. Due to the uncertainty and complexity of the
regulatory environment, we cannot assure you that we would always be in full compliance with applicable laws and regulations, the violation of which
may have adverse effect on our business and our reputation.
Although we believe we, our mainland China subsidiaries and the variable interest entities comply with current laws and regulations of mainland
China, we cannot assure you that the PRC government would agree that our contractual arrangements comply with the licensing, registration or other
regulatory requirements of mainland China, with existing policies or with requirements or policies that may be adopted in the future. The PRC
government has discretion in determining rectifiable or punitive measures for non-compliance with or violations of the laws and regulations of mainland
China. If the PRC government determines that we or the variable interest entities do not comply with applicable law, it could revoke the variable interest
entities’ business
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and operating licenses, require the variable interest entities to discontinue or restrict the variable interest entities’ operations, restrict the variable interest
entities’ right to collect revenues, block the variable interest entities’ websites, require the variable interest entities to restructure their operations, impose
additional conditions or requirements with which the variable interest entities may not be able to comply, impose restrictions on the variable interest
entities’ business operations or on their customers, or take other regulatory or enforcement actions against the variable interest entities that could be
harmful to their business. Any of these or similar occurrences could significantly disrupt our or the variable interest entities’ business operations or
restrict the variable interest entities from conducting a substantial portion of their business operations, which could materially and adversely affect the
variable interest entities’ business, financial condition and results of operations. If any of these occurrences results in our inability to direct the activities
of any of the variable interest entities that most significantly impact its economic performance, and/or our failure to receive the economic benefits from
any of the variable interest entities, we may not be able to consolidate these entities in our consolidated financial statements in accordance with U.S.
GAAP.
Our contractual arrangements with the variable interest entities in mainland China and the individual nominee shareholders may not be as effective
in providing control over these entities as direct ownership.
Since the laws of mainland China restrict or impose conditions on foreign equity ownership in, among other areas, the internet content services,
value-added telecommunication-based services, internet map services, online audio and video services and mobile application distribution companies in
mainland China, we operate our platform and conduct these businesses through the variable interest entities in mainland China. We have no equity
interest in any of these entities and must rely on contractual arrangements to control and operate the businesses and assets held by the variable interest
entities, including the domain names and trademarks that have been transferred from our subsidiaries to the variable interest entities in accordance with
requirements of the laws of mainland China. These contractual arrangements may not be as effective in providing control over these entities as direct
ownership. For example, the variable interest entities and the individual nominee shareholders could breach their contractual arrangements with us by,
among other things, failing to operate our business, such as using the domain names and trademarks our subsidiaries have transferred to them or
maintaining our platform, in an acceptable manner or taking other actions that are detrimental to our interests. If the variable interest entities or the
individual nominee shareholders fail to perform their obligations under these contractual arrangements, we may have to incur substantial costs to
enforce such arrangements, and rely on legal remedies under the laws of mainland China, including contract remedies, which may not be sufficient or
effective. If we are unable to enforce these contractual arrangements, or if we suffer significant delay or other obstacles in the process of enforcing these
contractual arrangements, we may not be able to have the power to direct the activities that most significantly affect the economic performance of the
variable interest entities, and we may lose control over the assets owned by the variable interest entities, including our baidu.com domain name and
website, and any other domain names and websites we have access to may not attract a large number of users and customers at the same level as
baidu.com. As a result, our ability to conduct our business may be materially and adversely affected, and we may not be able to consolidate the financial
results of the relevant variable interest entities into our consolidated financial statements in accordance with U.S. GAAP, which may materially and
adversely affect our results of operations and damage our reputation. In addition, we have entered into similar contractual arrangements with other
consolidated affiliated entities and their nominee shareholders in other jurisdictions. Similar to the potential risks associated with the contractual
arrangement in the mainland China, the effectiveness and enforceability of such contractual arrangements may also be subject to the laws and precedents
of the respective jurisdictions.
Our contractual arrangements with the variable interest entities in mainland China may result in adverse tax consequences to us.
As a result of our corporate structure and the contractual arrangements between our subsidiaries and each of the variable interest entities in
mainland China, we would be subject to adverse tax consequences if the PRC tax authorities were to determine that the contracts between our
subsidiaries and these variable interest entities were
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not on an arm’s-length basis and therefore constituted a favorable transfer pricing. Under the EIT Law, an enterprise must submit its annual tax return
together with information on related-party transactions to the PRC tax authorities. The PRC tax authorities may impose reasonable adjustments on
taxation if they have identified any related party transactions that are inconsistent with arm’s-length principles. For example, the PRC tax authorities
could request that the variable interest entities adjust their taxable income upward for PRC tax purposes. Such adjustment could adversely affect us by
increasing the variable interest entities’ tax expenses without reducing our subsidiaries’ tax expenses, which could subject the variable interest entities to
interest due on late payments and other penalties for under-payment of taxes.
The individual nominee shareholders of the variable interest entities may have potential conflicts of interest with us, which may adversely affect our
business. We do not have any arrangements in place to address such potential conflicts.
We have designated individuals who are PRC nationals to be the nominee shareholders of the variable interest entities in mainland China. For
example, Robin Yanhong Li, our chairman, chief executive officer and co-founder, is also the principal nominee shareholder of Baidu Netcom, which is
the principal variable interest entity.
Although the individual nominee shareholders are contractually obligated to act in good faith and in our best interest, they may still have potential
conflicts of interest with us. For example, some individual nominee shareholders of the variable interest entities do not have a significant equity stake in
our company other than the share options granted to them. We cannot assure you that when conflicts of interest arise, any or all of these individuals will
act in the best interests of our company or such conflicts will be resolved in our favor. In addition, these individuals may breach, cause the variable
interest entities to breach or refuse to renew, the existing contractual arrangements with us. Currently, we do not have any arrangements to address
potential conflicts of interest between these individuals and our company, except that we could exercise our transfer option under the exclusive equity
purchase and transfer option agreement with the relevant individual nominee shareholder to request him/her to transfer all of his/her equity ownership in
the relevant variable interest entity to a mainland China entity or individual designated by us. We rely on Mr. Robin Yanhong Li, who is also a director
of our company, to abide by the Cayman Islands law, which provides that directors owe a fiduciary duty to the company, and those who are also
directors or officers of our mainland China subsidiaries to abide by the laws of mainland China, which provides that directors and officers owe a
fiduciary duty to the company. Such fiduciary duty requires directors and/or officers to act in good faith and in the best interests of the company and not
to use their positions for personal gains. There are, however, no specific provisions under the Cayman Islands law or the laws of mainland China on how
to address potential conflicts of interest. If we cannot resolve any conflict of interest or dispute between us and the individual nominee shareholders of
the variable interest entities, we would have to rely on legal proceedings, which could disrupt our business, distract management and subject us to
substantial uncertainty as to the outcome of any such legal proceedings.
We may be unable to collect long-term loans to the nominee shareholders of the variable interest entities in mainland China.
As of December 31, 2023, we have made long-term loans in an aggregate principal amount of RMB19.2 billion (US$2.7 billion) to the nominee
shareholders of the variable interest entities. We extended these loans to enable the nominee shareholders to fund the capitalization of these entities. We
may in the future provide additional loans to the nominee shareholders of the variable interest entities in mainland China in connection with any increase
in their capitalization to the extent necessary and permissible under applicable law. Our ability to ultimately collect these loans will depend on the
profitability of these variable interest entities and their operational needs, which are uncertain. As of the date of this annual report, we do not have any
repayment schedule with respect to such loans to the nominee shareholders of the variable interest entities.
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We are in the process of registering the pledges of equity interests by nominee shareholders of some of the variable interest entities, and we may not
be able to enforce the equity pledges against any third parties who acquire the equity interests in good faith in the relevant variable interest entities
before the pledges are registered.
Pursuant to equity pledge agreements under the contractual arrangements, the nominee shareholders of each of the variable interest entities should
pledge all of their equity interests in the relevant variable interest entities to our subsidiaries. An equity pledge agreement becomes effective among the
parties upon execution. However, according to the PRC Civil Code, which became effective from January 1, 2021, an equity pledge is not perfected as a
security property right unless it is registered with the local administration for market regulation. We are still in the process of registering the pledge
relating to certain variable interest entity(ies), relating to recent equity interest transfers and capital increase. Prior to the completion of the registration,
we may not be able to successfully enforce the equity pledge against any third parties who have acquired property right interests in good faith in the
equity interests in the relevant variable interest entity(ies).
If the chops of our mainland China subsidiaries and the variable interest entities are not kept safely, are stolen or are used by unauthorized persons
or for unauthorized purposes, the corporate governance of these entities could be severely and adversely compromised.
In mainland China, a company chop or seal serves as the legal representation of the company towards third parties even when unaccompanied by a
signature. Each legally registered company in mainland China is required to maintain a company chop, which must be registered with the local Public
Security Bureau. In addition to this mandatory company chop, companies may have several other chops which can be used for specific purposes. The
chops of our mainland China subsidiaries and the variable interest entities are generally held securely by personnel designated or approved by us in
accordance with our internal control procedures. To the extent those chops are not kept safely, are stolen or are used by unauthorized persons or for
unauthorized purposes, the corporate governance of these entities could be severely and adversely compromised and those corporate entities may be
bound to abide by the terms of any documents so chopped, even if they were chopped by an individual who lacked the requisite power and authority to
do so. In addition, if the chops are misused by unauthorized persons, we could experience disruption to our normal business operations. We may have to
take corporate or legal action, which could involve significant time and resources to resolve while distracting management from our operations.
Risks Related to Doing Business in China
Changes in China’s economic, political or social conditions or government policies could have a material and adverse effect on our business and
operations.
Most of our business operations are conducted in mainland China. Accordingly, our business, results of operations, financial condition and
prospects are affected by economic, political and social conditions in China generally and by continued economic growth in China as a whole.
Although mainland China’s economy has grown significantly in the past decades, growth has been uneven, both geographically and among
various sectors of the economy. Some of the government measures aim to benefit the overall Chinese economy, but may unexpectedly have a negative
effect on us. For example, our financial condition and results of operations may be affected by government control over capital investments or changes
in tax regulations. Some of the stimulus measures designed to boost the Chinese economy may unexpectedly cause higher inflation, which could affect
our results of operations and financial condition. For example, certain operating costs and expenses, such as employee compensation and office
operating expenses, may increase as a result of higher inflation. Additionally, because a substantial portion of our assets consists of cash and cash
equivalents, restricted cash and short-term investments, high inflation could significantly reduce the value and purchasing power of these assets.
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There are uncertainties regarding the interpretation and enforcement of PRC laws, rules and regulations.
We conduct our business primarily through our subsidiaries and the variable interest entities in mainland China. Our operations in mainland China
are governed by the laws and regulations of mainland China. Our subsidiaries are generally subject to laws and regulations applicable to foreign
investments in mainland China. As a civil law jurisdiction, the legal system of mainland China is based on written statutes. Prior court decisions may be
cited for reference but have limited precedential value.
The laws and regulations of mainland China have significantly enhanced the protections afforded to various forms of foreign investments in
mainland China for the past decades. However, because certain laws and regulations are relatively new, and because of the limited volume of published
decisions and their nonbinding nature, the interpretation and enforcement of these laws and regulations involve uncertainties.
Furthermore, the legal system of mainland China is based in part on government policies and mainland China is geographically large and divided
into various provinces and municipalities. As such, different regulations and policies may have different and varying applications and interpretations in
different parts of mainland China, and it is possible that we may not be aware in a timely manner that we have been identified to be in violation of these
policies and rules until sometime after the occurrence of the violation. In addition, certain administrative and court proceedings in mainland China may
result in substantial costs and diversion of resources and management attention.
PRC government has complex regulatory requirements on the conduct of our business and it has recently promulgated certain regulations and
rules to exert more oversight over offerings that are conducted overseas and/ or foreign investment in mainland China-based issuers. Such action could
significantly limit or hinder our ability to offer or continue to offer securities to investors and cause the value of such securities to significantly decline.
We may be adversely affected by the complexity, uncertainties and changes in the regulations of internet and related business and companies in
mainland China.
The PRC government regulates the internet and related industry extensively, including foreign ownership of, and the licensing and permit
requirements pertaining to, companies in the internet industry. These internet-related laws and regulations are rapidly developing and evolving, and thus
their interpretation and enforcement, and under certain circumstances, the compliance requirements still involve significant uncertainties. For example,
we only have contractual control over our websites. We do not own the websites due to the restriction of foreign investment in businesses providing
value-added telecommunications services in mainland China, including online information services.
The licensing requirements relating to the internet business in mainland China are uncertain and evolving. This means that permits, licenses or
operations at some of our mainland China subsidiaries and the variable interest entities may be subject to challenge, or we may not be able to obtain or
renew certain permits or licenses, including, without limitation, a Value-Added Telecommunication Business Operating License, which is issued by the
MIIT, an Internet News License, which is issued by the CAC, a Short Messaging Service Access Code Certificate, which is issued by the MIIT, an
Online Audio/Video Program Transmission License, which is issued by the State Administration of Press, Publication, Radio, Film and Television, or
the SAPPRFT (the corresponding regulatory body currently known as National Radio and Television Administration, or the NRTA), a Radio and
Television Program Production License, which is issued by the local bureau of the NRTA, a Surveying and Mapping Qualification Certificate for
internet map services, which is issued by the National Administration of Surveying, Mapping and Geo-information, an Internet Culture Business Permit,
which is issued by the local bureau of the then Ministry of Culture, or the Ministry of Culture and Tourism which has replaced the Ministry of Culture, a
Publication Business Operating License, which is issued by the local bureau of the SAPPRFT or NPPA, a Filing Certificate for Internet Drug and
Medical Devices Information Services or the Qualification Certificate for Internet Drug Information Services, which is issued by provincial branch of
the State Food and Drug Administration (the corresponding regulatory body currently known as the National Medical Products Administration), a
Human Resource Services License, which is issued by the local bureau of
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the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security, a Filing Certificate for the Online Transaction Platform, which is issued by Beijing News and
Publications Bureau, a Filing Certificate for Business of Category II Medical Devices, which is issued by Haidian Branch of Beijing Administration for
Market Regulation, a Registration Certificate for Medical Devices, which is issued by Beijing Medical Products Administration, a Food Business
License, which is issued by Zengcheng Branch of Guangzhou Administration for Market Regulation, a Medicine Business License, which is issued by
Guangdong Medical Products Administration, a Filing Certificate for the Publication Online Transaction Platform, which is issued by Shanghai News
and Publications Bureau, an Internet Domain Name Services License, which is issued by Beijing Communications Administration, a Medical Device
Operation License, which is issued by Guangzhou Administration for Market Regulation, a Medical Device Production License, which is issued by
Beijing Medical Products Administration, a Filing Certificate for Third-Party Platform Provider of Online Trading Service for Drugs, which is issued by
Beijing Medical Products Administration, a Filing Certificate for Third-Party Platform Provider of Online Trading Service for Medical Devices, which
is issued by Beijing Medical Products Administration, the Practice Licenses of Medical Institutions, which are issued by the local competent
government authorities of Yinchuan and Hainan, an Internet Religious Information Service License, which is issued by Beijing Ethnic and Religious
Affairs Commission, a Filing Certificate of Artworks Operators, which is issued by Haidian Brach of Beijing Culture and Tourism Bureau, a Filing
Information Form of Third Party Platform Providers of Online Food Trading, which is issued by Beijing Medical Products Administration, an Aquatic
Wildlife Operation and Utilization License, which is issued by Guangzhou Agriculture and Rural Affairs Bureau, an Online Taxi-Hailing Operation
License, which is issued by Administrative Approval and Services Bureau of Zhaoyuan, and several permits for road testing, demonstration application
and/or commercial operation of autonomous driving vehicles, which are issued by the local competent administrations for autonomous driving in certain
cities in mainland China. Violation of the laws and regulations governing these licenses, approvals, filings or qualifications may result in penalties and
even suspension or revocation of the licenses, approvals, filings or qualifications. Failure to obtain, maintain or renew these permits and licenses may
significantly disrupt our business, or subject us to sanctions, requirements to increase capital or other conditions or enforcement, or compromise
enforceability of related contractual arrangements, or have other harmful effects on us.
New laws and regulations may be promulgated to regulate internet activities, including online advertising and internet cultural activities. Other
aspects of our online operations may be further regulated in the future. If these new laws and regulations are promulgated, additional licenses may be
required for our online operations. If our operations do not comply with these new regulations at the time they become effective, or if we fail to obtain
any licenses required under these new laws and regulations, we could be subject to penalties.
We provide value-added telecommunications services through the variable interest entities, which hold the required licenses. In July 2006, the
MIIT issued the Notice of the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology on Intensifying the Administration of Foreign Investment in Value-
Added Telecommunications Services. This notice prohibits domestic telecommunication service providers from leasing, transferring or selling
telecommunication business operating licenses to any foreign investor in any form, or providing any resources, sites or facilities to any foreign investor
for their illegal operation of a telecommunication business in mainland China. According to this notice, either the holder of a Value-Added
Telecommunication Business Operating License or its shareholders must directly own the domain names and trademarks used by the license holder in its
provision of value-added telecommunications services. The major variable interest entities hold the necessary assets that are material to the operation of
our business, including domain names, personnel, facilities and most of our intellectual property rights.
As we enter into new businesses, we may encounter additional regulatory uncertainties. For example, the current legal framework of mainland
China on autonomous cars or autonomous driving is relatively new and evolving. Pursuant to the local rules and regulations in various cities including
Beijing, Shanghai, Chongqing, Guangzhou, Wuhan and other cities, any entity intending to conduct a road testing, demonstration application of
autonomous driving vehicles and/or commercial operations in these cities must file an application for road testing, demonstration application and/or
commercial operations with a designated local agency supervising road
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testing, operation and commercialization of autonomous vehicles in these cities. It also remains uncertain what additional compliance requirements we
need to meet in order to undertake a road testing, operation and commercialization of our autonomous driving cars in other locations in mainland China.
Baidu has obtained permission to conduct road testing in Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Chongqing, Wuhan, Changsha, Chengdu, Hefei,
Yangquan, Wuzhen and certain other cities or regions. It has also achieved the qualification for remote driving commercialization demonstration,
allowing it to carry out fully driverless pilot commercialization in Wuhan, Chongqing, Beijing and Shenzhen. In addition, it has received the remote
driving road test permit in Shanghai, along with the qualification to demonstrate remote driving with passenger carriage in Guangzhou. Furthermore,
Baidu has secured the qualification for pilot commercialization in Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Chongqing, Wuhan, Changsha, Hefei,
Wuzhen and Yangquan. In particular, Baidu has obtained the permits to charge fees for driverless ride-hailing services (with a safety operator in the
vehicles, but not behind the steering wheel) on public roads in Beijing in July 2022, and obtained the permits for fully driverless ride-hailing services on
open roads in Chongqing and Wuhan in August 2022. There is no guarantee that the road testing, demonstration application and/or commercial
operations of our autonomous driving cars in other locations fully complies with local laws and regulations. If our road testing, demonstration
application and/or commercial operations are deemed by local enforcement authority as a violation of the applicable traffic and transportation laws, in
addition to being warned or fined according to the laws and regulations on road traffic safety, we may also have to suspend the road testing, the
demonstration application and/or commercial operations, which may result in that the progress of our research and development of autonomous cars will
be adversely affected and our revenue from driverless ride-hailing services will decline. We also engage in generative AI business which is a new
business area in mainland China. The regulatory and legal framework on generative AI is evolving rapidly and may not sufficiently cover all aspects of
the research, development and application of generative AI in mainland China. The PRC government authorities have gradually accelerated the pace of
legislation for generative AI related technologies including algorithm recommendation and deep synthesis in recent years. Since the end of 2021, PRC
government authorities have released a series of regulations on generative AI. See “Item 4.B. Information on the Company—Business Overview—
Regulations—Regulations on Artificial Intelligence—Regulations on Generative AI.” However, since some of such laws and regulations are still
relatively new and significant uncertainties exist with respect to the interpretation and implementation of such laws and regulations, we cannot assure
whether we will be able to comply with the requirements of such laws and regulations in a timely manner or at all. If we are unable to obtain the
necessary approvals or if we have any dispute with any third party relating to intellectual property or data security, our business operation may be
adversely affected.
The interpretation and application of existing laws, regulations and policies and possible new laws, regulations or policies of mainland China
relating to the internet industry have created substantial uncertainties regarding the legality of existing and future foreign investments in, and the
businesses and activities of, internet businesses in mainland China, including our business.
Failure to meet the PRC government’s complex regulatory requirements on our business operation could have a material adverse effect on our
operations and the value of our securities.
We conduct our business primarily through the variable interest entities and the variable interest entities’ subsidiaries in mainland China. The PRC
government has significant oversight over the conduct of our business according to the laws and regulations of mainland China. However, since the PRC
legal system continues to rapidly evolve and many laws and regulations are relatively new, the interpretation and enforcement of these laws, regulations
and rules involve uncertainties. Any failure to meet the PRC government’s complex regulatory requirements due to such uncertainties could have a
material adverse effect on our operation and/or the value of our listed securities. Also, the PRC government has recently promulgated certain regulations
and rules to exert more oversight and control over offerings that are conducted overseas and/or foreign investment in China-based issuers. For example,
on July 6, 2021, the relevant PRC government authorities made public the Opinions on Strictly Scrutinizing Illegal Securities Activities in Accordance
with the Law, which emphasize the need to strengthen the administration over illegal securities activities and the supervision on overseas listings by
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mainland China-based companies. On February 17, 2023, the CSRC released the Trial Administrative Measures of Overseas Securities Offering and
Listing by Domestic Companies and five supporting guidelines, which took effect on March 31, 2023. Pursuant to the Filing Rules, domestic companies
that seek to offer or list their securities in an overseas market, whether directly or indirectly, are required to fulfill a filing procedure and report relevant
information to the CSRC. On December 28, 2021, the CAC issued the Cybersecurity Review Measures, which require that network platform operators
holding over one million users’ personal information are required to apply for a cybersecurity review with the Cybersecurity Review Office before any
public offering in a foreign country. On November 14, 2021, the CAC released the draft Regulations on the Network Data Security for public comments,
which stipulate that a prior cybersecurity review is required for listing abroad of data processors which process over one million users’ personal
information, and the listing of data processors in Hong Kong which affects or may affect national security. Since the draft regulations are in the process
of being formulated, and the Opinions on Strictly Scrutinizing Illegal Securities Activities in Accordance with the Law, the Filing Rules and the
Cybersecurity Review Measures are relatively new and remain unclear on how they will be interpreted, amended and implemented by the PRC
government authorities, it remains uncertain whether we can obtain the specific regulatory approvals from, and complete the required filings with the
CSRC, CAC or any other PRC government authorities for our future securities offering in a timely basis or at all. If we are unable to obtain such
approvals or complete such filings, or such approvals or filings are rescinded even if obtained, our ability to continue to offer securities to investors will
be significantly limited or completely hindered and the value of such securities may be significantly declined. In addition, implementation of industry-
wide regulations directly targeting our operations could result in adverse effect on the value of our securities. Therefore, investors of our company and
our business face potential uncertainty from any of our failure to meet the PRC government’s regulatory requirements on our operation.
Any failure or perceived failure by us to comply with the enacted Guidelines to Anti-Monopoly in the Field of Internet Platforms and other anti-
monopoly laws and regulations may result in governmental investigations or enforcement actions, litigation or claims against us and could have an
adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
The PRC anti-monopoly enforcement agencies have in recent years strengthened enforcement under the PRC Anti-monopoly Law. In March
2018, the SAMR was formed as a new governmental agency to take over, among other things, the anti-monopoly enforcement functions from the
Ministry of Commerce, the NDRC and the State Administration for Industry and Commerce (now the SAMR), respectively. Since its inception, the
SAMR has continued to strengthen anti-monopoly enforcement. In November 2021, the National Anti-monopoly Bureau was inaugurated by the State
Council, which aims to further implement the fair competition policies, and strengthen anti-monopoly supervision in mainland China, especially to
strengthen oversight and law enforcement in areas involving platform economy, innovation, science and technology, information security and people’s
livelihood.
In addition to improving the anti-monopoly enforcement agencies, the PRC government is also enhancing its anti-monopoly laws, regulations and
guidance in recent years. In September 2020, the SAMR issued Anti-monopoly Compliance Guideline for Operators, which encourages, under the PRC
Anti-monopoly Law, operators to establish anti-monopoly compliance management systems to prevent anti-monopoly compliance risks. In particular, on
February 7, 2021, the Anti-monopoly Commission of the State Council officially promulgated Guidelines to Anti-Monopoly in the Field of Internet
Platforms. Pursuant to an official interpretation from the Anti-monopoly Commission of the State Council, these guidelines mainly cover five aspects,
including general provisions, monopoly agreements, abuse of market dominance, concentration of undertakings, and abuse of administrative powers that
eliminate or restrict competition. These guidelines prohibit certain monopolistic acts of internet platforms so as to protect market competition and
safeguard interests of consumers and undertakings participating in internet platform economy, including without limitation, prohibiting companies with
dominant position from abusing their market dominance (such as discriminating customers in terms of pricing and other transactional conditions using
big data and analytics, coercing counterparties into exclusivity arrangements through entering into written or oral agreements or using technologies to
block
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competitors’ interface or reduce positions in search results of goods displays, using bundle services to sell different services or products, compulsory
collection of unnecessary user data). In addition, these guidelines also reinforces anti-monopoly merger review for internet platform related transactions
to safeguard market competition. In practice, the PRC government authority also strengthens the supervision of monopoly and other unfair competition
acts, and requests to establish a new order of the platform economy. In April 2021, the SAMR, together with certain other PRC government authorities
convened an administrative guidance meeting, focusing on the problem of requiring the operators on the platform to choose “one out of two”
competitive platforms and other prominent problems, requesting major internet companies to conduct self-inspection and rectification on the activities
which may violate anti-monopoly, anti-unfair competition, tax and other related laws and regulations, to comply with the laws and regulations strictly
and to be subject to public supervision. In addition, many internet companies, including the over 30 companies which attended such administrative
guidance meeting, were required to conduct a comprehensive self-inspection and make necessary rectification accordingly. The SAMR has stated it will
organize and conduct inspections on the companies’ rectification results. If the companies are found to conduct illegal activities, more severe penalties
are expected to be imposed on them in accordance with the laws. We have completed such self-inspection and have not received any further inquiry
from the government authorities as of the date of this annual report. As these guidelines were relatively new, we are unable to estimate its specific
impact on our business, financial condition, results of operations and prospects. We cannot assure you that our business operations comply with such
regulations and authorities’ requirements in all respects. If any non-compliance is raised by the authorities and determined against us, we may be subject
to fines and other penalties.
According to the PRC Anti-monopoly Law and related regulations, companies undertaking certain investments and acquisitions relating to
business in China must notify and obtain approval from the PRC anti-monopoly enforcement agencies before completing any transaction where the
parties’ revenues exceed certain thresholds and the buyer would obtain control of, or decisive influence over, the other party, or any transaction that
would otherwise trigger the merger control filing obligations. As part of the PRC government authorities’ measures to strengthen antimonopoly
supervision, the PRC Anti-monopoly Law, which was amended and became effective on August 1, 2022, raises the maximum fines for failure to file for
concentration of undertakings, and introduces a “stop-clock mechanism” which may prolong the length of period for concentration review. In addition,
on January 22, 2024, the State Council of the PRC released the revised Provisions of the State Council on the Threshold for the Filing of Concentration
of Undertakings, which raise the filing threshold of revenue, and provide that certain transactions should also be reported to the anti-monopoly authority
even if the revenue threshold is not met. Under these provisions, certain acquisition or investment transactions between one party with large revenue,
like us, and small-scale enterprises, may be also subject to the filing of concentration of undertakings. See “Item 4.B. Information on the Company—
Business Overview—Regulations—Regulations on Anti-Monopoly Matters related to Internet Platform Companies.”
In addition to amending certain laws and regulations related to concentrations of undertaking, the PRC government has also expanded the scope of
the concentrations of undertaking subject to examination. To our knowledge, there had been few precedents where internet companies with a VIE
structure were investigated for being involved in the concentrations of undertaking before year of 2020. It had been long debated whether transactions
involving internet companies with a VIE structure are subject to prior filing of notification requirements, since filing of notification of concentration of
undertaking made by some internet companies were not accepted in the past. Due to such regulatory history in the industry and as a matter of common
industry practice in the past, we did not file prior notification of concentrations of undertaking. However, since 2020, the SAMR has indicated a change
of its regulatory practice in this regard by publishing cases of concentration of undertaking involving a VIE structure, explicit inclusion for the first time
of the filing requirement for concentrations involving a VIE structure in the anti-monopoly regulations and rules and penalizing certain internet
companies with a VIE structure for failure to file prior notifications of implementing concentrations. Hence, starting from 2020, the SAMR has been
reviewing historical cases of concentrations of undertaking of internet companies with a VIE structure, and past failure to file prior notification of
concentrations of undertaking may be investigated and penalized.
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We previously received enquiries from the SAMR related to failure to file prior notification of concentrations of undertaking, and with respect to
certain past transactions for which we failed to file the prior notification, we were fined an amount of RMB500,000 for each case. There can be no
assurance that we will not be subject to more enquiries or penalties in the future. If the anti-monopoly authority determines we, in the past or in the
future, have failed to file other concentrations which are subject to the prior notification, we may be subject to penalty, and in extreme case being
ordered to terminate the contemplated concentration, to dispose of our equity or asset within a prescribed period, to transfer our business within a
prescribed time or to take any other necessary measures to restore to the pre-concentration status.
Due to the enhanced enforcement of and tightened regulatory requirements under the Amended Anti-Monopoly Law, we may receive greater
scrutiny and attention from regulators and more frequent and stringent investigation or review by regulators, which will increase our compliance costs
and subject us to heightened risks and challenges. In addition, there are significant uncertainties on the evolving legislative activities and varied local
implementation practices of anti-monopoly and competition laws and regulations in mainland China. We may have to spend much more personnel cost
and time evaluating and managing these risks and challenges in connection with our products and services as well as our investments in our ordinary
business course to avoid any failure to comply with these regulations. Any failure or perceived failure by us to comply with the enacted Guidelines to
Anti-Monopoly in the Field of Internet Platforms and other anti-monopoly laws and regulations may result in governmental investigations or
enforcement actions, lawsuits or claims against us and could have an adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
We are subject to various economic sanction and export control laws.
We are subject to various economic and trade sanctions laws in different jurisdictions. For example, U.S. economic sanctions prohibit the
provision of products and services to countries, governments, and persons targeted by U.S. sanctions, including specific license requirements for the
export, re-export and/or transfer of specified items. United Kingdom financial sanctions and European Union sanctions also have similar regime to
prohibit the provision of products and services to countries, governments and persons on their respective target list.
In December 2023, the Ministry of Commerce and the Ministry of Technology jointly promulgated the amended Catalog of Technologies
Prohibited or Restricted from Export of the PRC, which superseded the No. 38 Announcement in 2020 on Adjusting and Promulgating the Catalogue of
Technologies Prohibited or Restricted from Export of the PRC and provided that certain technologies on interactive interface of AI, voice recognition
and speech synthesis which are specially used in Chinese and minority languages in the PRC and personalized information push service technology
based on data analysis could be restricted for export from mainland China without approval. According to the Administrative Measures on the Import
and Export of Technologies of the PRC, which were revised by the State Council in November 2020, if we would like to conduct any type of cross-
border technology service or cooperation involving certain AI technologies which are or may be (subject to determination by the government authority)
restricted from export, we would be required to apply for approval from the provincial competent commercial department before entering into any
substantial stage of negotiation or execution of any technology export contract. If and after such contract is executed, we must apply for an export
certificate and such contract would only come into effect after the competent commercial department has granted us the permit. Such process may be
time consuming and there is no guarantee that such permit would always be granted, which could negatively affect our potential cross-border technology
service or cooperation.
While we believe that we have been, and that we continue to be, in compliance with applicable economic sanction and export control laws, our
failure to employ appropriate safeguards with respect to users located in countries that are targets of economic sanctions or export control may result in a
violation of such laws and regulations. Non-compliance with applicable governmental economic sanctions or export control laws could subject us to
adverse media coverage, investigations, severe administrative, civil and possibly criminal sanctions, and expenses related to remedial measures and legal
expenses, which could materially and adversely affect our reputation, business, financial condition, results of operations and prospects.
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There are uncertainties associated with the laws and regulations of mainland China on virtual assets, and therefore it is not clear what liabilities, if
any, we may have relating to the loss of virtual assets by our users.
While participating on our platform, our users may acquire, purchase and accumulate certain virtual assets, such as gifts or certain statuses and
privileges. Such virtual assets can be important to users and have monetary value and, in some cases, can be cashed to actual money. However, virtual
assets may become lost for various reasons, often through unauthorized use of the account of one user by other users and occasionally through data loss
caused by delays in network service, network crashes or hacking activities. Currently, since the legislation of mainland China on virtual assets are still
developing and evolving, uncertainties still exist as to who the legal owner of virtual assets is, whether and how the ownership of virtual assets is
protected by law, and whether an operator of a platform would have any liability, whether in contract, tort or otherwise, to users or other interested
parties, for loss of such virtual assets. Some judgments of the courts of mainland China ordered certain online platform operators liable for losses of
virtual assets by platform users, and have ordered online platform operators to restore the lost virtual items to users or pay damages and losses. In case
of a loss of virtual assets, we may be sued by our users and held liable for losses, which may negatively affect our reputation, business, financial
condition, results of operations and prospects. We have been involved in virtual items related lawsuits in the past, and we cannot assure you that such
lawsuits will not be brought against us again in the future.
Uncertainties exist with respect to the interpretation and implementation of the PRC Foreign Investment Law and its implementation regulations
and how it may impact the viability of our current corporate structure, corporate governance and business operations.
On January 1, 2020, the PRC Foreign Investment Law and the Regulations for Implementation of the PRC Foreign Investment Law came into
effect and replaced the trio of prior laws regulating foreign investment in mainland China, namely, the Sino-foreign Equity Joint Venture Enterprise Law,
the Sino-foreign Cooperative Joint Venture Enterprise Law and the Wholly Foreign-invested Enterprise Law, together with their implementation rules
and ancillary regulations. The PRC Foreign Investment Law and its implementation regulations embody an expected regulatory trend of mainland China
to rationalize its foreign investment regulatory regime in line with prevailing international practice and the legislative efforts to unify the corporate legal
requirements for both foreign and domestic investments. However, there are still uncertainties in relation to the interpretation and implementation of the
PRC Foreign Investment Law and its implementation regulations. For instance, under the PRC Foreign Investment Law, “foreign investment” refers to
the investment activities directly or indirectly conducted in mainland China by foreign individuals, enterprises or other entities. Though it does not
explicitly classify contractual arrangements as a form of foreign investment, there is no assurance that foreign investment via contractual arrangement
would not be interpreted as a type of indirect foreign investment activities under the definition in the future. In addition, the definition contains a
catch-all provision which includes investments made by foreign investors through means stipulated in laws or administrative regulations or other
methods prescribed by the State Council. Therefore, it still leaves leeway for future laws, administrative regulations or provisions promulgated by the
State Council to provide for contractual arrangements as a form of foreign investment. In any of these cases, it will be uncertain whether our contractual
arrangements will be deemed to be in violation of the market access requirements for foreign investment under the laws and regulations of mainland
China. Furthermore, if future laws, administrative regulations or provisions prescribed by the State Council mandate further actions to be taken by
companies with respect to existing contractual arrangements, we may face substantial uncertainties as to whether we can complete such actions in a
timely manner, or at all.
If any of the variable interest entities were deemed as foreign invested enterprise under any such future laws, administrative regulations or
provisions and any of our business were included in any negative list or other form of restrictions on foreign investment, we may need to take further
actions to comply with such future laws, administrative regulations or provisions. Such actions may have a material and adverse impact on our business,
financial condition, result of operations and prospects. If we or any of the variable interest entities is found to be in violation of any existing or future
laws, administrative regulations or provisions of mainland China, or fail to
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obtain or maintain any of the required permits or approvals, the PRC regulatory authorities would have broad discretion to take corresponding action
regarding such violations or failures to such entities, such as:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
order to immediately terminate prohibited investment activities and to take certain measures to return to the pre-investment status;
order to rectify within prescribed period and to take necessary measures to comply with such laws, administrative regulations or
provisions;
revocation of such entities’ business licenses and/or operating licenses;
shutting down of our website, or discontinuance or restriction on any transactions between certain of our mainland China subsidiaries with
them;
fines, confiscation of the income from our mainland China subsidiaries or the variable interest entities, or other requirements with which
we or the variable interest entities may not be able to comply;
order to restructure our ownership structure, corporate governance and business operations, including terminating the contractual
arrangements with the variable interest entities and deregistering the equity pledges of the variable interest entities, which in turn would
affect our ability to consolidate, derive economic interests from, or impose control over the variable interest entities; or
restriction or prohibition on our use of the proceeds of any financing outside mainland China to finance our business operations in
mainland China, and other regulatory or enforcement actions that could be harmful to our business.
Any of the above penalties may result in a material and adverse effect on our business operation. In addition, if the PRC regulatory authorities
were to find our legal structure and contractual arrangements to be in violation of any laws, administrative regulations or provisions of mainland China,
we are uncertain what impact of above PRC regulatory authorities’ actions would have on us and our ability to consolidate the variable interest entities
in the consolidated financial statement. If any of these regulatory actions result in us losing our right to direct the activities of the variable interest
entities or to receive substantially all the economic benefits and residual returns from the variable interest entities and we are not able to restructure our
ownership structure and operations in a satisfactory manner, we would no longer be able to consolidate the financial results of the variable interest
entities in the consolidated financial statements. Any of the above results, or any other significant unfavorable actions that might be imposed on us in
this event, would have an adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and prospects. Failure to take timely and appropriate
measures to cope with any of these or similar regulatory compliance challenges could materially and adversely affect our current corporate structure,
corporate governance and business operations.
It may be difficult for overseas regulators to conduct investigation or collect evidence within mainland China.
Shareholder claims or regulatory investigation that are common in the United States generally are difficult to pursue as a matter of law or
practicality in mainland China. For example, in mainland China, there are significant legal and other obstacles to providing information needed for
regulatory investigations or litigation initiated outside mainland China. Although the authorities in mainland China may establish a regulatory
cooperation mechanism with the securities regulatory authorities of another country or region to implement cross-border supervision and administration,
such cooperation with the securities regulatory authorities in the United States may not be efficient in the absence of mutual and practical cooperation
mechanism. Furthermore, according to Article 177 of the PRC Securities Law, which became effective in March 2020, no overseas securities regulator
is allowed to directly conduct investigation or evidence collection activities within the territory of mainland China. While detailed interpretation of or
implementation rules under this Article 177 have yet to be promulgated, the inability for an overseas securities regulator to directly conduct
investigation or evidence collection activities within mainland China may further increase difficulties faced by you in protecting your interests. See also
“—Risks Related to Our ADSs and Class A Ordinary Shares—Certain judgments
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obtained against us by our shareholders may not be enforceable.” for risks associated with investing in us as a Cayman Islands company.
We may be subject to liability for information displayed on or linked to our websites, mobile apps, Smart Mini Program or Managed Page and
negative publicity in international media, and our business may be adversely affected as a result.
The PRC government has adopted regulations governing internet access and distribution of news and other information over the internet. Under
these regulations, internet content providers and internet publishers are prohibited from posting or displaying over the internet content that, among other
things, violates the laws and regulations of mainland China, impairs the national dignity of China, contains terrorism or extremism content, or is
reactionary, obscene, superstitious, fraudulent or defamatory. Failure to comply with these requirements may result in the revocation of licenses to
provide internet content and other licenses and the closure of the concerned websites. In the past, failure to comply with these requirements has resulted
in the closure of certain websites. The website operator may also be held liable for the information displayed on or linked to the website or the mobile
apps.
In particular, the MIIT has published regulations that subject website operators to potential liability for content displayed on their websites or
mobile apps and the actions of users and others using their systems, including liability for violations of the laws and regulations of mainland China
prohibiting the dissemination of content deemed to be socially destabilizing. The Ministry of Public Security has the authority to order any local internet
service provider to block any internet website at its sole discretion. From time to time, the Ministry of Public Security has stopped the dissemination
over the internet of information which it believes to be socially destabilizing. The State Secrecy Bureau is also authorized to block any website it deems
to be leaking state secrets or failing to meet the regulations relating to the protection of state secrets in the dissemination of online information.
Furthermore, we are required to report any suspicious content to the government authorities, and to undergo computer security inspections. If we fail to
implement the relevant safeguards against security breaches, our websites may be shut down and our business and ICP licenses may be revoked. In
addition, the CAC has, from time to time, also issued rules enhancing the internet service provider’s obligations to monitor information displayed on its
information platform and prevent dissemination of illegal contents. See “Item 4.B. Information on the Company—Business Overview—Regulations—
Regulations on Value-Added Telecommunications Services and Internet Content Services—Regulations on Content.”
The PRC Anti-Terrorism Law, which took effect on January 1, 2016 and was amended on April 27, 2018, further requires internet service
providers to verify the identity of their users, and to not provide services to anyone whose identity is unclear or who declines verification. Although the
identity verification requirements are already embodied in some internet related regulations, the PRC Anti-Terrorism Law extends these requirements to
all types of internet services. The internet service providers are also required to provide technical interfaces, decryption and other technical support and
assistance for the competent departments to prevent and investigate terrorist activities. See “Item 4.B. Information on the Company—Business
Overview—Regulations—Regulations on Information Security” for more details.
Although we attempt to monitor the content in our search results, mobile apps, online communities such as Baidu Post, Smart Mini Programs and
Managed Page, we are not able to control or restrict the content of other internet content providers linked to or accessible through our websites, mobile
apps, or content generated or placed on our Baidu Post message boards, mini programs, Managed Page, or our other online communities by our users.
To the extent that PRC regulatory authorities find any content displayed on our websites or mobile apps illegal, they may require us to limit or eliminate
the dissemination of such information on our websites or mobile apps. To the extent that PRC regulatory authorities find any content displayed on our
websites or mobile apps objectionable, they may suggest that we limit or eliminate the dissemination of such information on our websites or mobile
apps. If third-party websites linked to or accessible through our websites or mini programs accessible through our mobile apps conduct unlawful
activities such as online gambling, PRC regulatory
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authorities may require us to report such unlawful activities to the authorities and to remove the links to such websites or mobile apps, or they may
suspend or shut down the operation of these third-party websites. PRC regulatory authorities may also temporarily block access to certain websites or
mobile apps for a period of time for reasons beyond our control. Any of these actions may reduce our user traffic and adversely affect our business. In
addition, we have been and may be subject to penalties in the future for violations of those regulations arising from information displayed on or linked to
our websites or mobile apps, including a suspension or shutdown of our online operations. Although we make our best efforts to closely monitor and
filter the contents displayed and disseminated on our Baidu App and other products, we cannot assure you that incidents of similar type would not take
place in the future. Moreover, our compliance with mainland China’s regulations governing internet access and distribution of news and other
information over the internet may subject us to negative publicity or even legal actions outside of mainland China.
Discontinuation of any of the preferential income tax treatments currently available to us in mainland China could have a material and adverse
effect on our result of operations and financial condition.
Pursuant to the EIT Law, as further clarified by subsequent tax regulations implementing the EIT Law, foreign-invested enterprises and domestic
enterprises are subject to enterprise income tax at a uniform rate of 25%. Certain enterprises may benefit from a preferential tax rate of 15% under the
EIT Law if they qualify as “High and New Technology Enterprises strongly supported by the state,” subject to certain general factors described in the
EIT Law and the related regulations. Furthermore, a “High and New Technology Enterprise” can claim a super deduction for eligible research and
development expenses, receiving a 175% super deduction from January 1, 2018 to September 30, 2022, and a 200% super deduction from October 1,
2022 onwards.
A number of our mainland China subsidiaries and the variable interest entities are entitled to enjoy a preferential tax rate of 15% due to their
qualification as “High and New Technology Enterprise,” which are subject to renewal every three years. If any or some of these mainland China
subsidiaries and variable interest entities fail to maintain the “High and New Technology Enterprise” qualification, their applicable enterprise income tax
rate will increase to 25%. Certain of our mainland China subsidiaries and the variable interest entities enjoy a 200% super deduction for eligible research
and development expenses. However, there is no assurance that the 200% super deduction preferential policy will continue in the future.
Discontinuation of any of the above-mentioned preferential income tax treatments currently available to us in mainland China could have a
material and adverse effect on our result of operations and financial condition. We cannot assure you that we will be able to maintain our current
effective tax rate in the future.
If our mainland China subsidiaries declare and distribute dividends to their respective offshore parent companies, we will be required to pay more
taxes, which could have a material and adverse effect on our result of operations.
Under the EIT Law and related regulations, dividends, interests, rent or royalties payable by a foreign-invested enterprise, such as our mainland
China subsidiaries, to any of its foreign non-resident enterprise investors, and proceeds from any such foreign enterprise investor’s disposition of assets
(after deducting the net value of such assets) are subject to a 10% withholding tax, unless the foreign enterprise investor’s jurisdiction of incorporation
has a tax treaty with mainland China that provides for a reduced rate of withholding tax. Undistributed profits earned by foreign-invested enterprises
prior to January 1, 2008 are exempted from any withholding tax. The British Virgin Islands, where Baidu Holdings Limited, which wholly owns our
mainland China subsidiaries, Baidu Online and Beijing Duyou Information Technology Co., Ltd., is incorporated, does not have such a tax treaty with
mainland China. Hong Kong has a tax arrangement with mainland China that provides for a 5% withholding tax on dividends subject to certain
conditions and requirements, such as the requirement that the Hong Kong resident enterprise owns at least 25% of the mainland China enterprise
distributing the dividend at all times within the 12-month period immediately preceding the distribution of dividends and be a “beneficial owner” of the
dividends. For example, Baidu (Hong Kong) Limited,
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which directly owns our mainland China subsidiaries Baidu China and Baidu Times, is incorporated in Hong Kong.
However, if Baidu (Hong Kong) Limited is not considered to be a Hong Kong tax resident enterprise or the beneficial owner of dividends paid or
to be paid to it by Baidu China and Baidu Times under the tax circulars promulgated in February 2009 and 2018, such dividends would be subject to
withholding tax at a rate of 10%. See “Item 5.A. Operating and Financial Review and Prospects—Operating Results—Taxation—Mainland China
Enterprise Income Tax.” If our mainland China subsidiaries further declare and distribute profits earned after January 1, 2008 to us in the future, such
payments will be subject to withholding tax, which will further increase our tax liability and reduce the amount of cash available to our company.
We may be deemed a mainland China resident enterprise under the EIT Law, which could subject us to mainland China’s taxation on our global
income, and which may have a material and adverse effect on our results of operations.
Under the EIT Law and related regulations, an enterprise established outside of mainland China with “de facto management body” within
mainland China is considered a mainland China resident enterprise and is subject to enterprise income tax at the rate of 25% on its worldwide income as
well as PRC enterprise income tax reporting obligations. The related regulations define the term “de facto management body” as “the establishment that
exercises substantial and overall management and control over the production, business, personnel, accounts and properties of an enterprise.” The State
Administration of Taxation issued the Notice Regarding the Determination of Chinese-Controlled Offshore-Incorporated Enterprises as PRC Tax
Resident Enterprises on the basis of de facto management bodies, issued on April 22, 2009 and further amended on December 29, 2017, or the SAT
Circular 82 in April 2009, which provides certain specific criteria for determining whether the “de facto management body” of a Chinese-controlled
overseas-incorporated enterprise is located in mainland China. The State Administration of Taxation issued additional rules to provide more guidance on
the implementation of SAT Circular 82 in July 2011, and issued an amendment to SAT Circular 82 delegating the authority to its provincial branches to
determine whether a Chinese-controlled overseas-incorporated enterprise should be considered a mainland China resident enterprise, in January 2014.
See “Item 5.A. Operating and Financial Review and Prospects—Operating Results—Taxation—Mainland China Enterprise Income Tax.” Although the
SAT Circular 82, the additional guidance and amendment apply only to overseas registered enterprises controlled by mainland China enterprises, not to
those controlled by mainland China individuals or foreigners, the criteria set forth in SAT Circular 82 may reflect the State Administration of Taxation’s
general position on how the “de facto management body” test should be applied in determining the tax resident status of offshore enterprises, regardless
of whether they are controlled by enterprises or individuals of mainland China. If we are deemed a mainland China resident enterprise, we may be
subject to enterprise income tax at 25% on our global income, except that the dividends we receive from our mainland China subsidiaries may be
exempt from enterprise income tax to the extent such dividends are deemed as “dividends among qualified mainland China resident enterprises.” If we
are deemed a mainland China resident enterprise and earn income other than dividends from our mainland China subsidiaries, a 25% enterprise income
tax on our global income could significantly increase our tax burden and materially and adversely affect our cash flow and profitability.
Under the tax laws of mainland China, dividends payable by us and gains on the disposition of our shares or ADSs may be subject to mainland
China taxation.
If we are considered a mainland China resident enterprise under the EIT Law, our shareholders and ADS holders who are deemed non-resident
enterprises may be subject to enterprise income tax at the rate of 10% upon the dividends payable by us or upon any gains realized from the transfer of
our shares or ADSs, if such income is deemed derived from mainland China; provided that (i) such foreign enterprise investor has no establishment or
premises in mainland China, or (ii) it has establishment or premises in mainland China but its income derived from mainland China has no real
connection with such establishment or premises. If we are required under the EIT Law to withhold mainland China income tax on our dividends payable
to our non-mainland China resident
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enterprise shareholders and ADS holders, or if any gains realized from the transfer of our shares or ADSs by our non-mainland China resident enterprise
shareholders and ADS holders are subject to enterprise income tax, your investment in our shares or ADSs could be materially and adversely affected.
Furthermore, if we are considered a mainland China resident enterprise and the PRC tax authorities consider dividends we pay with respect to our
shares or ADSs and the gains realized from the transfer of our shares or ADSs to be income derived from sources within mainland China, it is possible
that such dividends and gains earned by non-resident individuals may be subject to mainland China individual income tax at a rate of 20%. If we are
required under the tax laws of mainland China to withhold mainland China income tax on dividends payable to our non-mainland China investors that
are non-resident individuals or if you are required to pay mainland China income tax on the transfer of our shares or ADSs, the value of your investment
in our shares or ADSs may be materially and adversely affected.
Our subsidiaries and the variable interest entities in mainland China are subject to restrictions on paying dividends and making other payments to
our holding company.
Baidu, Inc. is our holding company incorporated in the Cayman Islands. As a result of the holding company structure, it currently relies on
dividend payments from our subsidiaries in mainland China. However, the regulations of mainland China currently permit payment of dividends only
out of accumulated profits, as determined in accordance with PRC accounting standards and regulations. Our subsidiaries and the variable interest
entities in mainland China are also required to set aside a portion of their after-tax profits according to PRC accounting standards and regulations to fund
certain reserve funds. The PRC government also imposes controls on the conversion of RMB into foreign currencies and the remittance of foreign
currencies out of mainland China. We may experience difficulties in completing the administrative procedures necessary to obtain and remit foreign
currency. See “—Governmental control of currency conversion may affect the value of your investment.” Furthermore, if our subsidiaries or the variable
interest entities in mainland China incur debt on their own in the future, the instruments governing the debt may restrict their ability to pay dividends or
make other payments. If our subsidiaries and the variable interest entities in mainland China are unable to pay dividends or make other payments to us,
we may be unable to pay dividends on our ordinary shares and ADSs.
Governmental control of currency conversion may affect the value of your investment.
The PRC government imposes controls on the convertibility of RMB into foreign currencies and, in certain cases, the remittance of foreign
currency out of mainland China. We receive most of our revenues in RMB. Under our current structure, our income at the Cayman Islands holding
company level will primarily be derived from dividend payments from our mainland China subsidiaries. Shortages in the availability of foreign currency
may restrict the ability of our mainland subsidiaries and the variable interest entities to remit sufficient foreign currency to pay dividends or other
payments to us, or otherwise satisfy their foreign currency denominated obligations. Under existing foreign exchange regulations of mainland China,
payments of current account items, including profit distributions, interest payments and expenditures from trade-related transactions, can be made in
foreign currencies without prior approval from the SAFE by complying with certain procedural requirements. However, approval from appropriate
government authorities is required where RMB is to be converted into foreign currency and remitted out of mainland China to pay capital expenses such
as the repayment of loans denominated in foreign currencies. The PRC government may also at its discretion restrict access in the future to foreign
currencies for current account transactions. If the foreign exchange control system prevents us from obtaining sufficient foreign currency to satisfy our
currency demands, we may not be able to pay dividends in foreign currencies to our shareholders or ADS holders.
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Mainland China’s regulation of loans to and direct investment in entities in mainland China by offshore holding companies and governmental
control of currency conversion may delay or prevent us from making loans to our mainland China subsidiaries, the variable interest entities and
certain related parties, or making additional capital contributions to our mainland China subsidiaries, which could adversely affect our ability to
fund and expand our business.
Baidu, Inc. is our offshore holding company conducting operations in mainland China through our mainland China subsidiaries and the variable
interest entities. We may make loans to our mainland China subsidiaries and the variable interest entities, or we may make additional capital
contributions to our mainland China subsidiaries. Loans by Baidu, Inc. or any of our offshore subsidiaries to our mainland China subsidiaries, which are
treated as foreign-invested enterprises under the laws of mainland China, or to the variable interest entities are subject to the regulations and foreign
exchange loan registrations of mainland China. Such loans to any of our mainland China subsidiaries and the variable interest entities to finance their
activities cannot exceed a statutory upper limit and must be filed with SAFE through the online filing system of SAFE pursuant to the applicable
regulations of mainland China. We may also decide to finance our mainland China subsidiaries by means of capital contributions, in which case the
mainland China subsidiary is required to register the details of the capital contribution with the local branch of SAMR and submit a report on the capital
contribution via the online enterprise registration system to the Ministry of Commerce. Meanwhile, we are not likely to finance the activities of the
variable interest entities by means of capital contributions given the mainland China’s legal restrictions on foreign ownership of internet content
services, value-added telecommunication-based services, internet map services, online audio and video services and mobile application distribution
businesses.
In May 2014, SAFE promulgated the Provisions on the Foreign Exchange Administration Rules on Cross-border Guarantee, which, along with the
PRC Foreign Currency Administration Rules, provides that failure to register a cross-border guarantee may subject the violator to order to rectify,
warning and a fine no more than RMB300,000. In June 2016, SAFE promulgated SAFE Circular No. 16, which removed certain restrictions previously
provided under several SAFE circulars in respect of conversion by a foreign-invested enterprise of foreign currency registered capital into RMB and use
of such RMB capital. However, SAFE Circular No. 16 continues to prohibit foreign-invested enterprises from, among other things, using RMB fund
converted from its foreign exchange capitals for expenditure beyond its business scope, and providing loans to non-affiliated enterprises except as
permitted in the business scope. On October 23, 2019, the SAFE issued the Circular on Further Promoting Cross-border Trade and Investment
Facilitation, or SAFE Circular 28. Among others, SAFE Circular 28 relaxes prior restrictions and allows foreign-invested enterprises that do not have
equity investments in their approved business scope to use their capital obtained from foreign exchange settlement to make domestic equity investments
as long as the investments are real and in compliance with the foreign investment-related laws and regulations.
In light of the various requirements imposed by the regulations of mainland China on loans to and direct investment in entities in mainland China
by offshore holding companies, including SAFE Rules and Circulars referred to above, we cannot assure you that we will be able to complete the
necessary government registrations or filings on a timely basis, if at all, with respect to existing and future loans by us to our mainland China
subsidiaries, the variable interest entities and certain related parties or additional capital contributions by us to our mainland China subsidiaries, and
conversion of such loans or capital contributions into RMB. If we fail to complete such registrations or filings, our ability to capitalize or otherwise fund
our operations in mainland China may be negatively affected, which could adversely affect our ability to fund and expand our business.
Mainland China’s regulations relating to the establishment of offshore special purpose companies by domestic residents may limit our ability to
inject capital into our mainland China subsidiaries, limit our subsidiaries’ ability to increase their registered capital or distribute profits to us, or
may otherwise adversely affect us.
The Notice on Relevant Issues Concerning Foreign Exchange Administration for Domestic Residents to Engage in Financing and Inbound
Investment via Overseas Special Purpose Vehicles, or SAFE Circular No. 75, and a series of implementation rules and guidance issued by SAFE,
including the circular relating to operating
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procedures that came into effect in July 2011, require domestic residents and domestic corporate entities of mainland China to register with local
branches of SAFE in connection with their direct or indirect offshore investment in an overseas special purpose vehicle, or SPV, for the purposes of
overseas equity financing activities, and to update such registration in the event of any significant changes with respect to that offshore company. SAFE
promulgated the Circular on Relevant Issues Concerning Foreign Exchange Control on Domestic Residents’ Offshore Investment and Financing and
Roundtrip Investment through Special Purpose Vehicles, or SAFE Circular No. 37, on July 4, 2014, which replaced the SAFE Circular No. 75. SAFE
Circular No. 37 requires domestic residents to register with local branches of SAFE in connection with their direct establishment or indirect control of
an offshore entity, for the purpose of overseas investment and financing, with such domestic residents’ legally owned assets or equity interests in
domestic enterprises or offshore assets or interests, referred to in SAFE Circular No. 37 as a “special purpose vehicle.” The term “control” under SAFE
Circular No. 37 is broadly defined as the operation rights, beneficiary rights or decision-making rights acquired by the domestic residents in the offshore
special purpose vehicles or domestic companies by such means as acquisition, trust, proxy, voting rights, repurchase, convertible bonds or other
arrangements. SAFE Circular No. 37 further requires amendment to the registration in the event of any changes with respect to the basic information of
the special purpose vehicle, such as changes in a domestic resident individual shareholder, name or operation period; or any significant changes with
respect to the special purpose vehicle, such as increase or decrease of capital contributed by domestic individuals, share transfer or exchange, merger,
division or other material event. If the shareholders of the offshore holding company who are mainland China domestic residents do not complete their
registration with the local SAFE branches, the mainland China subsidiaries may be prohibited from distributing their profits and proceeds from any
reduction in capital, share transfer or liquidation to the offshore company, and the offshore company may be restricted in its ability to contribute
additional capital to its mainland China subsidiaries. Moreover, failure to comply with SAFE registration and amendment requirements described above
could result in liability under the laws of mainland China for evasion of applicable foreign exchange restrictions. On February 28, 2015, SAFE
promulgated a Notice on Further Simplifying and Improving Foreign Exchange Administration Policy on Direct Investment, or SAFE Notice 13, which
became effective on June 1, 2015. In accordance with SAFE Notice 13, entities and individuals are required to apply for foreign exchange registration of
foreign direct investment and overseas direct investment, including those required under the SAFE Circular No. 37, with qualified banks, instead of
SAFE. The qualified banks, under the supervision of SAFE, directly examine the applications and conduct the registration.
In addition, our shareholders who are entities in mainland China must complete their overseas direct investment filings according to applicable
laws and regulations regarding the overseas direct investment by such entities, including certificates, filings or registrations with the Ministry of
Commerce and the NDRC, or the local branch of the Ministry of Commerce and the NDRC based on the investment amount, invested industry or other
factors thereof, and should also update or apply for amendment in respect to the certificates, filings or registrations in the event of any significant
changes with respect to the offshore investment.
We have notified holders of ordinary shares of our company whom we know are domestic residents of mainland China to register with the local
SAFE branch and update their registrations as required under the SAFE regulations described above. We are aware that Mr. Robin Yanhong Li, our
chairman, chief executive officer and principal shareholder, who is a domestic resident of mainland China, has registered, and updated registration when
required, with the local SAFE branch. We, however, cannot provide any assurances that all of our shareholders or ADS holders who are domestic
residents will file all applicable registrations or update previously filed registrations as required by these SAFE regulations. The failure or inability of
our domestic resident shareholders to comply with the registration procedures or other applicable regulations of mainland China may subject the
domestic resident shareholders to fines and legal sanctions, restrict our cross-border investment activities, or limit our mainland China subsidiaries’
ability to distribute dividends to or obtain foreign exchange-dominated loans from our company.
As it is uncertain how the SAFE regulations described above and any future regulation concerning offshore or cross-border transactions will be
interpreted, amended or implemented, we cannot predict how these
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regulations will affect our business operations or future strategy. For example, we may be subject to more stringent review and approval process with
respect to our foreign exchange activities, such as remittance of dividends and foreign currency-denominated borrowings, which may adversely affect
our results of operations and financial condition. In addition, if we decide to acquire a domestic company, we cannot assure you that we or the owners of
such company will be able to obtain the necessary approvals or complete the necessary filings and registrations required by the SAFE regulations. This
may restrict our ability to implement our acquisition strategy and could adversely affect our business and prospects.
Failure to comply with mainland China’s regulations regarding the registration requirements for employee stock ownership plans or share option
plans may subject the plan participants in mainland China or us to fines and other legal or administrative sanctions.
In February 2012, SAFE promulgated the Notices on Issues concerning the Foreign Exchange Administration for Domestic Individuals
Participating in Stock Incentive Plan of Overseas Publicly-Listed Company, replacing the earlier rules promulgated in March 2007. Under the notices,
domestic residents of mainland China who are granted stock options by an overseas publicly listed company are required, through a domestic agent or
domestic subsidiary in mainland China of such overseas publicly listed company, to register with the SAFE and complete certain other procedures. We
and our domestic resident employees who have been granted stock options are subject to these regulations. We have designated our mainland China
subsidiary Baidu Online to handle the registration and other procedures required by the notices. However, if we or our domestic optionees fail to comply
with these regulations on a timely basis, we or our domestic optionees and their local employers may be subject to fines and legal sanctions.
Mainland China’s regulations establish complex procedures for some acquisitions conducted by foreign investors, which could make it more
difficult for us to pursue growth through acquisitions in mainland China.
The Regulations on Mergers and Acquisitions of Domestic Enterprises by Foreign Investors, adopted by six PRC regulatory agencies in August
2006 and amended in June 2009, among other things, established additional procedures and requirements that could make merger and acquisition
activities by foreign investors more time-consuming and complex. In addition, the Implementing Rules Concerning Security Review on the Mergers and
Acquisitions by Foreign Investors of Domestic Enterprises issued by the Ministry of Commerce in August 2011 specify that mergers and acquisitions by
foreign investors involved in “an industry related to national security” are subject to strict review by the Ministry of Commerce, and prohibit any
activities attempting to bypass such security review, including by structuring the transaction through a proxy or contractual control arrangement. We
believe that our business is not in an industry related to national security, but we cannot preclude the possibility that the competent PRC government
authorities may publish explanations contrary to our understanding or broaden the scope of such security reviews in the future, in which case our future
acquisitions and investment in mainland China, including those by way of entering into contractual control arrangements with target entities, may be
closely scrutinized or prohibited. Moreover, according to the Anti-Monopoly Law, as amended, the SMAR should be notified in advance of any
concentration of undertaking if certain filing thresholds are triggered. We may grow our business in part by directly acquiring complementary businesses
in mainland China. Complying with the requirements of the laws and regulations mentioned above and other regulations of mainland China to complete
such transactions could be time-consuming, and any required approval processes, including obtaining approval from the SMAR, may delay or inhibit
our ability to complete such transactions, which could affect our ability to expand our business or maintain our market share. Our ability to expand our
business or maintain or expand our market share through future acquisitions would as such be materially and adversely affected.
In December 2020, the NDRC and the Ministry of Commerce promulgated the Measures for the Security Review of Foreign Investment, which
came into effect on January 18, 2021. See “Item 4.B. Information on the Company—Business Overview—Regulations—Regulations on Foreign
Investment” for more details. Official
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guidance has not been issued by the designated office in charge of such security review yet. At this stage, the interpretation of those measures remains
unclear in many aspects, such as what would constitute “important information technology and internet services and products” and whether these
measures may apply to foreign investment that is implemented or completed before the enactment of these new measures. As our business may be
deemed to constitute the foregoing circumstances, we cannot assure you that our current business operations will remain fully compliant, or we can
adapt our business operations to new regulatory requirements on a timely basis, or at all.
The approval of and/or filing with the CSRC or other PRC government authorities may be required in connection with our offshore offerings under
the laws of mainland China, and, if required, we cannot predict whether or for how long we will be able to obtain such approval or complete such
filing.
The Regulations on Mergers and Acquisitions of Domestic Enterprises by Foreign Investors adopted by six PRC regulatory agencies in 2006 and
amended in 2009, require an overseas special purpose vehicle formed for listing purposes through acquisitions of domestic companies in mainland
China and controlled by Domestic persons or entities of mainland China to obtain the approval of the CSRC prior to the listing and trading of such
special purpose vehicle’s securities on an overseas stock exchange. The interpretation and application of the regulations remain unclear, and our offshore
offerings may ultimately require approval of the CSRC. If the CSRC approval is required, it is uncertain whether we can or how long it will take us to
obtain the approval and, even if we obtain such CSRC approval, the approval could be rescinded. Any failure to obtain or delay in obtaining the CSRC
approval for any of our offshore offerings, or a rescission of such approval if obtained by us, would subject us to sanctions imposed by the CSRC or
other PRC regulatory authorities, which could include fines and penalties on our operations in mainland China, restrictions or limitations on our ability
to pay dividends outside of mainland China, and other forms of sanctions that may materially and adversely affect our business, financial condition, and
results of operations.
On July 6, 2021, the PRC government authorities issued Opinions on Strictly Cracking Down Illegal Securities Activities in Accordance with the
Law. These opinions emphasized the need to strengthen the administration over illegal securities activities and the supervision on overseas listings by
mainland China-based companies and proposed to take effective measures, such as promoting the construction of relevant regulatory systems to deal
with the risks and incidents faced by mainland China-based overseas-listed companies. As a follow-up, on February 17, 2023, the CSRC, as approved
by the State Council, released the Trial Administrative Measures of Overseas Securities Offering and Listing by Domestic Companies and five
supporting guidelines, which took effect on March 31, 2023. The Filing Rules establish a new filing-based regime to regulate overseas offerings of
stocks, depository receipts, convertible corporate bond, or other equity securities, and overseas listing of these securities for trading, by domestic
companies. According to the Filing Rules, domestic companies that directly or indirectly offer or list their securities in an overseas market should file
with the CSRC. Specifically, the examination and determination of an indirect offering and listing will be conducted on a substance-over-form basis, and
an offering and listing should be considered as an indirect overseas offering and listing by a domestic company if the issuer meets both of the following
conditions: (i) any of the revenue, profits, total assets or net assets of such domestic company in the most recent financial year account for more than
50% of the corresponding data in the issuer’s audited consolidated financial statements for the same period; and (ii) the majority of its business
operations are conducted in mainland China or its principal place of business is located in the mainland China, or the majority of senior management in
charge of business operations are Chinese citizens or have domicile in the mainland China. According to the Filing Rules, the issuer or its affiliated
domestic company, as the case may be, must file with the CSRC for its initial public offering, follow-on offering and other equivalent offering activities.
Particularly, a listed company like us is required to submit the filing with respect to its follow-on offerings, issuance of convertible corporate bonds and
exchangeable bonds, and other equivalent offering activities, within a specific time frame. Failure to comply with the filing requirements may result in
an order of rectification, a warning and fines to the relevant domestic companies, and a warning and fines on the controlling shareholder, the actual
controller and other responsible persons. The Filing Rules also sets forth certain regulatory red lines for overseas offerings and listings by domestic
enterprises and additional
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reporting obligations for listed companies in the case of material changes. For more details of the Filing Rules, please refer to “Item 4.B. Information on
the Company—Business Overview—Regulation—Regulations on Overseas Offering and Listing.”
In a Q&A released on the CSRC’s official website, the respondent CSRC official stated that the domestic companies which have listed their
securities in the overseas market as of March 31, 2023 will be regarded as the existing overseas listed companies, which will not be required to file with
the CSRC until they conduct any new offerings subject to the filing requirements under Filing Rules. The Q&A also addressed the contractual
arrangements and pointed out that, as for companies with contractual arrangements seeking overseas offering, the CSRC will solicit opinions from the
regulatory authorities and complete the filing procedures for companies with contractual arrangements complying with the laws and regulations. If we
fail to file with the CSRC in a timely manner or at all, for any future offering (including, among others, follow-on offerings, issuance of convertible
corporate bonds and exchangeable bonds, and other equivalent offering activities) pursuant to the Filing Rules due to our contractual arrangements, our
ability to raise or utilize funds could be materially and adversely affected, and we may even need to unwind our contractual arrangements or restructure
our business operations to rectify the failure to complete the filings. However, as the Filing Rules were promulgated only recently, there remain
substantial uncertainties as to their interpretation, application, and enforcement and how they will affect our operations and our future financing.
On February 24, 2023, the CSRC, jointly with other government authorities, promulgated the revised Provisions on Strengthening Confidentiality
and Archives Management of Overseas Securities Issuance and Listing by Domestic Enterprises, which took effect on March 31, 2023. According to
these provisions, domestic companies, whether offering and listing securities overseas directly or indirectly, must strictly abide the applicable laws and
regulations when providing or publicly disclosing, either directly or through their overseas listed entities, documents and materials to securities services
providers such as securities companies and accounting firms or overseas regulators in the process of their overseas offering and listing. If such
documents or materials contain any state secrets or government authorities work secrets, domestic companies must obtain the approval from competent
government authorities according to the applicable laws, and file with the secrecy administrative department at the same level with the approving
government authority. Furthermore, these provisions also provides that securities companies and securities service providers shall also fulfill the
applicable legal procedures when providing overseas regulatory institutions and other relevant institutions and individuals with documents or materials
containing any state secrets or government authorities work secrets or other documents or materials that, if divulged, will jeopardize national security or
public interest. See “Item 4.B. Information on the Company—Business Overview—Regulations—Regulations on Overseas Offering and Listing.” Since
these provisions were promulgated only recently, substantial uncertainties still exist with respect to the interpretation and implementation of such
provisions and how they will affect us.
In addition, we cannot assure you that any new rules or regulations promulgated in the future will not impose additional requirements on us. If it is
determined in the future that any additional approval and filing from the CSRC or other regulatory authorities or other procedures, including the
cybersecurity review under the Measures for Cybersecurity Review and the draft of Regulations on the Network Data Security, are required for our
offshore offerings, it is uncertain whether we can or how long it will take us to obtain such approval or complete such filing procedures and any such
approval or filing could be rescinded or rejected. Any failure to obtain or delay in obtaining such approval or completing such filing procedures for our
offshore offerings, or a rescission of any such approval or filing if obtained by us, would subject us to sanctions by the CSRC or other PRC regulatory
authorities for failure to seek CSRC approval or filing or other government authorization for our offshore offerings. These regulatory authorities may
impose fines and penalties on our operations in mainland China, limit our ability to pay dividends outside of mainland China, limit our operating
privileges in mainland China, delay or restrict the repatriation of the proceeds from our offshore offerings into mainland China or take other actions that
could materially and adversely affect our business, financial condition, results of operations, and prospects, as well as the trading price of our listed
securities. The CSRC or other PRC regulatory authorities also may take actions requiring us, or making it advisable for us, to halt our offshore offerings
before settlement
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and delivery of the shares offered. Consequently, if investors engage in market trading or other activities in anticipation of and prior to settlement and
delivery, they do so at the risk that settlement and delivery may not occur. In addition, if any regulatory authorities later promulgate new rules or
explanations requiring that we obtain their approvals or accomplish the required filing or other regulatory procedures for our prior offshore offerings, we
may be unable to obtain a waiver of such approval requirements, if and when procedures are established to obtain such a waiver. Any uncertainties or
negative publicity regarding such approval requirement could materially and adversely affect our business, prospects, financial condition, reputation,
and the trading price of our listed securities.
The PCAOB had historically been unable to inspect our auditor in relation to their audit work performed for our financial statements and the
inability of the PCAOB to conduct inspections of our auditor in the past has deprived our investors with the benefits of such inspections.
Our auditor, the independent registered public accounting firm that issues the audit report included elsewhere in this annual report, as an auditor of
companies that are traded publicly in the United States and a firm registered with the PCAOB, is subject to laws in the United States pursuant to which
the PCAOB conducts regular inspections to assess its compliance with the applicable professional standards. The auditor is located in mainland China, a
jurisdiction where the PCAOB was historically unable to conduct inspections and investigations completely before 2022. As a result, we and investors
in the ADSs were deprived of the benefits of such PCAOB inspections. The inability of the PCAOB to conduct inspections of auditors in China in the
past has made it more difficult to evaluate the effectiveness of our independent registered public accounting firm’s audit procedures or quality control
procedures as compared to auditors outside of China that are subject to the PCAOB inspections. On December 15, 2022, the PCAOB issued a report that
vacated its December 16, 2021 determination and removed mainland China and Hong Kong from the list of jurisdictions where it is unable to inspect or
investigate completely registered public accounting firms. However, if the PCAOB determines in the future that it no longer has full access to inspect
and investigate completely accounting firms in mainland China and Hong Kong, and we use an accounting firm headquartered in one of these
jurisdictions to issue an audit report on our financial statements filed with the SEC, we and investors in our ADSs would be deprived of the benefits of
such PCAOB inspections again, which could cause investors and potential investors in the ADSs to lose confidence in our audit procedures and reported
financial information and the quality of our financial statements.
Our ADSs may be prohibited from trading in the United States under the HFCAA in the future if the PCAOB is unable to inspect or investigate
completely auditors located in China. The delisting or prohibition of trading of the ADSs, or the threat of their being delisted or prohibited from
trading, may materially and adversely affect the value of your investment.
Pursuant to the HFCAA, if the SEC determines that we have filed audit reports issued by a registered public accounting firm that has not been
subject to inspections by the PCAOB for two consecutive years, the SEC will prohibit our shares or ADSs from being traded on a national securities
exchange or in the over-the-counter trading market in the United States.
On December 16, 2021, the PCAOB issued a report to notify the SEC of its determination that the PCAOB was unable to inspect or investigate
completely registered public accounting firms headquartered in mainland China and Hong Kong, and our auditor was subject to that determination. In
April 2022, the SEC conclusively listed us as a Commission-Identified Issuer under the HFCAA following the filing of our annual report on Form 20-F
for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2021. On December 15, 2022, the PCAOB removed mainland China and Hong Kong from the list of
jurisdictions where it is unable to inspect or investigate completely registered public accounting firms. For this reason, we were not identified as a
Commission-Identified Issuer under the HFCAA after we filed our annual report on Form 20-F for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2022 and do not
expect to be so identified after we file this annual report on Form 20-F for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2023.
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Each year, the PCAOB will determine whether it can inspect and investigate completely audit firms in mainland China and Hong Kong, among
other jurisdictions. If the PCAOB determines in the future that it no longer has full access to inspect and investigate completely accounting firms in
mainland China and Hong Kong and we use an accounting firm headquartered in one of these jurisdictions to issue an audit report on our financial
statements filed with the SEC, we would be identified as a Commission-Identified Issuer following the filing of the annual report on Form 20-F for the
relevant fiscal year. In accordance with the HFCAA, our securities would be prohibited from being traded on a national securities exchange or in the
over-the-counter trading market in the United States if we are identified as a Commission-Identified Issuer for two consecutive years in the future.
Although our Class A ordinary shares have been listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange and the ADSs and Class A ordinary shares are fully fungible,
we cannot assure your that an active trading market for our Class A ordinary shares on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange will be sustained or that the
ADSs can be converted and traded with sufficient market recognition and liquidity, if our shares and ADSs are prohibited from trading in the United
States. A prohibition of being able to trade in the United States would substantially impair your ability to sell or purchase our ADSs when you wish to
do so, and the risk and uncertainty associated with delisting would have a negative impact on the price of our ADSs. Also, such a prohibition would
significantly affect our ability to raise capital on terms acceptable to us, or at all, which would have a material adverse impact on our business, financial
condition, and prospects.
Proceedings instituted by the SEC against certain PRC-based accounting firms, including the auditor of our consolidated financial statements
included in this annual report, could result in financial statements being determined to not be in compliance with the requirements of the Securities
Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, or the Exchange Act.
In December 2012, the SEC brought administrative proceedings against five accounting firms in China, including the auditor of our consolidated
financial statements included in this annual report, alleging that they had refused to produce audit work papers and other documents related to certain
other China-based companies under investigation by the SEC. On January 22, 2014, an initial administrative law decision was issued, censuring these
accounting firms and suspending four of these firms from practicing before the SEC for a period of six months. The decision is neither final nor legally
effective unless and until reviewed and approved by the SEC. On February 12, 2014, four of these PRC-based accounting firms appealed to the SEC
against this decision. In February 2015, each of the four PRC-based accounting firms agreed to a censure and to pay a fine to the SEC to settle the
dispute and avoid suspension of their ability to practice before the SEC. The settlement requires the firms to follow detailed procedures to seek to
provide the SEC with access to Chinese firms’ audit documents via the CSRC. If the firms fail to meet specified criteria, during a period of four years
starting from the settlement date, the SEC retains authority to impose a variety of additional remedial measures on the firms depending on the nature of
the failure. Additional remedies for any future noncompliance could include, as appropriate, an automatic six-month bar on a single firm’s performance
of certain audit work, commencement of additional proceedings against a firm, or in extreme cases the resumption of the current proceeding against all
four firms.
The audit committee is aware of the policy restriction and regularly communicated with our independent auditor to ensure compliance. If
additional remedial measures are imposed on the China-based “big four” accounting firms, including our independent registered public accounting firm,
in administrative proceedings brought by the SEC alleging the firms’ failure to meet specific criteria set by the SEC with respect to requests for the
production of documents, we could be unable to timely file future financial statements in compliance with the requirements of the Exchange Act. The
settlement did not require the firms to admit to any violation of law and preserves the firms’ legal defenses in the event the administrative proceeding is
restarted.
In the event that the SEC restarts the administrative proceedings, depending upon the final outcome, listed companies in the United States with
major PRC operations may find it difficult or impossible to retain auditors in respect of their operations in the PRC, which could result in financial
statements being determined to not be in compliance with the requirements of the Exchange Act, including possible delisting. Moreover, any negative
news about the proceedings against these audit firms may cause investor uncertainty regarding China-based, United States-listed companies and the
market price of our ADSs may be adversely affected.
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If the auditor of our consolidated financial statements included in this annual report were denied, even temporarily, the ability to practice before
the SEC and we were unable to timely find another registered public accounting firm to audit and issue an opinion on our financial statements, our
financial statements could be determined not to be in compliance with the requirements of the Exchange Act. Such a determination could ultimately lead
to our delisting from the Nasdaq Global Select Market or deregistration from the SEC, or both, which would substantially reduce or effectively
terminate the trading of our ADSs in the United States.
Fluctuation in exchange rates could have a material and adverse effect on our results of operations and the value of your investment.
The conversion of Renminbi into foreign currencies, including U.S. dollars, is based on rates set by the People’s Bank of China and by the Board
of Governors of the Federal Reserve System. The value of Renminbi against the U.S. dollar and other currencies is affected by changes in China’s
political and economic conditions and by China’s foreign exchange policies, among other things. We cannot assure you that Renminbi will not
appreciate or depreciate significantly in value against the U.S. dollar in the future. It is difficult to predict how market forces or PRC or U.S. government
policy may impact the exchange rate between Renminbi and the U.S. dollar in the future.
Our revenues and costs are mostly denominated in RMB. Any significant revaluation of RMB may materially and adversely affect our cash flows,
revenues, earnings and financial position, and the value of, and any dividends payable on, our ADSs in U.S. dollars. For example, to the extent that we
need to convert U.S. dollars into RMB for our operations, appreciation of the RMB against the U.S. dollar would have an adverse effect on the RMB
amount we would receive from the conversion. Conversely, if we decide to convert our RMB into U.S. dollars for the purpose of making payments for
dividends on our ordinary shares or ADSs, repaying our U.S. dollar denominated notes or other payment obligations or for other business purposes,
appreciation of the U.S. dollar against the RMB would have a negative effect on the U.S. dollar amount available to us. In addition, appreciation or
depreciation in the value of the RMB relative to U.S. dollars would affect our financial results reported, regardless of any underlying change in our
business or results of operations, as RMB is our reporting currency. For example, an appreciation of RMB against the U.S. dollar would result in foreign
currency translation losses for financial reporting purposes when we translate our U.S. dollar denominated financial assets into RMB, our reporting
currency, and foreign exchange losses reported in earnings for certain RMB denominated loans that overseas entities borrowed from our entities in
mainland China. Conversely, a depreciation of RMB against the U.S. dollar would result in foreign currency translation losses for financial reporting
purposes when we translate our U.S. dollar denominated notes and other indebtedness into RMB. Moreover, a significant depreciation of the RMB
against the U.S. dollar may significantly reduce our earnings translated in the U.S. dollars, which in turn could adversely affect the price of our ADSs.
In 2023, we entered into some hedging transactions in an effort to reduce our exposure to foreign currency exchange risk. While we may decide to
enter into more hedging transactions in the future, the availability and effectiveness of these hedges may be limited and we may not be able to
adequately hedge our exposure or at all. In addition, our currency exchange losses may be magnified by the exchange control regulations of mainland
China that restrict our ability to convert RMB into foreign currency. As a result, fluctuations in exchange rates may have a material adverse effect on
your investment.
We face uncertainties with respect to indirect transfers of equity interests in mainland China resident enterprises by their non-mainland China
holding companies. Enhanced scrutiny over acquisition transactions by the PRC tax authorities may have a negative impact on potential
acquisitions we may pursue in the future.
In February 2015, the State Administration of Tax issued a Public Notice Regarding Certain Corporate Income Tax Matters on Indirect Transfer of
Properties by Non-Tax Resident Enterprises, or Public Notice 7. Public Notice 7 extends its tax jurisdiction to not only indirect transfers but also
transactions involving transfer of
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other taxable assets, through the offshore transfer of a foreign intermediate holding company. Public Notice 7 also brings challenges to both the foreign
transferor and transferee (or other person who is obligated to pay for the transfer) of the taxable assets. Where a non-resident enterprise conducts an
“indirect transfer” by transferring the taxable assets indirectly by disposing of the equity interests of an overseas holding company, the non-resident
enterprise being the transferor, or the transferee, or the entity in mainland China which directly owned the taxable assets may report to the tax authority
such indirect transfer. Using a “substance over form” principle, the PRC tax authority may re-characterize such indirect transfer as a direct transfer of
the equity interests in the mainland China tax resident enterprise and other properties in mainland China. As a result, gains derived from such indirect
transfer may be subject to mainland China enterprise income tax, and the transferee or other person who is obligated to pay for the transfer is obligated
to withhold the applicable taxes, currently at a rate of up to 10% for the transfer of equity interests in a mainland China resident enterprise. However,
Public Notice 7 provides safe harbors for internal group restructurings and the purchase and sale of equity through a public securities market. On
October 17, 2017, the State Administration of Taxation issued the Announcement of the State Administration of Taxation on Issues Concerning the
Withholding of Non-resident Enterprise Income Tax at Source, or SAT Bulletin 37, which came into effect on December 1, 2017. SAT Bulletin 37
further clarifies the practice and procedure of the withholding of non-resident enterprise income tax. Pursuant to Public Notice 7 and SAT Bulletin 37,
both the transferor and the transferee may be subject to penalties under the tax laws of mainland China if the transferee fails to withhold the taxes and
the transferor fails to pay the taxes.
We face uncertainties with respect to the reporting and consequences of private equity financing transactions, share exchange or other transactions
involving the transfer of shares in our company by investors that are non-mainland China resident enterprises, or sale or purchase of shares in other
non-mainland China resident companies or other taxable assets by us. Our company and other non-resident enterprises in our group may be subject to
filing obligations or being taxed if our company and other non-resident enterprises in our group are transferors in such transactions, and may be subject
to withholding obligations if our company and other non-resident enterprises in our group are transferees in such transactions, under Public Notice 7 and
SAT Bulletin 37. For the transfer of shares in our company by investors that are non-mainland China resident enterprises, our mainland China
subsidiaries may be requested to assist in the filing under Public Notice 7 and SAT Bulletin 37. As a result, we may be required to expend valuable
resources to comply with Public Notice 7 and SAT Bulletin 37 or to request the relevant transferors from whom we purchase taxable assets to comply
with these circulars, or to establish that our company and other non-resident enterprises in our group should not be taxed under these circulars. The PRC
tax authorities have the discretion under Public Notice 7 and SAT Bulletin 37 to make adjustments to the taxable capital gains based on the difference
between the fair value of the taxable assets transferred and the cost of investment. If the PRC tax authorities make adjustments to the taxable income of
the transactions under Public Notice 7 and SAT Bulletin 37, our income tax costs associated with such transactions will be increased, which may have an
adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations. We have made acquisitions in the past and may conduct additional acquisitions in the
future. We cannot assure you that the PRC tax authorities will not, at their discretion, adjust any capital gains and impose tax return filing obligations on
us or require us to provide assistance to them for the investigation of any transactions we were involved in. Heightened scrutiny over acquisition
transactions by the PRC tax authorities may have a negative impact on potential acquisitions we may pursue in the future.
Risks Related to Our ADSs and Class A Ordinary Shares
The trading price of our ADSs and/or our Class A ordinary shares has been and is likely to continue to be volatile regardless of our operating
performance.
The trading price of our ADSs has been and is likely to continue to be volatile, and could fluctuate widely in response to a variety of factors, many
of which are beyond our control. Likewise, the trading price of our Class A ordinary shares can be volatile for similar or different reasons. Factors
impacting the price and trading volume of our listed securities include, but are not limited to, the following:
•
actual or anticipated fluctuations in our quarterly results of operations and changes or revisions of our expected results, as well as our
margins and profitability;
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•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
changes in financial estimates by securities research analysts;
conditions in internet search and online marketing markets;
changes in the operating performance or market valuations of other internet search or internet companies;
announcements by us or our competitors or other internet companies of new product-and-service offerings, acquisitions, strategic
partnerships, joint ventures, capital raisings or capital commitments;
success or failure of our new business initiatives or the development or growth of the new markets we enter into;
addition to or departure of key personnel;
public perception or negative news about our products or services or potential investments or acquisitions;
our share repurchase program;
fluctuations of exchange rates between RMB and the U.S. dollar;
litigation, government investigation or other legal or regulatory proceeding; and
general economic or political conditions in China or elsewhere in the world.
In addition, the stock market in general, and the performance and fluctuation of the market prices for internet-related companies and other
companies with operations mainly in China in particular, may affect the volatility in the prices of and trading volumes for our listed securities. The
securities of some China-based companies that have listed their securities in the United States and/or Hong Kong have experienced significant volatility
that often has been unrelated to the operating performance of such companies, including, in some cases, substantial declines in the trading prices of their
securities. The trading performances of these companies’ securities may affect the attitudes of investors towards Chinese companies listed in the United
States and/or Hong Kong in general, which consequently may impact the trading performance of our listed securities, regardless of our actual operating
performance. In addition, any negative news or perceptions about inadequate corporate governance practices or fraudulent accounting, corporate
structure or other matters of other Chinese companies may also negatively affect the attitudes of investors towards Chinese companies in general,
including us, regardless of whether we have engaged in any inappropriate activities. In particular, the global financial crisis, the ensuing economic
recessions and deterioration in the credit market in many countries have contributed and may continue to contribute to extreme volatility in the global
stock markets. These broad market and industry fluctuations may adversely affect the market price of our listed securities. Volatility or a lack of positive
performance in the price of our listed securities may also adversely affect our ability to retain key employees, most of whom have been granted options
or other equity incentives.
We adopt different practices as to certain matters as compared with many other companies primarily listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange.
We completed our public offering in Hong Kong in March 2021 and the trading of our Class A ordinary shares on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange
commenced on March 23, 2021 under the stock code “9888.” As a company listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange pursuant to Chapter 19C of the
Hong Kong Listing Rules, we are not subject to certain provisions of the Hong Kong Listing Rules pursuant to Rule 19C.11, including, among others,
rules on notifiable transactions, connected transactions, share option schemes, content of financial statements as well as certain other continuing
obligations. In addition, in connection with the listing of our Class A ordinary shares on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange, we have applied for a number
of waivers and/or exemptions from strict compliance with the Hong Kong Listing Rules, the SFO and the Companies (Winding Up and Miscellaneous
Provisions) Ordinance and have applied for a ruling under the Takeovers Codes. As a result, we have adopted different practices as to those matters as
compared with other companies primarily listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange that do not enjoy those exemptions or waivers.
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Furthermore, if 55% or more of the total worldwide trading volume, by dollar value, of our Class A ordinary shares and ADSs over our most
recent fiscal year takes place on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange, the Hong Kong Stock Exchange will regard us as having a dual primary listing in
Hong Kong and we will no longer enjoy certain exemptions or waivers from strict compliance with the requirements under the Hong Kong Listing
Rules, the Companies (Winding Up and Miscellaneous Provisions) Ordinance, the Takeovers Codes and the SFO, which could result in us having to
amend our corporate structure and articles of association and our incurring of incremental compliance costs. Notwithstanding the foregoing, in the event
that the Hong Kong Stock Exchange deemed us as having a dual primary listing in Hong Kong, we will be permitted to retain our existing weighted
voting rights structure and our variable interest entity structure.
Substantial future sales or perceived potential sales of our Class A ordinary shares and/or ADSs in the public market could cause the price of our
Class A ordinary shares and/or ADSs to decline.
Sales of our Class A ordinary shares and/or ADSs in the public market, or the perception that these sales could occur, could cause the market price
of our Class A ordinary shares and/or ADSs to decline. Such sales also might make it more difficult for us to sell equity or equity-related securities in
the future at a time and price that we deem appropriate. If any existing shareholder or shareholders sell a substantial amount of our Class A ordinary
shares and/or ADSs, the prevailing market price for our Class A ordinary shares and/or ADSs could be adversely affected. In addition, if we pay for our
future acquisitions in whole or in part with additionally issued ordinary shares, your ownership interests in our company would be diluted and this, in
turn, could have a material and adverse effect on the price of our Class A ordinary shares and/or ADSs.
If securities or industry analysts do not publish research or publish inaccurate or unfavorable research about our business, the market price for our
Class A ordinary shares and/or ADSs and trading volume could decline.
The trading market for our Class A ordinary shares and/or ADSs will depend in part on the research and reports that securities or industry analysts
publish about us or our business. If research analysts do not maintain adequate research coverage or if one or more of the analysts who covers us
downgrades our Class A ordinary shares and/or ADSs or publishes inaccurate or unfavorable research about our business, the market price for our
Class A ordinary shares and/or ADSs would likely decline. If one or more of these analysts cease coverage of us or fail to publish reports on us
regularly, we could lose visibility in the financial markets, which, in turn, could cause the market price of or trading volume for our Class A ordinary
shares and/or ADSs to decline.
Techniques employed by short sellers may drive down the market price of our listed securities.
Short selling is the practice of selling securities that a seller does not own but rather has borrowed from a third party with the intention of buying
identical securities back at a later date to return to the lender. Short sellers hope to profit from a decline in the value of the securities between the sale of
the borrowed securities and the purchase of the replacement shares, as short sellers expect to pay less in that purchase than they received in the sale. As
it is in short sellers’ interest for the price of the security to decline, many short sellers publish, or arrange for the publication of, negative opinions and
allegations regarding the relevant issuer and its business prospects in order to create negative market momentum and generate profits for themselves
after selling a security short. These short attacks have, in the past, led to selling of shares in the market.
Public companies listed in the United States that have substantially all of their operations in China have been the subject of short selling. Much of
the scrutiny and negative publicity has centered on allegations of, among other things, lack of effective internal control over financial reporting resulting
in financial and accounting irregularities and mistakes, inadequate corporate governance policies or a lack of adherence thereto and, in many cases,
allegations of fraud. As a result, many of these companies have conducted or are now conducting internal and external investigations into the allegations
and, in the interim, are subject to shareholder lawsuits and/or SEC enforcement actions.
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iQIYI is currently and may in the future be subject to unfavorable allegations made by short sellers. See “Item 8.A. Financial Information—
Consolidated Statements and Other Financial Information—Legal Proceedings.” We may also become the subject of other short seller attacks from time
to time in the future and class actions or regulatory enforcement actions derivative of such short seller attacks or actions of a similar nature. Any such
allegations may be followed by periods of instability in the market price of our Class A ordinary shares and/or ADSs and negative publicity. If and when
we become the subject of any unfavorable allegations, whether such allegations are proven to be true or untrue, we may have to expend a significant
amount of resources to investigate such allegations and/or defend ourselves, including in connection with class actions or regulatory enforcement actions
derivative of such allegations. While we believe we would strongly defend against any such short seller attacks, we may be constrained in the manner in
which we can proceed against the relevant short sellers by principles of freedom of speech, applicable state law or issues of commercial confidentiality.
Such a situation could be costly and time-consuming, and could divert management’s attention from the day-to-day our operations. Even if such
allegations are ultimately proven to be groundless, allegations against us could severely impact the market price of our securities and our business
operations.
We cannot guarantee that any share repurchase program will be fully consummated or that any share repurchase program will enhance long-term
shareholder value, and share repurchases could increase the volatility of the price of our Class A ordinary shares and/or ADSs and could diminish
our cash reserves.
Our board of director have authorized a few share repurchase programs in recent years, some of which were not fully consummated:
•
•
•
On June 26, 2018, our board of directors authorized a share repurchase program for the repurchase of up to US$1.0 billion of our ADSs or
ordinary shares over 12 months from June 27, 2018 through June 26, 2019.
On May 16, 2019, our board of directors authorized a new share repurchase program for the repurchase of up to US$1.0 billion of our
ADSs or ordinary shares, effective until July 1, 2020.
On May 13, 2020, our board of directors authorized a share repurchase program for the repurchase of up to US$1.0 billion of our ADSs or
shares, effective until July 1, 2021. On August 6, 2020, our board of directors approved a change to the 2020 share repurchase program,
increasing the repurchase authorization from US$1 billion to US$3 billion and extending the effective time through December 31, 2022.
On December 8, 2020, our board of directors approved a further increase in the repurchase authorization from US$3 billion to
US$4.5 billion.
•
In February 2023, our board of directors authorized a new share repurchase program, under which we may repurchase up to US$5.0 billion
of our ADSs or shares, effective until December 31, 2025.
Our board of directors also has the discretion to authorize additional share repurchase programs in the future. The share repurchase programs do
not obligate us to repurchase any specific dollar amount or to acquire any specific number of ADSs and/or shares. We cannot guarantee that any share
repurchase program will enhance long-term shareholder value. The share repurchase programs could affect the price of our listed securities and increase
volatility and may be suspended or terminated at any time, which may result in a decrease in the trading price of our Class A ordinary shares and/or
ADSs. Furthermore, share repurchases could increase the volatility of the price of our Class A ordinary shares and/or ADSs and could diminish our cash
reserves.
Because we do not expect to pay dividends in the foreseeable future, you must rely on price appreciation of our Class A ordinary shares and/or ADSs
for return on your investment.
We currently do not expect to pay any cash dividends in the foreseeable future. Therefore, you should not rely on an investment in our Class A
ordinary shares and/or ADSs as a source for any future dividend income.
Our board of directors has complete discretion as to whether to distribute dividends. In addition, our shareholders may by ordinary resolution
declare a dividend, but no dividend may exceed the amount
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recommended by our board of directors. In either case, the declaration of dividend will be subject to our memorandum and articles of association and
certain restrictions under Cayman Islands law. Even if our board of directors decides to declare and pay dividends, the timing, amount and form of future
dividends, if any, will depend on, among other things, our future results of operations and cash flow, our capital requirements and surplus, the amount of
distributions, if any, received by us from our subsidiaries, our financial condition, contractual restrictions and other factors deemed relevant by our board
of directors. Accordingly, the return on your investment in our Class A ordinary shares and/or ADSs will likely depend entirely upon any future price
appreciation of our Class A ordinary shares and/or ADSs. There is no guarantee that our Class A ordinary shares and/or ADSs will appreciate in value or
even maintain the price at which you purchased the Class A ordinary shares and/or ADSs. You may not realize a return on your investment in our
Class A ordinary shares and/or ADSs and you may even lose your entire investment in our Class A ordinary shares and/or ADSs.
Holders of our ADSs may not have the same voting rights as the holders of our ordinary shares and may not receive voting materials in time to be
able to exercise your right to vote.
Except as described in this annual report and in the deposit agreement, holders of our ADSs will not be able to exercise voting rights attached to
the shares evidenced by our ADSs on an individual basis. Holders of our ADSs will appoint the depositary or its nominee as their representative to
exercise the voting rights attached to the shares represented by the ADSs. Holders of our ADSs may not receive voting materials in time to instruct the
depositary to vote, and it is possible that you, or persons who hold their ADSs through brokers, dealers or other third parties, will not have the
opportunity to exercise a right to vote. Upon our written request, the depositary will mail to holders of our ADSs a shareholder meeting notice which
contains, among other things, a statement as to the manner in which their voting instructions may be given, including an express indication that such
instructions may be given or deemed given to the depositary to give a discretionary proxy to a person designated by us if no instructions are received by
the depositary from ADS holders on or before the response date established by the depositary. However, no voting instruction will be deemed given and
no such discretionary proxy will be given with respect to any matter as to which we inform the depositary that (i) we do not wish such proxy given,
(ii) substantial opposition exists, or (iii) such matter materially and adversely affects the rights of shareholders.
Holders of our ADSs may not be able to participate in rights offerings and may experience dilution of their holdings as a result.
We may from time to time distribute rights to our shareholders, including rights to acquire our securities. Under the deposit agreement for the
ADSs, the depositary will not offer those rights to ADS holders unless both the rights and the underlying securities to be distributed to ADS holders are
either registered under the Securities Act of 1933, or exempt from registration under the Securities Act with respect to all holders of ADSs. We are under
no obligation to file a registration statement with respect to any such rights or underlying securities or to endeavor to cause such a registration statement
to be declared effective. In addition, we may not be able to take advantage of any exemptions from registration under the Securities Act. Accordingly,
holders of our ADSs may be unable to participate in our rights offerings and may experience dilution in their holdings as a result.
Holders of our ADSs may not receive cash dividends, if any, if the depositary decides it is impractical to make them available to ADS holders.
The depositary will pay cash dividends on the ADSs only to the extent that we decide to distribute dividends on our Class A ordinary shares or
other deposited securities, and we do not have any present plan to pay any cash dividends on our ordinary shares in the foreseeable future. To the extent
that there is a distribution, the depositary of our ADSs has agreed to pay to ADS holders the cash dividends or other distributions it or the custodian
receives on our Class A ordinary shares or other deposited securities after deducting its fees and expenses. ADS holders will receive these distributions
in proportion to the number of Class A ordinary shares that their ADSs represent. However, the depositary may, at its discretion, decide that it is
inequitable or impractical to make a
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distribution available to any holders of ADSs. In these cases, the depositary may decide not to distribute such property to holders of our ADSs.
Holders of our ADSs may be subject to limitations on transfer of your ADSs.
The ADSs are transferable on the books of the depositary. However, the depositary may close its transfer books at any time or from time to time
when it deems expedient in connection with the performance of its duties. In addition, the depositary may refuse to deliver, transfer or register transfers
of ADSs generally when our books or the books of the depositary are closed, or at any time if we or the depositary deems it advisable to do so because
of any requirement of law or of any government or governmental body, or under any provision of the deposit agreement, or for any other reason.
Certain judgments obtained against us by our shareholders may not be enforceable.
We are incorporated in the Cayman Islands, and conduct most of our operations in mainland China through our subsidiaries and the variable
interest entities in mainland China. A majority of our executive officers and directors do not reside in the United States or Hong Kong and some or all of
the assets of these persons are not located in the United States or Hong Kong. As a result, it may not be possible to effect service of process within the
United States, Hong Kong or elsewhere outside of mainland China upon our executive officers, including with respect to matters arising under U.S.
federal securities laws or applicable state securities laws, Hong Kong laws or otherwise.
It may also be difficult or impossible for you to bring an action against us or against our directors and executive officers in the Cayman Islands or
in mainland China in the event that you believe that your rights have been infringed under the securities laws or otherwise. Even if you are successful in
bringing an action of this kind, the laws of the Cayman Islands and of mainland China may render you unable to enforce a judgment against our assets
or the assets of our directors and executive officers.
Although there is no statutory enforcement in the Cayman Islands of judgments obtained in Hong Kong courts or federal or state courts of the
United States (and the Cayman Islands are not a party to any treaties for the reciprocal enforcement or recognition of such judgments), the courts of the
Cayman Islands will, at common law, recognize and enforce a foreign monetary judgment of a foreign court of competent jurisdiction without any
re-examination of the merits of the underlying dispute based on the principle that a judgment of a competent foreign court imposes upon the judgment
debtor an obligation to pay the liquidated sum for which such judgment has been given, provided such judgment (i) is given by a foreign court of
competent jurisdiction, (ii) imposes on the judgment debtor a liability to pay a liquidated sum for which the judgment has been given, (iii) is final, (iv) is
not in respect of taxes, a fine or a penalty, and (v) was not obtained in a manner and is not of a kind the enforcement of which is contrary to natural
justice or the public policy of the Cayman Islands. However, the Cayman Islands courts are unlikely to enforce a judgment obtained from the U.S. courts
or Hong Kong courts under civil liability provisions of the U.S. federal securities law or Hong Kong law if such judgment is determined by the courts of
the Cayman Islands to give rise to obligations to make payments that are penal or punitive in nature. Because such a determination has not yet been
made by a court of the Cayman Islands, it is uncertain whether such civil liability judgments from U.S. or Hong Kong would be enforceable in the
Cayman Islands.
Our corporate affairs are governed by our memorandum and articles of association and by the Cayman Islands Companies Act (As Revised) and
common law of the Cayman Islands. The rights of shareholders to take legal action against our directors and us, actions by minority shareholders and the
fiduciary responsibilities of our directors to us under Cayman Islands law are to a large extent governed by the common law of the Cayman Islands. The
common law of the Cayman Islands is derived in part from comparatively limited judicial precedent in the Cayman Islands as well as from English
common law, which has persuasive, but not binding, authority on a court in the Cayman Islands. The rights of our shareholders and the fiduciary duties
of our directors under
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Cayman Islands law are not as clearly established as they would be under statutes or judicial precedents in the United States. In particular, the Cayman
Islands has a less developed body of securities laws as compared to the United States, and provides significantly less protection to investors. In addition,
with respect to Cayman Islands companies, plaintiffs may face special obstacles, including but not limited to those relating to jurisdiction and standing,
in attempting to assert derivative claims in state or federal courts of the United States.
The recognition and enforcement of foreign judgments are provided for under the PRC Civil Procedures Law. The courts of mainland China may
recognize and enforce foreign judgments in accordance with the requirements of the PRC Civil Procedures Law based either on treaties between
mainland China and the country where the judgment is made or on principles of reciprocity between jurisdictions. Mainland China does not have any
treaties or other forms of reciprocity with the United States that provide for the reciprocal recognition and enforcement of foreign judgments. In
addition, according to the PRC Civil Procedures Law, the courts of mainland China will not enforce a foreign judgment against us or our director and
officers if they decide that the judgment violates the basic principles of the laws of mainland China or national sovereignty, security or public interest.
As a result, it is uncertain whether and on what basis a court of mainland China would enforce a judgment rendered by a court in the United States.
As a result of all of the above, our public shareholders may have more difficulty in protecting their interests through actions against our
management, directors or major shareholders than would shareholders of a corporation incorporated in a jurisdiction in the United States or in Hong
Kong.
Since our company is a Cayman Islands exempted company, the rights of our shareholders may be more limited than those of shareholders of a
company organized in the United States or Hong Kong.
Under the laws of some jurisdictions in the United States, majority and controlling shareholders generally have certain fiduciary responsibilities to
the minority shareholders. Shareholder action must be taken in good faith, and actions by controlling shareholders which are obviously unreasonable
may be declared null and void. Cayman Islands law protecting the interests of minority shareholders may not be as protective in all circumstances as the
law protecting minority shareholders in some U.S. jurisdictions. In addition, the circumstances in which a shareholder of a Cayman Islands company
may sue the company derivatively, and the procedures and defenses that may be available to the company, may result in the rights of shareholders of a
Cayman Islands company being more limited than those of shareholders of a company organized in the United States.
Furthermore, our directors have the power to take certain actions without shareholder approval which would require shareholder approval under
Hong Kong law and the laws of most U.S. jurisdictions. The directors of a Cayman Islands company, without shareholder approval, may implement a
sale of any assets, property, part of the business, or securities of the company. Our ability to create and issue new classes or series of shares without
shareholders’ approval could have the effect of delaying, deterring or preventing a change in control without any further action by our shareholders,
including a tender offer to purchase our ordinary shares at a premium over then current market prices.
Furthermore, our articles of association are specific to us and include certain provisions that may be different from common practices in Hong
Kong, such as the absence of requirements that the appointment, removal and remuneration of auditors must be approved by a majority of our
shareholders.
Our dual-class ordinary share structure with different voting rights could discourage others from pursuing any change of control transactions that
holders of our Class A ordinary shares and ADSs may view as beneficial.
Our ordinary shares are divided into Class A ordinary shares and Class B ordinary shares. Holders of Class A ordinary shares are entitled to one
vote per share, while holders of Class B ordinary shares are entitled to
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ten votes per share. We issued Class A ordinary shares represented by our ADSs in our initial public offering. Our co-founder, chairman and chief
executive officer, Robin Yanhong Li, who acquired our shares prior to our initial public offering, holds our Class B ordinary shares. Each Class B
ordinary share is convertible into one Class A ordinary share at any time by the holder thereof, while Class A ordinary shares are not convertible into
Class B ordinary shares under any circumstances. Upon any transfer of Class B ordinary shares by a holder thereof to any person or entity which is not
an affiliate (as defined in our memorandum and articles of association) of such holder, such Class B ordinary shares will be automatically and
immediately converted into the equal number of Class A ordinary shares. In addition, if at any time Robin Yanhong Li and his affiliates (as defined in
our memorandum and articles of association) collectively own less than 5% of the total number of the issued and outstanding Class B ordinary shares,
each issued and outstanding Class B ordinary share will be automatically and immediately converted into one Class A ordinary share, and we should not
issue any Class B ordinary shares thereafter.
Due to the disparate voting powers attached to these two classes, certain shareholders have significant voting power over matters requiring
shareholder approval, including election of directors and significant corporate transactions, such as a merger or sale of our company or our assets. This
concentrated control could discourage or prevent others from pursuing any potential merger, takeover or other change of control transactions with our
company, which could deprive our shareholders and ADS holders of an opportunity to receive a premium for their shares or ADSs as part of a sale of
our company and might reduce the price of our Class A ordinary shares and/or ADSs.
Our articles of association contain anti-takeover provisions that could adversely affect the rights of holders of our ordinary shares and/or ADSs.
Our articles of association include certain provisions that could limit the ability of others to acquire control of our company, and therefore may
deprive the holders of our ordinary shares and ADSs of the opportunity to sell their ordinary shares or ADSs at a premium over the prevailing market
price by discouraging third parties from seeking to obtain control of our company in a tender offer or similar transactions. These provisions include the
following:
•
•
•
A dual-class ordinary share structure.
Our board of directors has the authority, without approval by the shareholders, to issue up to a total of 800,000,000 preferred shares in one
or more series. Our board of directors may establish the number of shares to be included in each such series and may fix the designations,
preferences, powers and other rights of the shares of a series of preferred shares.
Our board of directors has the right to elect directors to fill a vacancy created by the increase of the board of directors or the resignation,
death or removal of a director, which prevents shareholders from having the sole right to fill vacancies on our board of directors.
We are a foreign private issuer within the meaning of the rules under the U.S. Exchange Act, and as such we are exempt from certain provisions
applicable to U.S. domestic public companies.
Because we qualify as a foreign private issuer under the U.S. Exchange Act, we are exempt from certain provisions of the securities rules and
regulations in the United States that are applicable to U.S. domestic issuers, including:
•
•
the rules under the U.S. Exchange Act requiring the filing with the SEC of quarterly reports on Form 10-Q or current reports on Form 8-K;
the sections of the U.S. Exchange Act regulating the solicitation of proxies, consents, or authorizations in respect of a security registered
under the U.S. Exchange Act;
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•
•
the sections of the U.S. Exchange Act requiring insiders to file public reports of their stock ownership and trading activities and liability
for insiders who profit from trades made in a short period of time; and
the selective disclosure rules by issuers of material nonpublic information under Regulation FD.
We are required to file an annual report on Form 20-F within four months of the end of each fiscal year. In addition, we intend to publish our
results on a quarterly basis as press releases, distributed pursuant to the rules and regulations of Nasdaq. Press releases relating to financial results and
material events will also be furnished to the SEC on Form 6-K. However, the information we are required to file with or furnish to the SEC will be less
extensive and less timely compared to that required to be filed with the SEC by U.S. domestic issuers. As a result, you may not be afforded the same
protections or information that would be made available to you were you investing in a U.S. domestic issuer.
As a Cayman Islands exempted company listed on Nasdaq, we are subject to Nasdaq corporate governance listing standards. However, Nasdaq
rules permit a foreign private issuer like us to follow the corporate governance practices of its home country. Certain corporate governance practices in
the Cayman Islands, which is our home country, may differ significantly from Nasdaq corporate governance listing standards. For example, neither the
Companies Act (As Revised) of the Cayman Islands nor our memorandum and articles of association requires a majority of our directors to be
independent and we could include non-independent directors as members of our compensation committee and nominating committee, and our
independent directors would not necessarily hold regularly scheduled meetings at which only independent directors are present. We convened an
extraordinary general meeting in December 2021 to revise our memorandum and articles of association, so that we are required to convene an annual
general meeting each year. Accordingly, we held annual general meetings in June 2022 and June 2023. If we choose to follow other home country
practice in the future, our shareholders may be afforded less protection than they otherwise would under Nasdaq corporate governance listing standards
applicable to U.S. domestic issuers.
We may be classified as a passive foreign investment company, or PFIC, which could result in adverse U.S. federal income tax consequence to U.S.
Holders of our ADSs or ordinary shares.
A non-U.S. corporation, such as us, will be considered a PFIC for U.S. federal income tax purposes for any taxable year if either (i) at least 75%
of its gross income is passive income or (ii) at least 50% of the value of its assets (generally determined on a quarterly basis) is attributable to assets that
produce or are held for the production of passive income. The value of our assets is generally determined by reference to the market price of the ADSs
and ordinary shares, which may fluctuate considerably. In addition, because PFIC status is a fact-intensive determination made on an annual basis, no
assurance may be given with respect to our PFIC status for the current or any future taxable year.
Based on the market price of our ADSs and ordinary shares, the value of our assets, and the composition of our assets and income, we believe that
we were not a PFIC for U.S. federal income tax purposes for our taxable year ended December 31, 2023. No assurance can be given that we will not be
a PFIC in the current taxable year or foreseeable taxable years, because the determination of whether we will be a PFIC is a factual determination made
annually that will depend, in part, upon the composition of our income and assets. Based on the nature of our business and activities, it is possible that
the U.S. Internal Revenue Service may challenge our classification of certain income and assets as non-passive, which may result in our company being
a PFIC. In addition, the composition of our income and assets will be affected by how, and how quickly, we use our liquid assets. Fluctuations in the
market price of our ordinary shares and/or ADSs may also cause us to be a PFIC for the current or future taxable years because the value of our assets
for purposes of the asset test, including the value of our goodwill and other unbooked intangibles, may be determined by reference to the market price of
our ordinary shares and/or ADSs from time to time (which may be volatile). If our market capitalization declines, we may be classified as a PFIC for the
current taxable year or future taxable years.
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If we were treated as a PFIC for any taxable year during which a U.S. Holder (as defined below) held an ADS or an ordinary share, certain
adverse U.S. federal income tax consequences could apply to the U.S. Holder. Further, if we were classified as a PFIC for any year during which a U.S.
Holder holds our ADSs or ordinary shares, we would generally continue to be treated as a PFIC for all succeeding years during which such U.S. Holder
holds our ADSs or ordinary shares. U.S. Holders of our ADSs or ordinary shares are urged to consult their tax advisors concerning the United States
federal income tax consequences if we are classified as a PFIC. See “Item 10.E. Additional Information—Taxation—U.S. Federal Income Tax
Considerations—Passive Foreign Investment Company.”
The different characteristics of the capital markets in Hong Kong and the U.S. may negatively affect the trading prices of our Class A ordinary
shares and/or ADSs.
We are subject to Hong Kong and Nasdaq listing and regulatory requirements concurrently. The Hong Kong Stock Exchange and Nasdaq have
different trading hours, trading characteristics (including trading volume and liquidity), trading and listing rules, and investor bases (including different
levels of retail and institutional participation). As a result of these differences, the trading prices of our Class A ordinary shares and our ADSs may not
be the same, even allowing for currency differences. Fluctuations in the price of our ADSs due to circumstances peculiar to the U.S. capital markets
could materially and adversely affect the price of our Class A ordinary shares, or vice versa. Certain events having significant negative impact
specifically on the U.S. capital markets may result in a decline in the trading price of our Class A ordinary shares notwithstanding that such event may
not impact the trading prices of securities listed in Hong Kong generally or to the same extent, or vice versa. Because of the different characteristics of
the U.S. and Hong Kong capital markets, the historical market prices of our ADSs may not be indicative of the trading performance of our Class A
ordinary shares.
Exchange between our Class A ordinary shares and our ADSs may adversely affect the liquidity and/or trading price of each other.
Subject to compliance with U.S. securities law and the terms of the deposit agreement, holders of our Class A ordinary shares may deposit Class A
ordinary shares with the depositary in exchange for the issuance of our ADSs. Any holder of ADSs may also surrender ADSs and withdraw the
underlying Class A ordinary shares represented by the ADSs pursuant to the terms of the deposit agreement for trading on the Hong Kong Stock
Exchange. In the event that a substantial number of Class A ordinary shares are deposited with the depositary in exchange for ADSs or vice versa, the
liquidity and trading price of our Class A ordinary shares on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange and our ADSs on Nasdaq may be adversely affected.
The time required for the exchange between Class A ordinary shares and ADSs might be longer than expected and investors might not be able to
settle or effect any sale of their securities during this period, and the exchange of Class A ordinary shares into ADSs involves costs.
There is no direct trading or settlement between Nasdaq and the Hong Kong Stock Exchange on which our ADSs and our Class A ordinary shares
are respectively traded. In addition, the time differences between Hong Kong and New York and unforeseen market circumstances or other factors may
delay the deposit of Class A ordinary shares in exchange of ADSs or the withdrawal of Class A ordinary shares represented by the ADSs. Investors will
be prevented from settling or effecting the sale of their securities during such periods of delay. In addition, there is no assurance that any exchange of
Class A ordinary shares into ADSs (and vice versa) will be completed in accordance with the timelines investors may anticipate.
Furthermore, the depositary for the ADSs is entitled to charge holders fees for various services including for the issuance of ADSs upon deposit of
Class A ordinary shares, cancelation of ADSs, distributions of cash dividends or other cash distributions, distributions of ADSs pursuant to share
dividends or other free share distributions, distributions of securities other than ADSs and annual service fees. As a result, shareholders who exchange
Class A ordinary shares into ADSs, and vice versa, may not achieve the level of economic return the shareholders may anticipate.
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We are exposed to risks associated with any potential spin-off of one or more of our businesses.
We are exposed to risks associated with any potential spin-off of one or more of our businesses. The Hong Kong Stock Exchange has granted us a
waiver from strict compliance with the requirements in paragraph 3(b) of Practice Note 15 to the Hong Kong Listing Rules such that we are able to
spin-off a subsidiary entity and list it on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange within three years after the listing of our Class A ordinary shares on the Hong
Kong Stock Exchange. While we do not have any specific plans with respect to the timing or details of any potential spin-off listing on the Hong Kong
Stock Exchange as at the date of this annual report, we continue to explore the ongoing financing requirements for our various businesses and may
consider a spin-off listing on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange for one or more of those businesses within the three year period after the listing of our
Class A ordinary shares on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange. As of the date of this annual report, we have not identified any target for a potential
spin-off, as a result we do not have any information relating to the identity of any spin-off target or any other details of any spin off and accordingly,
there is no material omission of any information relating to any possible spin-off in this document. The waiver granted by the Hong Kong Stock
Exchange is conditional upon us confirming to the Hong Kong Stock Exchange in advance of any spin-off that it would not render the Company,
excluding the businesses to be spun off, incapable of fulfilling either the eligibility or suitability requirements under Rules 19C.02 and 19C.05 of the
Hong Kong Listing Rules based on the financial information of the entity or entities to be spun-off at the time of our company’s Listing (calculated
cumulatively if more than one entity is spun-off). We cannot assure you that any spin-off will ultimately be consummated, whether within the three-year
period after the listing of our Class A ordinary shares on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange or otherwise, and any such spin-off will be subject to market
conditions at the time and approval by the listing committee of the Hong Kong Stock Exchange. In the event that we proceed with a spin-off, our
company’s interest in the entity to be spun-off (and its corresponding contribution to the financial results of our company) will be reduced accordingly.
Item 4.
Information on the Company
A. History and Development of the Company
Our company was incorporated in the Cayman Islands in January 2000. In December 2008, our shareholders approved a change in the name of
our company from Baidu.com, Inc. to Baidu, Inc. In December 2021, our shareholders approved a change in the name of our company from Baidu, Inc.
to the dual foreign name Baidu, Inc. 百度集團股份有限公司.
Since our inception, we have conducted our operations in mainland China principally through Baidu Online, our wholly owned subsidiary in
Beijing, China. Since June 2001, we also have conducted part of our operations in mainland China through Baidu Netcom, a variable interest entity in
Beijing, China, which holds the licenses and approvals necessary to operate our platform and provide internet content services, value-added
telecommunication-based services, internet map services, online audio and video services and mobile application distribution businesses. In subsequent
years, we have established additional subsidiaries inside and outside of mainland China and assisted in establishing additional variable interest entities in
mainland China to conduct part of our operations.
On August 5, 2005, we listed our ADSs on The NASDAQ National Market (later renamed The Nasdaq Global Market) under the symbol
“BIDU,” with each ADS representing one Class A ordinary share at the time. Our ADSs are currently traded on The Nasdaq Global Select Market.
On May 12, 2010, we effected a change of the ADS to Class A ordinary share ratio from 1 ADS representing 1 Class A ordinary share to 10 ADSs
representing 1 Class A ordinary share. The ratio change had the same effect as a 10-for-1 ADS split.
In November 2012, we obtained the controlling interest in iQIYI, Inc., or iQIYI, a prior equity method investee, and have since then consolidated
its financial results into our consolidated financial statements. In May
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2013, we acquired the online video business of PPStream Inc. and merged it with iQIYI, and since then have consolidated its financial results into our
consolidated financial statements. iQIYI completed its initial public offering in March 2018 and iQIYI’s American Depositary Shares trade on the
Nasdaq Global Select Market under the symbol “IQ.” We continue to control iQIYI and consolidate its financial results into our own in accordance with
U.S. GAAP.
In April 2018, we entered into definitive agreements with certain investors relating to our divestiture of a majority equity stake in our financial
services business, which provides consumer credit, wealth management and other financial services and had been renamed as Du Xiaoman. The
divestiture was completed in August 2018, following which we held a minority equity interest in Du Xiaoman, which was accounted for as an equity
method investment. We have deconsolidated the financial results of Du Xiaoman from our consolidated financial statements in accordance with U.S.
GAAP.
We closed Series A financing of our smart living business, known as Smart Living Group, at a post-money valuation of approximately
RMB20 billion (US$2.9 billion) in November 2020, and two rounds of Series B financing at a US$5.1 billion post-money valuation, in August 2021 and
September 2022, respectively. SLG operates DuerOS voice assistant and DuerOS-powered smart devices. We continued to consolidate the financial
results of SLG into our own in accordance with U.S. GAAP as a majority shareholder.
We entered into definitive agreements with JOYY in November 2020, which were subsequently amended and supplemented, including in
February 2021, to acquire YY Live, which includes the YY mobile app, the YY.com website and PC YY, among other things, for an aggregate purchase
price of approximately US$3.6 billion in cash, subject to certain adjustments. The closing of this acquisition was subject to certain conditions, including,
among others, obtaining the necessary regulatory approvals from government authorities, and the share purchase agreement was subject to termination
by either party if the closing did not occur by the long stop date. Despite our good faith efforts, the closing conditions provided for in the share purchase
agreement had not been fully satisfied as of December 31, 2023, the long stop date, and on January 1, 2024, we exercised our contractual right to
terminate the share purchase agreement. See “Item 3.D. Key Information—Risk Factors—Risks Related to Our Business and Industry—We face risks
arising from our termination of the share purchase agreement for our proposed acquisition of YY Live.”
On March 1, 2021, our shareholders approved and effected a change to our authorized share capital by a 1-to-80 subdivision of shares.
Concurrently, we effected a proportionate change in our ADS to Class A ordinary share ratio from 10 ADSs representing 1 Class A ordinary share to
each ADS representing 8 Class A ordinary shares.
On March 23, 2021, our Class A ordinary shares commenced trading on the Main Board of the Hong Kong Stock Exchange under the stock code
“9888.” We raised approximately US$3.1 billion in net proceeds from our global offering in connection with the listing in Hong Kong after deducting
underwriting commissions, share issuance costs and the offering expenses.
We moved to our current corporate headquarters, which we have named Baidu Campus, in November 2009. Our principal executive offices are
located at Baidu Campus, No. 10 Shangdi 10th Street, Haidian District, Beijing 100085, the People’s Republic of China. Our telephone number at this
address is +86 (10) 5992-8888.
B.
Business Overview
Our mission is to make the complicated world simpler through technology.
We are a leading AI company with a strong internet foundation. We have been consistently investing in AI since 2010 to solidify our technology
advancement, improve search capabilities and boost overall monetization. The breadth and depth of our AI capabilities provide the differentiating
foundational technologies that power all of our businesses.
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We are in the midst of a broad-based platform shift driven by generative AI and foundation models, that is set to revolutionize every industry. To
capture this opportunity, we launched ERNIE Bot, our conversational AI bot powered by ERNIE, our in-house foundation model, in the first quarter of
2023. We have used ERNIE Bot and ERNIE to reinvent our products and offerings in order to provide AI-native experiences. In October 2023, we
launched ERNIE 4.0 (EB4), our most advanced foundation model.
We are one of the very few companies in the world that offers a full AI stack of four layers, including cloud infrastructure, deep learning
framework developed in-house, large language models and applications. Our technological innovation in AI has been well recognized by the global
community. For instance, according to IDC’s latest report on the technological abilities of AI models, issued in July 2023, ERNIE 3.5 (the current
iteration of our foundation model at that time) excelled in many areas, such as algorithm, industry coverage, developer tools and ecosystem. EB4, our
most advanced foundation model, is a GPT4-type of model, displaying human-level performance in understanding, content generation, complex
reasoning and memory retention. These capabilities are crucial for developing AI-native applications and solutions. We have put our leading AI into
innovative use to reinvent our products and offerings and to create new ones. For example, we are the first recipient of driverless licenses in China and
the U.S. and we have been offering fully driverless ride-hailing services on open roads in Wuhan and Chongqing since August 2022.
Baidu was founded as a search engine business in 2000 with the belief that technology can change the way people discover and consume
information. At the heart of Baidu search is its ability to better understand a users’ search queries and to answer these queries by matching the most
relevant information in ranked search results. To achieve this, we continually innovate and develop new technologies and products that enhance Baidu
search user experience. We began to use AI a decade ago to power these technologies in order to better match user search intent with the large amount of
information on the internet. For instance, our natural language processing, an AI capability, enables the understanding of important details of a query,
particularly in complex conversational queries. This helps optimize search results returned and increase the satisfaction rate of users. Years of tagging,
understanding and intelligently processing all forms of content on the internet—text, images and videos—with AI has enabled us to further develop
leading AI technologies and commercialize them through products and services for consumers, enterprises and the public sector. Our ability to
continually invest heavily in research and development is made possible by the durable revenue that we generated as a leading Internet platform.
The PaddlePaddle developer community has grown to 10.7 million and has served 235,000 businesses, as of the end of 2023. Developers have
created 860,000 models on PaddlePaddle by the end of 2023. The more developers and businesses use our AI models, tool kits and services, the better
our AI capabilities become, which in turn further increases the attractiveness of our business communities. This network effect helps us obtain unique
insights into different kinds of products and services that are in demand and have real-world application across different industries, setting a strong
foundation for us to make investment decisions and lead with technology, products and services in the markets that we have entered.
Our businesses span across an ecosystem of hundreds of millions of users, millions of developers and hundreds of thousands of enterprises. Our
usage of a strong technology foundation to support an open platform business model not only draws participants into our ecosystem, but also adds
richness and vibrancy to our ecosystem, strengthening the long-term prospect and vitality of our business overall.
Over the past two decades, we have demonstrated a track record for long-term growth and strong profitability, which has enabled us to invest in a
diversified portfolio of products and services with large total market opportunities and further improve our long-term growth prospects. Through years
of investment in research, AI chip design, developer community, patents and talent development, we are applying AI to innovative use cases and new
monetization opportunities. AI powers the businesses that are included in Baidu Core, which contributed over 70% of our total revenues during 2021,
2022 and 2023. Baidu Core mainly
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provides search-based, feed based, and other online marketing services, as well as products and services from new AI initiatives in the following three
growth engines:
•
•
•
Mobile Ecosystem: a portfolio of over one dozen apps, including Baidu App, ERNIE Bot, which serves as a versatile, multi-round
conversational AI assistant on both PC and mobile, Haokan and Baidu Post, which provides an open platform that aggregates a wide range
of third-party, long-tail content and services through our AI building blocks and which helps communities connect and share knowledge
and information;
AI Cloud: including (i) enterprise and public sector cloud service, which offers a full suite of cloud services and solutions, including IaaS
(infrastructure as a service), PaaS (platform as a service) and SaaS (software as a service), and is uniquely differentiated by our AI
solutions and (ii) personal cloud service; and
Intelligent Driving & Other Growth Initiatives: consisting of (i) intelligent driving, including Apollo Go autonomous ride-hailing services,
Baidu Apollo’s auto solutions (Apollo Self-Driving Solutions and DuerOS for Auto) and intelligent electric vehicles under a joint venture,
Jidu Auto, that we established with Zhejiang Geely Holding Group (Geely), (ii) Xiaodu smart devices powered by DuerOS smart assistant,
and (iii) AI chips.
At the core of our Mobile Ecosystem is Baidu App, which is the No. 1 search-plus-feed app in China with an MAU of 667 million in December
2023. Unlike most mobile apps, which direct traffic to a closed ecosystem, Baidu App aggregates content and services from third-party apps and
websites by means of our AI building blocks and directs traffic to third-party content and service providers with native-app like experience. Baidu App
continues to grow our huge offering of third-party content and services by leveraging our network partners of Baijiahao (BJH) Accounts, Smart Mini
Program and Managed Page under an open-platform model. Our decade-long experience with AI and the development of a powerful knowledge graph
allow us to match user intent with long-tail, third-party content and services on our open platform.
Our Mobile Ecosystem also includes a portfolio of over one dozen apps in addition to Baidu App, such as Haokan and Baidu Post, providing a
platform for people to discover and consume information through search and feed and to interact and engage with creators, publishers, service providers
and merchants. This native-app like experience from user acquisition to user relationship management to closed loop transactions demonstrates our
value to merchants, enabling them to perform user life-time management on our platform, and has made Baidu App a leading online marketing services
provider for both search and feed. Within our Mobile Ecosystem, we serve more than half a million customers by enabling them to tap into our massive
user base. We generate revenue primarily from providing search, feed and other marketing services, which account for a majority of our total revenues
in 2021, 2022 and 2023. We have made extensive use of AI technologies to develop innovative marketing services, such as dynamic ads, which
recommend products from our marketing customers most fitting to each search user. Our marketing cloud also provides innovative AI capabilities to our
marketing customers, so that users can still make product inquiries during non-business hours. In addition, the user engagement and user logins that
have developed on our platform are enabling us to diversify monetization beyond online marketing into other services, such as Baidu Health.
Our AI Cloud includes two parts: (i) enterprise and public sector cloud, and (ii) personal cloud. Our enterprise and public sector cloud offers a full
suite of cloud services and solutions, including IaaS, PaaS, and SaaS, and is differentiated by our AI capabilities. We offer some integrated AI solutions
for enterprises in China’s traditional industries and the public sector, helping them improve efficiency and productivity. Our solutions are specialized for
certain use cases in traditional industries, including our quality inspection and patrol inspection solutions, ACE Smart Transportation and AI solutions
for predicting water consumption and automatically adjusting water supply. Generative AI and foundation model have provided us with greater
opportunities and strengthened our advantages in AI. We help enterprises train and fine-tune their customized models on our public cloud, and help them
build AI applications, in particular, leveraging ERNIE API. Our cloud
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services cover various industries, including transportation, manufacturing, the public sector, energy and utilities, financial services, and internet/media.
Intelligent Driving & Other Growth Initiatives consists of promising businesses in development with huge market opportunities, and some are at
early-stage commercialization with a growing customer base. We are a market leader in intelligent driving and smart devices, and we are pursuing these
large growth opportunities by leveraging our unique AI capabilities, data insights and internally developed chips. Apollo Go, which provides
autonomous ride-hailing service, is now open to the public in more than 10 cities in mainland China. In 2023, Apollo Go provided more than 3 million
rides. The accumulated rides provided to the public by Apollo Go exceeded 5 million by January 2, 2024. In Beijing, Apollo Go has begun to charge
fees for the autonomous ride-hailing services on open roads since November 25, 2021, and was granted the permits to charge fees for the driverless ride-
hailing services on public roads on July 20, 2022, with no safety operator behind the steering wheel. Apollo Go received Beijing’s first license to test
vehicles with no driver or safety operator in the car on December 30, 2022, and has charged fees since August 10, 2023, positioning Baidu as the first
company to provide fully driverless ride-hailing service on public roads in the capital city. In Chongqing, Apollo Go has begun to charge fees for the
autonomous ride-hailing services on open roads since February 18, 2022, and started offering fully driverless ride-hailing services on open roads and
started charging passengers for fully driverless ride-hailing services on open roads on August 8, 2022. In Wuhan, Apollo Go started offering fully
driverless ride-hailing services on open roads and received the permits to collect fees from the passengers on August 8, 2022. In the fourth quarter of
2023, the proportion of fully driverless orders within the overall order portfolio in Wuhan reached 45%. Apollo Go received permits to offer fully
driverless ride-hailing services to the public in Shenzhen Pingshan in May 2023 and has been granted permission to provide fully driverless ride-hailing
services to the public in four cities, including Beijing, Shenzhen, Wuhan and Chongqing. In addition, Apollo Go received permits to conduct fully
driverless testing on open roads in Shanghai Pudong area in July 2023.
Our strong brand and market leadership in autonomous driving has been carried over to intelligent driving. Apollo is a well-recognized brand
among automakers. We have partnered with many domestic and global automakers to power their passenger vehicles with Baidu Apollo’s auto
solutions.
Xiaodu ranked No.1 in smart display shipments and smart speaker shipments in China for the first nine months of 2023, according to IDC and
Canalys. We believe these initiatives will strengthen our revenue drivers for long-term growth.
iQIYI produces, aggregates and distributes a wide variety of professionally produced content, as well as a broad spectrum of other video content,
in a variety of formats.
We believe we have built a large and strong portfolio of products and services to give Baidu the scale necessary to invest heavily in technology,
while optimizing our future for sustainable long-term growth. We derive significant synergies by incorporating the AI developed for search into other
parts of our business. For example, large daily use of our visual search and voice search may be used to improve Apollo sensing capability and DuerOS
speech recognition capabilities.
Our operations are primarily conducted in mainland China. For the year ended December 31, 2023, more than 97% of our group’s total revenues
were generated from mainland China, and as of December 31, 2023, more than 78% of our group’s total assets were based in mainland China.
Baidu Core
Baidu Core—Mobile Ecosystem
Baidu Mobile Ecosystem provides a platform for people to discover and consume information through search and feed and facilitate interaction
and engagement among users, creators, service providers, and merchants, alike. In particular, our ecosystem allows merchants, creators, publishers and
service providers to
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acquire users, interact with users by provide information, content, products and services, and transact with users. This marketing funnel approach from
user acquisition to user engagement to monetization demonstrates our value to merchants, allowing them to build a life-time relationship of users. In
addition, this platform-centric approach has enabled our Mobile Ecosystem to start diversifying commercialization beyond online marketing into other
services.
Products and Services for Users
Baidu App. Our flagship app enables users to access our search, feed, content and other services through mobile devices. Baidu App offers twin-
engine search and feed functions that leverage our AI-powered algorithms and deep user insight to offer users a compelling experience. Through the
building blocks of BJH accounts, Smart Mini Program and Managed Page, Baidu App provides users with single log-on, native-app-like experience to a
wide range of information and services dispersed across isolated mobile apps and HTML5 websites, as well as merchants a full suite of marketing cloud
services. Baidu App’s spanning mobile ecosystem has resulted in more users logging in. In December 2023, MAUs of Baidu App reached 667 million.
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Baidu Search. Users can access our search and other services through Baidu’s properties and Baidu Union partners’ properties. In addition
to text inputs, users can conduct AI-powered voice search and visual search. Voice search integrates speech recognition and search
technologies to enhance the user experience by providing a more natural and convenient input modality. Visual search enables the use of
smart phone cameras to capture images and retrieve related content and services on the internet. For example, users can take a photo of a
plant or a pet, to identify the species. We also endeavor to improve the search experience, through other AI-powered products, such as Top
1, to satisfy user queries with the first displayed search result, which we believe will be an important capability with the adoption of smart
devices with smaller screens. In addition, we offer vertical search, such as video search and online literature search to our users.
Baidu Feed. Baidu Feed provides users with personalized timeline based on their demographics and interests. Baidu Feed complements our
core search product, leverages Baidu AI recommendation algorithms and monetization platform, and contributes to user engagement and
retention, including content sharing, likes, and comments. Baidu Feed provides text-to-speech function to help users consume internet
content hands free, as well as leverages its large traffic to distribute video content from Baijiahao, Haokan, iQIYI and third parties.
Baidu Health. Baidu Health helps users find the doctor and hospital that best suit their different healthcare needs through our AI building
blocks. By doing so, Baidu Health provides doctors and hospitals more efficient online presence through Baidu Healthcare Wiki short-term
videos, live streaming seminars and telemedicine, as well as providing them with hosted management tools to remain in contact with their
patients efficiently, such as messaging, appointment, re-scheduling and monitoring of treatment plans.
Haokan. Haokan offers a wide variety of user generated and professionally produced short videos, usually several minutes long, in coordination
with MCNs (multiple channel network). Haokan allows users to upload, view, search, rate, share, favorite, comment, and follow. Video creators and
curators can distribute their content to build a fan base and receive revenue share for their content contribution.
Internally Developed Knowledge-and-Information-Centric Products. Our content and services ecosystem also includes a comprehensive
portfolio of knowledge and information products developed internally, in partnership with professionals, reputable organizations and other users. For
example, we provided live streaming content from healthcare industry experts in 2020, to help users better understand and cope with the COVID-19
pandemic.
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Baidu Wiki. A leading wiki in China compiled by experts in specialized fields featuring high-quality columns and videos, such as
Encyclopedia of Intangible Cultural Heritage, Digital Museum and Recorder of History.
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Baidu Knows. An online community where users can pose questions to other users, such as individuals, professionals, and enterprises.
Baidu Knows leverages Baidu’s search capabilities to help users find answers to their questions on the internet fast and efficiently, while at
the same time allow various partners of Baidu Knows to engage with their targeted users.
Baidu Experience. An online platform where users share daily knowledge and experience, providing practical tips and interesting
perspectives in areas, such as software, lifestyle, and games, etc.
Baidu Post. A social media built on topical online communities. Users can post text, image, audio and video content and reply to original
curation, forming valuable discussion groups. Baidu Post draws new users through close integration with search and user generated
content, and has been a popular platform for celebrity fans, online game players, and online novel readers to share topical discussions,
especially about current trends.
ERNIE Bot. Our new AI-native product, serves as a versatile, multi-round conversational AI assistant on both PC and mobile. Starting
from November 1, 2023, EB4 has been open to the public through ERNIE Bot at a subscription fee. This marks us as the first company in
China to implement user charges, distinguishing us from other models in the market.
Products and Services for Partners
We attract numerous partners to our platform through our AI building blocks and Baidu Union, which help create opportunities for us to work
with our partners in research and development and other business cooperation and establish long term business relationships.
AI Building Blocks. The app installation costs have been rising, causing app developers to take interest in offering their content and services on
Baidu App with native-like app experience. Similarly, website owners are experiencing the challenge to grow their business while open in-app search
queries are outgrowing browser search queries. To help app developers and website owners grow their business and leverage their traffic more
efficiently with AI-powered tools and capabilities, we offer Smart Mini Program and Managed Page to our partners, respectively. We also offer BJH
accounts to enable content providers to place their content on our publisher network and make their content searchable.
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Baijiahao (BJH Accounts). Our publisher network aggregates articles, photos, short videos, live videos, and augmented reality clips from
MCNs, media outlets, and other professional sources, for distribution through search, feed, and short video products.
Smart Mini Program (SMP). App developers may share their content and services in Baidu App with native-app like experience through
increasingly popular applets, known as Smart Mini Program. Users can now search for and access content and services that historically
were only available in standalone apps within Baidu App, without having to download and maintain so many apps on their phones.
Managed Page. Managed Page is a hosted mobile alternative for website owners. Site owners may open an account on our platform, use
our tools and services powered by AI and engage with users without having to maintain their own site and pay for server, software and
bandwidth costs. Managed Page comes with industry-specific templates and is designed to provide users with more reliable and secure
information. Managed Page reached 51% of Baidu Core 2023 online marketing revenue.
Baidu Union. We match the promotional links of our online marketing services customers to the online properties of Baidu Union partners, which
consists of a large number of partners, such as third-party websites, wap sites and mobile apps. Some Baidu Union partners, such as online portal
websites and internet cafes, also embed our products and services, such as Baidu Search or a search function powered by Baidu Search, onto their online
properties, which allows Baidu Union partners to provide high-quality, relevant search results to their users without incurring the cost of development
and maintenance for advanced search capabilities and monetize their traffic through revenue sharing arrangements with us. Baidu Union partners may
use our content
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recommendation system to provide feed content and ads to their users. We typically pay our Baidu Union partners a portion of the online marketing
revenues based on pre-arranged agreements.
In addition, we also enter into arrangements with Baidu Union partners to provide our search engine in their browsers. We typically pay such
Baidu Union partners a fee based on prearranged agreements.
Products and Services for Customers
We deliver online marketing services through our network of third-party agents and our direct sales team to a diverse customer base consisting of
SMEs across industries, including healthcare, retail, e-commerce, entertainment and media, online games, business services, life services, and
transportation. In 2023, we served around half a million enterprise customers, who are customers of our online marketing services.
Our online marketing services enable the delivery of comprehensive, rich, and diversified marketing offerings to fulfill customer needs. Our
online marketing services include P4P (pay for performance) services and others. We generate revenues primarily from the sale of P4P online marketing
services and other marketing services to our customers, which accounts for a majority of our total revenue for the years ended December 31, 2021, 2022
and 2023.
P4P. Our P4P services allow customers to bid for priority placement of paid sponsored links and reach users who search for information related to
their products or services. We charge our customers on a cost-per-click basis. Customers may choose to purchase search, feed and other online
marketing services and have the option to set daily allowances. As our partners adopt Smart Mini Programs and Managed Page, some of them have
begun to use these properties as their landing page, in lieu of their own mobile apps and websites.
Search marketing services are mainly provided to customers through our proprietary online marketing system which drives monetization
efficiency by improving relevance in paid search and optimizing value for our customers.
Feed marketing services usually comprise image-based or video-based advertising, appearing between the feed headlines or within the feed
content. It is powered by Baidu AI in order to better match goods and services providers with their targeted audience while optimizing user experience.
Others. Our other marketing services comprise display-based marketing services and other online marketing services based on performance
criteria other than cost per click (CPC). Customers can choose different mix of our service offerings to optimize their return on investment. Brand Zone
allows customers to display integrated text, logo, image, and video in a structured and uniform manner on a prominent position of the search result page
or in vertical search products, such as Baidu Knows. Programmatic marketing platform supports the placement of advertisement using standard,
intelligent, or customized creativity, different purchasing methods (guaranteed delivery or real time bidding), and multiple payment methods.
Marketing cloud platform. Our marketing cloud platform integrates one-stop-shop media purchase with CRM (client relationship management)
functionalities, to allow our customers to purchase brand and performance-based marketing services, build audience and user engagement, generate
leads and maintain relationships with users, leveraging tools and services powered by Baidu AI. Our marketing cloud platform helps us better
understand our customers’ needs and enable our customers to leverage Baidu’s AI to simplify their marketing process and improve the effectiveness of
their marketing efforts.
Our Mobile Ecosystem, built upon Baidu App as well as a dozen other apps, offers a wide range of third-party content and services to hundreds of
millions of users, typically free of charge. Our AI building blocks and other products and services for partners have attracted millions of partners to
become participants in our Mobile Ecosystem and generate content and services onto our platform and to tap into our over-half-a-billion user base.
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The more partners we bring into our Mobile Ecosystem, the better we become at providing users with a more comprehensive reach and cover content
and services in more diversified formats than competing products, which in turn attracts more users and partners to our Mobile Ecosystem. For our
Mobile Ecosystem business, we generate a substantial majority of our revenues from the provision of online marketing services to our customers
through both direct sales and third-party agents. We charge our customers periodically based on usage while requiring certain customers to pay a
deposit. We also offer certain customers credit terms. In addition to offering ads on our platform, we serve promotional ads from our customers on the
apps or website properties of Baidu Union partners. We also power the search engines of Baidu Union partners.
Baidu Core—AI Cloud
Our AI Cloud includes two parts: (i) enterprise and public sector cloud, and (ii) personal cloud. Our enterprise and public sector cloud offers a full
suite of cloud services and solutions, including IaaS, PaaS and SaaS, and is differentiated by our AI capabilities. Enterprises and the public sector have
been the growth engine for the cloud revenue. Combined with our effective marketing capabilities, we have been able to demonstrate the ability to cross-
sell and up-sell additional products and services to existing customers, which in turn enables us to more efficiently grow our cloud business.
Our IaaS provides our customers the flexibility to quickly scale or cut back on their cloud computing needs without having to provide huge capital
layout upfront. Our IaaS business benefited from multi-cloud strategies adopted by many of our customers.
We also provide enterprise customers with cloud solutions, usually consisting of PaaS and SaaS, that leverage the unique AI capabilities. For
example, we enabled a client in the manufacturing sector to automate quality assurance checkpoints on its production line by leveraging our computer
vision capabilities. This solution helped our client reduce labor cost and improve their operational efficiency.
In the transportation industry, we are a pioneer and industry leader in developing V2X (vehicle-to-everything) solutions, the infrastructure
backbone to smart transportation, to cities in China to help them improve municipal traffic condition, air pollution and road safety, using Baidu AI
technology. Our goal is to offer a comprehensive set of products, services, and tools to enable enterprises and public sector to improve productivity and
operational efficiency through the use of Baidu AI and cloud infrastructure. In 2023, we experienced weak demand in smart transportation projects due
to a challenging macro environment.
The industry know-how from our existing businesses, such as our Mobile Ecosystem and iQIYI, also provides valuable insights on how to tailor
AI Cloud solutions to customers in the technology and media industries.
For the personal cloud, we offer Baidu Drive, which allows users to store and retrieve photos, videos, and other files on AI Cloud, along with
other capabilities, such as group share and data transfer. Personal cloud service contributed a small portion of total cloud revenues.
Generative AI and large language model have brought us a lot of opportunities, which have strengthened our competitive advantages in cloud and
increased our total addressable market. A growing number of enterprises are using ERNIE API to develop their own AI-native applications and
solutions. We are also helping customers build their own models efficiently, by leveraging our unique four-layer AI infrastructure and our years of
experience in building and using foundation models.
For AI Cloud, we generate revenue by providing cloud services and solutions to enterprise clients, consumers and the public sector directly or
through solution integrators for a lump-sum fee or on a subscription basis. We also generate revenue from Baidu Drive from membership services
provided to individual customers. Baidu Core’s cloud services revenue reached RMB18.7 billion (US$2.6 billion) in 2023, increasing by 6% from 2022.
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Baidu Core—Intelligent Driving & Other Growth Initiatives
Intelligent Driving & Other Growth Initiatives include developments with large total addressable markets and earlier-stage commercialization with
a growing customer base, including Apollo intelligent driving and DuerOS smart assistant.
Intelligent Driving
Intelligent driving, including Apollo Go robotaxi fleets (autonomous ride-hailing service), Baidu Apollo auto solutions (Apollo Self-Driving
Services and DuerOS for Auto) and intelligent EVs, leverage AI and other technologies to make a vehicle, or fleet of vehicles, more intelligent, all with
the ultimate goal to be autonomous.
We are the market leader in autonomous driving in China in terms of number of rides Apollo Go completed. The industry definition for L4
autonomous driving is that the vehicles are capable to drive themselves without human interactions but will be restricted to known use cases, or in most
environments and road conditions. Apollo Go has already received permits for providing driverless ride-hailing services on open roads and received the
permits to collect fees from the passengers in Beijing, Shenzhen, Wuhan and Chongqing. A well-known research firm, names Apollo as one of the four
global leaders in autonomous driving, recognizing us as the top-tier autonomous driving company from China.
In addition, the services and solutions of intelligent driving are compatible with our smart transportation solutions, which leverage each other to
gain a better understanding of traffic and road conditions, as well as to improve cost efficiency. Our leadership in autonomous driving, industry
know-how, operating experience, transportation ecosystem understanding (from our smart transportation projects and maps), and cost advantage give us
strong competitive advantages in leading the development of the intelligent driving industry.
Apollo Go, our robotaxi. Robotaxi fleet operation represents a massive opportunity. Apollo Go is now available in more than 10 cities, including
all the tier-1 cities (Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Shenzhen) and other major cities. Luobokuaipao, the mobile application of Apollo Go, is available
for free download from all the major app stores in China. In 2023, Apollo Go provided more than 3 million rides. The accumulated rides provided to the
public by Apollo Go exceeded 5 million by January 2, 2024.
In Beijing, Apollo Go has begun to charge fees for the autonomous ride-hailing services (with a safety operator behind the steering wheel) on
open roads since November 25, 2021 and Apollo Go was granted the permits to charge fees for the driverless ride-hailing services (with a safety
operator in the vehicles, but not behind the steering wheel) on public roads on July 20, 2022. On December 30, 2022, Apollo Go received Beijing’s first
license to test vehicles with no driver or safety operator in the car. In Wuhan and Chongqing, Apollo Go started offering fully driverless ride-hailing
services on open roads and received the permits to collect fees from the passengers on August 8, 2022. In the fourth quarter of 2023, the proportion of
fully driverless orders within the overall order portfolio in Wuhan reached 45%, up from 40% in the third quarter of 2023.
Apollo Go also received permission to offer fully driverless ride-hailing services to the public in Shenzhen Pingshan area in the second quarter of
2023. Apollo Go has now been granted permission to provide fully driverless ride-hailing services to the public in four cities, Beijing, Shenzhen, Wuhan
and Chongqing. Apollo Go received permits to conduct fully driverless testing on open roads in Shanghai Pudong area in July 2023.
In June 2021, we introduced Apollo Moon, our 5th generation Apollo robotaxi vehicle. In July 2022, we unveiled our 6th generation robotaxi
vehicle Apollo RT6. RT6 is the first steering wheel-free, all electric model designed for fully driverless autonomous driving. Apollo RT6 is distinct from
the previous generations that had otherwise been retrofitted on conventional vehicles.
Baidu established the Technology Ethics Committee in October 2023 to guide the practices of technology professionals.
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Baidu Apollo’s auto solutions (Apollo Self-Driving Services and DuerOS for Auto). We have been investing in autonomous driving
technology to provide automakers with self-driving services. Under Apollo Self-Driving, we offer HD Map, AVP (automated valet parking) and ANP
(Apollo navigation pilot). We introduced AVP (our automated valet parking) services in 2018, which allow a driver to get out of the car upon arrival at
his or her destination and our solution would enable the vehicle to autopark, and to direct the vehicle to automatically drive to driver’s location out of the
parking lot. In December 2020, we introduced ANP (Apollo navigation pilot) services, which leverage our autonomous driving capabilities. In the past
years, Baidu Apollo’s auto solutions continued to gain traction among leading automakers. These products are in the early stage of monetization and
their revenue contribution is insignificant.
Baidu Maps. A voice-enabled mobile app providing users with travel-related services, including POI (point of interest) search, route planning,
precise navigation, taxi-hailing service and real-time traffic condition information. Baidu Maps also provides professional and stable map services to
business partners across different sectors. In 2022, we integrated Baidu Map into our Intelligent Driving Group to create synergies between the Baidu
Map app and the map solutions for the auto and transportation industries.
Intelligent EVs. We entered into a strategic partnership with Geely in January 2021 to form a new EV company JIDU. We provide intelligent
driving capabilities, voice control system, cloud service and other AI related technologies to upgrade the passenger vehicles, and Geely, which holds the
distinction of one of the best-selling Chinese automobile brands in past years, contributes its expertise in automobile engineering and manufacturing.
As of the date of this annual report, we have no control of Jidu Auto and accounted for the investment as an long-term investment.
Other Growth Initiatives
DuerOS Smart Assistant. DuerOS is a leading smart assistant for the Chinese language, which powers first-party Xiaodu home smart devices as
well as third-party smart phones, children smart watches, smart TVs and smart cars. DuerOS is differentiated by its multi-round conversation AI
capabilities, leveraging internally designed Baidu Honghu AI chip, as well as by DuerOS skills store, which offers thousands of skills in wide ranging
genres, including short and long videos, online games, education services, video conferencing and other visually oriented activities. In August 2021 and
September 2022, Xiaodu completed two rounds of Series B financing at a valuation of US$5.1 billion with us retaining super-majority shareholding.
While we generate revenue primarily from the sale of our smart assistant devices to our customers directly and through our distribution network, Xiaodu
services revenue, such as membership and advertising, already surpassed 15% of Xiaodu revenues. Xiaodu ranked No.1 in smart display shipments and
smart speaker shipments in China for the first nine months of 2023, according to IDC and Canalys.
iQIYI
iQIYI is a leading provider of online entertainment video services in China. iQIYI’s platform features a variety of premium video content, in
particular iQIYI original dramas and shows. iQIYI also expands its premium content offering through licenses and collaboration with third-party
partners, which supplement its original content. As of December 31, 2023, iQIYI had over 40,000 professionally produced content titles in iQIYI’s
comprehensive and diversified video content library, comprised of drama series, variety shows, films and others.
Since the beginning, iQIYI has always put content and users at the center, orienting each of its business strategies around delivering superior
content quality and user-friendliness. Artistically crafted and imbued with industry expertise distilled from over a decade of operational experience,
many iQIYI original titles have secured their places among the most successful IP franchises in the history of Chinese popular entertainment. Designed
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and refined by its engineers with a deep understanding of the evolving user preferences, iQIYI’s products continue to offer superior entertainment
experience for users. With in-house studios spearheading its original content production, iQIYI is home to many acclaimed original drama series and
variety show franchises, and has successfully serialized iQIYI’s original content into blockbuster sequels to accumulate and amplify IP value over time.
Professionally Produced Content.
iQIYI Original content
iQIYI’s original content includes content produced in-house and content produced in collaboration with quality third-party partners. iQIYI
has a diversified portfolio that includes:
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original dramas, such as The Knockout (狂飙), Destined (长风渡) and Story of Kunning Palace (宁安如梦), which were launched in
2023 and broke its internal 10,000 iQIYI popularity index score;
variety shows, such as The Big Band (乐队的夏天), The Detectives’ Adventures (萌探探探案), The Rap of China (中国说唱巅峰对
决), Super Sketch Show (一年一度喜剧大赛) and innovative new IP, Become A Farmer (种地吧);
movies, such as Tough Out (棒！少年), Break Through the Darkness (扫黑·决战), Northeastern Bro (东北恋哥), The Comeback (零号
追杀) and Wolf Hiding (怒潮); and
animations, such as Deer Squad (无敌鹿战队), The World of Fantasy (灵域), Love Between Fairy and Devil (苍兰决) and The Great
Ruler (大主宰年番).
iQIYI obtains the IP through production, adaptation or purchase from third parties, while the partners, typically established entertainment
production companies, are responsible for content development and production. iQIYI maintains a high degree of control during the
content development and production process.
iQIYI also adapts high-quality video IP into multiple entertainment products, such as online games, animations, online literature, and
derivative merchandise.
Licensed content.
In addition to original content, iQIYI also provides users with a selection of high-quality professionally produced content that is produced
by and licensed from third parties. Leveraging iQIYI’s expertise in content selection, iQIYI has successfully debuted well-received titles
such as the drama series iPartment (爱情公寓), In the Name of People (人民的名义), Go Go Squid (亲爱的，热爱的), My Heroic Husband
(赘婿), A Lifelong Journey (人世间), A Journey to Love (一念关山) and the variety show Keep Running (奔跑吧). iQIYI’s licensed content
library also features a rich collection of movies, animations, documentaries and other content.
iQIYI licensed video content is typically procured from third parties at fixed rates for a specified term. The average term of licenses varies
depending on the type of content, with films having an average term of 11 years and drama series an average term of 14 years. Payments
of licensing fees are generally made in installments upon signing of the contacts and during the license period. iQIYI also exchanges rights
to distribute licensed content with other online video streaming services to enrich its content library. In certain cases, iQIYI has the right of
first refusal to purchase new content produced by the licensor.
iQIYI leverages its content procurement team’s insights and its AI-based big data analytics capabilities to optimize content procurement.
iQIYI has established strong partnerships with content providers to ensure access to high-quality content. These partners include leading
domestic drama series production companies, film production companies and TV stations, “Big Five” Hollywood production studios, and
top TV networks in the U.S.
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Other Video Content. iQIYI offers a broad base of other video content with all kinds of genres, formats, and running times, such as internet
movies and dramas, mini variety shows and animations, and vertical or horizontal videos, as well as grassroot or influencer uploaded videos, edited
video clips, and video blogs, or Vlogs, among others. iQIYI’s other video content expands its library and allows it to capture a broader user base, drive
user engagement and enhance user stickiness.
iQIYI generates revenues primarily through membership services, online advertising and content distribution. iQIYI also generates revenues from
other monetization methods, including online games, IP licensing, talent agency, online literature and other licensing.
Membership Services. iQIYI’s membership services generally provide subscribing members with a superior entertainment experience that is
embodied in various membership privileges. iQIYI’s membership program is composed of multiple packages, each offered at a different price, and
provides subscribing members with access to a large collection of content comprised of drama series, movies, animations, cartoons and online literature,
earlier access to certain content aired on the iQIYI platform and a bundle of viewing functions and features. iQIYI’s members primarily include
subscribing members and, to a lesser extent, users who gain access to our premium content library through paid video-on-demand service. The average
daily number of subscribing members in 2023 was 111.9 million, as compared to 103.1 million in 2022. The average daily number of subscribing
members excluding individuals with trial memberships was 111.2 million in 2023, as compared to 102.4 million in 2022.
Online Advertising. The prices of iQIYI’s advertising services depend upon various factors, including form and size of the advertising, level of
sponsorship, popularity of the content or event in which the advertisements will be placed, and specific targeting requirements. iQIYI offers both brand
advertising service and performance-based advertising service.
Content Distribution. iQIYI sub-licenses content within its authorized scope to TV stations and other internet video streaming services. iQIYI
also enters into barter agreements to exchange internet broadcasting rights of licensed content with other internet video streaming services. The barter
agreement provides the licensee with the right to broadcast the licensed content, and the licensor retains the right to continue broadcasting and/or
sub-licensing the exchanged content. We distribute our selected content not only to third-party platforms in mainland China but also to regions outside
of China. iQIYI also distributes theatrical movies invested by iQIYI to offline movie theaters.
Others. Other monetization models include online games, IP licensing, talent agency, online literature, other licensing and others.
Technology
We focus on technology and innovation. To stay at the forefront of the internet industry and to achieve long-term growth and success, we invest
heavily in research and development. We have established several research labs in China and the United States, to enhance our research and
development capabilities, including AI, quantum computing and other areas.
Baidu AI
We have been investing in AI since 2010, and we have opened up our AI platform to a large community of developers, which helps improve our
AI capabilities and accelerate large-scale implementation of our AI. By doing so, we are turning the world’s most advanced AI capabilities into
platforms for customers, developers and partners.
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Our AI capabilities consist of four layers and one module, as follows:
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a foundation layer, consisting of PaddlePaddle, our open source deep learning framework and platform, as software, Kunlun AI chips as
hardware and databases as fuel;
a perception layer, aggregating internally developed algorithms for speech recognition and synthesis, computer vision and augmented
reality & virtual reality;
a cognition layer, consisting of algorithms for natural language processing and knowledge graph; and
a platform layer, opening our technologies to partners and developers to develop a strong AI ecosystem.
AI Capabilities. In 2022, Baidu released ERNIE 3.0 Titan, a pre-training language model with 260 billion parameters. ERNIE 3.0 Titan is trained
on a vast knowledge graph and massive unstructured data.
Baidu released ERNIE Bot, our conversational AI bot powered by ERNIE, our in-house foundation model in the first quarter of 2023. This launch
demonstrated our significant investments and achievements in AI over the past ten years. In 2023, Baidu continued to upgrade ERNIE. Baidu launched
ERNIE 3.5 in May 2023 and launched ERNIE 4.0 (EB4) in October 2023. According to IDC’s latest report on the technological abilities of AI models,
issued in July 2023, ERNIE 3.5 excels in many areas, such as algorithm, industry coverage, developer tools and ecosystem. We believe that EB4 is a
GPT4-type of model, displaying human-level performance in understanding, content generation, complex reasoning and memory retention. These
capabilities are crucial for developing AI-native applications and solutions. Baidu’s ERNIE 3.5 and EB4 have been accessible to users on the ERNIE
Bot app. In addition, enterprise customers can use ERNIE 3.5 and EB4 via our cloud API and web-based product.
In terms of software and hardware integration, Baidu independently developed AI chip, Baidu Kunlun, optimized for voice, natural language
processing, image and other AI technologies, is capable of supporting deep learning frameworks such as PaddlePaddle, and flexibly supports training
and prediction, making AI models more efficient in computing and within the application. In addition, the Baidu Honghu chip was developed for
far-field voice interaction, making voice interaction between people and cars, smart homes and other devices easier and more fluent. Separately, Baidu
also works with partners to build hardware ecology. As of December 31, 2023, PaddlePaddle has been equipped with more than 50 chips.
PaddlePaddle. PaddlePaddle is Baidu’s deep learning framework developed in-house, which we open-sourced in 2016. PaddlePaddle aims to
solve a real problem for the public service sector and traditional industries, and enables developers to implement AI technologies efficiently.
PaddlePaddle provides: (i) a deep learning framework based on programming logic enabling both development flexibility and stability; (ii) the ultra-
large-scale training capacity for real-time updates of trillion-level parameters of deep learning models; (iii) end-to-end deployment of high-performance
inference engines designed for diverse platforms and devices; and (iv) open-source industry-grade models covering a wide range of applications.
PaddlePaddle has boosted the diversification and scaling of AI applications. As of the end of 2023, PaddlePaddle developer community grew to
10.7 million and serves over 235,000 businesses. Developers, academic institutes, enterprises, government administrations and hardware OEMs works
together on PaddlePaddle, allowing PaddlePaddle to cultivate various industry models. As a result, PaddlePaddle is well capable to run through the
entire AI industry chain, from hardware adaptation to model training, inference deployment and application, consolidating the foundation of industrial
intelligence and accelerating the pace of intelligent upgrading. In addition, Baidu has partnered with academics and industry to develop AI talents.
EasyDL and BML (a full-featured AI development platform) are PaddlePaddle’s enterprise versions.
AI Chips. Baidu AI Chip, which was introduced in 2018, is a cloud-to-edge AI chip specifically designed for Baidu’s computing environment. As
of December 31, 2023, both Baidu AI Chip I and Baidu AI Chip II have been in mass production. Baidu AI chips have been used for our search engine,
cloud, and Xiaodu’s business
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needs, while powering our deep learning computing needs. For example, the Baidu AI Chip II optimizes our AI technologies such as voice, natural
language processing and images and support deep learning frameworks such as Baidu’s open source deep learning platform, PaddlePaddle. The diverse
range of uses enables Baidu AI Chip II to power different AI applications, such as internet core algorithms, smart cities and smart industry. Furthermore,
Baidu AI Chip optimizes our AI capabilities on AI Cloud servers while improving cost efficiency. Baidu AI Chip completed its first-round of funding at
a post-money valuation of US$2 billion in April 2021. In addition, we have also developed Baidu Honghu to power DuerOS smart devices and
in-vehicle infotainment to improve speech recognition performance and provide a cost advantage in our AI offerings.
We have also developed a proprietary technological infrastructure which consists of technologies for search, marketing services, and large-scale
systems. Our established infrastructure serves as the backbone for AI, mobile and PC platforms.
Mobile Ecosystem Technologies
Search Technologies
Our search is powered by a set of industry-leading technologies, including the following, among others:
Ranking. We compare search queries with the content on web pages to help determine relevance. We have significantly improved the relevancy,
freshness and authority of ranking using our machine learning modules to analyze the rich content on the internet and user intent, to prioritize the search
results. We began using machine learning in 2010, to better understand the semantics beyond simple text of the search keywords, and in 2013, we began
to apply deep learning in our search ranking system, which is playing an increasingly important role. In 2019, we began to develop Top 1 (satisfying
user with the first search result) by significantly enhancing the results of question parsing and analysis, answer matching, extraction, page content
understanding and other aspects of our search engine, which has greatly improved user satisfaction with our search products.
Multi-modal search. We have greatly improved the accuracy of speech recognition in scenarios, such as long sentences, mixed Chinese and
English, and strong accent, and thus significantly improve user satisfaction of our speech search. We have built a terminal visual interaction engine v1.0
for visual search and facilitated the implementation of convolutional neural network models, reducing the training costs through unsupervised or semi-
supervised models.
Marketing Services Technologies. Our marketing services platform serves billions of relevant, targeted sponsored links each day based on search
terms users enter or content they view on web pages or in our apps. Our key marketing services technologies include Phoenix Nest, a web-based auction
system to enable customers to bid for keywords and automatically deliver relevant, targeted promotional links on Baidu’s properties and Baidu Union
partners’ properties. Designed to generate more relevant results, Phoenix Nest helps customers to identify popular keywords and provides them with
tools for budget management and marketing effectiveness measurement.
Large-Scale Systems and Technologies. Our large scale and massive amounts of user traffic require our systems to efficiently and effectively
allocate resources among the products and services in our large product portfolio. Our key large-scale systems and technologies include our internally
developed automated management platform for large size clusters, which enables us to intelligently manage and allocate resources and automatically
debug and relocate services, thereby, allowing the huge volume of requests on Baidu search platform to function stably across multiple internet data
centers and a large network of servers.
Research and Development
We have a team of experienced engineers who are based mostly in Beijing, Shanghai and Shenzhen, China. We also have development centers in
Sunnyvale, California and Seattle, Washington. We compete aggressively
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for engineering and recruit most of our engineers locally and have established various recruiting and training programs with leading universities in
China. We have also recruited experienced engineers globally.
In the years ended December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023, our research and development expenditures were RMB24.9 billion, RMB23.3 billion and
RMB24.2 billion (US$3.4 billion), representing 20%, 19% and 18% of our total revenues, respectively. Our research and development expenses
primarily consist of salaries and benefits for research and development personnel, server depreciation expenses and server custody fees. We expense
research and development costs as they are incurred, except for capitalized software development costs that fulfill the capitalization criteria.
Intellectual Property
We rely on a combination of patent, trademark, copyright and trade secret protection laws in mainland China and other jurisdictions, as well as
confidentiality procedures and contractual provisions, to protect our intellectual property and our brand. We have over 20,000 issued patents in mainland
China covering invention, utility model and design, and intend to apply for more patents to protect our core technologies and intellectual property. We
also enter into confidentiality, non-compete and invention assignment agreements with our employees and consultants, and nondisclosure agreements
with selected third parties. “百度,” our company’s name “Baidu” in Chinese, has been recognized as a well-known trademark in China by the Trademark
Office of National Intellectual Property Administration. In addition to owning “
” and the related logos, we have applied for registration of
various other trademarks. We also have registered certain trademarks in the United States, Australia, Brazil, Canada, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia,
Japan, Malaysia, Mexico, New Zealand, Russia, Singapore, South Africa, South Korea, Thailand, the European Union and several other jurisdictions. In
addition, we have registered our domain name baidu.com and certain other domain names with authorized registrars of ICANN (Internet Corporation for
Assigned Names and Numbers). We have also successfully become designated Registry Operator for .baidu top-level domain names by ICANN.
Internet, technology and media companies are frequently involved in litigation based on allegations of infringement or other violations of
intellectual property rights. Furthermore, the application of laws governing intellectual property rights in mainland China and abroad is uncertain and
evolving and could involve substantial risks to us. See “Item 3.D. Key Information—Risk Factors—Risks Related to Our Business Industry—We may
face intellectual property infringement claims and other related claims, which could be time-consuming and costly to defend and may result in an
adverse impact over our operations” and “—We may be subject to patent infringement claims with respect to our P4P platform.”
Sales and Distribution
We offer products and services for Baidu Mobile Ecosystem through our network of third-party agents and our direct sales team. We typically
enter into framework sales agreements with third-party agents, where third-party agents will sell online marketing services to customers such as SMEs,
domestic businesses and multinational companies on our behalf. The sales agreements typically limit the industry focus of the third-party agents. The
third-party agents provide our online marketing customers with numerous services, including identifying customers, collecting payments, assisting
customers in setting up accounts with us, suggesting keywords to maximize return on investment and engaging in other marketing and educational
services aimed at acquiring customers. We have direct sales presence in Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, and other cities, covering the major
regional markets for our online marketing services and other services. We cover our key accounts through direct sales team and enter into agreements
with such key accounts directly.
For AI Cloud, we sell our cloud solutions including IaaS, PaaS and SaaS to our enterprise clients directly or through solution integrators. We offer
smart transportation solutions directly to provide tailored solutions to meet the specific needs of our clients.
For Intelligent Driving & Other Growth Initiatives, we sell our products and services to our clients directly and through our third-party agents.
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iQIYI’s brand advertising is sold through third-party advertising agencies, including members of American Association of Advertising Agencies,
or 4As, and leading Chinese advertising agencies, as well as through a direct sales force. Feed advertising services is sold primarily through third-party
advertising agencies, whose existing long-term relationships and network resources we strategically leverage, to increase our sales and expand our
advertiser base.
Marketing
We focus on continually improving the quality of our products and services, as we believe satisfied users and customers are more likely to
recommend our products and services to others. Through these efforts and the increased use of internet in China, we have built our brand with modest
marketing expenditures.
We have implemented a number of marketing initiatives designed to promote our brand awareness among potential users, customers and Baidu
Union partners. In addition to our brand positioning in the market, we have also initiated a series of marketing activities to promote our products and
technologies among existing and potential users and customers, including, but not limited to, Baidu World Conference.
Competition
For Baidu Core business, our primary competitors are mainly internet companies and online marketing platforms in China. We compete with these
entities for both users and customers on the basis of user traffic, cyber security, quality (relevance) of search (and other marketing and advertising)
results, availability and user experience of products and services, distribution channels and the number of associated third-party websites. We also face
competition from U.S.-based internet search providers providing Chinese language services and online marketing platforms, as well as traditional
advertising media.
Online Marketing Platforms, Internet, Cloud and Smart Device Companies in China. Chinese internet companies, such as Alibaba, Tencent,
ByteDance and Xiaomi offer a broad range of online services, including search, feed, cloud services and smart devices, as well as foundation models
and a diversified of AI native applications powered by foundation models. These companies have widely recognized brand names in China and
significant financial resources. Furthermore, some of these companies are private and are able to expend significant resources without consideration for
near-term return on investment. We compete with these companies primarily for user traffic, user time, content, advertising budget, marketing resources
and enterprise customers, in particular in the traditional industries and the public service sector. We leverage our AI technology, user traffic, product
design and various marketing to enhance users’ reliance on and customers’ stickiness on our platforms and services.
U.S.-based Internet Search Providers and Online Marketing Platforms. U.S.-based internet search providers and online marketing platforms, such
as Microsoft, Google and Facebook, have a strong global presence, well established brand names, more users and customers and significantly greater
financial resources than we do. We may also continue to face competition from other existing competitors and new entrants in the markets of Chinese
language search and online marketing.
Other Advertising Media. Other advertising media, such as newspapers, yellow pages, magazines, billboards, other forms of outdoor media,
television, radio and mobile apps compete for a share of our customers’ marketing budgets.
AI Cloud. We compete with Huawei and Kingsoft cloud for our cloud offerings. In addition, we have observed that telecom providers have been
growing their cloud business, which has resulted in some changes in China’s cloud industry.
Intelligent Driving. In the field of self-driving services, we compete with self-driving system providers and automakers, which are working on
their in-house self-driving solutions. In the field of robotaxi services, we
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compete with other autonomous ride-hailing service providers. Our Apollo Go remains the largest autonomous ride-hailing service provider measured
by the number of rides we competed.
iQIYI competes with Tencent Video, Youku, Mango TV and Bilibili for both users and advertising customers. iQIYI also competes with other
internet media and entertainment services, such as internet and social platforms and short-form video platforms, as well as major television stations.
iQIYI competes with these market players primarily on the basis of obtaining IP rights to popular content, conducting brand promotions and other
marketing activities, and making investments in and acquisitions of business partners.
Our user traffic tends to be seasonal. For example, we generally experience less user traffic during public holidays and other special event periods
in China. In addition, advertising and other marketing spending in China has historically been cyclical, reflecting overall economic conditions as well as
budgeting and buying patterns. Our results of operations may fluctuate due to the cyclicality and seasonality in our business.
Our Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) Initiatives
We are committed to corporate social responsibility and meeting society’s changing needs despite the challenging economic environment. We
have established an internal environmental, social and governance communications and management mechanism to comprehensively improve our
corporate governance and benefit society.
Following the UN’s 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), we have continually improved our corporate social responsibility initiatives
under the guidance of our ESG framework. We appreciate the oversight, guidance and feedback from different parties and are committed to
collaborating closely with domestic and international organizations to support broader industry-wide ESG practices, to explore multi-dimensional use
cases for our technology, to empower traditional industries with our capabilities and to promote a healthier lifestyle and the long-term sustainability of
our society. In June 2021, we announced our goal to become carbon neutral by 2030. In August 2022, Forbes China placed us on its 2022 China ESG 50
list. In 2023, Baidu established the Technology Ethics Committee to guide the practices of technology professionals.
Baidu released its annual ESG Report on May 12, 2023, which details Baidu’s latest ESG policies and sustainability initiatives.
Environmentally Sustainable Mindset
We are a strong supporter of the Ten Principles of the United Nations Global Compact and the UN’s 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
We are committed to the goal of achieving carbon neutrality by 2030 at the group operational level. To this end, we continue to pursue our emission
reduction pathways in data centers, office buildings, carbon offsets, intelligent transportation, AI cloud and supply chain. Starting from 2020, we have
taken measurements for all Scope 1, Scope 2, and Scope 3 emissions, inviting third-party professional institutions to verify and certify the results. These
results are disclosed in our ESG report accordingly. We are committed to making Baidu a low-carbon, energy-efficient and eco-friendly company
through concrete actions. For example, to improve energy efficiency, we implemented various power supply solutions including HVDC offline and BBU
(Battery Back-up Unit) in our data centers. Furthermore, our data centers are equipped with large-scale water cooling systems with a free cooling
module and OCU (Overhead Cooling Unit) supplemented by fine-tuning operation optimization. As a result of these measures, we optimized the power
usage effectiveness (PUE) of our data centers and further reduced our carbon emissions. Baidu Yangquan Data Center was awarded the Carbon Neutral
Data Center Leader (5A) certification, making it the first data center with the highest low-carbon level in China. We have also adopted various
photovoltaic power generation technologies that increase the use of renewable energy in office buildings, as well as energy conservation measures, such
as recycling heat energy and introducing electric commuter shuttle busses on our campus to make our offices more environmentally friendly.
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While we rigorously implement environmentally sustainable policies and initiatives, we are also committed to presenting our users with green
products and services, fulfilling our social responsibilities and diligently promoting our green ideas to the general public. For example, we have built our
intelligent and green transportation ecosystem, relying on intelligent connected vehicle technology to comprehensively upgrade vehicles, roads and
modes of travel. Baidu’s V2X deployed in Beijing and smart signal control system adopted by Baoding help reduce carbon emissions by about 51,000
tons and 42 tons annually respectively. We provide enterprises with AI Cloud solutions, promoting the sustainable development in energy and textile
industry. Baidu Maps provide users with low-carbon services, helping users to optimize their low-carbon routes, offering users with Navigation Services
for New Energy Vehicles (NEVs), and launching the functionality of visualizing carbon footprints. Our efforts promote the spread of green consumption
among users. We have received various awards in recognition of our ESG efforts.
Baidu earned a position in the China edition of the S&P Global Sustainability Yearbook, in recognition of its exceptional ESG scores. The
selection stems from a comprehensive evaluation of 1,600 Chinese companies as part of the S&P Global 2022 Corporate Sustainability Assessment,
underscoring Baidu’s sustainability practices.
Building Social Trust and Developing Talent
Cybersecurity and Privacy Protection. As a reputable hi-tech company serving a large community of users, we put data privacy protection and
data security as our top priorities. In October 2021, we established a data management committee to further improve our policies and oversight over data
management. Revolving around the dimensions of security, safety, and privacy, we built a research team filled with top-notch security experts. Focusing
on our full stack of AI products and ecosystem, the team concentrates on cutting-edge technology, including vulnerability defense, AI security, security
testing, privacy computing, etc., and developed and deployed multi-layer defense system. With their efforts, Baidu created a leading security technology
system oriented for the AI-native cloud. We communicate with our users in an easy-to-understand manner to help them understand their rights under
applicable laws and regulations. Through our data privacy and data security policies, users can learn about and control how their data is used and
provide consent for data collection when necessary. We have put in place a comprehensive auditing mechanism across our business to keep track of the
data privacy and data security actions taken throughout the lifecycle of our products and services. We utilize a complete set of data privacy and data
security management systems that allow us to continually review and improve our processes. Guided by the principles of legal compliance, hierarchical
protection, consistency of rights and responsibilities and continuous optimization, we have set up the mechanism for data security across the entire life
cycle of products. This mechanism is designed to protect user privacy, validate the protection and legitimacy of data, and continuously maintain a secure
state of operations. We have designed the General Privacy Policies and have drawn up specific privacy policies for individual products and services. We
have also built an independent one-stop privacy protection platform, from which users can learn about our data privacy policies and provide feedback.
We believe that we can make a complex world simpler through AI, but such vision can only be realized if AI is used properly.
In 2023, we inspected and cleared more than 86.45 million pieces of harmful information through all means. Through machine big data mining, it
cracked down on more than 60.44 billion pieces of harmful information. The core data of content moderation were disclosed on the Comprehensive
Governance of Information Security Report on a quarterly basis.
Outlook on Talent and Organizational Development. Our employees are our most important asset. To promote work-life balance for our
employees, we have adopted flexible working arrangements and a system of paid leave and compensatory leave, in addition to statutory annual leave.
Since 2019, we have been working with an insurance company to introduce commercial healthcare coverage for both our employees and their parents.
We are an early adopter among Chinese internet companies to offer such customized coverage. Moreover, we provide a multitude of benefits to our
employees and their family members, including pregnant and nursing employees. We cater for female employees via return-to-work celebrations after
childbirth, a maternity room to
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give breastfeeding mothers privacy, gift bags on Women’s Day, and a women’s club that encourages communication and the organization of activities.
To better understand employees’ level of satisfaction, assist employees in addressing work challenges and improve our overall work environment,
we conduct annual human capital assessment surveys with all of our employees. We also provide a variety of channels for employees to provide
feedback and file complaints. We fully respect and value our employees’ suggestions and feedback.
We value training and development of our employees. We have developed a robust talent training system, Online Baidu School learning platform,
which is aimed at elevating the caliber and job proficiency of AI professionals, and facilitating their comprehensive growth in pivotal areas such as
practical skills, AI expertise and industry acumen. In 2023, the platform introduced 7 specialized domains focusing on the LLMs, alongside 210 courses,
enriching our employees’ access to learning materials on AI and employees’ training hours. Particularly, female employees’ training hours reached 38.5
hours in 2023.
As a signatory to the United Nations Global Compact, Baidu observes international treaties such as the Universal Declaration of Human Rights,
the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights, and the ILO Declaration on Fundamental Principles and Rights at Work, and has formulated
the Baidu Human Rights Policy and indicators. In the Human Rights Policy, we state we are committed to and guarantee a respectful and dignified work
environment for all employees. We provide equal opportunities for everyone in recruiting, hiring, training, promotion, and compensation and benefits,
and strictly prohibit discrimination on the basis of gender, race, ethnicity, color, age, nationality, religion, physical disability, marital status, or other
characteristics protected by law. We have zero-tolerance policies for any form of harassment, abuse, and coercion in the workplace and in any work-
related environment outside the company. We protect all employees, especially women, from unfair treatment and retaliation. According to human rights
tracking indicators, we regularly conduct assessments of the human rights impacts on ourselves and relevant parties.
Innovation and Practice in Social Responsibility
We care about the society that we live in, and we encourage our employees across different product lines to leverage Baidu AI technologies to
make our community a better place for everyone. Baidu has made outstanding achievements in protecting vulnerable groups, including the elderly, deaf
and hard-of-hearing (DHH) and minors. In March 2022, AI Cloud’s digital avatar platform XiLing launched an AI sign language platform, breaking
down communication barriers for the deaf and hard-of-hearing with our automated sign language translation in place. Additionally, our Baidu App (Big
Character Version) features a simpler and clearer interface and functions, designed to reduce accessibility barriers for the elderly. Furthermore, we
continued to attach great importance to the protection of minors.
We have been committed to addressing social problems with honors social responsibility as a corporate citizen. In 2023, Baidu allocated
RMB30 million to provide support for flood control and disaster relief efforts in Beijing, Tianjin, Hebei and other areas.
Building on our close communication and collaboration with all stakeholders, we will continue to benefit our society. As part of our efforts to
create value for our society, we attach great importance to communication and engagement with our users, partners, social organizations and third-party
agencies.
Regulations
We operate our business in an increasingly complex legal and regulatory environment. This section summarizes the principal laws and regulations
of mainland China relating to our business.
In the opinion of Han Kun Law Offices, our PRC legal counsel, (i) the ownership structure relating to the variable interest entities complies with
current laws and regulations of mainland China; (ii) subject to the
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disclosure and risks disclosed under “Item 3.D. Key Information—Risk Factors—Risks Related to Our Corporate Structure,” “—Risks Related to Doing
Business in China” and “—Regulations,” our contractual arrangements with the variable interest entities and the nominee shareholders constituted legal,
valid and binding obligation of all parties to these arrangements and the execution, delivery, and performance of the variable interest entities and the
nominee shareholders do not violate (x) any provisions of the articles of association and business licenses of such variable interest entity and (y) any
current laws or regulations of mainland China; and (iii) subject to the disclosure and risks disclosed under “Item 3.D. Key Information—Risk Factors—
Risks Related to Our Corporate Structure,” “—Risks Related to Doing Business in China” and “—Regulations,” the business operations of the variable
interest entities, as described herein, comply with current laws and regulations of mainland China in all material respects.
Our business is subject to evolving laws and regulatory requirements of mainland China, including, among others, the laws and regulations
governing internet-related industry and AI-related industry. There are substantial uncertainties regarding the interpretation and application of existing or
proposed PRC laws and regulations. We cannot assure you that the PRC regulatory authorities would find that our corporate structure and our business
operations comply with PRC laws and regulations. If the PRC government finds us to be in violation of applicable PRC laws and regulations, we may be
required to pay fines and penalties, obtain certain licenses or permits and change, suspend or discontinue our business operations until we comply with
the applicable PRC laws and regulations.
Regulations on Corporate Governance
On December 29, 2023, the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress promulgated the amended PRC Company Law, which will
come into effect on July 1, 2024, to supersede the existing PRC Company Law which was amended in October 2018. The Amended PRC Company Law
has made material amendments on corporate governance and shareholders rights of the PRC companies, including, among others, the statutory period
for payment of registered capital, the setting of the board of directors and the board of supervisors, and transfer of equity interests in a company.
With respect to the period for payment of the registered capital, pursuant to the amended PRC Company Law, all shareholders of a PRC limited
liability company shall fully pay up the registered capital subscribed for by such shareholders within five years since the date of establishment of such
PRC limited liability company, unless otherwise provided by laws and regulations. With respect to any company established before the effective date of
the amended PRC Company Law, the period of capital contribution provided in its articles of association shall be amended to meet the time limit
provided in the Amended PRC Company Law if such period of capital contribution in its articles of association exceeds that as required by the amended
PRC Company Law; with respect to any company whose period of capital contribution or amount of the registered capital are obviously abnormal, the
competent government authority may require such company to adjust its period of capital contribution or amount of the registered capital in a timely
manner. The amended PRC Company Law provides that the detailed implementation measures for the aforesaid provisions will be formulated by the
State Council of the PRC. If any shareholder fails to make capital contributions on schedule and in full as provided in the articles of association, the
company shall send a written notice requesting such shareholder to pay up all overdue registered capital within a grace period no less than sixty days
from the issuance date of such notice. If, upon the expiration of the foregoing grace period, such shareholder still hasn’t fulfilled the obligation of capital
contribution with respect to such overdue registered capital, the company may, upon adoption of the resolution of the board of directors, send a notice of
forfeiture to such shareholder in writing. Since the issuance date of the foregoing notice, such shareholder shall forfeit the equity interests for which the
capital contribution has not been paid up. The forfeited equity interests shall be transferred or cancelled in accordance with the applicable laws. On
February 6, 2024, the SAMR issued a draft of the Provisions of the State Council on Implementing the Registered Capital Registration and Management
System under the PRC Company Law for public comments until March 5, 2024, which further specify the detailed requirements and measures of the
registration and management of registered capital under the amended PRC Company Law. Pursuant to such draft provisions,
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there shall be a three-year interim period from July 1, 2024 to June 30, 2027 for the existing companies to adjust their periods of capital contribution. If
the period of capital contribution of a company established before the effective date of the amended PRC Company Law exceeds the period prescribed
under the Amended PRC Company Law, such company shall make an adjustment within the foregoing interim period to meet the requirements under
the Amended PRC Company Law. The adjusted period of capital contribution shall be recorded in such company’s articles of association and publicized
through the national enterprise credit information publicity system in accordance with laws. If a limited liability company established before the
effective date of the amended PRC Company Law fails to adjust its period of capital contribution during the interim period, the competent registration
authority may require it to make adjustment within ninety days so that this company’s period of capital contribution shall not exceed five years
commencing from July 1, 2027 in accordance with laws.
With respect to the board of directors and the board of supervisors, the amended PRC Company Law eliminates the upper limit on the number of
the directors of a limited liability company, and stipulates that a limited liability company with more than 300 employees shall have an employee
representative in its board of directors, unless this company has set up a board of supervisors with employee representative(s) as the member(s). In
addition, after the effective date of the amended PRC Company Law, limited liability companies, joint stock limited companies with small scale or a
small number of shareholders and wholly state-owned companies may set up an audit committee to replace the functions and powers of the board of
supervisors, and such companies may not set the board of supervisors or any supervisor.
With respect to the transfer of equity interest of a limited liability company, the amended PRC Company law stipulates that the shareholders of a
limited liability company may transfer the equity interest without the consent of other shareholders, provided that such shareholder shall notify other
shareholders in writing with respect to transfer of such equity interest. Other shareholders will be regarded as giving up the right of first refusal if they
fail to reply within 30 days after receiving the written notice. If a shareholder transfers the equity interest held by it, it shall notify the company in
writing to request the company (i) to change the register of shareholders and (ii) to register the change with the competent enterprise registration
authority. If the company refuses or fails to respond, the transferee and transferor may file a lawsuit with the competent court.
Regulations on Foreign Investment
On January 1, 2020, the PRC Foreign Investment Law and the Regulations for Implementation of the PRC Foreign Investment Law came into
effect and became the principal laws and regulations governing foreign investment in mainland China, replacing the trio of prior laws regulating foreign
investment in mainland China, namely, the Sino-foreign Equity Joint Venture Enterprise Law, the Sino-foreign Cooperative Joint Venture Enterprise
Law and the Wholly Foreign-invested Enterprise Law, together with their implementation rules and ancillary regulations.
According to the PRC Foreign Investment Law, “foreign investment” refers to the investment activities conducted directly or indirectly in
mainland China by foreign individuals, enterprises or other entities, including the following circumstances: (i) the establishment of foreign-invested
enterprises in mainland China by foreign investors solely or jointly with other investors, (ii) a foreign investors’ acquisition of shares, equity interests,
property portions or other similar rights and interests of enterprises in mainland China, (iii) investment in new projects in mainland China by foreign
investors solely or jointly with other investors, and (iv) investments made by foreign investors through means stipulated in laws or administrative
regulations or other methods prescribed by the State Council.
The PRC Foreign Investment Law has adopted a reformed system with respect to foreign investment administration, under which the PRC
government applies national treatment to foreign investors in terms of investment entry and the foreign investor needs to comply with the requirements
as provided in the negative list for foreign investment. The negative list will be issued by, amended or released upon approval by the State
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Council, from time to time. The negative list will consist of a list of industries in which foreign investments are prohibited and a list of industries in
which foreign investments are restricted. Foreign investors will be prohibited from making investments in prohibited industries, while foreign
investments must satisfy certain conditions stipulated in the negative list for investments in restricted industries. Foreign investments and domestic
investments in industries outside the scope of the prohibited industries and restricted industries stipulated in the negative list will be treated equally. Any
foreign-invested enterprise established prior to the effectiveness of the PRC Foreign Investment Law may maintain its original corporate forms for a
period of five years after January 1, 2020.
The Regulations for Implementation of the PRC Foreign Investment Law restate certain principles of the PRC Foreign Investment Law and
further provide that, among others, (1) if a foreign-invested enterprise established prior to the effective date of the PRC Foreign Investment Law fails to
adjust its legal form or governance structure to comply with the provisions of the PRC Company Law or the PRC Partnership Enterprises Law as
applicable and complete amendment registration before January 1, 2025, the enterprise registration authority will not process other registration matters
of the foreign-invested enterprise and may publicize such non-compliance thereafter; (2) the provisions regarding equity interest transfer and distribution
of profits and remaining assets as stipulated in the contracts among the joint venture parties of a foreign-invested enterprise established before the
effective date of the PRC Foreign Investment Law may, after adjustment of the legal form and governing structure of such foreign-invested enterprise,
remain binding upon the parties.
On December 30, 2019, the Ministry of Commerce and the SAMR jointly promulgated the Measures for Information Reporting on Foreign
Investment, which became effective on January 1, 2020. Pursuant to the measures, where a foreign investor directly or indirectly carries out investment
activities in mainland China, the foreign investor or the foreign-invested enterprise must submit the investment information to the competent commerce
department for further handling.
In December 2020, the NDRC and the Ministry of Commerce promulgated the Measures for the Security Review of Foreign Investment, which
came into effect on January 18, 2021. The NDRC and the Ministry of Commerce established a working mechanism office in charge of the security
review of foreign investment. Such measures define foreign investment as direct or indirect investment by foreign investors in mainland China, which
includes (i) investment in new onshore projects or establishment of wholly foreign owned onshore companies or joint ventures with foreign investors;
(ii) acquiring equity or asset of onshore companies by merger and acquisition; and (iii) onshore investment by and through any other means. Investment
in certain key areas with bearing on national security, such as important cultural products and services, important information technology and internet
services and products, key technologies and other important areas with bearing on national security which results in the acquisition of de facto control of
investee companies, must be filed with a specifically established office before such investment is carried out. What may constitute “onshore investment
by and through any other means” or “de facto control” could be broadly interpreted under such measures. It is likely that control through contractual
arrangement be regarded as de facto control based on provisions applied to security review of foreign investment in the free trade zone. Failure to make
such filing may subject such foreign investor to rectification within prescribed period, and will be recorded as negative credit information of such
foreign investor in the national credit information system, which would then subject such investors to joint punishment. If such investor fails to or
refuses to undertake such rectification, it would be ordered to dispose of the equity or asset and to take any other necessary measures so as to return to
the status quo and to erase the impact to national security.
Regulations on Value-Added Telecommunications Services and Internet Content Services
Value-added telecommunications services and Internet content services. The Telecommunications Regulations of the PRC promulgated by the
PRC State Council in September 2000, which were most recently amended in February 2016, categorize all telecommunication businesses in mainland
China as either basic or value-added. Pursuant to the Telecommunications Regulations, commercial operators of value-added
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telecommunications services must first obtain a Value-Added Telecommunication Business Operating License from the MIIT or its provincial level
counterparts. The Administrative Measures for Telecommunication Business Operating License, promulgated by the MIIT with latest amendments
becoming effective in September 2017, set forth the types of licenses required for value-added telecommunications services and the qualifications and
procedures for obtaining such licenses. For example, a value-added telecommunications service operator providing commercial value-added services in
multiple provinces is required to obtain an inter-regional license, whereas a value-added telecommunications service operator providing the same
services in one province is required to obtain a local license. Baidu Netcom and some of the other variable interest entities in mainland China hold such
Value-Added Telecommunication Business Operating Licenses.
Internet content services, or ICP services, are classified as one of the value-added telecommunication businesses. The Administrative Measures on
Internet Information Services, promulgated by the PRC State Council in September 2000 and amended in January 2011, require companies engaged in
the provision of commercial internet content services to obtain a Value-added Telecommunication Business Operation Permit for ICP services, or an ICP
license from the government authorities before providing any commercial internet content services within mainland China. “Commercial internet
content services” generally refer to provision of information service through public telecommunication network or internet for a fee. The Catalog of
Classification of Telecommunications Services promulgated by the MIIT in December 2015 and amended in June 2019 further divides ICP services into
information publication platform and delivery services, information search and inquiry services, information communities platform services, instant
message services, and information security and management services. We do not believe our P4P services conducted by our certain mainland China
subsidiaries are categorized as part of internet content services that require an ICP license under these regulations. Although Baidu Online conducts part
of the P4P business by, among other things, examining and filtering P4P keywords, interacting with potential P4P customers, engaging in sales activities
with our customers, P4P search results are displayed on the websites operated by Baidu Netcom, including baidu.com. Baidu Netcom, as the owner of
our domain name baidu.com and holder of the necessary licenses and approvals, such as an ICP license, operates the website to list P4P search results
and display other marketing and advertising content as an online marketing service provider.
In June 2020, the MIIT promulgated the Notice regarding Strengthening the Management of Call Center Business, which has strengthened the
management on the admittance, codes, accessing, operation activities and certain other items.
Regulations on Content. National security considerations are an important factor in the regulation of internet content in the PRC. The National
People’s Congress, the PRC’s national legislature, has enacted laws with respect to maintaining the security of internet operation and internet content.
Under these laws and applicable regulations, violators may be subject to penalties, including criminal sanctions, for internet content that:
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opposes the fundamental principles stated in the PRC constitution;
compromises national security, divulges state secrets, subverts state power or damages national unity;
harms the dignity or interests of the state;
incites ethnic hatred or racial discrimination or damages inter-ethnic unity;
undermines the PRC’s religious policy or propagates heretical teachings or feudal superstitions;
disseminates rumors, disturbs social order or disrupts social stability;
disseminates obscenity or pornography, encourages gambling, violence, murder or fear or incites the commission of a crime;
insults or slanders a third party or infringes upon the lawful rights and interests of a third party; or
is otherwise prohibited by law or administrative regulations.
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ICP operators are required to monitor their websites, including electronic bulletin boards. They may not post or disseminate any content that falls
within the prohibited categories and must remove any such content from their websites. The PRC government may shut down the websites of ICP
license holders that violate any of the above-mentioned content restrictions and revoke their ICP licenses. For instance, in 2017, the CAC issued a series
of regulatory documents providing that an ICP operator is obligated to monitor contents displayed and disseminated by users on its platform. These
regulations apply to online services, including (i) online forum and community service, which allows users to publish information and interact with
other users on an online forum, post bar or other form of online communities, (ii) online follow-up comment service, which allows users to post threads,
reply to original content, leave messages and engage in live commenting with texts, symbols, expressions, pictures, audio/video on a website, mobile
app or other forms of interactive platform; (iii) online group chat information service, which allows users to communicate and exchange information in a
cyberspace created by the users on an online platform; (iv) online official account information service, which allows users to post texts, pictures,
audio/video and other information in the form of an official account registered by the user on a website, mobile app or other network platform. Pursuant
to these regulations, a service provider is required to, among others, (x) register and verify the identity information of each user, and (y) in the case of
publication or dissemination of prohibited contents on the platform, take prompt rectification measures, including removing and terminating
transmission of the illegal content, restricting the user right of the offender, banning the user account and shutting down the relevant forum or channel,
and report to the regulatory authority. On January 22, 2021, the CAC revised and promulgated the Administrative Provisions on the Information
Services Provided through Official Accounts of Internet Users, which requires, among others, that information service platforms for public accounts are
required to perform their responsibilities, establish systems such as those for the hierarchical or classified management of public accounts, ecological
governance, copyright protection, and credit evaluation, and improve management measures such as public account registration verification,
qualification examination, and disclosure of public account registrants. On November 16, 2022, the CAC amended and promulgated the Administrative
Provisions on Internet Comment Posting Services, which came into effect on December 15, 2022. According to such provisions, the follow-up comment
service providers must conduct standardized management of the follow-up comment service users and the producers and operators of official accounts
according to the user service agreement. For the follow-up comment services users who release any illegal and negative information content, the service
providers must take the measures including, among others, warning and reminding, refusing to release and deleting such illegal and negative
information content, restricting such accounts’ functions, suspending such accounts updating, shutting down such accounts and prohibiting
re-registration of such accounts in accordance with laws, and keep the relevant records. For the producers and operators of official accounts who fail to
fulfill their management obligations resulting that any illegal and negative information content appears in the follow-up comments, the service providers
must take such measures as warning and reminding, deleting such illegal and negative information, suspending the follow-up comment area functions
till permanently shutting down the follow-up comment area, restricting such account functions, suspending such accounts updating, shutting down such
accounts and prohibiting re-registration of such accounts in accordance with laws, and keep records and timely report such violations to the cyberspace
administrations.
In addition, in November 2018, the CAC issued a notice to require ICP operators to conduct security assessments on their internet information
services if their services include forums, blogs, microblogs, chat rooms, communication groups, public accounts, short videos, online live-streaming,
information sharing, mini programs or such other functions that provide channels for the public to express opinions or have the capability of mobilizing
the public to engage in specific activities. ICP operators must conduct self-assessment on, among others, the legality of new technology involved in the
services and the effectiveness of security risk prevention measures, and file the assessment report to local competent internet information office and
public security authority. At the end of 2019, the CAC issued the Provisions on the Management of Network Information Content Ecology, which
became effective on March 1, 2020, to further strengthen the regulation and management of network information content. Pursuant to these provisions,
each network information content service platform is required, among others, (i) not to disseminate any information prohibited by laws and regulations,
such as information jeopardizing national security; (ii) to strengthen the examination of advertisements published on such network information content
service platform; (iii) to promulgate management
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rules and platform convention and improve user agreement, such that such network information content service platform could clarify users’ rights and
obligations and perform management responsibilities required by laws, regulations, rules and convention; (iv) to establish convenient means for
complaints and reports; and (v) to prepare annual work report regarding its management of network information content ecology.
On September 15, 2021, the CAC promulgated the Opinions on Further Enforcing Responsibilities on Website Platforms as the Main Responsible
Party for Information Content Management. In accordance with the Opinions, website platforms are required to perform specific responsibilities as the
main responsible party for information content management, including, among others, enhancing the platform community rules, strengthening the
regulation and management of accounts, improving the content vetting mechanism, improving the quality of information content, managing the
dissemination of information content, and strengthening the management of key functions.
Restrictions on Foreign Ownership in Value-Added Telecommunications Services. Foreign ownership in value-added telecommunication services
is governed by the State Council according to the Provisions on Administration of Foreign-Invested Telecommunications Enterprises, which were
recently amended on March 29, 2022 and became effective on May 1, 2022. According to these provisions, a foreign investor’s beneficial equity
ownership in an entity providing value-added telecommunications services in mainland China is generally not permitted to exceed 50% unless otherwise
permitted by laws and regulations. Although these provisions deleted the prior requirement that major foreign investors holding equity in enterprises
providing value-added telecommunications services in mainland China must have a good track record and operational experience in providing these
services, the PRC government authorities have not promulgated any implementation rules in line with these new changes. Accordingly, there are
uncertainties as to whether foreign investors without a good track record and operational experience in providing these services may qualify as major
foreign investors in value-added telecommunications enterprises. Although the Special Administrative Measures (Negative List) for Foreign Investment
Access (2021 Version) allow a foreign investor to own more than 50% of the total equity interest in an e-commerce business, a domestic multi-party
communication business, an information storage and re-transmission business and a call center business, other requirements provided by these
provisions still apply. We believe that it would be impracticable for us to acquire any equity interest in the variable interest entities without diverting
management attention and resources. Moreover, we believe that our contractual arrangements with these entities and the individual nominee
shareholders allow us to have the power to direct the activities of these entities that most significantly impact their economic performance. Accordingly,
we currently do not plan to acquire any equity interest in any of the variable interest entities.
A Notice on Intensifying the Administration of Foreign Investment in Value-Added Telecommunications Services, issued by the MIIT in July
2006, prohibits domestic telecommunication service providers from leasing, transferring or selling Telecommunication Business Operating Licenses to
any foreign investor in any form, or providing any resources, sites or facilities to any foreign investor for their illegal operation of a telecommunication
business in mainland China. Pursuant to this notice, either the holder of a Value-Added Telecommunication Business Operating License or its
shareholders must directly own the domain names and trademarks used by such license holder in its provision of value-added telecommunications
services. The notice further requires each license holder to have the necessary facilities, including servers, for its approved business operations and to
maintain the facilities in the regions covered by its license. If a license holder fails to comply with the requirements in the notice or cure any
non-compliance, the MIIT or its local counterparts have the discretion to take measures against the license holder, including revoking its Value-added
Telecommunication Business Operating License. Based on the Notice Regarding the Strengthening of Ongoing and Post Administration of Foreign
Investment Telecommunication Enterprises issued by the MIIT in October 2020, the MIIT will not issue Examination Letter for Foreign Investment in
Telecommunication Business. Foreign invested enterprises would need to submit relevant foreign investment materials to the MIIT for the establishment
or change of telecommunication operating permits.
Due to the restrictions under these regulations of mainland China, we operate our websites mainly through the variable interest entities, such as
Baidu Netcom. Baidu Netcom is a variable interest entity, and is considered
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a domestic entity in mainland China under laws of mainland China given that the nominee shareholders are citizens of mainland China.
Baidu Netcom and some of the other variable interest entities in mainland China hold Value-Added Telecommunication Business Operating
Licenses. In compliance with the Notice of the MIIT on Intensifying the Administration of Foreign Investment in Value-Added Telecommunications
Services, Baidu Netcom owns the necessary domain names and trademarks, including pending trademark applications, and has the necessary personnel
and facilities to operate our websites.
Regulations on Mobile Internet Applications
In June 2016, the CAC promulgated the Administrative Provisions on Mobile Internet Application Information Services, which were most
recently amended on June 14, 2022 and became effective on August 1, 2022. Pursuant to these provisions, a mobile internet app refers to an app
software that runs on mobile smart devices to provide users with information services. Mobile internet app providers refer to the owners or operators of
mobile internet apps which provide information services. Internet app distribution platforms refer to mobile internet information services providers
which provide distribution services related to releasing, downloading and dynamic loading of internet apps.
Pursuant to these provisions, internet app providers must comply with the provisions on the scope of necessary personal information when
engaging in personal information processing activities and should not compel users to agree to non-essential personal information collection or ban users
from their basic functional services due to their refusal of providing unnecessary personal information. Internet app providers should not provide the
relevant services to the users who fail to submit real identity information or use fraudulent identity information of other organizations or persons for fake
registration. Internet app providers are also required to establish sound information content review and management mechanism, take sound
management measures such as user registration, account management, information review, daily inspection and emergency disposal, and be staffed with
professionals and technical ability appropriate to the service scale. Furthermore, internet app providers who launch new technologies, applications or
functions with the attribute of public opinion or the capability of social mobilization should conduct security assessment in accordance with the
applicable laws and regulations. If an internet app provider violates these regulations, internet app distribution platforms may issue warnings, suspend
the release of its applications, or terminate the sale of its applications, and/or report the violations to government authorities, and the application
provider may be imposed administrative penalty by the CAC and the competent authorities in accordance with the laws and regulations.
In December 2016, the MIIT promulgated the Interim Measures on the Administration of Pre-Installation and Distribution of Applications for
Mobile Smart Terminals, which came into effect on July 1, 2017. The Interim Measures aim to enhance the administration of mobile apps, and require,
among others, that mobile phone manufacturers and internet information service providers must ensure that a mobile app, as well as its ancillary
resource files, configuration files and user data can be uninstalled by a user on a convenient basis, unless it is a basic function software, which refers to a
software that supports the normal functioning of the hardware and operating system of a mobile smart device. On July 21, 2023, the MIIT promulgated
the Notice of the Record-filing of Mobile Internet Apps, pursuant to which, operators of mobile internet apps which engage in internet information
services within the territory of mainland China shall complete the record-filing formalities. Any operator shall not conduct the internet information
services via mobile internet apps before the completion of the record-filing formalities with respect to such mobile internet apps.
Since 2021, the PRC government has taken steps to strengthen the supervision on the utilization of algorithm in the field of internet information
service. On September 17, 2021, the CAC and eight other authorities jointly promulgated the Notice on Promulgation of the Guiding Opinions on
Strengthening the Comprehensive Governance of Algorithm-Related Internet Information Services, which provides that, among others, enterprises must
establish an algorithmic security responsibility system and a technology ethics vetting
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system, improve the algorithmic security management organization, strengthen risk prevention and control, and improve the capacity to respond to
algorithmic security emergencies.
On September 20, 2023, the State Council promulgated the Regulation on the Protection of Minors in Cyberspace, or Cyberspace Regulation on
Minors Protection, which became effective on January 1, 2024. Pursuant to the Cyberspace Regulation on Minors Protection, a network platform service
provider with a substantial number of minor users or with a significant impact on the minor population shall fully fulfill the following obligations,
including, among others, (i) fully considering the characteristics of the physical and mental development of minors when designing, researching,
developing and operating network platform services, regularly assessing the impact of the protection of minors in cyberspace; (ii) providing a special
mode or zone for minors to facilitate the minors to access products or services on the platform that are beneficial for their physical and mental well-
being; (iii) establishing and improving a compliance system for the protection of minors in the cyberspace in accordance with the applicable laws and
regulations, and establishing an independent body primarily composed of external members to supervise the protection of minors in the cyberspace; and
(iv) terminating services to any product or service provider on the platform that gravely harms the physical and mental well-being of minors or
otherwise infringe on their lawful rights and interests. Network services providers who provide the services of information publishing and instant
messaging to minors shall require the minors or their guardians to provide the real identity information of the minors in accordance with laws. Network
services providers who provide services such as online games, online live-streaming, online audio and video, and online social contact shall take
measures to reasonably restrict the amount of single consumption and daily cumulative consumption of minors of different ages during the use of such
services, and shall not provide minors with paid services which do not match their capacity for civil conduct. The personal information processors shall
conduct compliance audit regarding their compliance with laws and regulations in the processing of the personal information of minors each year, and
report the audit results to the cyberspace authority and other government authorities in a timely manner.
Regulations on Internet Information Search Service
In June 2016, the CAC promulgated the Administrative Provisions on Internet Information Search Services, which took effect on August 1, 2016.
Pursuant to these provisions, internet information search service refers to the service whereby users can search for information that is collected from the
internet and processed by computer technology. These provisions requires that an internet information search service provider must not publish any
information or contents prohibited by law in the form of links, abstracts, snapshots, associative words, related search or recommendations or otherwise.
If an internet information search service provider identifies any search results that contain any information, website or app that is prohibited by law, it
must stop displaying the search results, record the infraction and report it to the government authority. In addition, an internet information search service
provider is prohibited from seeking illegitimate interest by means of unauthorized disconnection of links, or provision of search results containing false
information. If an internet information search service provider engages in paid search services, it must examine and verify the qualifications of its
customers of the paid search services, specify the maximum percentage of search results as paid search results on a webpage, clearly distinguish paid
search results from natural search results, and notably identify the paid search information item by item.
Regulations on Advertisements and Online Advertising
The PRC government regulates advertising, including online advertising, principally through the SAMR. The PRC Advertising Law, as amended
on April 29, 2021, outlines the regulatory framework for the advertising industry and allows foreign investors to own up to all equity interests in PRC
advertising companies.
We conduct our value-added telecommunication-based online advertising business through Baidu Netcom, which is one of the variable interest
entities in mainland China and holds a business license that covers value-added telecommunication-based online advertising in its business scope. Our
subsidiaries Baidu Times and Baidu
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China have also expanded their respective business license to cover advertising in their respective business scope.
Advertisers, advertising operators and advertising distributors are required by PRC advertising laws and regulations to ensure that the content of
the advertisements they prepare or distribute is true and in full compliance with applicable laws and regulations. For example, pursuant to the PRC
Advertising Law, advertisements must not contain terms such as “the state-level,” “the highest grade,” “the best” or other similar words. In addition,
where a special government review is required for certain categories of advertisements before publishing, the advertisers, advertising operators and
advertising distributors are obligated to confirm that such review has been performed and approvals have been obtained. Pursuant to the PRC
Advertising Law, advertisements distributed on the internet should not affect the normal use of internet by users. Particularly, advertisements distributed
on internet pages such as pop-up advertisements must indicate a conspicuous mark for “close” to ensure the close of such advertisements by one click.
Where internet information service providers know or should know that illegal advertisements are being distributed using their services, they must
prevent such advertisements from being distributed.
In addition to the above regulations, the Administrative Measures for Internet Advertising promulgated by the SAMR on February 25, 2023 and
effective on May 1, 2023 also set forth certain compliance requirements for online advertising businesses. Pursuant to the Administrative Measures for
Internet Advertising, an internet advertisement shall be identifiable as an advertisement by consumers. With respect to the promotion of goods or
services in the form of paid listing, advertising distributors shall indicate them conspicuously as an advertisement to distinguish them from the natural
search results. Publishing and distributing advertisements by means of internet shall not affect the normal internet access by users, and it is prohibited to
insert advertisements in the form of paid listing into the search results of government service websites, webpages, internet apps, official accounts, etc.
With respect to the internet advertisements which are published in the form of pop-up or otherwise, the advertisers and advertising distributors shall
clearly mark the closure sign to ensure that such advertisements could be closed by one click. Furthermore, in accordance with the Administrative
Measures for Internet Advertising, the advertising operators and distributors shall establish, improve and implement the registration, review and file
management system of internet advertising business, which shall include, among others: (a) to examine and register advertisers’ real identity, address
and effective contact information, establish, regularly check and update advertising archives, record and save the electronic data of advertising activities;
and (b) to examine the relevant supporting documents and the content of the advertisements. With respect to the internet advertisements which are
published by means of algorithmic recommendation or otherwise, the rules on the algorithmic recommendation service and the record of advertisement
placement shall be included in the advertisement archives.
On August 28, 2023, the SMAR promulgated the draft Guideline on Regulatory Enforcement concerning the Identifiability of Internet Advertising
for public comment. The draft guideline further specifies the criteria and requirements on the identifiability of internet advertisements. Pursuant to the
draft guideline, the identifiability of internet advertisements refers to that commercial advertisements released through internet media shall enable
consumers to recognize them as advertisements, and to distinguish them from other non-advertising information without misunderstanding. Internet
advertising distributors may enhance the identifiability of internet advertisements by means of text annotation and voice prompts. Internet advertising
distributors using text annotation shall clearly indicate “advertisement” and shall not use “sponsorship”, “promotion”, “recommendation” or “AD” as a
substitute. If an internet advertisement is not identifiable, the internet advertising distributors shall be held responsible in accordance with laws; if an
advertiser publishes an internet advertisement on its own, such advertiser shall be held responsible in accordance with laws.
Regulations on Artificial Intelligence
We engage in the research and development of artificial intelligence (AI) technology and products, specifically autonomous driving vehicles and
generative AI. The PRC government has issued a series of
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guidelines to encourage and support the research and development of AI technology, such as the Three-Year Implementing Plan for Internet Plus
Artificial Intelligence issued in May 2016, the Development Planning on the New Generation of Artificial Intelligence issued in July 2017 and the
Development Plan for the Big Data Industry during the “14th Five-Year Plan” Period issued in November 2021.
Regulations on Autonomous Driving Vehicles. The MIIT, the Ministry of Public Security and the Ministry of Transport jointly promulgated the
Administrative Rules of Road Testing and Demonstration Application of Intelligent Connected Vehicles (for Trial Implementation) on July 27, 2021,
which became effective on September 1, 2021. Pursuant to these rules, a qualified entity to conduct road testing of intelligently connected vehicles must
meet the following conditions, including, among others: (i) it must be an independent legal person registered within the territory of mainland China; (ii)
it must have the capabilities concerning intelligently connected vehicles, such as the capabilities of manufacturing automobiles and spare parts thereof,
the capabilities of research and development of technologies, or the capabilities of experiments and tests; (iii) it must be capable of paying civil
compensation for potential damages caused by the road testing of intelligently connected vehicles; (iv) it must have the evaluation rules for the testing of
self-driving functions of intelligently connected vehicles; (v) it must have the ability to conduct real-time remote monitoring of the vehicles on road
testing; (vi) it must have the ability to record, analyze and reproduce the events related to road test vehicles; (vii) it must have the ability to guarantee the
network security for tested vehicles and remote monitoring platforms; and (viii) other conditions specified in applicable laws, administrative regulations
and rules. An eligible entity may apply to conduct experimental operation of intelligently connected vehicles in prescribed roads and areas. Prior to
starting a road testing, a road-testing entity must submit a self-declaration on safety of the road testing, and such self-declaration should be confirmed by
the competent government authority on the provincial or municipal level. The testing duration for a road testing should not exceed 18 months in
principle, and should not exceed the validity period of the quality certificate of safety technical inspection and the insurance voucher of the tested
vehicle. A road-testing entity or the experimental operation entity must submit a periodic report every 6 months to the competent government authority
on the provincial or municipal level and provide a summary report within 1 month upon conclusion of the road testing or experimental operation. The
entity responsible for the road testing or the experimental operation must report information on the traffic accidents during the road testing or
experimental operation to the competent authorities on a monthly basis. In case of any traffic violation occurred during the road test or demonstration
application, the traffic administrative department of the public security department must impose the penalties (including, among others, fines or
warning) on the driver in accordance with the laws and regulations on road traffic safety. In the case of serious injuries or deaths of any person or serious
damage of a vehicle, the entity responsible for the road testing or the experimental operation must report such accident to the competent government
authority on the provincial or municipal level within 24 hours through the information system, and if such subject fails to report as required, its road
testing or experimental operation activities may be suspended for 24 months. Some local governments, such as Beijing, Shanghai, Chongqing, Hunan
and Tianjin, have issued local rules and regulations to regulate road testing of autonomous driving cars accordingly.
In addition, the PRC government has strengthened regulation of the network security and data security of the Internet of Vehicles (IoV) since
2021. On September 15, 2021, the MIIT issued the Circular on Strengthening the Network Security and Data Security of IoV. This Circular provides that
all enterprises related to IoV must establish management systems for network security and data security, specify the responsible person and management
bodies, and perform network security and data security-related protection responsibilities. The Circular also requires that all enterprises related to IoV
must monitor, prevent, and promptly tackle cybersecurity risks and threats to ensure that data can be effectively protected and legally used and that the
relevant IoV can be operated safely and stably. On March 7, 2022, the MIIT issued the Guidelines for the Construction of Network Security and Data
Security Standard System for IoV, which specifies the safety standards and requirements covering terminal and facility security, network communication
security, data security, application service security and security guarantee and support.
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On August 16, 2021, the CAC and four other authorities jointly promulgated the Several Provisions on Automotive Data Security Management
(for Trial Implementation), which took effect on October 1, 2021. These provisions require that automotive data processors should avoid excessive
collection and illegal use of data and adhere to certain protocols such as “no collection by default” and “data masking” when carrying out data
processing activities. These provisions emphasize that if it is indeed necessary to provide any important data overseas due to the business needs of an
automotive data processer, the automotive data processer must complete a prior security assessment on outbound data transfer and should not provide
any important data overseas beyond the scope determined in such security assessment.
On April 28, 2021, the National Information Security Standardization Technical Committee issued a draft of the Safety Requirements for Data
Collected by Internet of Vehicles (IoV), and on October 19, 2021, the National Information Security Standardization Technical Committee further issued
the Security Requirements of Vehicle Collected Data (Draft for comments). The Security Requirements of Vehicle Collected Data (Draft for comments)
specifies the security requirements on the transfer, storage, outbound transfer and other dispositions of vehicle collected data. Specifically, certain types
of vehicle collected data, such as those collected through sensors within the vehicle cockpit and location and route data, should not be transferred
outside mainland China. Besides, outbound transfer of operational data should be subject to the data cross-border transfer security assessment conducted
by national cyberspace authorities.
On November 21, 2023, in order to encourage and regulate the application of autonomous vehicles in transport services, the Ministry of Transport
issued the Guideline on Transport Safety and Service for Autonomous Vehicles (Trial Implementation). Pursuant to the guideline, transport service on
roads using autonomous vehicles shall be carried out within designated areas and shall pass the road traffic safety assessment in accordance with laws.
The operators using autonomous vehicles in urban public bus passenger transport business, taxi passenger transport business and general passenger and
cargo transport business shall complete the registration as the market entities pursuant to the applicable laws, and the corresponding business categories
shall be registered into their business scope. The autonomous vehicles engaged in road transport shall satisfy the requirements of the national standards
and technical specifications, complete motor vehicle registration in accordance with laws, obtain motor vehicle license plates and motor vehicle driving
licenses. The autonomous-driving transport operators shall assume the main responsibility of safety, and shall clearly inform other traffic participants of
their autonomous-driving identity with eye-catching patterns, words or colors on the vehicle body.
On November 17, 2023, the MIIT, the Ministry of Transport, the Ministry of Public Security and the Ministry of Housing and Urban-Rural
Development jointly issued the Notice of Launching the Pilot Program of Market Access and Road Passage for Intelligent Connected Vehicles. Pursuant
to such notice, intelligent connected vehicles which have obtained the permits to run on roads shall carry out pilot road traffic in specified areas. Users
of the pilot programs shall purchase insurance for their vehicles, apply for vehicle registration, monitor the operation status of vehicles and strengthen
the guarantee for vehicle operation safety as required. Pilot automobile manufacturers shall assume the principal responsibility for the quality and
production consistency of intelligent connected vehicles, shall be strictly prohibited from any unauthorized change of autopilot function and shall strictly
complete the commitment of software upgrading management and record-filing. Pilot users shall assume the principal responsibilities in respect of road
traffic safety, network security and data security, and establish sound safety management systems and measures, to ensure vehicle operation safety.
Regulations on Generative AI. Prior to 2022, the provisions on the generative AI technology are stipulated in the regulations and rules about
internet information services dispersedly. For example, according to the Provisions on the Management of Network Information Content Ecology issued
by the CAC at the end of 2019, a network information content service platform must not, among others, (i) utilize new technologies such as deep-
learning and virtual reality to engage in activities prohibited by laws and regulations; (ii) engage in online traffic fraud, malicious traffic rerouting and
other activities related to fraudulent account, illegal transaction account or maneuver of users’ account; or (iii) infringe a third party’s legitimate rights or
seek illegal interests by way of interfering with information display. According to the Administrative Provisions on Online Audio-visual
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Information Services jointly issued by the CAC, the Ministry of Culture and Tourism and the NRTA on November 18, 2019, the production, release and
dissemination of any unauthentic audio-visual information by use of any new applications and technologies bases on deep learning and virtual reality
must be labeled in a prominent manner by the online audio-visual information service providers and users. Furthermore, any online audio-visual
information service providers and users should not produce, release or disseminate false news by use of new applications and technologies based on
deep learning and virtual reality.
Since the end of 2021, the PRC government authorities specially promulgated certain laws to regulate the algorithmic recommendation and deep
synthesis technology which are closely related to the generative AI technology. On December 31, 2021, the CAC, the MIIT, the Ministry of Public
Security and the SAMR jointly issued the Administration Provisions on Algorithmic Recommendation of Internet Information Services, which became
effective on March 1, 2022. These provisions stipulates that algorithmic recommendation service providers must (i) fulfill their responsibilities for
algorithm security, (ii) establish and strengthen management systems for algorithm mechanism examination, ethical review in technology, user
registration, information release examination, protection of data security and personal information, anti-telecom and network fraud, security assessment
and monitoring, emergency response to security incidents, etc., and (iii) formulate and publish rules governing algorithmic recommendation related
service. The provider of algorithmic recommendation services should not use the services to (i) carry out any illegal activity which may endanger
national security and social public interest, disturb economic order and social order, or infringe third parties’ legal interest, or (ii) spread any information
prohibited by laws or regulations. Besides, it should not take advantage of algorithms to impose unreasonable restrictions on other information service
providers, or hinder or obstruct the normal operation of their legal services. The providers of algorithmic recommendation services with the
characteristics of public opinion or capacity of social mobilization must complete the filing with the CAC’s filing system within ten business days after
the launch of its service.
On November 25, 2022, the CAC, MIIT and Ministry of Public Security jointly issued the Administrative Provisions on Deep Synthesis of
Internet Information Services, which took effect on January 10, 2023. According to these provisions, deep synthesis technology refers to any technology
that utilizes deep learning, virtual reality or any other generative or synthetic algorithm to produce text, images, audio, video, virtual scenes or other
network information. These provisions emphasize that the providers of deep synthesis services, as the primary entities responsible for the information
security, should not use deep synthesis services to engage in activities prohibited by laws and regulations. If the CAC and other competent government
authorities find that the deep synthesis service has a serious information security risk, they can require the deep synthesis service providers and technical
supporters to suspend information update, user account registration or other related services in accordance with their duties and applicable laws. Deep
synthesis service providers and technical supporters shall take measures to rectify and eliminate hidden dangers and a violation of such provisions shall
subject them to punishment in accordance with the laws and regulations. If the act of deep synthesis services providers and/or technical supporters
constitutes a violation of the administration of public security, they shall be punished according to the laws related to the administration of public
security. If the act constitutes a crime, such deep synthesis service provider and/or technical supporter shall be prosecuted for criminal responsibility.
On July 10, 2023, the CAC, MIIT, NDRC, Ministry of Public Security and other PRC government authorities jointly issued the Interim Measures
on the Management of Generative AI Services, or the Generative AI Services Measures, which became effective on August 15, 2023. According to the
Generative AI Services Measures, “generative AI technology” refers to models and related technology with the ability to generate text, images, audios,
videos, or other content, and “generative AI service provider” refers to any organization or individual that utilizes generative AI technology to provide
generative AI services (including the organizations or individuals providing such services through the provision of a programmable interface or other
means). Generative AI service providers shall carry out pre-training, optimization training, and other training data processing activities in accordance
with applicable laws and regulations, including, among others, (i) using data and basic models with lawful sources, (ii) not infringing the intellectual
property rights owned by others, (iii) obtaining the prior consent from individuals in accordance with the applicable laws and regulations if the training
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data contains any personal information, and (iv) taking effective measures to improve the quality of training data and to enhance the authenticity,
accuracy, objectivity and diversity of training data. Generative AI service providers shall also assume the responsibility as a producer of online
information content and personal information processor in accordance with applicable laws, fulfill online information security obligations, enter into
service agreements with the users, and label images, videos, and other contents generated by use of generative AI technology pursuant to the
Administrative Provisions on Deep Synthesis of Internet Information Services. Any generative AI service provider with the characteristics of public
opinion or capacity of social mobilization shall conduct security assessment, and complete the formalities for algorithm filing, change or deregistration
in accordance with the Administration Provisions on Algorithmic Recommendation of Internet Information Services. The generative AI service
providers who violate the Generative AI Services Measures will be punished in accordance with the applicable laws and regulations. If there is no
provision in laws or regulations, the competent government authority shall, in accordance with its functions and duties, issue a warning to such
generative AI services providers, circulate a notice of criticism and order such generative AI services providers to correct within a time limit. Those who
refuse to make corrections or whose circumstances are serious shall be ordered to suspend the provision of relevant services. If the violation of the
Generative AI Services Measures by such generative AI services providers constitutes an act violating the administration of public security, they shall be
punished according to the laws related to the administration of public security. If the violation constitutes a crime, such generative AI service provider
shall be prosecuted for criminal responsibility.
On September 7, 2023, the PRC Ministry of Science and Technology and other nine PRC government authorities jointly issued the Measures for
Science and Technology Ethics Reviews (for Trial Implementation). According to these measures, organizations conducting life sciences, medicine,
artificial intelligence or other science and technology activities, of which the research content involves sensitive areas of science and technology ethics,
shall establish a science and technology ethics review committee, and the research and development of algorithm models, applications, and systems with
the capability to mobilize public opinions and guide social consciousness shall be subject to the ethics review. Moreover, as one of the key contents of
the ethics review, with respect to the science and technology activities involving data and algorithms, (i) the data collection, data storage, data
processing, data use and other data handling activities, as well as the research and development of new data technologies, shall comply with relevant
national data security and personal information protection laws and regulations, and there should be proper data security risk monitoring and
contingency plans; and (ii) the design, implementation and application of algorithms, models and systems shall adhere to the principles of fairness,
equity, transparency, reliability and controllability, and comply with relevant national requirements.
We had completed the necessary security assessment and algorithm filing in accordance with the Generative AI Services Measures and other
applicable laws and regulations before we launched Ernie Bot to the public.
Regulations on News Display
Displaying news on a website and disseminating news through the internet is highly regulated in the PRC. The Provisional Measures for
Administrating Internet Websites Carrying on the News Displaying Business, jointly promulgated by the State Council News Office and the MIIT in
November 2000, require an ICP operator (other than a government authorized news unit) to obtain an approval from the State Council News Office to
post news on its website or disseminate news through the internet. Furthermore, the disseminated news must come from government-approved sources
pursuant to contracts between the ICP operator and the sources, copies of which must be filed with the government authorities.
In May 2017, the CAC issued the Provisions on the Administration of Internet News Information Services and their implementing rules, which
became effective on June 1, 2017. Pursuant to these provisions and their implementing rules, if an entity intends to provide internet news information
service, it is required to obtain an approval from the State Council News Office and receive an Internet News Information Service License. Internet news
information service refers to editing, publishing and reprinting and the dissemination platform service of
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internet news through internet websites, mobile apps, forums, blogs, micro-blogs, official accounts, instant message tools, live-streaming and other
similar means. Pursuant to these provisions, no internet news information service organizations may take the form of a foreign-invested enterprise,
whether a joint venture or a wholly foreign-owned enterprise, and no cooperation between internet news information service organizations and foreign-
invested enterprises is allowed prior to the security evaluation by the CAC. On March 12, 2022, the NDRC and the Ministry of Commerce issued the
Negative List for Market Access (2022 Version), which specifies the prohibition of illegal engagement in news media business, and further emphasizes
that non-state capital should not engage in the gathering, editing, broadcasting and distribution of news information.
Baidu Netcom obtained the Internet News Information Service License, which permits it to publish internet news pursuant to the PRC laws and
regulations, in December 2006, and had the license renewed in October 2021.
Regulations on Internet Culture Activities
The Provisional Measures for the Internet Culture Administration, promulgated by the Ministry of Culture, the predecessor of the Ministry of
Culture and Tourism, and with the latest amendment becoming effective in December 2017, require ICP operators engaging in “internet culture
activities” to obtain a permit from the Ministry of Culture. The “internet culture activities” include, among other things, online dissemination of internet
cultural products and the production, reproduction, importation, distribution and broadcasting of internet cultural products. In May 2019, the Ministry of
Culture and Tourism issued the Circular regarding Adjusting the Scope of Approval of Internet Culture Business Permit and Further Regulating
Approval Matters to adjust the applicable scope of the Internet Culture Business Permit. Pursuant to the circular, the Ministry of Culture and Tourism
will no longer be the authority supervising the online game industry and therefore the business scope of an Internet Culture Business Permit issued by it
and its local counterparts will only cover internet cultural products including online music, online plays or programs, online performance, online works
of art, online cartoon and exhibition and online matches, but exclude online games. Imported internet cultural products are subject to content review by
the Ministry of Culture and Tourism before they are disseminated online, while domestic internet cultural products must be filed with the local branch of
the Ministry of Culture within 30 days following the online dissemination. Service providers are also required to conduct self-review of the content of
internet cultural products before they are put on the internet or submitted to the Ministry of Culture for approvals or filings. Baidu Netcom was granted
an Internet Culture Business Permit in April 2007, which was last renewed again in March 2023 and remains valid until April 2026. Some other entities
in our group have also obtained an Internet Culture Business Permit.
The Several Suggestions on the Development and Administration of Internet Music, issued by the Ministry of Culture and becoming effective in
November 2006, reiterate the requirement for an internet service provider to obtain the Internet Culture Business Permit to carry on any business of
internet music products. In addition, foreign investors are prohibited from engaging in the internet culture business operation.
In October 2015, the Ministry of Culture promulgated a notice, which took effect on January 1, 2016, to further strengthen its regulation over
online music, including requiring online platforms that allow users to upload self-created or performed music to set up real-time monitoring systems and
requiring online music service providers to make quarterly filings of information related to their content self-review with the local counterpart of the
Ministry of Culture from April 1, 2016.
The Regulations for the Administration of Audio and Video Products, as released by the State Council in December 2001 and last amended in
November 2020, require that the publication, production, duplication, importation, wholesale, retail and renting of audio and video products are subject
to a license issued by competent authorities.
Regulations on Internet Publishing
In February 2016, the State Administration of Press, Publication, Radio, Film and Television (currently known as the National Press and
Publication Administration, or the NPPA), and the MIIT jointly issued the
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Administrative Provisions on Internet Publishing Service, which took effect on March 10, 2016. These provisions require that any entity engaged in the
provision of online publications to the public via information networks obtain an Internet Publication License from the NPPA. Online publications refer
to digital works with editing, production, processing and other publishing features, provided to the public via information networks, which mainly
include: (i) informative and thoughtful text, pictures, maps, games, animation, audio and video digitizing books and other original digital works in fields
such as literature, art and science, (ii) digital works consistent with the content of published books, newspapers, periodicals, audio-visual products and
electronic publications, (iii) the network literature database or other digital works formed through aforementioned works by selecting, organizing,
compiling and other means, and (iv) other types of digital works determined by the NPPA. The servers and storage facilities used by internet publishers
must be located within the territory of mainland China. These provisions also provide that when an internet service provider provides manual
intervention search ranking, advertising, promotion and other services to customers that provide internet publishing services, it is required to check and
examine the Internet Publication Licenses obtained by the customers and the business scope of such licenses.
Regulations on Production and Operation of Audio/Video Programs
Under the Regulations on the Administration of Production of Radio and Television Programs issued by the State Administration of Radio, Film
and Television, or the SARFT (currently known as NRTA) in July 2004 and recently partly amended in October 2020, any entities that engage in the
production of radio and television programs are required to apply for a Permit for Production and Operation of Radio and TV Programs from the
competent administrative authority. Entities with this permit must conduct their business operations in compliance with the approved scope of
production and operation. On August 8, 2022, the NRTA released the Administrative Provisions on the Production and Operation of Radio, Television
and Online Audio-visual Programs (Draft for Comment) to solicit public opinions by September 8, 2022, which provided explicitly that any overseas
organization, foreign individual or foreign-invested enterprise should not conduct the business of programs production and operation. Such draft further
proposed the self-discipline requirements for industry organizations and entities, rules on the prohibited content in the programs, regulations on film
remuneration and prohibitions on false publicity of audience ratings and click-through rates. The Production and Operation of Radio, Television and
Online Audio-visual Programs will supersede the Administration of Production of Radio and Television Programs upon it becoming effective.
On March 17, 2010, the SARFT issued the Internet Audio/Video Program Services Categories (Provisional), or the Provisional Categories, which
were amended on March 10, 2017. The amended Provisional Categories classified internet audio/video programs into four categories, which are further
divided into seventeen sub-categories.
In 2022, the PRC government authorities further strengthened the supervision on the network dramas (including network mini plays). On April 29,
2022, the NRTA issued the Circular on Matters regarding Administration on Service of Domestic Network Dramas Distribution License, which took
effect on June 1, 2022. Pursuant to this circular, the PRC government adopts a licensing system to the distribution of domestic network dramas, and the
distribution of domestic key network dramas is required to obtain the Network Dramas Distribution License issued by the competent government
authorities of radio and television in accordance with the applicable laws. On November 14, 2022, the NRTA issued the Circular on Further
Strengthening the Management of the Network Mini Plays and Implementing the Creation Improvement Plan, which became effective on the same date.
Network mini plays refers to the network dramas with dozens of seconds to around 15 minutes running for each episode. Pursuant to this circular, the
operators of network mini plays are required to obtain the Online Audio/Video Program Transmission License or be managed by the administrative
authorities of radio and television in accordance with applicable regulations. All network mini plays to be transmitted online must have passed the
content review by the administrative authorities of radio and television and must have obtained the Network Dramas Distribution License or completed
the filing of internet audio and video programs in accordance with the regulations on network dramas.
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Regulations on Broadcasting Audio/Video Programs through the Internet
In December 2007, the SARFT and the MIIT jointly promulgated the Rules for the Administration of Internet Audio and Video Program Services,
commonly known as “Document 56”, which took effect on January 31, 2008 and was further amended on August 28, 2015. Pursuant to Document 56,
an online audio/video service provider must obtain an Online Audio/Video Program Transmission License, which has a term of three years, and operate
in accordance with the scope of the business as stipulated in the license. Furthermore, Document 56 requires all online audio/ video service providers to
be either wholly state-owned or state-controlled. According to some official answers to press inquiries published on the SARFT’s website in February
2008, officials from the SARFT and the MIIT clarified that online audio/video service providers that already had been operating lawfully prior to the
issuance of Document 56 may re-register and continue to operate without becoming state-owned or controlled; provided that the providers have not
engaged in any unlawful activities. This exemption will not be granted to online audio/video service providers established after Document 56 was
issued. In addition, foreign-invested enterprises are not allowed to engage in the above-mentioned businesses. On March 16, 2018, the NRTA issued the
Notice on Further Regulating the Transmission Orders of Internet Audio and Video Program, pursuant to which, among others, (i) online streaming
platforms should not illegally capture, edit, or reprogram audio-video programs, (ii) the movie clips and prevue broadcasted on the platform must come
from the licensed broadcasting and television programs; and (iii) the platform must verify qualifications of sponsors for programs on the platform and
must refrain from accepting sponsorship or advertising from or cooperating in any other form with any unlicensed online audio/video service providers.
According to Document 56 and other laws and regulations, audio-video programs provided by the entities supplying internet audio-video program
services should not contain any illegal content or other content prohibited by the laws and regulations, such as any content against the basic principles in
the PRC Constitution, any content that damages the sovereignty of the country or national security, and any content that disturbs social order or
undermine social stability. An audio-video program that has already been broadcast must be retained in full for at least 60 days. Movies, television
programs and other media content used as internet audio-video programs must comply with the administrative regulations on programs broadcasts
through radio, movie and television channels. Entities providing services related to internet audio-video programs should immediately delete the audio-
video programs violating laws and regulations, keep relevant records, report to authorities and implement other regulatory requirements.
On October 31, 2018, the NRTA issued the Notice on Further Strengthening the Management of Radio and Television and Network Audiovisual
Cultural Programs, or Notice 60. According to Notice 60, all radio and television broadcasting institutes, network audiovisual program service institutes
and program production institutes must stick to the right political direction and strengthen value guidance; pursue people-centered creative orientation to
curb bad tendencies such as pursuing celebrities, pan-entertainment and so on; persist in providing high-quality content, constantly innovate programs,
and strictly control the remuneration of guests; and strengthen the governance of TV series, network series (including network movies) to promote the
benign development of the industry; must strengthen the use and management of ratings (click-through rate) survey data and resolutely crack down on
ratings (click-through rate) forgeries, etc.
On May 27, 2016, SAPPRFT issued the Notice on Relevant Issues concerning Implementing the Approval Works of Upgrading Mobile Internet
Audio-Video Program Service. This notice provides that the mobile internet audio-video program services shall be deemed internet audio-video program
service. Entities which have obtained the approvals to provide the internet audio-video program services may use mobile WAP websites or mobile
applications to provide audio-video program services. Entities with regulatory approvals may operate mobile applications to provide the audio-video
program services. The types of the programs should be within the permitted scope as provided in the licenses and such mobile applications are required
to be filed with the NRTA and/or SFB.
On October 8, 2021, the Administrative Provisions on Minor-oriented Programs was revised by the NRTA and has become effective on the same
date. According to these provisions, network audio-visual programs with
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minors as their main participants or recipients should not contain any contents which are harmful to the minors, such as violence, pornography, heresy,
superstition, drug taking and other illegal contents. On November 18, 2019, the CAC, the Ministry of Culture and Tourism and the NRTA jointly issued
the Administrative Provisions on Online Audio-visual Information Services, or Circular No. 3, which took effective on January 1, 2020. According to
the Circular No. 3, Online Audio-visual Information Services refer to the services of producing, publishing and disseminating audio-visual information
offered to the public via internet platforms, such as websites and application programs. Circular No. 3 requires that no individual or entity is allowed to
(i) use the online audio-visual information services or related technologies to engage in any activities which may jeopardize national security, undermine
social stability or infringe legitimate right of others; (ii) produce, publish or disseminate any audio-visual information prohibited by the laws and
regulations, such as internet rumors. A provider of audio-visual information services must establish, maintain and optimize a rumors refuting regime,
under which once it identifies that any user of audio-visual information services produces, publishes or disseminates any rumor by virtue of the
technology of producing forged pictures or audio-visual information based on deep-learning or virtual reality, such provider must take measures to refute
such rumors in a timely manner and file such situations with the competent authorities governing internet information, culture and tourism, and radio
and television.
Baidu Netcom has renewed its Online Audio/Video Program Transmission License, which remains valid until July 2024. Beijing iQIYI has an
Online Audio/Video Program Transmission License that is valid until October 2024. Another entity in our group has an Online Audio/Video Program
Transmission License that is valid until March 2026.
Regulations on Live Streaming
In November 2016, the CAC promulgated the Administrative Provisions on Internet Live-streaming Service, which took effect on December 1,
2016. Pursuant to the Administrative Provisions, internet live-streaming service refers to continuous publishing of real-time information to the public on
internet by means of video, audio, graphics, text or other forms, and an internet live-streaming service provider refers to an operator of the platform
providing internet live-streaming service. In accordance with the administrative provisions, an internet live-streaming service provider must verify and
register the identity information of publishers of live-streaming programs and users on its platform, and file the identity information of the publishers
with the local government authority for record. Any internet live-streaming service provider engaging in news service must obtain internet news
information service qualification and operate within the permitted scope of such qualification. In September 2016, the SAPPRFT issued the Circular on
Strengthening Administration of Live-streaming Service of Network Audio/Video Programs. Pursuant to the circular, any entity that intends to engage in
live audio/video broadcasting of major political, military, economic, social, cultural or sport events or activities, or live audio/video broadcasting of
general social or cultural group activities, general sporting events or other organizational events, must obtain an Online Audio/Video Program
Transmission License with a permitted operation scope covering the above business activities. Any entity or individual without qualification is
prohibited from broadcasting live audio/radio programs involving news, variety shows, sports, interviews, commentary or other forms of programs
through any online live-streaming platform or online live broadcasting booth, nor are they permitted to start a live broadcasting channel for any audio or
radio programs. In addition, no entity or individual other than licensed radio stations or television stations are allowed to use “radio station,” “television
station,” “broadcasting station,” “TV” or other descriptive terms exclusive to television and radio broadcasting organizations to engage in any business
on the internet without approval. Furthermore, the CAC issued a notice in July 2017 which requires operators of internet news and information
reproduction and broadcasting services, including commercial website apps that contain live-streaming features, and other internet live-streaming
services, to file with the local CAC starting from July 15, 2017. The Circular on Tightening the Administration of Internet Live-Streaming Services
jointly issued jointly by the MIIT, the CAC and several other government agencies in August 2018 reiterates the license requirements for online-
streaming service providers and requires the operator to file with the local public security authority within 30 days after it commences the service online.
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The SAMR has promulgated the Guidance regarding Strengthening the Supervision over Marketing Activities by Internet Live-Streaming in
November 2020 to further regulated marketing activities by internet live-streaming. The NRTA also issued a circular on the Strengthening Management
of Live-Streaming of Internet Shows and Electronic Commerce in November 2020 to provide instruction to online marketing activities through live-
streaming. Platforms providing live-streaming of internet show or electronic commerce must register with National Internet Video-audio Platform
Information Management System no later than November 30, 2020. The overall ratio of front-line content reviewers to live-streaming rooms on such
platforms should be no less than 1:50. The training for content reviewers should be strengthened and content reviewers who have passed the training
should be registered in the Reviewer Information Management System. A platform must report the number of its live-streaming rooms, streamers and
content reviewers to the provincial branch of the NRTA on a quarterly basis. internet show live-streaming platforms must tag content of live-streaming
rooms and corresponding streamers by category. A streamer cannot change the category of the programs tagged in his or her live-streaming room
without prior approval from the platform. Users that are minors or without real-name registration are prohibited from virtual tipping, and platforms must
cap the amount of virtual tipping per time, per day, and per month. When the virtual tipping by a user reaches half of the daily/monthly limit, a
consumption notification from the platform and a confirmation from the user by text messages or other means are required before the processing the
next transaction. When the amount of virtual tipping by a user reaches the daily/ monthly limit, the platform must suspend the virtual tipping function
for such user for that day or month. To host any electronic commerce promotion events such as E-commerce Festival, E-commerce Day or Promotion
Day in the forms of live-streaming rooms, live performances, live variety shows and other live programs, the platforms should register the information
of guests, streamers, content and settings with the local branch of NRTA 14 business days in advance. internet electronic commerce live-streaming
platforms should conduct qualification examination and real-name authentication on businesses and individuals providing live-streaming marketing
services and keep complete examination and authentication records, and should not enable imposters or businesses or individuals without qualification
or real-name registration to conduct live-streaming marketing services.
On February 9, 2021, the CAC and six other authorities jointly promulgated the Guiding Opinions on Strengthening the Standardized
Management of Online Live Streaming, which became effective on the same date. Pursuant to these opinions, online live streaming platforms are
required to, among others, (i) establish and improve their system for standardized classified and hierarchical management of live streaming accounts, the
management rules for online rewards services, and the management system for sales through live streaming, (ii) set limits on the maximum amount of
rewards accepted by a live streamer during a single live stream, and (iii) set a reasonable upper limit for the value of a single virtual product and the
amount of a single reward.
On March 12, 2022, the NDRC and the MOC issued the Negative List for Market Access (2022 Version), which provides that, among others,
non-state capital should not engage in live streaming and broadcasting of events and activities involving politics, economy, military affairs, diplomatic
affairs, major social events, culture, science and technology, public health, education and sports and such other activities and events related to political
direction, public opinion orientation and value orientation. The scope of these restricted subject matters for live streaming and broadcasting is relatively
broad and vague, and is subject to further clarifications and interpretations by the regulator.
On June 8, 2022, the NRTA and the Ministry of Culture and Tourism jointly released the Code of Conduct for Livestreaming Hosts, which came
into effect on the same day. According to such code, online performance platforms, online audio-visual platforms and brokerage agencies must strictly
perform their statutory obligations, establish and improve the entry, training, daily management, performance scoring files and “red and yellow card”
management and other internal systems and norms on livestreaming hosts. The livestreaming hosts who violate the applicable regulations and rules
should be warned, and the livestreaming hosts with serious problems and repeated indiscipline shall be included in the “blacklist” or “warning list” and
be prohibited from conducting any livestreaming activities by use of any account of any platform.
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Regulations on Internet Map Services
According to the Administrative Rules of Surveying Qualification Certificate, as most recently amended by Ministry of Natural Resources on
June 7, 2021, which became effective on July 1, 2021, the provision of internet map services by any non-surveying and mapping enterprise is subject to
the approval of the competent departments of natural resources and requires a Surveying and Mapping Qualification Certificate. internet maps refer to
maps called or transmitted through the internet. Pursuant to the Notice on Further Strengthening the Administration of Internet Map Services
Qualification issued by the National Administration of Surveying, Mapping and Geo-information in December 2011, any entity without a Surveying and
Mapping Qualification Certificate for internet map services is prohibited from providing any internet map services. According to the Provisions on the
Administration of Examination of Maps most recently amended on July 24, 2019, subject to limited exceptions, an enterprise must first apply for an
approval by the regulatory authority, if it intends to engage in any of the following activities: (i) publication, display, production, posting, import or
export of a map or a product attached with a map, (ii) re-publication, re-display, re-production, re-posting, re-import or re-export of a map the content of
which has been changed after it is approved, or other commercial products attached with such a map, and (iii) publication or display of a map or a
product attached with a map overseas. The operator of an approved internet map is required to file the updated contents of the map with the regulatory
authority semiannually, and re-apply for a new approval of the map when the two-year term of the existing approval expires.
Baidu Netcom provides online traffic information inquiry services as well as internet map services and has obtained a Surveying and Mapping
Qualification Certificate for internet map services. Another entity in our group has also obtained the Surveying and Mapping Qualification Certificate.
In accordance with the Provisions on the Administration of Examination of Maps, we have applied and will apply for examination and approval of the
continuously iterative and updated maps that are used in our products.
Regulations on Intellectual Property Rights
The PRC has adopted legislation governing intellectual property rights, including patents, copyrights, trademarks, and domain names.
Patent. The PRC Patent Law provides for patentable inventions, utility models and designs, which must meet three conditions: novelty,
inventiveness and practical applicability. The State Intellectual Property Office under the State Council is responsible for examining and approving
patent applications. A patent is valid for a term of twenty years in the case of an invention and a term of ten years in the case of utility models and
designs.
Copyright. The PRC Copyright Law and its implementation rules extend copyright protection to products disseminated over the internet and
computer software. There is a voluntary registration system administered by the China Copyright Protection Center. Creators of protected works enjoy
personal and property rights, including, among others, the right of disseminating the works through information networks.
Pursuant to the PRC regulations, rules and interpretations, ICP operators will be jointly liable with the infringer if they (a) participate in, assist in
or abet infringing activities committed by any other person through the internet, (b) are or should be aware of the infringing activities committed by their
website users through the internet, or (c) fail to remove infringing content or take other action to eliminate infringing consequences after receiving a
warning with evidence of such infringing activities from the copyright holder. The court will determine whether an internet service provider should have
known of their internet users’ infringing activities based on how obvious the infringing activities are by taking into consideration a number of factors,
including (i) the information management capabilities that the provider should have based on the possibility that the services provided by it may trigger
infringing acts, (ii) the degree of obviousness of the infringing content, (iii) whether it has taken the initiative to select, edit, modify or recommend the
contents involved, (iv) whether it has taken positive and reasonable measures against infringing acts, and (v) whether it has set up convenient
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programs to receive notices of infringement and made timely and reasonable responses to the notices. Where an internet service provider has directly
obtained economic benefits from any contents made available by an internet user, it should have a higher duty of care with respect to the internet user’s
act of infringement of others’ copyrights. Advertisements placed for or other benefits particularly connected with specific contents may be deemed as
direct economic benefits from such contents, but general advertising fees or service fees charged by an internet service provider for its internet services
will not be included. In addition, where an ICP operator is clearly aware of the infringement of certain content against another’s copyright through the
internet, or fails to take measures to remove relevant contents upon receipt of the copyright holder’s notice, and as a result, it damages the public
interest, the ICP operator could be ordered to stop the tortious act and be subject to other administrative penalties such as confiscation of illegal income
and fines. An ICP operator is also required to retain all infringement notices for a minimum of six months and to record the content, display time and IP
addresses or the domain names related to the infringement for a minimum of 60 days.
Pursuant to the Copyright Law and its implementation rules, creators of protected works enjoy personal and property rights such as the right of
disseminating the works through information networks. In addition, the Regulations for the Protection of Information Network Transmission Right
promulgated by the State Council on May 18, 2006, and amended on January 30, 2013, specify the rules on a safe harbor for use of copyrights and
copyright management technology. An internet service provider may be exempted from liabilities for providing links to infringing or illegal content or
providing other internet services which are used by its users to infringe others’ copyright, if it does not know and does not have constructive knowledge
that such content is infringing upon other parties’ rights or is illegal. However, if the legitimate owner of the content notifies the internet service provider
and requests removal of the links to the infringing content, the internet service provider would be deemed to have constructive knowledge upon receipt
of such notification, but would be exempted from liabilities if it removes or disconnects the links to the infringing content at the request of the legitimate
owner. At the request of the alleged infringer, the internet service provider should immediately restore links to content previously disconnected upon
receipt of initial non-infringing evidence.
We have adopted measures to mitigate copyright infringement risks. For example, our policy is to remove links to web pages and materials
uploaded by the users if we know these web pages or materials contain materials that infringe upon third-party rights or if we are notified by the
legitimate copyright holder of the infringement with proper evidence.
Software Products. The Regulation for the Protection of Computer Software promulgated by the State Council on December 20, 2001 and last
amended on January 30, 2013. To further implementing this regulation, the Computer Software Copyright Registration Measures promulgated by the
China Copyright Office on February 20, 2002, regulates software copyright registration, exclusive licensing contracts of software copyright and transfer
agreements. Although such registration is not mandatory under applicable PRC laws, software copyright owners are encouraged to go through the
registration process and registered software may receive better protection.
Trademark. The PRC Trademark Law and its implementation rules protect registered trademarks. The Trademark Office of National Intellectual
Property Administration handles trademark registrations and grants a term of ten years to registered trademarks. Trademark license agreements should
be filed with the Trademark Office of National Intellectual Property Administration for record. “百度” is recognized as a well-known trademark in China
by the Trademark Office of National Intellectual Property Administration. In addition to owning “ 百 度 ” and the related logos, we have applied for
registration of various other trademarks.
Domain name. Domain names are protected under the Administrative Measures on the Internet Domain Names promulgated by the MIIT in
August 2017, which became effective in November 2017. The MIIT is the major regulatory body responsible for the administration of the internet
domain names of mainland China, and under the supervision of the MIIT, the China Internet Network Information Center is responsible for the daily
administration of “.cn” domain names and Chinese domain names. According to the Circular on Administration
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of the Use of Domain Names for Internet Information Services issued by the MIIT in November 2017, only the internet information service provider
itself or the shareholder(s), principal or senior management officer(s) of the internet information service provider are eligible to register the domain
names used for the internet information services. We have registered baidu.cn, baidu.com.cn and certain other domain names with registrars accredited
by the China Internet Network Information Center.
Regulations on Information Security
The National People’s Congress has enacted legislation that prohibits use of the internet that breaches the public security, disseminates socially
destabilizing content or leaks state secrets. Breach of public security includes breach of national security and infringement on legal rights and interests
of the state, society or citizens. Socially destabilizing content includes any content that incites defiance or violations of PRC laws or regulations or
subversion of the PRC government or its political system, spreads socially disruptive rumors or involves cult activities, superstition, obscenities,
pornography, gambling or violence. State secrets are defined broadly to include information concerning PRC national defense, state affairs and other
matters as determined by the PRC authorities.
Pursuant to applicable regulations, ICP operators must complete mandatory security filing procedures and regularly update information security
and monitoring systems for their websites with local public security authorities, and must also report any public dissemination of prohibited content.
In December 2015, the Standing Committee promulgated the PRC Anti-Terrorism Law, which took effect on January 1, 2016 and was amended on
April 27, 2018. According to the PRC Anti-Terrorism Law, telecommunication service operators or internet service providers must (i) carry out pertinent
anti-terrorism publicity and education to society; (ii) provide technical interfaces, decryption and other technical support and assistance for the
competent departments to prevent and investigate terrorist activities; (iii) implement network security and information monitoring systems as well as
safety and technical prevention measures to avoid the dissemination of terrorism information, delete the terrorism information, immediately halt its
dissemination, keep relevant records and report to the competent departments once the terrorism information is discovered; and (iv) examine customer
identities before providing services. Any violation of the PRC Anti-Terrorism Law may result in severe penalties, including substantial fines.
In November 2016, the Standing Committee promulgated the PRC Cyber Security Law, which took effect on June 1, 2017. In accordance with the
Cyber Security Law, network operators must comply with applicable laws and regulations and fulfill their obligations to safeguard network security in
conducting business and providing services. Network service providers must take technical and other necessary measures as required by laws,
regulations and mandatory requirements to safeguard the operation of networks, respond to network security effectively, prevent illegal and criminal
activities, and maintain the integrity, confidentiality and usability of network data. On September 12, 2022, the CAC released the Decision on Amending
the PRC Cyber Security Law (Draft for Comments) to solicit public opinions by September 29, 2022, aiming to further protect the cybersecurity and
effectively ensure the alignment between the PRC Cyber Security Law and other newly promulgated laws and regulations. On August 20, 2021, the
Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress adopted the PRC Personal Information Protection Law, which took effect on November 1, 2021.
The PRC Personal Information Protection Law integrated the scattered rules with respect to personal information rights and privacy protection.
For the further purposes of regulating data processing activities, safeguarding data security, promoting data development and utilization,
protecting the lawful rights and interests of individuals and organizations, and maintaining national sovereignty, security, and development interests, on
June 10, 2021, Standing Committee published the PRC Data Security Law, which took effect on September 1, 2021. The PRC Data Security Law
requires data processing, which includes the collection, storage, use, processing, transmission, provision, publication of data, to be conducted in a
legitimate and proper manner. The PRC Data Security Law provides for
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data security and privacy obligations on entities and individuals carrying out data activities. The PRC Data Security Law also introduces a data
classification and hierarchical protection system based on the importance of data in economic and social development, and the degree of harm it may
cause to national security, public interests, or legitimate rights and interests of individuals or organizations if such data are tampered with, destroyed,
leaked, illegally acquired or illegally used. The appropriate level of protection measures is required to be taken for each respective category of data. For
example, a processor of important data is required to designate the personnel and the management body responsible for data security, carry out regular
risk assessments of its data processing activities and file the risk assessment reports with the competent authorities. State core data, i.e. data having a
bearing on national security, the lifelines of national economy, people’s key livelihood and major public interests, should be subject to stricter
management system. Moreover, the PRC Data Security Law provides a national security review procedure for those data activities which affect or may
affect national security and imposes export restrictions on certain data and information. In addition, the PRC Data Security Law also provides that any
organization or individual within the territory of mainland China should not provide any foreign judicial body and law enforcement body with any data
without the approval of the competent PRC government authorities. As the laws and regulations on the data security and personal information protection
of mainland China (including the PRC Data Security Law and the PRC Personal Information Protection Law) are evolving and there still exists
uncertainties on the interpretation and implementation of such laws and regulations, we may be required to make further adjustments to our business
practices to comply with such laws and regulations.
On July 6, 2021, certain PRC regulatory authorities issued Opinions on Strictly Cracking Down on Illegal Securities Activities, which, among
others, provides for improving the laws and regulations on data security, cross-border data transmission, and confidential information management. It
provided that efforts will be made to revise the regulations on strengthening the confidentiality and file management relating to the offering and listing
of securities overseas, to implement the responsibility on information security of overseas listed companies, and to strengthen the standardized
management of cross-border information provision mechanisms and procedures.
On December 28, 2021, the CAC issued the amended Cybersecurity Review Measures, which became effective on February 15, 2022 and
replaced the Cybersecurity Review Measures promulgated in April 2020. The scope of review under the Cybersecurity Review Measures extends to
critical information infrastructure operators that intend to purchase internet products and services and network platform operators engaging in data
processing activities, which affect or may affect national security. According to Article 7 of the Measures, network platform operators who possess
personal information of over a million users are required to apply to the Cybersecurity Review Office for cybersecurity reviews before listing in a
foreign country. Besides, the Cybersecurity Review Measures also provide that if the authorities consider that certain network products and services and
data processing activities affect or may affect national security, the authorities may initiate a cybersecurity review even if the operators do not have an
obligation to report for a cybersecurity review under such circumstances. The Cybersecurity Review Measures also elaborate the factors to be
considered when assessing the national security risks of the relevant activities, including among others, risks of core data, important data or a large
amount of personal information being stolen, leaked, destroyed, and illegally used or illegally exited the country, risks of critical information
infrastructure, core data, important data or a large amount of personal information data being affected, controlled and maliciously used by foreign
governments after a listing, and risks associated with internet information security.
On November 14, 2021, the CAC released the Regulations on the Network Data Security (Draft for Comments), which were released for public
comment before December 13, 2021 and has not been formally promulgated as of the date of this annual report. The draft regulations provide that data
processors refer to individuals or organizations that autonomously determine the purpose and the manner of processing data. In accordance with the
draft regulations, data processors are required to apply for a cybersecurity review for the following activities: (i) merger, reorganization or division of
internet platform operators that have acquired a large number of data resources related to national security, economic development or public interests to
the extent that affects or may affect national security; (ii) listing abroad of data processors which process over one
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million users’ personal information; (iii) listing in Hong Kong which affects or may affect national security; or (iv) other data processing activities that
affect or may affect national security. Besides, data processors that are listed overseas must carry out an annual data security assessment. In addition to
the cybersecurity review, the draft regulations requires that data processors processing “important data” or listed overseas should conduct an annual data
security assessment by itself or commission a data security service provider to do so, and submit the assessment report of the preceding year to the
municipal cybersecurity department by the end of January each year.
On July 30, 2021, the State Council issued the Regulations on Protection of Critical Information Infrastructure. Pursuant to these regulations,
critical information infrastructure means the important network facilities or information systems of key industries or fields such as public
communication and information service, energy, transportation, water conservation, finance, public services, e-government affairs and national defense
science, and important network facilities or information systems which may endanger national security, people’s livelihood and public interest once
there occur damage, malfunctioning or data leakage to them. These regulations provide that no individual or organization may carry out any illegal
activity of intruding into, interfering with, or sabotaging any critical information infrastructures, or endanger the security of any critical information
infrastructures. The regulations also require that critical information infrastructure operators must establish a cybersecurity protection system and
accountability system, and that the main responsible person of a critical information infrastructure operator should take full responsibility for the
security protection of the critical information infrastructures operated by it. In addition, administration departments of each important industry and
sector should be responsible for formulating the rule of critical information infrastructure determination applicable to their respective industry or sector,
and determine the critical information infrastructure operators in their industry or sector.
On July 12, 2021, the MIIT and two other authorities jointly issued the Provisions on the Administration of Security Vulnerabilities of Network
Products. Such provisions state that, no organization or individual may abuse the security vulnerabilities of network products to engage in activities that
endanger network security, or to illegally collect, sell, or publish the information on such security vulnerabilities. Anyone who is aware of the aforesaid
offenses should not provide technical support, advertising, payment settlement and other assistance to the offenders. According to the Provisions,
network product providers, network operators, and platforms collecting network product security vulnerabilities must establish and improve channels for
receiving network product security vulnerability information and keep such channels available, and retain network product security vulnerability
information reception logs for at least six months. The Provisions also bans provision of undisclosed vulnerabilities to overseas organizations or
individuals other than to the product providers.
On July 7, 2022, the CAC promulgated the Measures for the Security Assessment of Cross-border Data Transfer, which became effective on
September 1, 2022. In accordance with these measures, data processors will be subject to security assessment conducted by the CAC prior to any cross-
border transfer of data if the transfer involves (i) important data; (ii) personal information transferred overseas by operators of critical information
infrastructure or a data processor that has processed personal data of more than one million persons; (iii) personal information transferred overseas by a
data processor who has already provided personal data of 100,000 persons or sensitive personal data of 10,000 persons overseas since January 1 of last
year; or (iv) other circumstances as requested by the CAC. Furthermore, data processors are required to conduct self-assessment on the risks of cross-
border data transfer prior to their applying for the security assessment and focus on assessment of the following significant matters, including, among
others: (i) the legality and necessity of the purpose, scope and method of cross-border data transfer; (ii) the scale, scope, type and sensitivity of data
transferred overseas, and risks to the national security, public interests or legitimate rights of individuals or organizations caused by such cross-border
data transfer; (iii) the responsibilities and obligations that the overseas recipient of such data promises to undertake, and whether such overseas
recipient’s management and technical measures and capabilities for performing its responsibilities and obligations can guarantee the security of cross-
border data transfer; (iv) the risks that the data transferred overseas may be falsified, destroyed, divulged, lost, transferred, illegally obtained or illegally
used during and after the cross-border transfer; (v) whether contracts or other
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legally binding documents entered into with the overseas recipient have fully stipulated the responsibilities and obligations to protect data security. In
addition, any cross-border data transfer activities conducted in violation of the Measures for the Security Assessment of Cross-border Data Transfer
before the effectiveness of such measures are required to be rectified within six months of the effectiveness date thereof.
In addition, the State Secrecy Bureau has issued provisions authorizing the blocking of access to any website it deems to be leaking state secrets or
failing to comply with the legislation regarding the protection of state secrets during online information distribution. Specifically, internet companies in
mainland China with bulletin boards, chat rooms or similar services must apply for specific approval prior to operating such services.
Furthermore, the Provisions on Technological Measures for Internet Security Protection, promulgated by the Ministry of Public Security and
became effective in March 2006, require all ICP operators to keep records of certain information about its users (including user registration information,
log-in and log-out time, IP address, content and time of posts by users) for at least 60 days and submit the above information as required by laws and
regulations. The Decision on Strengthening Network Information Protection, which was promulgated by the PRC National People’s Congress in
December 2012, states that ICP operators must request identity information from users when ICP operators provide information publication services to
the users. If ICP operators come across prohibited information, they must immediately cease the transmission of such information, delete the
information, keep relevant records, and report to the government authorities.
On October 21, 2019, the Supreme People’s Court and the Supreme People’s Procuratorate of the PRC jointly issued the Interpretations on Certain
Issues Regarding the Applicable of Law in the Handling of Criminal Case Involving Illegal Use of Information Networks and Assisting Committing
Internet Crimes, which came into effect on November 1, 2019, and further clarifies the meaning of Internet service provider and the severe situations of
the relevant crimes.
Regulations on Internet Privacy
The PRC Constitution states that PRC law protects the freedom and privacy of communications of citizens and prohibits infringement of these
rights. In recent years, PRC government authorities have enacted legislation on internet use to protect personal information from any unauthorized
disclosure. The Decision on Strengthening Network Information Protection provides that electronic information that identifies a citizen or involves
privacy of any citizen is protected by law and must not be unlawfully collected or provided to others. ICP operators collecting or using personal
electronic information of citizens must specify the purposes, manners and scopes of information collection and uses, obtain consent of the relevant
citizens, and keep the collected personal information confidential. ICP operators are prohibited from disclosing, tampering with, damaging, selling or
illegally providing others with, collected personal information. ICP operators are required to take technical and other measures to prevent the collected
personal information from any unauthorized disclosure, damage or loss. The Administrative Measures on Internet Information Services prohibit an ICP
operator from insulting or slandering a third party or infringing upon the lawful rights and interests of a third party. According to the Provisions on
Protection of Personal Information of Telecommunication and Internet Users, which was promulgated by the MIIT and became effective in September
2013, telecommunication business operators and ICP operators are responsible for the security of the personal information of users they collect or use in
the course of their provision of services. Without obtaining the consent from the users, telecommunication business operators and ICP operators may not
collect or use the users’ personal information. The personal information collected or used in the course of provision of services by the
telecommunication business operators or ICP operators must be kept in strict confidence, and may not be divulged, tampered with or damaged, and may
not be sold or illegally provided to others. The ICP operators are required to take certain measures to prevent any divulgence of, damage to, tampering
with or loss of users’ personal information. In accordance with the PRC Cyber Security Law, network operators are required to collect and use personal
information in compliance with the principles of legitimacy, properness and necessity, and strictly within the scope of authorization by the subject of
personal information unless otherwise prescribed by laws or regulations. In the event of any
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unauthorized disclosure, damage or loss of collected personal information, network operators must take immediate remedial measures, notify the
affected users and report the incidents to the authorities in a timely manner. If any user knows that a network operator illegally collects and uses his or
her personal information in violation of laws, regulations or any agreement with the user, or the collected and stored personal information is inaccurate
or wrong, the user has the right to request the network operator to delete or correct the relevant collected personal information.
The telecommunications authorities are further authorized to order ICP operators to rectify unauthorized disclosure. ICP operators are subject to
legal liability, including warnings, fines, confiscation of illegal gains, revocation of licenses or filings, closing of websites, administrative punishment,
criminal liabilities, or civil liabilities, if they violate the provisions on internet privacy. Pursuant to the Ninth Amendment to the Criminal Law issued by
the Standing Committee in August 2015 and becoming effective in November 2015, the standards of crime of infringing citizens’ personal information
were amended accordingly and the criminal culpability of unlawful collection, transaction, and provision of personal information has been reinforced. In
addition, any ICP provider that fails to fulfill the obligations related to internet information security administration as required by applicable laws and
refuses to rectify upon orders, will be subject to criminal liability for (i) any dissemination of illegal information in large scale; (ii) any severe effect due
to the leakage of the client’s information; (iii) any serious loss of evidence of criminal activities; or (iv) other severe situations, and any individual or
entity that (x) sells or provides personal information to others unlawfully, or (y) steals or illegally obtains any personal information, will be subject to
criminal liability in severe situations. In addition, the Interpretations of the Supreme People’s Court and the Supreme People’s Procuratorate of the PRC
on Several Issues Concerning the Application of Law in Handling Criminal Cases of Infringing Personal Information, effective in June 2017, have
clarified certain standards for the conviction and sentencing in relation to personal information infringement. The PRC government has the power and
authority to order ICP operators to turn over personal information if an internet user posts any prohibited content or engages in illegal activities on the
internet. The PRC Civil Code further provides in a stand-alone chapter of right of personality and reiterate that the personal information of a natural
person shall be protected by the law. Any organization or individual should legitimately obtain such personal information of others in due course on a
need-to-know basis and ensure the safety and privacy of such information, and refrain from excessively handling or using such information.
With respect to the security of information collected and used by mobile apps, pursuant to the Announcement of Conducting Special Supervision
against the Illegal Collection and Use of Personal Information by Apps, which was issued on January 23, 2019, app operators should collect and use
personal information in compliance with the PRC Cyber Security Law and should be responsible for the security of personal information obtained from
users and take effective measures to strengthen the personal information protection. Furthermore, app operators should not force their users to make
authorization by means of bundling, suspending installation or in other default forms and should not collect personal information in violation of laws,
regulations or breach of user agreements. Such regulatory requirements were emphasized by the Notice on the Special Rectification of Apps Infringing
upon User’s Personal Rights and Interests, which was issued by the MIIT on October 31, 2019. On November 28, 2019, the CAC, the MIIT, the
Ministry of Public Security and the SAMR jointly issued the Methods of Identifying Illegal Acts of Apps to Collect and Use Personal Information. This
regulation further illustrates certain commonly-seen illegal practices of apps operators in terms of personal information protection, including “failure to
publicize rules for collecting and using personal information,” “failure to expressly state the purpose, manner and scope of collecting and using personal
information,” “collection and use of personal information without consent of users of such App,” “collecting personal information irrelevant to the
services provided by such app in violation of the principle of necessity,” “provision of personal information to others without users’ consent,” “failure to
provide the function of deleting or correcting personal information as required by laws” and “failure to publish information such as methods for
complaints and reporting.” Among others, any of the following acts of an app operator will constitute “collection and use of personal information
without consent of users”: (i) collecting an user’s personal information or activating the permission for collecting any user’s personal information
without obtaining such user’s consent; (ii) collecting personal information or activating the permission for collecting the personal information of any
user who explicitly refuses such
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collection, or repeatedly seeking for user’s consent such that the user’s normal use of such app is disturbed; (iii) any user’s personal information which
has been actually collected by the app operator or the permission for collecting any user’s personal information activated by the app operator is beyond
the scope of personal information which such user authorizes such app operator to collect; (iv) seeking for any user’s consent in a non-explicit manner;
(v) modifying any user’s settings for activating the permission for collecting any personal information without such user’s consent; (vi) using users’
personal information and any algorithms to directionally push any information, without providing the option of non-directed pushing such information;
(vii) misleading users to permit collecting their personal information or activating the permission for collecting such users’ personal information by
improper methods such as fraud and deception; (viii) failing to provide users with the means and methods to withdraw their permission of collecting
personal information; and (ix) collecting and using personal information in violation of the rules for collecting and using personal information
promulgated by such app operator.
On August 22, 2019, the CAC promulgated the Children Information Protection Provisions, which took effect on October 1, 2019, requiring that
before collecting, using, transferring or disclosing the personal information of a child, the internet service operator should inform the child’s guardians in
a noticeable and clear manner and obtain their consents. Meanwhile, internet service operators should take measures like encryption when storing
children’s personal information. On March 12, 2021, the CAC and three other authorities jointly issued the Rules on the Scope of Necessary Personal
Information for Common Types of Mobile Internet Applications. The Rules specifies the scope of necessary personal information to be collected each
for a variety of common mobile internet applications, such as maps and navigation apps, online ride-hailing apps, instant messaging apps, online
community apps. Operators of such apps should not refuse to provide basic services to users on the ground of users’ refusal to provide their personal
non-essential information.
On August 20, 2021, the Standing Committee adopted the PRC Personal Information Protection Law which took effect on November 1, 2021. The
PRC Personal Information Protection Law integrates provisions from several rules with respect to personal information rights and privacy protection.
According to the PRC Personal Information Protection Law, personal information refers to information related to identified or identifiable natural
persons which is recorded by electronic or other means (excluding the anonymized information). The PRC Personal Information Protection Law
provides the circumstances under which a personal information processor could process personal information, such as where the consent of the
individual concerned is obtained and where it is necessary for the conclusion or performance of a contract to which such individual is a party to such
contract. In addition, it imposes further obligations on a personal information processor that provides for basic internet platform services, has large
amount of users, has complicated business activities, including, among others, formulating of an independent institution mainly comprising of outside
members to supervise personal information processing activities, termination of provision of services for product or service providers on the platform
whose personal information processing activities are in material violation of laws and regulations, and issuing personal information protection social
responsibilities reports regularly. The PRC Personal Information Protection Law also requires, among others, that (i) the processing of personal
information should have a clear and reasonable purpose which should be directly related to the processing purpose, in a method that has the least impact
on personal rights and interests, and (ii) the collection of personal information should be limited to the minimum scope necessary to achieve the
processing purpose to avoid the excessive collection of personal information. Different types of personal information and personal information
processing will be subject to various rules on consent, transfer, and security. Entities handling personal information should bear responsibilities for their
personal information handling activities, and adopt necessary measures to safeguard the security of the personal information they handle. The entities
failing to comply could be ordered to correct, or suspend or terminate the provision of services, and face confiscation of illegal income, fines or other
penalties.
On December 8, 2022, the MIIT issued the Administrative Measures on Industry and Information Technology Data Security (Trial
Implementation), which took effect on January 1, 2023. According to such administrative measures, based on the degree of potential damage to national
security, public interests or the legitimate rights and interests of individuals and organizations caused by tampering with, destruction, leakage or
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illegal acquisition or use of the data, industry and information technology data are classified into three categories, i.e., general data, important data and
core data. Industry and information technology data processors are required to file the catalogs of their important data and core data with the local
industrial government authorities for record. Furthermore, processors of important data and core data must, on their own or by entrusting third-party
evaluation agencies, conduct risk assessment on their data processing activities at least once a year and submit risk assessment reports to the local
industrial government authorities.
Regulations on Anti-Monopoly Matters related to Internet Platform Companies
The PRC Anti-monopoly Law, which was promulgated on August 1, 2008 and most recently amended on June 24, 2022, prohibits monopolistic
conduct such as entering into monopoly agreements, abusing market dominance and concentration of undertakings conducted illegally that may have the
effect of eliminating or restricting competition. The amended PRC Anti-monopoly Law increases the fines for illegal concentration of business operators
to “no more than ten percent of its preceding year’s sales revenue if the concentration of business operator has or may have an effect of excluding or
limiting competition; or a fine of up to RMB5 million if the concentration of business operator does not have an effect of excluding or limiting
competition.” The amended PRC Anti-monopoly Law also proposes for the authority to investigate any concentration where there is evidence that such
concentration has or may have the effect of eliminating or restricting competition, even if such concentration does not reach the filing threshold. In
addition, the amended PRC Anti-monopoly Law introduces a “stop-clock mechanism” which may prolong the review process for the concentration.
On January 22, 2024, the State Council released the Provisions of the State Council on the Threshold for the Filing of Concentration of
Undertakings mainly to optimize the filing standard. These provisions significantly adjust the revenue threshold of merger control filing to either one of
the following two conditions: (i) the worldwide revenue of all business operators involved in the concentration exceeds RMB12 billion (increased from
the previous threshold of RMB10 billion) collectively in the last fiscal year, and the revenue in mainland China of at least two business operators among
them each exceeds RMB800 million (increased from the previous threshold of RMB400 million) in the last fiscal year; or (ii) the revenue in mainland
China of all the business operators involved in the concentration exceeds RMB4 billion (increased from the current threshold of RMB2 billion)
collectively in the last fiscal year, and the revenue in mainland China of at least two business operators among them each exceeds RMB800 million
(increased from the current threshold of RMB400 million) in the last fiscal year. Furthermore, if there is evidence indicating that the concentration of
business operator has or may have an effect of excluding or limiting competition, the anti-monopoly authority may order the operators to file for
clearance, regardless of the threshold standard.
On February 7, 2021, the Anti-monopoly Commission of the State Council officially promulgated the Guidelines to Anti-Monopoly in the Field of
Internet Platforms. Pursuant to an official interpretation from the Anti-monopoly Commission of the State Council, these guidelines mainly cover five
aspects, including general provisions, monopoly agreements, abusing market dominance, concentration of undertakings, and abusing of administrative
powers eliminating or restricting competition. These guidelines prohibit certain monopolistic acts of internet platforms so as to protect market
competition and safeguard interests of consumers and undertakings participating in internet platform economy, including, without limitation, prohibiting
platforms with dominant position from abusing their market dominance (such as discriminating customers in terms of pricing and other transactional
conditions using big data and analytics, coercing counterparties into exclusivity arrangements through entering into written or oral agreements or using
technology means to block competitors’ interface or reduce positions in search results of goods displays, using bundle services to sell different services
or products, compulsory collection of unnecessary user data). In addition, the guidelines also reinforce antitrust merger review for internet platform
related transactions to safeguard market competition.
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Regulations on Internet Drug Information Services
According to the Provisions on the Administration of Internet Drug Information Services, which were promulgated by the State Food and Drug
Administration and most recently amended in November 2017, an enterprise publishing drug-related information must obtain a qualification certificate
from the provincial-level food and drug administration before it applies for the ICP license or files with the MIIT or its local provincial-level
counterpart. In addition, the Standing Committee further amended the Drug Administration Law on August 26, 2019, which became effective on
December 1, 2019. An ICP service operator that provides information regarding drugs or medical devices must obtain an Internet Drug Information
Service Qualification Certificate from the applicable provincial level administrative authority.
Baidu Netcom firstly obtained the Qualification Certificate for Internet Drug Information Services in November 2007. On December 21, 2021, to
comply with the requirements of the competent government authorities in Beijing, Baidu Netcom obtained the Filing Certificate for Internet Drug and
Medical Devices Information Services to replace the Qualification Certificate for Internet Drug Information Services, and such filing certificate of Baidu
Netcom has been renewed on June 13, 2022. In addition, we have several other entities in our group that have obtained the Qualification Certificate for
Internet Drug Information Services.
Regulations on Internet Healthcare
According to the Guiding Opinions on Vigorously Advancing the “Internet Plus” Action issued by the State Council on July 1, 2015, internet
enterprises are encouraged to cooperate with medical institutions in establishing online medical information platforms, strengthen the integration of
regional health care service resources, and make full use of the internet, Big Data and other means to improve the capability to prevent and control
major diseases and unexpected public health incidents. The General Office of the State Council issued the Opinions on Promoting the Development of
“Internet Plus Health Care” on April 25, 2018, which encouraged medical institutions to apply the internet and other information technologies to expand
the space and content of medical services, and develop an online-offline integrated medical service model covering stages before, during and after
diagnosis. The development of internet hospitals depending on medical institutions should be permitted. Medical institutions may use internet hospital
as the second name and, based on physical hospitals, use internet technology to provide safe and appropriate medical services, allowing online re-
diagnosis for some common diseases and chronic diseases. After reviewing documents of the medical records and profiles of patients, doctors should be
allowed to prescribe online for some common diseases and chronic diseases.
According to the Measures for the Administration of Internet Hospitals (for Trial Implementation) issued on July 17, 2018, any entity applying for
establishment of an internet hospital is required to submit an application to the competent registration authority of the physical medical institution
supporting such internet hospital, and submit the application form, the feasibility research report on establishment of such internet hospital, the address
of the physical medical institution supporting such internet hospital, and the agreement jointly signed by the applicant and the physical medical
institution in relation to establishment of an internet hospital through cooperation. If a physical medical institution intends to establish an internet
hospital information platform through cooperation with a third-party institution, the relevant cooperation agreement should be submitted to competent
registration authority of such physical medical institution. The Measures for the Administration of Internet Hospitals (for Trial Implementation) also
clarify that internet hospitals must adopt information security protection measures for Level 3 information system in accordance with the information
security laws and regulations. Doctors can only provide follow-up diagnosis services through internet hospitals for patients that have been diagnosed
with certain common diseases or chronic diseases, unless the patients are in physical hospitals and the doctors in the physical hospital invites other
doctors to provide diagnosis services through internet hospital.
According to the Measures for the Administration of Internet Diagnosis and Treatment (for Trial Implementation) issued on July 17, 2018, internet
diagnosis and treatment activities must be provided by the
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medical institutions that have obtained a “Practicing License for Medical Institution.” If a medical institution intends to establish an information and
services platform for internet diagnosis and treatment activities through cooperation with a third-party institution, the relevant cooperation agreement
should be submitted to competent registration authority of such medical institution. The internet-based diagnosis services provided by a medical
institution must be consistent with its diagnosis and treatment subjects. Physicians and nurses carrying out internet diagnosis and treatment activities
should be recorded and registered in the national electronic registration system of physicians and nurses. A medical institution must conduct electronic
real-name verification for the medical staff members carrying out internet diagnosis and treatment activities.
Regulations on Online Games
Pursuant to the Administrative Provisions on Internet Publishing Service and the Circular on Mobile Game Publishing Service, the online games
services provided on websites by online game operator partners may be deemed as a type of “online publication service,” and may be required to obtain
an Internet Publication License from the NPPA. The required approval by the NNPA of each online game provided on our websites is handled by our
online game operator partners.
In September 2009, the General Administration of Press and Publication (currently known as the NPPA) together with several other government
agencies issued Notice Regarding the Consistent Implementation of the “Measures on Three Provisions” of the State Council and the Relevant
Interpretations of the State Commission Office for Public Sector Reform and the Further Strengthening of the Administration of Examination and
Approval of Online Games and the Examination and Approval of Imported Online Games, or the Circular 13, which explicitly prohibits foreign
investors from participating in online game operating businesses through wholly-owned enterprises, equity joint ventures or cooperative joint ventures
in mainland China. Circular 13 expressly prohibits foreign investors from gaining control over or participating in mainland China operating companies’
online game operations through indirect means, such as establishing joint venture companies, entering into contractual arrangements with or providing
technical support to the operating companies, or through a disguised form, such as incorporating user registration, user account management or payment
through game cards into online game platforms that are ultimately controlled or owned by foreign investors. Certain foreign companies offer online
games provided by their game operator partners on websites or through smartphone app distribution platforms which are owned and operated by their
variable interest entities under contractual agreements. If such contractual arrangements were deemed to be “indirect means” or “disguised form” under
Circular 13, such contractual arrangements may be challenged by the NPPA or other government authorities. If we were found to be in violation of
Circular 13 in the operation of our online game platform, the NNPA, in conjunction with the regulatory authorities, would have the power to investigate
and deal with such violations, including in the most serious cases, suspending and revoking the relevant licenses and registrations.
In October 2019, the NPPA promulgated the Circular on Preventing Minors from Developing Online Game Addictions, which mandates that
online game operators take, among others, the following measures to prevent minors from being addicted to online games: (i) the operator must ensure
that its online game users use valid and true identity information to register their game accounts; (ii) the operator must strictly control the time slot and
duration allowed for minors to log in and play online games to the extent that it should not provide any game service for the minors in any form from
10:00 PM each day to 8:00 AM the next day, and the length of time a minor spends in playing its online games must not exceed three hours
accumulatively on each statutory holiday and one and a half hours on each business day; and (iii) the online game operator should not offer any paid
services to minors that are not suitable for their civil capacity. According to such circular, these requirements are pre-conditions for an operator to
publish and operate any online game.
On August 30, 2021, the NPPA issued the Circular of the National Press and Publication Administration on Further Strengthening Regulation to
Effectively Prevent Online Gaming Additions among Minors, which became into effect on September 1, 2021. After the effective date of this Circular,
online game companies must provide minors only with one hour of online game services at prescribed periods, namely between 8 pm and 9 pm on
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Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays. The Circular reinstates that online game companies must strictly implement the real-name registration
and login requirements for online game user accounts. All online games should be connected to the NPPA’s real-name verification system for anti-online
game addiction purpose. Online game users should use real and valid identity information to register for game accounts and log in to online games.
Online game companies should not provide gaming services in any form (including visitor experience mode) to users who have not registered or logged
in with their real names.
On December 22, 2023, the NPPA issued the Draft Administrative Measures on Online Games for public comment until January 22, 2024, which
stipulates, among others, (i) not only that the publishers of online games shall obtain the Internet Publication Licenses, the operators engaged in online
game business operations such as online game operation and online game coin issuance and trading services shall also obtain the Internet Publication
Licenses with the scope of the online game business operations; (ii) publishers and operators of the online game shall carry out the game publication and
operation within one year from the date of obtaining the online game approval, or otherwise they shall timely explain the reasons in writing to the
competent government authority; (iii) compulsory battles, inducement rewards for daily login, first recharge and continuous recharge, and rewards in
large amounts in online game live-streaming shall be prohibited in online games; (iv) publishers and operators of online games shall not provide or
connive at high-price trading of virtual items in the form of speculation or auction, shall set the limit of user recharge and publicize such limitations in
the service rules of online games, and shall provide pop-up warning to users for irrational consumption behaviors; (v) online game publishers and
operators shall submit written annual report to the competent government authority in accordance with applicable regulations, which shall include,
among others, the implementation of online game management laws and policies, rewards and punishments, the performance of online game publishing
and operation, the issuance and trade of online game coins, and the internal management of the current year.
Regulations on Online Game Virtual Currency
The Interim Administration Measures of Online Games, which has been repealed on July 10, 2019 (while no other regulation has been issued or
promulgated as of the date of this annual report to replace this regulation) require companies that (i) issue online game virtual currency (including
prepaid cards and/or pre-payment or prepaid card points) or (ii) offer online game virtual currency transaction services to apply for the Internet Culture
Business Permit from provincial branches of the Ministry of Culture. The regulations prohibit companies that issue online game virtual currency from
providing services that would enable the trading of such virtual currency. Any company that fails to submit the requisite application will be subject to
sanctions, including, but not limited to, termination of operation, confiscation of incomes and fines. The regulations also prohibit online game operators
from allocating virtual items or virtual currency to players based on random selection through lucky draw, wager or lottery that involve cash or virtual
currency directly paid by the players. In addition, companies that issue online game virtual currency must comply with certain specific requirements. For
example, online games virtual currency can only be used for products and services related to the issuance company’s own online games. Pursuant to the
Circular on Regulating Online Game Operation and Strengthening Interim and Ex Post Supervision issued by the Ministry of Culture in December 2016,
which took effect on May 1, 2017 and repealed on August 19, 2019, an online game operator must not allow online game virtual currency to exchange
for legal currency or items, except in the case of termination of online game operation where the online game operator may refund the balance of online
game virtual currency to players in the form of legal currency or in other means acceptable to the players. Moreover, pursuant to the circular, regulations
applicable to online game virtual currency also apply to such other virtual items where the virtual items are issued by the online game operator, can be
exchangeable for other virtual items or value-added services related to the games, and can be purchased with legal currency or online game virtual
currency or exchanged for online game virtual currency.
On December 22, 2023, the NPPA issued the Draft Administrative Measures on Online Games for public comment, pursuant to which, one
enterprise shall not engage in the issuance and trading service of online game currency at the same time. With respect to the issuance of online game
coins, the Draft Administrative Measures on Online Games emphasizes again that: (i) online game coins shall only be used to the extent of the exchange
of
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online game products and services provided by such issuers, and shall not be used for payment, purchase of physical items or exchange of products and
services of other service providers; (ii) the issuance of online game coins shall not be issued for purpose of maliciously occupying players’ prepaid
funds, and the standards for the issuance and purchase of online game coins shall be transparent and reasonable; and (iii) the service of exchanging
online game coins for legal currency shall be prohibited. With respect to the trading service of online game coins, the Draft Administrative Measures on
Online Games provides that, among others, (i) trading services shall not be provided for any unapproved online games; (ii) anonymous digital RMB
wallets shall be prohibited from being provided to players; and (iii) technical measures shall be taken to effectively supervise the transaction process,
and the transactions with illegal and suspicious behaviors shall be reported to the competent government authority in a timely manner to avoid
convenience for online gambling, online fraud and other illegal behaviors. In addition, according to the Draft Administrative Measures on Online
Games, virtual items issued by online game publishers and operators, which are directly purchased by players with legal currency, purchased or
exchanged by players with online game coins, and which can be directly exchanged into other virtual items or value-added services in the games, shall
be regulated as online game coins. Publishers and operators of online games shall not convert virtual items of online games obtained by players into
legal currency.
Regulations on Overseas Offering and Listing
On July 6, 2021, the PRC government authorities issued Opinions on Strictly Cracking Down Illegal Securities Activities in Accordance with the
Law. These opinions emphasized the need to strengthen the administration over illegal securities activities and the supervision on overseas listings by
mainland China-based companies and proposed to take effective measures, such as promoting the construction of the regulatory systems to deal with the
risks and incidents faced by mainland China-based overseas-listed companies.
On December 27, 2021, the NDRC and the MOC jointly issued the Special Administrative Measures (Negative List) for Foreign Investment
Access (2021 Version), which became effective on January 1, 2022. Pursuant to such measures, if a domestic company engaging in the prohibited
business stipulated in the 2021 negative list seeks an overseas offering and listing, it must obtain the approval from the competent government
authorities. Besides, the foreign investors of the company should not be involved in the company’s operation and management, and their shareholding
percentage are subject, mutatis mutandis, to the regulations on the domestic securities investments by foreign investors.
On February 17, 2023, the CSRC, as approved by the State Council, released the Trial Administrative Measures of Overseas Securities Offering
and Listing by Domestic Companies and five supporting guidelines, or the Filing Rules collectively. According to the Filing Rules, domestic companies
in mainland China that directly or indirectly offer or list their securities in an overseas market, are required to file with the CSRC. Specifically, the
securities under the Filing Rules refer to stocks, depositary receipts, convertible corporate bonds, exchangeable bonds and other equity-linked securities
to be issued and offered in overseas markets by domestic companies directly or indirectly, while a direct offering and listing refers to the overseas
offering and listing of a joint-stock company incorporated in mainland China, and an indirect offering and listing refers to the overseas offering and
listing of a domestic company which conducts its business operations primarily in mainland China, in the name of an offshore company and based on
the underlying equities, assets, earnings or similar interests of the domestic company. In particular, the determination of an indirect offering and listing
will be conducted on a “substance over form” basis, and an offering and listing should be considered as an indirect overseas offering and listing by a
domestic company if the issuer meets both of the following conditions: (i) any of the revenue, profits, total assets or net assets of such domestic
company in the most recent financial year account for more than 50% of the corresponding data in the issuer’s audited consolidated financial statements
for the same period; and (ii) the majority of its business operations are conducted in mainland China or its principal place of business is located in
mainland China, or the majority of senior management in charge of business operations are Chinese citizens or have domicile in the mainland China.
According to the Filing Rules, an overseas offering and listing is prohibited under any of the following circumstances: (i) if the intended securities
offering and listing is specifically prohibited by the laws, administrative regulations and national provisions; (ii) if the intended
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securities offering and listing may constitute a threat to or endangers national security as reviewed and determined by competent authorities under the
State Council in accordance with law; (iii) the domestic companies or their controlling shareholders or actual controllers have committed corruption,
bribery, embezzlement, misappropriation of property, or other criminal offenses disruptive to the order of the socialist market economy in the past three
years; (iv) the domestic companies are currently under investigations in connection with suspicion of having committed criminal offenses or material
violations of applicable laws and regulations, and there is still no explicit conclusion; (v) there are material ownership disputes over the shareholdings
held by the controlling shareholder or the shareholder under the control of the controlling shareholder or the actual controllers.
According to the Filing Rules, the issuer or its affiliated domestic company, as the case may be, is required to file with the CSRC (i) with respect
to its initial public offering and listing and its subsequent securities offering in an overseas market different from the market where it has listed, within
three business days after its submission of listing application documents to the regulator in the place of intended listing, (ii) with respect to its follow-on
offering in the same overseas market where it has listed (including issuance of any corporate convertible bonds, exchangeable bonds and other equity-
linked securities, but excluding the offering for employees incentive, dividend distribution by shares and share split), within three business days after
completion of such follow-on offering, (iii) with respect to listing by means of single or multiple acquisitions, share swap, transfers of shares and similar
transactions, within three business days after its initial filing of the listing application or the first public announcement of the transaction, as case may
be. Failure to comply with the filing requirements may result in an order of rectification, a warning and fines up to RMB10 million to the non-compliant
domestic companies, and the directly responsible persons of the companies will be warned and fined between RMB500,000 and RMB5 million.
Furthermore, if the controlling shareholder and the actual controller of the non-compliant companies organizes or instigates the breach, they will be
fined between RMB1 million and RMB10 million. In addition to above filing requirements, the Filings Rules also requires an issuer to report to the
CSRC within three business days after occurrence of any the following events: (i) its change of control; (ii) its being subject to investigation or sanctions
by any overseas securities regulators or overseas authorities; (iii) its change of listing status or listing segment; (iv) voluntary or mandatory delisting;
and (v) material change of its principal business operations to the extent that it ceases to be subject to the filing requirements of the Filing Rules.
On February 24, 2023, the CSRC, jointly with other government authorities, promulgated the revised Provisions on Strengthening Confidentiality
and Archives Management of Overseas Securities Issuance and Listing by Domestic Enterprises, effective on March 31, 2023. According to these
provisions, domestic companies, whether offering and listing securities overseas directly or indirectly, must strictly abide by the applicable laws and
regulations, enhance the sense of confidentiality, improve the archives management system, and take necessary measures to implement the
confidentiality and archives management responsibilities when providing or publicly disclosing, either directly or through their overseas listed entities,
documents and materials to securities services providers such as securities companies and accounting firms or overseas regulators in the process of their
overseas offering and listing. In the event that such documents or materials contain any information related to state secrets or government authorities
work secrets, domestic companies must obtain the approval from competent government authorities according to the applicable laws, and file with the
secrecy administrative department at the same level with the approving government authority; and in the event that such documents or materials, if
divulged, will jeopardize national security or public interest, domestic companies should strictly fulfill the procedures stipulated by applicable laws and
regulations. Furthermore, domestic companies should also provide a written statement about whether they have completed the approval or filing
procedures as above when providing documents and materials to securities companies and securities service providers, and the securities companies and
securities service providers should properly retain such written statements for inspection.
Securities companies and securities service providers shall also fulfill the applicable legal procedures according to the revised Provisions on
Strengthening Confidentiality and Archives Management of Overseas
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Securities Issuance and Listing by Domestic Enterprises when providing overseas regulatory institutions and other institutions and individuals with
documents or materials containing any state secrets or government authorities work secrets or other documents or materials that, if divulged, will
jeopardize national security or public interest.
Regulations on Foreign Exchange
Foreign Currency Exchange. Pursuant to the Foreign Currency Administration Rules, as most recently amended in 2008, and various regulations
issued by SAFE and other PRC government authorities, RMB is freely convertible to the extent of current account items, such as trade related receipts
and payments, interest and dividends. Capital account items, such as direct equity investments, loans and repatriation of investment, unless expressly
exempted by laws and regulations, still require prior approval from SAFE or its provincial branch for conversion of RMB into a foreign currency, such
as U.S. dollars, and remittance of the foreign currency outside of mainland China.
In August 2008, SAFE issued the Circular on the Relevant Operating Issues Concerning the Improvement of the Administration of the Payment
and Settlement of Foreign Currency Capital of Foreign-Invested Enterprises, or SAFE Circular 142, regulating the conversion by a foreign-invested
enterprise of foreign currency-registered capital into RMB by restricting how the converted RMB may be used. In addition, SAFE promulgated Circular
45 on November 9, 2011 in order to clarify the application of SAFE Circular 142. Under SAFE Circular 142 and Circular 45, the RMB capital converted
from foreign currency registered capital of a foreign-invested enterprise may only be used for purposes within the business scope approved by the
applicable administrative authority and may not be used for equity investments within mainland China. In addition, SAFE strengthened its oversight of
the flow and use of RMB capital converted from foreign currency registered capital of foreign-invested enterprises. The use of RMB capital may not be
changed without SAFE’s approval, and RMB capital may not in any case be used to repay RMB loans if the proceeds of the loans have not been used.
To further reform the foreign exchange administration system in order to satisfy and facilitate the business and capital operations of foreign-
invested enterprises, SAFE issued the Circular on the Relevant Issues Concerning the Launch of Reforming Trial of the Administration Model of the
Settlement of Foreign Currency Capital of Foreign-Invested Enterprises in Certain Areas in July 2014, which became effective on August 4, 2014. This
circular suspends the application of SAFE Circular 142 in certain areas and allows a foreign-invested enterprise registered in these areas with a business
scope including “investment” to use the RMB capital converted from foreign currency registered capital for equity investments within mainland China.
SAFE released the Notice on the Reform of the Administration Method for the Settlement of Foreign Exchange Capital of Foreign-invested Enterprises
or SAFE Circular 19, in March 2015, which came into force and superseded SAFE Circular 142 on June 1, 2015. Circular 19 allows foreign-invested
enterprises to settle their foreign exchange capital on a discretionary basis according to the actual needs of their business operation and provides the
procedures for foreign-invested companies to use Renminbi converted from foreign currency-denominated capital for equity investment. Nevertheless,
Circular 19 also reiterates the principle that Renminbi converted from foreign currency-denominated capital of a foreign-invested company may not be
directly or indirectly used for purposes beyond its business scope.
In June 2016, SAFE issued the Circular on Reforming and Regulating Policies on the Control over Foreign Exchange Settlement of Capital
Accounts, or Circular 16, which took effect on the same day. Compared to Circular 19, Circular 16 provides that discretionary foreign exchange
settlement applies to foreign exchange capital, foreign debt offering proceeds and remitted foreign listing proceeds, and the corresponding Renminbi
obtained from foreign exchange settlement are not restricted from extending loans to related parties or repaying the intercompany loans (including
advances by third parties). However, there still exist substantial uncertainties with respect to the interpretation and implementation of Circular 16 in
practice.
In November 2012, SAFE promulgated the Circular of Further Improving and Adjusting Foreign Exchange Administration Policies on Direct
Investment, as amended, which substantially amends and simplifies the foreign
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exchange procedure. Pursuant to this circular, the opening of various special purpose foreign exchange accounts, such as pre-establishment expenses
accounts, foreign exchange capital accounts and guarantee accounts, the reinvestment of RMB proceeds by foreign investors in mainland China, and
remittance of foreign exchange profits and dividends by a foreign-invested enterprise to its foreign shareholders no longer require the approval or
verification of SAFE, and multiple capital accounts for the same entity may be opened in different provinces, which was not possible previously. In
addition, SAFE promulgated the Circular on Printing and Distributing the Provisions on Foreign Exchange Administration over Domestic Direct
Investment by Foreign Investors and the Supporting Documents in May 2013, as amended, which specifies that the administration by SAFE or its local
branches over direct investment by foreign investors in mainland China should be conducted by way of registration and banks should process foreign
exchange business relating to the direct investment in mainland China based on the registration information provided by SAFE and its branches.
After a Notice on Further Simplifying and Improving Foreign Exchange Administration Policy on Direct Investment, or SAFE Notice 13, became
effective on June 1, 2015, instead of applying for approvals regarding foreign exchange registrations of foreign direct investment and overseas direct
investment from SAFE, entities and individuals will be required to apply for such foreign exchange registrations from qualified banks. The qualified
banks, under the supervision of SAFE, directly examine the applications and conduct the registration.
On October 23, 2019, SAFE issued the Circular on Further Promoting Cross-border Trade and Investment Facilitation, or SAFE Circular 28.
Among others, SAFE Circular 28 relaxes the prior restrictions and allows the foreign-invested enterprises without equity investment as in their approved
business scope to use their capital obtained from foreign exchange settlement to make domestic equity investment as long as the investments are real
and in compliance with the foreign investment-related laws and regulations. In addition, SAFE Circular 28 stipulates that qualified enterprises in certain
pilot areas may use their capital income from registered capital, foreign debt and overseas listing, for the purpose of domestic payments without
providing authenticity certifications to the relevant banks in advance for those domestic payments. Payments for transactions that take place within
mainland China must be made in RMB. Foreign currency revenues received by companies in mainland China may be repatriated into mainland China or
retained outside of mainland China in accordance with requirements and terms specified by SAFE.
Dividend Distribution. Wholly foreign-owned enterprises and Sino-foreign equity joint ventures in mainland China may pay dividends only out of
their accumulated profits, if any, as determined in accordance with PRC accounting standards and regulations. Additionally, these foreign-invested
enterprises may not pay dividends unless they set aside at least 10% of their respective accumulated profits after tax each year, if any, to fund certain
reserve funds, until such time as the accumulative amount of such fund reaches 50% of the enterprise’s registered capital. In addition, these companies
also may allocate a portion of their after-tax profits based on PRC accounting standards to employee welfare and bonus funds at their discretion. These
reserves are not distributable as cash dividends.
Regulations governing abovementioned dividend distribution arrangements have been replaced by the PRC Foreign Investment Law and its
implantation rules, which do not provide specific dividend distribution rules for foreign invested enterprises. However, the PRC Foreign Investment Law
and its implementation rules provide that after the conversion from a wholly foreign-owned enterprise or sino-foreign equity joint venture to a foreign
invested enterprise under the PRC Foreign Investment Law, distribution method of gains agreed in the joint venture agreements may continue to apply.
Foreign Exchange Registration of Offshore Investment by Domestic Residents of Mainland China. Pursuant to SAFE’s Notice on Relevant Issues
Concerning Foreign Exchange Administration for Domestic Residents to Engage in Financing and Inbound Investment via Overseas Special Purpose
Vehicles, or SAFE Circular No. 75, issued in October 2005, and a series of implementation rules and guidance, including the circular relating to
operating procedures that came into effect in July 2011, Domestic residents of mainland China, including domestic resident natural persons or domestic
companies, must register with local branches of SAFE in
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connection with their direct or indirect offshore investment in an overseas special purpose vehicle, or SPV, for the purposes of overseas equity financing
activities, and to update such registration in the event of any significant changes with respect to that offshore company. SAFE promulgated the Circular
on Relevant Issues Concerning Foreign Exchange Control on Domestic Residents’ Offshore Investment and Financing and Roundtrip Investment
through Special Purpose Vehicles, or SAFE Circular No. 37, on July 4, 2014, which replaced SAFE Circular No. 75. SAFE Circular No. 37 requires
domestic residents to register with local branches of SAFE in connection with their direct establishment or indirect control of an offshore entity, for the
purpose of overseas investment and financing, with such domestic residents’ legally owned assets or equity interests in domestic enterprises or offshore
assets or interests, referred to in SAFE Circular No. 37 as a “special purpose vehicle.” The term “control” under SAFE Circular No. 37 is broadly
defined as the operation rights, beneficiary rights or decision-making rights acquired by the domestic residents in the offshore special purpose vehicles
or domestic companies by such means as acquisition, trust, proxy, voting rights, repurchase, convertible bonds or other arrangements. SAFE Circular
No. 37 further requires amendment to the registration in the event of any changes with respect to the basic information of the special purpose vehicle,
such as changes in a domestic resident individual shareholder, name or operation period; or any significant changes with respect to the special purpose
vehicle, such as an increase or decrease of capital contributed by domestic individuals, a share transfer or exchange, merger, division or other material
event. If the shareholders of the offshore holding company who are domestic residents do not complete their registration with the local SAFE branches,
the mainland China subsidiaries may be prohibited from distributing their profits and proceeds from any reduction in capital, share transfer or
liquidation to the offshore company, and the offshore company may be restricted in its ability to contribute additional capital to its mainland China
subsidiaries. Moreover, failure to comply with the SAFE registration and amendment requirements described above could result in liability under laws
of mainland China for evasion of applicable foreign exchange restrictions. We have notified holders of ordinary shares of our company whom we know
are domestic residents to register with the local SAFE branch and update their registrations as required under the SAFE regulations described above.
After SAFE Notice 13 became effective on June 1, 2015, entities and individuals are required to apply for foreign exchange registration of foreign direct
investment and overseas direct investment, including those required under SAFE Circular No. 37, with qualified banks, instead of SAFE. The qualified
banks, under the supervision of SAFE, directly examine the applications and conduct the registration. We are aware that Mr. Robin Yanhong Li, our
chairman, chief executive officer and principal shareholder, who is a domestic resident, has registered with the local SAFE branch. We, however, cannot
provide any assurances that all of our shareholders who are domestic residents will file all applicable registrations or update previously filed
registrations as required by these SAFE regulations. The failure or inability of our domestic resident shareholders to comply with the registration
procedures may subject the domestic resident shareholders to fines and legal sanctions, restrict our cross-border investment activities, or limit our
mainland China subsidiaries’ ability to distribute dividends to or obtain foreign exchange dominated loans from our company.
Under the Administration Measures on Individual Foreign Exchange Control issued by the People’s Bank of China in December 2006 and its
implementation rules issued in January 2007 and revised in May 2016, all foreign exchange matters involved in employee share ownership plans and
share option plans in which citizens of mainland China participate require approval from SAFE or its authorized branch. In February 2012, SAFE
promulgated the Notices on Issues Concerning the Foreign Exchange Administration for Domestic Individuals Participating in Stock Incentive Plans of
Overseas Publicly-Listed Companies. Under these notices, domestic residents who are granted stock options by an overseas publicly listed company are
required, through a domestic agent or domestic subsidiary of such overseas publicly listed company, to register with SAFE and complete certain other
procedures. We and our domestic resident employees who have been granted stock options are subject to these regulations. We have designated our
mainland China subsidiary Baidu Online to handle the registration and other procedures required by these notices. Failure of the option holders to
complete their SAFE registrations may subject these domestic employees to fines and legal sanctions and may also limit the ability of the overseas
publicly listed company to contribute additional capital into its mainland China subsidiary and limit the mainland China subsidiary’s ability to distribute
dividends.
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Regulation on Product Quality
Products made in mainland China are subject to the PRC Product Quality Law, which was promulgated on February 22, 1993 and most recently
amended on December 29, 2018. According to the PRC Product Quality Law, a seller of a product should be responsible for repairing, replacing or
returning the product with any of the following defects, and should compensate for the damages incurred by consumers who bought such defective
product: (i) the product does not have the usability which such product should have and there are no prior indications about such situation; (ii) the actual
quality of such product fails to comply with the standards specified on such product or the package of such product; and (iii) the actual quality of such
product fails to meet the quality status specified by way of product specifications and samples. After the seller performs its obligation of repairing,
replacing and returning the defective product and/or compensating for the customers’ damages, such seller is entitled to seek reimbursement from the
manufacturer of such product, if it could be proved that the defect is caused by the manufacturer. According to the PRC Product Quality Law, a
manufacturer of a product should be responsible to compensate for the damages to any person caused by the defect of such product, unless the
manufacturer is able to prove that: (i) it did not circulate the product; (ii) the defect did not exist at the time when the product was circulated; or (iii)
scientific or technologic knowledge at the time when such product was circulated was not such that it allowed the defect to be discovered.
Regulations on Tort Liability
The National People’s Congress adopted the PRC Civil Code on May 28, 2020, which came into effect on January 1, 2021 and revoked the PRC
Tort Liability Law. The PRC Civil Code provides that internet users and internet service providers shall bear tortious liabilities in the event that they
infringe upon other persons’ rights and interests through the internet. It has further elaborated on “safe harbor” rule with respect to an internet service
provider from both the aspects of notice and counter notice, including (i) upon receiving notice from the right holder, promptly adopting necessary
protective measures such as deletion, screening or disconnection of hyperlinks and reefing right holder’s notice to disputed internet user; and (ii) upon
receiving counter-notice from the disputed internet user, referring such counter-notice to the claiming right holder and informing him/her to take other
corresponding measures such as filing complaint with competent authorities or suit with courts. The PRC Civil Code has also provided that where the
internet service provider knew or should have known the infringing acts of the internet user, it must be severally liable with such internet user. As for
product liability, the PRC Civil Code provides additional mitigation measures such as stop selling of defective products and stipulated that the seller and
manufacturer should also be liable for expanded damages caused by such defective products if no mitigation measures are provided or not sufficient. If a
recall of defective product is required, the seller and the manufacturer should be responsible to undertake fees paid by infringed users.
Regulations on Labor
The PRC Labor Contract Law, which became effective in January 2008 and last amended in December 2012, and its implementation rules, impose
more restrictions on employers and have been deemed to increase labor costs for employers, compared to the PRC Labor Law, which became effective
in January 1995. For example, pursuant to the Labor Contract Law, an employer is obliged to sign a labor contract with an unlimited term with an
employee if the employer continues to hire the employee after the expiration of two consecutive fixed-term labor contracts. The employer has to
compensate the employee upon the expiration of a fixed-term labor contract, unless the employee refuses to renew such contract on terms the same as or
more favorable to the employee than those contained in the expired contract. The employer also has to indemnify an employee if the employer
terminates a labor contract without a cause permitted by law. In addition, under the Regulations on Paid Annual Leave for Employees, which became
effective in January 2008, employees who have served more than one year for an employer are entitled to a paid vacation ranging from 5 to 15 days per
year, depending on their length of service. Employees who waive such vacation time at the request of employers must be compensated for three times
their regular salaries for each waived vacation day.
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In addition, according to the PRC Social Insurance Law and the Regulations on the Administration of Housing Provident Funds, employers in
mainland China must provide employees with welfare schemes covering pension insurance, unemployment insurance, maternity insurance, work-related
injury insurance, medical insurance and housing provident funds.
Regulations on Taxation
For a discussion of applicable tax regulations of mainland China, see “Item 5.A. Operating and Financial Review and Prospects—Operating
Results—Taxation.”
C. Organizational Structure
The following is a list of our principal subsidiaries and the variable interest entities as of the date of this annual report on Form 20-F:
Name
Baidu Holdings Limited
Baidu (Hong Kong) Limited
Baidu Online Network Technology (Beijing) Co., Ltd.
Baidu (China) Co., Ltd.
Baidu.com Times Technology (Beijing) Co., Ltd.
Dulian Network Technology (Hainan) Co., Ltd.
Beijing Baidu Netcom Science Technology Co., Ltd.
Beijing Perusal Technology Co., Ltd.
iQIYI, Inc.
Beijing QIYI Century Science & Technology Co., Ltd.
Beijing iQIYI Science & Technology Co., Ltd.
Beijing Duyou Information Technology Co., Ltd.
Place of Formation
Relationship
British Virgin Islands
Hong Kong
Mainland China
Mainland China
Mainland China
Mainland China
Mainland China
Mainland China
Cayman Islands
Mainland China
Mainland China
Mainland China
Wholly owned subsidiary
Wholly owned subsidiary
Wholly owned subsidiary
Wholly owned subsidiary
Wholly owned subsidiary
Wholly owned subsidiary
Variable interest entity
Variable interest entity
Majority-owned subsidiary
Majority-owned subsidiary
Variable interest entity
Wholly owned subsidiary
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The following diagram illustrates our corporate structure, including our principal subsidiaries and the variable interest entities as of the date of this
annual report on Form 20-F:
Notes:
(1)
(2)
(3)
(4)
Beijing Baidu Netcom Science Technology Co., Ltd. is 99.5% owned by Mr. Robin Yanhong Li, our chairman and chief executive officer, and 0.5% owned by Ms. Shanshan Cui, an
executive officer of ours. Please see “Item 6.E. Directors, Senior Management and Employees—Share Ownership” for details of Mr. Robin Yanhong Li’s beneficial ownership in our
company. Ms. Shanshan Cui’s beneficial ownership of our company is less than 1% of our total issued and outstanding shares.
Beijing Perusal Technology Co., Ltd. is 50% owned by Ms. Shanshan Cui and 50% owned by Mr. Zhixiang Liang. Both Ms. Shanshan Cui and Mr. Zhixiang Liang are our employees,
and their respective beneficial ownership in our company is less than 1% of our total issued and outstanding shares.
Beijing iQIYI Science & Technology Co., Ltd. is wholly-owned by Mr. Xiaohua Geng, senior vice president of iQIYI. Mr. Xiaohua Geng is not beneficially interested in any shares of
our company.
Baidu Holdings Limited indirectly controls Beijing Duyou Information Technology Co., Ltd through its wholly owned subsidiaries.
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Contractual Arrangements with the Variable Interest Entities and Other Consolidated Affiliated Entities and their Shareholders
The laws and regulations of mainland China restrict and impose conditions on foreign investment in, among other areas, internet content services,
value-added telecommunication-based services, internet map services, online audio and video services and mobile application distribution businesses.
Accordingly, we operate these businesses in mainland China through the variable interest entities. We have entered into a series of contractual
arrangements with the variable interest entities and the nominee shareholders of the variable interest entities. These contractual arrangements:
•
•
•
enable us to receive the economic benefits that could potentially be significant to the variable interest entities in consideration for the
services provided by our subsidiaries;
effectively assigned all of the voting rights underlying the nominee shareholders’ equity interest in the variable interest entities to us; and
enable us to hold an exclusive option to purchase all or part of the equity interests in the variable interest entities when and to the extent
permitted by the laws of mainland China.
These contractual agreements among our company/iQIYI and our subsidiaries, the variable interest entities and their respective shareholders
generally include proxy agreements or shareholder voting rights trust agreements, exclusive equity purchase and transfer option agreements or exclusive
purchase option agreements, loan agreements, operating agreements or business operation agreements, exclusive technology consulting and services
agreements, and equity pledge agreements, as the case may be. As for some of the variable interest entities, our subsidiaries have entered into additional
business cooperation agreements, power of attorney, license agreements and/or commitment letters (as the case may be) with these variable interest
entities and their respective nominee shareholders. We do not have any equity interests in the variable interest entities and these contractual agreements
are not equivalent to equity ownership in the business of the variable interest entities. Despite the lack of equity majority ownership, as a result of the
contractual arrangements, the shareholders of the variable interest entities effectively assigned all of their voting rights and economic interests
underlying their equity interest in the variable interest entities to the primary beneficiaries of these companies, which gives our company/iQIYI the
power to direct the activities that most significantly impact the variable interest entities’ economic performance. In addition, through the other exclusive
agreements, which consist of exclusive equity purchase and transfer option agreements/exclusive purchase option agreements or commitment letters,
operating agreements/business operation agreements, exclusive technology consulting and services agreements and license agreements, the primary
beneficiaries, by themselves or by their wholly-owned subsidiaries in mainland China, demonstrate their ability and intention to continue to exercise the
ability to absorb losses or receive economic benefits that could potentially be significant to the variable interest entities. The variable interest entities are
subject to operating risks, which determine the variability of our company’s interest in those entities. Based on these contractual arrangements, we
consolidate the variable interest entities as required by Accounting Standards Codification (ASC) Topic 810, Consolidation. The nominee shareholders
of Baidu Netcom, Beijing Perusal and Beijing iQIYI, the variable interest entities, are directors or members of senior management of our company/
iQIYI. We/iQIYI consider such people suitable to act as the nominee shareholders of these variable interest entities because of, among other
considerations, their contribution to our company/iQIYI, their competence and their length of service with and loyalty to our company/iQIYI. If the
variable interest entities or the nominee shareholders fail to perform their respective obligations under the contractual arrangements, we could be limited
in our ability to enforce the contractual arrangements that effectively assigned us the voting rights and/or economic interests in the variable interest
entities. Furthermore, if we are unable to maintain such effective assignment, we would not be able to continue to consolidate the financial results of the
variable interest entities in our financial statements. In 2021, 2022 and 2023, we derived 44%, 47% and 45% of our external revenues from the variable
interest entities, respectively. Based on the book value of Baidu Netcom and Beijing Perusal and taking into account major adjustments for intra-group
transactions, the revenue contribution of Baidu Netcom to us for each of the years ended December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023 was 14%, 15% and 13%,
respectively, and the revenue contribution of Beijing Perusal was all 0% for each of the same periods. For a
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detailed revenue contribution, see “Item 3.A. [Reserved]—Financial Information Related to the Variable interest Entities.” For a detailed description of
the regulatory environment that necessitates the adoption of our corporate structure, see “Item 4.B. Information on the Company—Business Overview—
Regulations.” For a detailed description of the risks associated with our corporate structure, see “Item 3.D. Key Information—Risk Factors—Risks
Related to Our Corporate Structure.”
The following is a summary of the material provisions of the contractual arrangements relating to Baidu Netcom, Beijing Perusal and Beijing
iQIYI.
Proxy Agreements/Shareholder Voting Rights Trust Agreements/Power of Attorney
Pursuant to the proxy agreement amongst our company and the nominee shareholders of Baidu Netcom, the nominee shareholders of Baidu
Netcom agree to entrust all the rights to exercise their voting power and any other rights as shareholders of Baidu Netcom to the person(s) designated by
our company. Each of the nominee shareholders of Baidu Netcom has executed an irrevocable power of attorney to appoint the person(s) designated by
our company as their attorney-in-fact to vote on their behalf on all matters requiring shareholder approval. Any action taken by such attorney-in-fact in
relation to the entrusted rights should be directed and approved by our company. The proxy agreement will be in effect for an unlimited term unless
terminated in writing by our company. Each of the powers of attorney will be in effect for as long as the relevant nominee shareholder of Baidu Netcom
holds any equity interests in Baidu Netcom.
Each of the proxy agreements or shareholder voting rights trust agreements amongst our company and the shareholders of Beijing Perusal and
between Beijing QIYI Century and the shareholder of Beijing iQIYI contains substantially the same terms as those described above. Each of the proxy
agreements or shareholder voting rights trust agreements will be in effect for an unlimited term unless terminated in writing by our company or other
subsidiaries. Each of the powers of attorney or shareholder voting rights trust agreements will be in effect for as long as the shareholder of Beijing
Perusal or Beijing iQIYI, holds any equity interests in Beijing Perusal or Beijing iQIYI, as the case may be.
Exclusive Equity Purchase and Transfer Option Agreement or Exclusive Purchase Option Agreements
Pursuant to the exclusive equity purchase and transfer option agreement by and among our company, Baidu Online, Baidu Netcom and the
nominee shareholders of Baidu Netcom, the nominee shareholders of Baidu Netcom have irrevocably granted our company or its designated person(s)
(including Baidu Online) an exclusive option to purchase, to the extent permitted under the laws of mainland China, all or part of the equity interests in
Baidu Netcom for the cost of the initial contributions to the registered capital or the minimum amount of consideration permitted by applicable laws of
mainland China. The nominee shareholders must remit to Baidu Online any amount that is paid by Baidu Online in connection with the purchased
equity interest as requested by our company or its designated person(s) (including Baidu Online) to the extent permitted by the applicable laws. Our
company or its designated person(s) have sole discretion to decide when to exercise the option, whether in part or in full amount. Any and all dividends
and other capital distributions from Baidu Netcom to the nominee shareholders must be repaid to Baidu, Inc. in full amount. Our company or its
designated person(s) (including Baidu Online) also have the exclusive right to cause the nominee shareholders of Baidu Netcom to transfer their equity
interest in Baidu Netcom to our company or any designated third party. Our company will provide unlimited financial support to Baidu Netcom, if
Baidu Netcom becomes in need of any form of reasonable financial support in the normal operation of business. If Baidu Netcom were to incur any loss
and as a result cannot repay any loans from our company (through Baidu Online), our company will unconditionally forgive any such loans to Baidu
Netcom upon provision by Baidu Netcom of sufficient proof for its loss and incapacity to repay. In addition, the shareholders of Baidu Netcom must
appoint the candidates recommended by Baidu Online as their representatives on Baidu Netcom’s board of directors. The agreement will terminate upon
the transfer by the nominee shareholders of Baidu Netcom of all their equity interests in Baidu Netcom to our company or its designated person(s) or
upon expiration of the term of business of our company or Baidu Netcom.
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Each of the exclusive equity purchase and transfer option agreements/exclusive purchase option agreements amongst our company, Baidu Online,
Beijing Perusal and its shareholders and iQIYI, Beijing QIYI Century, Beijing iQIYI and its shareholders contains substantially the same terms as those
described above, except that the initial term of the amended and restated exclusive purchase option agreement amongst iQIYI, Beijing QIYI Century,
Beijing iQIYI and its shareholder is ten years, which has been extended to November 22, 2032, and can be further renewed at iQIYI’s discretion.
Exclusive Technology Consulting and Services Agreement
Pursuant to the exclusive technology consulting and services agreement between Baidu Online and Baidu Netcom, Baidu Online has the exclusive
right to provide Baidu Netcom technology consulting and services related to, among other things, the maintenance of servers, software development,
design of advertisements, and e-commerce technical services. Baidu Online owns the intellectual property rights resulting from the performance of this
agreement. Baidu Netcom agrees to pay service fees to Baidu Online and Baidu Online has the right to adjust the service fees at its sole discretion
without the consent of Baidu Netcom. The agreement will be in effect for an unlimited term, until the term of business of one party expires and
extension is denied by the approval authorities.
Each of the exclusive technology consulting and services agreements between Baidu Online and Beijing Perusal and Beijing QIYI Century and
Beijing iQIYI contains substantially the same terms as those described above, except that the terms regarding the determinant of the service fees may
differ and that the initial term of the exclusive technology consulting and services agreement between Beijing QIYI Century and Beijing iQIYI dated
November 23, 2011 is ten years, and has been extended to November 23, 2031, and can be further renewed at the discretion of Beijing QIYI Century.
In 2021, 2022 and 2023, Baidu Netcom and Beijing Perusal did not pay any service fees to Baidu Online.
Operating Agreement or Business Operation Agreement
Pursuant to the operating agreement amongst Baidu Online, Baidu Netcom and the nominee shareholders of Baidu Netcom, Baidu Online
provides guidance and instructions on Baidu Netcom’s daily operations, financial affairs and employment and dismissal of staff. In addition, Baidu
Online agrees to guarantee Baidu Netcom’s performance under any agreements or arrangements relating to Baidu Netcom’s business arrangements with
any third party. In return, Baidu Netcom agrees that without the prior consent of Baidu Online, Baidu Netcom will not engage in any transactions that
could materially affect the assets, liabilities, rights or operations of Baidu Netcom, including, without limitation, incurrence or assumption of any
indebtedness, sale or purchase of any assets or rights, incurrence of any encumbrance on any of its assets or intellectual property rights in favor of a third
party or transfer of any agreements relating to its business operation to any third party. The agreement will be in effect for an unlimited term, until the
term of business of one party expires and extension is denied by the approval authorities.
The operating agreement amongst Baidu Online, Beijing Perusal and its shareholders contains substantially the same terms as those described
above.
Pursuant to the amended and restated business operation agreement dated January 30, 2013 amongst Beijing QIYI Century, Beijing iQIYI and its
shareholder, Beijing QIYI Century provides guidance and instructions on Beijing iQIYI’s daily operations and financial affairs. In addition, Beijing
QIYI Century agrees to guarantee Beijing iQIYI’s performance under any agreements or arrangements relating to Beijing iQIYI’s business arrangements
with any third party. The agreement can only be unilaterally revoked by Beijing QIYI Century. The initial term of the agreement is ten years, which has
been extended for another ten years to January 30, 2033, and can be further extended at Beijing QIYI Century’s discretion.
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Loan Agreements
Pursuant to loan agreements amongst Baidu Online and the nominee shareholders of Baidu Netcom, Baidu Online provided loans with an
aggregate amount of RMB13.4 billion to the nominee shareholders of Baidu Netcom solely for the latter to fund the capitalization of Baidu Netcom. The
loans can be repaid only with the proceeds from the sale of the nominee shareholders’ equity interest in Baidu Netcom to Baidu Online or its designated
person(s). The term of the loan agreements with the two nominee shareholders of Baidu Netcom will expire on July 9, 2029 and August 19, 2029,
respectively, and can be extended with the written consent of both parties before its expiration.
Pursuant to loan agreements amongst the shareholders of Beijing Perusal and Baidu Online, the amount of loans extended to the respective
shareholders of Beijing Perusal is RMB3.2 billion. The term of the loan agreements will expire on March 30, 2028 and October 29, 2029, respectively,
and can be extended with the written consent of both parties before its expiration. Each of the loan agreements amongst Baidu Online and the respective
shareholders of Beijing Perusal, and Beijing QIYI Century and the shareholders of Beijing iQIYI, contains substantially the same terms as those
described above, except that the amount of the loans and that the contract expiration date varies. The term of the loan agreement amongst Beijing QIYI
Century and the shareholder of Beijing iQIYI will expire on June 23, 2031 and can be further extended upon the written notification from Beijing QIYI
Century.
Equity Pledge Agreement
Pursuant to the equity pledge agreement amongst Baidu Online and the nominee shareholders of Baidu Netcom, the nominee shareholders of
Baidu Netcom must pledge all of their equity interests in Baidu Netcom to Baidu Online to guarantee their obligations under the loan agreements and
Baidu Netcom’s performance of its obligations under the exclusive technology consulting and service agreement. If Baidu Netcom or the nominee
shareholders breach their respective contractual obligations, Baidu Online, as the pledgee, will be entitled to certain rights, including the right to sell the
pledged equity interests. The nominee shareholders of Baidu Netcom agree not to dispose of the pledged equity interests or take any actions that would
prejudice Baidu Online’s interest. The equity pledge agreement will terminate on the date when Baidu Netcom and its shareholders have completed all
their respective obligations under the exclusive technology consulting and service agreement and the loan agreements, but such equity pledge will expire
two years after expiration of the term of the obligations of Baidu Netcom and its shareholders under the exclusive technology consulting and service
agreement and the loan agreements if they fail to fulfill such obligations thereunder.
Each of the equity pledge agreements amongst Baidu Online and the shareholders of Beijing Perusal and Beijing QIYI Century and the
shareholder of Beijing iQIYI contains substantially the same terms, including its term to expiration, as those described above.
Business Cooperation Agreement
Pursuant to the business cooperation agreement between Beijing QIYI Century and Beijing iQIYI effective November 23, 2011, Beijing iQIYI
agrees to provide Beijing QIYI Century with services, including internet information services, online advertising and other services reasonably
necessary within the scope of Beijing QIYI Century’s business. Beijing iQIYI agrees to use technology services provided by Beijing QIYI Century on
its platform, including, but not limited to, P2P download and video on-demand systems. Beijing QIYI Century agrees to pay specified service fees to
Beijing iQIYI as consideration for the internet information services and other services provided by Beijing iQIYI. Beijing iQIYI has the right to waive
the service fees at its discretion. The initial term of this agreement is ten years, which has been extended for another ten years to November 23, 2031,
and can be further renewed at Beijing QIYI Century’s discretion.
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License Agreements
Baidu Online and Baidu Netcom have entered into a software license agreement and a web layout copyright license agreement. Pursuant to these
license agreements, Baidu Online has granted to Baidu Netcom the right to use, including, but not limited to, a software license and a web layout
copyright license. Baidu Netcom may only use the licenses in its own business operations. Baidu Online has the right to adjust the service fees at its sole
discretion. The software license agreement and web layout copyright license agreement have been renewed since their original expiration and are in
effect for an unlimited term, until the term of business of one party expires and extension is denied by the approval authorities.
The web layout copyright license agreements that Baidu Online has entered into with Beijing Perusal contain substantially the same terms as those
between Baidu Online and Baidu Netcom described above. The agreement is in effect for an unlimited term, until the term of business of one party
expires and extension is denied by the approval authorities.
Pursuant to the trademark license agreement and the software usage license agreement between Beijing QIYI Century and Beijing iQIYI effective
November 23, 2011, Beijing QIYI Century granted a non-exclusive and non-transferable license, without sublicensing rights, to Beijing iQIYI to use its
trademarks and software. Beijing iQIYI may only use the licenses in its own business operations. Beijing QIYI Century has the right to adjust the
service fees at its sole discretion. The initial term of the two agreements is five years. The software usage license agreement may be extended upon the
written consent of Beijing QIYI Century, and has been extended to December 1, 2031, and is further renewable at the discretion of Beijing QIYI
Century. The trademark license agreement is automatically extended for successive one-year periods after its expiration unless Beijing QIYI Century
early terminates the agreement in accordance with the provisions of the agreement.
Commitment Letters
Pursuant to the commitment letter dated January 30, 2013, under the condition that Beijing iQIYI remains as a variable interest entity of iQIYI
under United States generally accepted accounting principles and the relevant contractual arrangements remain in effect, iQIYI commits to provide
unlimited financial support to Beijing iQIYI, if Beijing iQIYI requires any form of reasonable financial support for its normal business operations. If
Beijing iQIYI incurs any losses and as a result cannot repay its loans from iQIYI and Beijing QIYI Century, one of iQIYI’s subsidiaries, iQIYI and
Beijing QIYI Century would unconditionally forgive their loans to Beijing iQIYI, if Beijing iQIYI provides sufficient proof for its loss and incapacity to
repay.
The commitment letters executed by other iQIYI VIEs contain terms similar to the terms described above.
Through design of the aforementioned agreements, the nominee shareholders of these variable interest entities have effectively assigned their full
voting rights to our company/iQIYI, which gives our company/iQIYI the power to direct the activities that most significantly impact the variable interest
entities’ economic performance. Our company/iQIYI obtains the ability to approve decisions made by the variable interest entities and the ability to
acquire the equity interests in the variable interest entities when permitted by the laws of mainland China. Our company/iQIYI is obligated to absorb
losses of the variable interest entities that could potentially be significant to the variable interest entities through providing unlimited financial support to
the variable interest entities or is entitled to receive economic benefits from the variable interest entities that could potentially be significant to the
variable interest entities through the exclusive technology consulting and service fees. As a result of these contractual arrangements, our company/iQIYI
is determined to be the primary beneficiary of these variable interest entities and we consolidate these variable interest entities through our
company/iQIYI as required by Accounting Standards Codification Topic 810, Consolidation.
We have also entered into contractual arrangements with several other variable interest entities and their respective nominee shareholders,
including iQIYI’s other variable interest entities and their respective nominee
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shareholders, through some of our subsidiaries other than Baidu Online and Beijing QIYI Century, which result in our company/iQIYI or relevant
subsidiaries, as the case may be, being the primary beneficiaries of the relevant variable interest entities. As a result of these contractual arrangements,
we consolidate these other variable interest entities through the subsidiaries as required by Accounting Standards Codification Topic 810, Consolidation.
In addition, we have entered into similar contractual arrangements with consolidated affiliated entities and their shareholders in certain other
jurisdictions.
D.
Property, Plant and Equipment
Our corporate headquarters, Baidu Campus, is located in Shangdi, Haidian district of Beijing. We own the office building of Baidu Campus and a
nearby office building, Baidu Science Park, which is located in Malianwa, Haidian district of Beijing. Besides Beijing, we own and occupy office
buildings in Shanghai and Shenzhen.
We also lease offices in Beijing, many other cities in mainland China and places outside of mainland China, including in the United States,
Canada, Hong Kong, Malaysia, Japan, Thailand and Singapore.
Our servers are hosted at the internet data centers of major telecom operators, including China Telecom, China Unicom and China Mobile, in over
ten selected cities across China. Our content delivery network covers most of the major cities in mainland China.
In 2022, we completed the second-phase construction of our cloud computing centers in Yangquan, Dingxing and Xushui, which all serve as our
internet data centers in China.
Item 4A.
Unresolved Staff Comments
None.
Item 5.
Operating and Financial Review and Prospects
The following discussion of our financial condition and results of operations is based upon, and should be read in conjunction with, our audited
consolidated financial statements and the related notes included in this annual report on Form 20-F. This report contains forward-looking statements. See
“Forward-Looking Information.” In evaluating our business, you should carefully consider the information provided under the caption “Item 3.D. Key
Information—Risk Factors” in this annual report on Form 20-F. We caution you that our businesses and financial performance are subject to substantial
risks and uncertainties.
A. Operating Results
Overview
We are a leading AI company with a strong internet foundation. We have been consistently investing in AI since 2010 to solidify our technology
advancement, improve search capabilities and boost overall monetization. The breadth and depth of our AI capabilities provide the differentiating
foundational technologies that power all of our businesses.
Our total revenues increased by 9% from RMB123.7 billion in 2022 to RMB134.6 billion (US$19.0 billion) in 2023, compared to a 1% decrease
from RMB124.5 billion in 2021 to RMB123.7 billion in 2022. Our operating profit increased by 37% from RMB15.9 billion in 2022 to
RMB21.9 billion (US$3.1 billion) in 2023, compared to a 51% increase from RMB10.5 billion in 2021 to RMB15.9 billion in 2022. Net income
attributable to Baidu, Inc. increased by 169% from RMB7.6 billion in 2022 to RMB20.3 billion (US$2.9 billion) in 2023, compared to a 26% decrease
from RMB10.2 billion in 2021 to RMB7.6 billion in 2022. Benefiting from a recovering macroeconomic environment and our continuous improvements
of operational efficiency, we resumed revenue growth in 2023 with a significant increase in operating profit.
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Revenues
Baidu Core. Baidu Core revenues primarily comprise of (i) P4P online marketing services that include search and feed online marketing services;
(ii) other online marketing services, including display advertisement and based on performance criteria other than CPC; (iii) cloud services; (iv) smart
devices and services; (v) non-marketing consumer-facing services such as membership; and (vi) intelligent driving. We expect Baidu Core to continue to
generate a majority of our revenues.
A majority of Baidu Core revenues are derived from online marketing services. Our P4P platform is an online marketplace that introduces internet
search users to customers, who pay us a fee based on click-throughs for priority placement of their links in the search results. We also provide feed
online marketing services to our customers. Our feed platform helps customers target relevant feed users, and customers pay us based on a CPC basis or
advertisement displays of their products. In addition, we provide our customers with other performance-based and display-based online marketing
services.
Our cloud services include enterprise and public sector cloud, and personal cloud. Our enterprise and public sector cloud offers a full suite of
cloud services and solutions, including IaaS, PaaS, and SaaS, and is differentiated by our AI capabilities. Enterprises and the public sector have been the
growth engine for our cloud revenue. For the personal cloud service, we offer Baidu Drive, which allows users to store and retrieve photos, videos, and
other files on AI Cloud, along with other capabilities, such as group share and data transfer. Personal cloud service contributed a small portion of total
cloud revenues.
Apart from the online marketing services and cloud services, Baidu Core also generates revenue by providing products and services ranging from
smart devices and services, non-marketing consumer-facing services and intelligent driving.
iQIYI. iQIYI is a leading provider of online entertainment video services in mainland China. iQIYI remains focused on high-quality content and
user experience. iQIYI provides its users with a variety of products and services encompassing online video, online games, online literature, animations
and others. iQIYI derives a majority of its revenues from membership services and online marketing services.
iQIYI offers membership packages to provide its members with (i) access to streaming of a library of premium content, (ii) certain commercial
skipping and other viewing privileges, and (iii) merchandise selection and privilege. Most of iQIYI’s online marketing services are in the form of brand
advertising and performance-based advertising.
Operating Costs and Expenses
Our operating costs and expenses consist of cost of revenues, selling, general and administrative expenses, and research and development
expenses. Share-based compensation expenses are allocated among these three categories, based on the nature of the work of the employees who have
received share-based compensation.
Cost of Revenues
Our cost of revenues primarily consist of content costs, traffic acquisition costs, bandwidth costs, depreciation, cost of goods sold, salaries and
benefits for operation and service personnel and other operational cost.
Selling, General and Administrative Expenses
Our selling, general and administrative expenses primarily consist of promotional and marketing expenses, salaries and benefits for our sales,
marketing, general and administrative personnel, and legal, accounting and other professional services fees.
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Research and Development Expenses
Research and development expenses primarily consist of salaries and benefits for research and development personnel, server depreciation
expenses and server custody fees. We expense research and development costs as they are incurred, except for capitalized software development costs
that fulfill the capitalization criteria.
Taxation
Cayman Islands
Under the current laws of the Cayman Islands, we are not subject to tax on income or capital gains. Additionally, no Cayman Islands withholding
tax will be imposed on dividend payments we make.
Hong Kong
Subsidiaries in Hong Kong are subject to Hong Kong profits tax rate of 16.5% and foreign-derived income is exempted from income tax. There is
no withholding tax upon payment of dividends by the subsidiaries incorporated in Hong Kong to its shareholders.
Mainland China Enterprise Income Tax
Mainland China’s statutory enterprise income tax rate is 25%. An enterprise may benefit from a preferential tax rate of 15% under the EIT Law if
it qualifies as a “High and New Technology Enterprise” strongly supported by the state. Pursuant to the Administrative Measures on the Recognition of
High and New Technology Enterprises, as amended in January 2016, the provincial counterparts of the Ministry of Science and Technology, the
Ministry of Finance and the State Administration of Taxation make a joint determination on whether an enterprise is qualified as a “High and New
Technology Enterprise” under the EIT Law. In making such determination, these government agencies consider, among other factors, ownership of core
technology, whether the key technology supporting the core products or services falls within the scope of high and new technology strongly supported
by the state as specified in the administrative measures, the ratios of research and development personnel to total personnel, the ratio of research and
development expenditures to annual sales revenues, the ratio of revenues attributed to high and new technology products or services to total revenues,
and other measures set forth in the guidance. A “High and New Technology Enterprise” certificate is effective for a period of three years. Further,
preferential enterprise income tax rates are available for qualified Software Enterprises whereby entities are entitled to full exemption from enterprise
income tax for two years beginning from their first profitable calendar year and a 50% reduction for the subsequent three calendar years.
If our mainland China subsidiaries or the variable interest entities that have enjoyed preferential tax treatment no longer qualify for the preferential
treatment, we will consider available options under applicable law that would enable us to qualify for alternative preferential tax treatment. To the extent
we are unable to offset the impact of the expiration of existing preferential tax treatment with new tax exemptions, tax incentives or other tax benefits,
the expiration of existing preferential tax treatment may cause our effective tax rate to increase. The amount of income tax payable by our mainland
China subsidiaries and the variable interest entities in the future will depend on various factors, including, among other things, the results of operations
and taxable income of, and the statutory tax rate applicable to, each of the entities. Our effective tax rate depends partially on the extent of the relative
contribution of each of our subsidiaries and the variable interest entities to our consolidated taxable income.
Withholding Tax
Under the EIT Law and its implementation rules, dividends, interests, rent or royalties payable by a foreign-invested enterprise, such as our
mainland China subsidiaries, to any of its non-resident enterprise investors, and proceeds from any such non-resident enterprise investor’s disposition of
assets (after deducting the net value of
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such assets) are subject to enterprise income tax at the rate of 10%, namely withholding tax, unless the non-resident enterprise investor’s jurisdiction of
incorporation has a tax treaty or arrangement with mainland China that provides for a reduced withholding tax rate or an exemption from withholding
tax. The Notice on Several Preferential Policies regarding Enterprise Income Tax Law jointly promulgated by the Ministry of Finance and State
Administration of Taxation in February 2008, clarifies that undistributed profits earned by foreign-invested enterprises prior to January 1, 2008 will be
exempted from any withholding tax.
The British Virgin Islands, where Baidu Holdings Limited, the sole shareholder of certain of our mainland subsidiaries such as Baidu Online, was
incorporated, does not have such a tax treaty with mainland China.
Hong Kong, where Baidu (Hong Kong) Limited, our wholly owned subsidiary and the sole shareholder of certain of our mainland China
subsidiaries such as Baidu Times and Baidu China, was incorporated, has a tax arrangement with mainland China that provides for a lower withholding
tax rate of 5% on dividends subject to certain conditions and requirements, such as the requirement that the Hong Kong resident enterprise own at least
25% of the mainland China enterprise distributing the dividend at all times within the 12-month period immediately preceding the distribution of
dividends and be a “beneficial owner” of the dividends. However, pursuant to Circular on Issues Concerning Implementing Dividend Clauses of Tax
Treaties, or SAT Circular 81, issued by the State Administration of Taxation in February 2009, if the PRC tax authorities determine, in their discretion,
that a company benefits from the reduced withholding tax rate on dividends due to a structure or arrangement designed for the primary purpose of
obtaining favorable tax treatment, the PRC tax authorities may adjust the preferential tax treatment. Moreover, pursuant to Circular on Several Issues
regarding the “Beneficial Owner” in Tax Treaties, or SAT Circular 9, issued by the State Administration of Taxation in February 2018, which became
effective from April 1, 2018 and superseded the SAT Circular 601 issued by the State Administration of Taxation in October 2009, a resident of a
contracting state will not qualify for the benefits under the tax treaties or arrangements, if it is not the “beneficial owner” of the dividend, interest and
royalty income. According to SAT Circular 9, a “beneficial owner” is required to have ownership and the right to dispose of the income or the rights and
properties giving rise to the income, and generally engage in substantive business activities. An agent or conduit company will not be regarded as a
“beneficial owner” and, therefore, will not qualify for treaty benefits. A conduit company normally refers to a company that is set up primarily for the
purpose of evading or reducing taxes or transferring or accumulating profits. In addition, pursuant to Bulletin on Administrative Measures on Treaties
Benefit for Non-resident Taxpayers, or SAT Circular 35, issued by the State Administration of Taxation in October 2019, non-resident enterprises are
not required to obtain pre-approval from the tax authority in order to enjoy the reduced withholding tax rate. Instead, non-resident enterprises may, if
they determine by self-assessment that the prescribed criteria to enjoy the tax treaty benefits are met, directly apply for the reduced withholding tax rate,
and file necessary forms and supporting documents when performing tax filings, which will be subject to post-filing examinations by the tax authorities.
In 2020, certain of our mainland China subsidiaries have declared and distributed profits earned to Baidu (Hong Kong) Limited, the dividend
payments are subject to withholding tax. We have made tax provisions based on the corresponding tax rate. If our mainland China subsidiaries further
declare and distribute profits earned after January 1, 2008 to us in the future, the dividend payments will be subject to withholding tax, which will
increase our tax liability and reduce the amount of cash available to our company. For the potential distributable profits to be distributed to our qualified
Hong Kong incorporated subsidiary, the deferred tax liabilities are accrued at a 5% withholding tax rate. For more information on related risks, please
see “Item 3.D. Key Information—Risk Factors—Risks Related to Doing Business in China—If our mainland China subsidiaries declare and distribute
dividends to their respective offshore parent companies, we will be required to pay more taxes, which could have a material and adverse effect on our
result of operations.”
Tax Residence
Under the EIT Law and its implementation rules, an enterprise established outside of mainland China with “de facto management body” within
mainland China is considered a resident enterprise and will be subject to
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enterprise income tax at the rate of 25% on its worldwide income. The term “de facto management body” refers to “the establishment that exercises
substantial and overall management and control over the production, business, personnel, accounts and properties of an enterprise.” Pursuant to SAT
Circular 82, issued by the State Administration of Taxation in April 2009, an overseas registered enterprise controlled by a mainland China company or
a mainland China company group will be classified as a “resident enterprise” with its “de facto management body” located within mainland China if the
following requirements are satisfied: (i) the senior management and core management departments in charge of its daily operations are mainly located in
mainland China; (ii) its financial and human resources decisions are subject to determination or approval by persons or bodies located in mainland
China; (iii) its major assets, accounting books, company seals, and minutes and files of its board and shareholders’ meetings are located or kept in
mainland China; and (iv) no less than half of the enterprise’s directors or senior management with voting rights reside in mainland China. The State
Administration of Taxation issued additional rules to provide more guidance on the implementation of SAT Circular 82 in July 2011, and issued an
amendment to SAT Circular 82 delegating the authority to its provincial branches to determine whether a Chinese-controlled overseas-incorporated
enterprise should be considered a mainland China resident enterprise, in January 2014. Although the SAT Circular 82, the additional guidance and its
amendment only apply to overseas registered enterprises controlled by mainland China enterprises and not those controlled by mainland China
individuals or foreigners, the determining criteria set forth in the circular may reflect the State Administration of Taxation’s general position on how the
“de facto management body” test should be applied in determining the tax resident status of offshore enterprises, regardless of whether they are
controlled by mainland China enterprises, individuals or foreigners.
If our offshore entities are deemed mainland China resident enterprises, these entities may be subject to enterprise income tax at the rate of 25%
on their global incomes, except that the dividends distributed by our mainland China subsidiaries may be exempt from enterprise income tax to the
extent such dividends are deemed “dividends among qualified resident enterprises.” For more information on related risks, please see “Item 3.D. Key
Information—Risk Factors—Risks Related to Doing Business in China—We may be deemed a mainland China resident enterprise under the EIT Law,
which could subject us to mainland China’s taxation on our global income, and which may have a material and adverse effect on our results of
operations.”
Should our offshore entities be deemed as mainland China resident enterprises, such changes could significantly increase our tax burden and
materially and adversely affect our cash flow and profitability.
Mainland China Urban Maintenance and Construction Tax and Education Surcharge
Any entity, foreign-invested or purely domestic, or individual that is subject to consumption tax and value-added tax is also required to pay
mainland China urban maintenance and construction tax. The rates of urban maintenance and construction tax are 7%, 5% or 1% of the amount of
consumption tax and value-added tax actually paid depending on where the taxpayer is located. All entities and individuals who pay consumption tax
and value-added tax are also required to pay education surcharges at a rate of 3%, and local education surcharges at a rate of 2%, of the amount of value-
added tax and consumption tax actually paid.
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Results of Operations
The following table sets forth a summary of our consolidated results of operations for the periods indicated. The period-to-period comparisons of
results of operations should not be relied upon as indicative of future performance.
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income Data
Revenues:
Online marketing services
Others
Total revenues
Operating costs and expenses(1):
Cost of revenues
Selling, general and administrative
Research and development
Total operating costs and expenses
Operating profit
Total other income (loss), net
Income before income taxes
Income taxes
Net income
Less: Net (loss) income attributable to non-controlling interests
Net income attributable to Baidu, Inc.
Year ended December 31,
2021
RMB
2022
RMB
2023
RMB US$
(in millions)
80,695 74,711 81,203 11,437
43,798 48,964 53,395 7,521
124,493 123,675 134,598 18,958
64,314 63,935 65,031 9,159
24,723 20,514 23,519 3,314
24,938 23,315 24,192 3,407
113,975 107,764 112,742 15,880
10,518 15,911 21,856 3,078
472
10,778 10,112 25,198 3,550
2,578
514
7,534 21,549 3,036
175
7,559 20,315 2,861
3,187
7,591
(2,635)
10,226
(5,799)
3,342
1,234
3,649
260
(25)
(1) Share-based compensation expenses are allocated in operating costs and expenses as follows:
Cost of revenues
Selling, general and administrative
Research and development
Total
Year ended December 31,
2021
RMB
2022
RMB
2023
RMB US$
(in millions)
399
1,840
4,817
7,056
409
1,750
4,629
6,788
590
1,678
4,077
6,345
83
236
575
894
Year Ended December 31, 2023 Compared to Year Ended December 31, 2022
Consolidated revenues. Our total revenues in 2023 were RMB134.6 billion (US$19.0 billion), increasing by 9% from 2022.
Our online marketing revenues for Baidu Core in 2023 were RMB75.1 billion (US$10.6 billion), increasing by 8% from 2022, primarily due to an
increase of service demand from our customers in certain industries, including travelling, e-commerce, healthcare, and entertainment and media, which
in turn benefited from the recovery of general economy and the macroeconomic environment for these industries.
Our online marketing revenues for iQIYI in 2023 were RMB6.2 billion (US$877 million), increasing by 17% from 2022, as a result of the growth
of performance-based advertising business and, to a lesser extent, the growth in the brand advertising business.
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Other revenues in 2023 were RMB53.4 billion (US$7.5 billion), increasing by 9% from 2022, mainly driven by cloud and other AI-powered
businesses. For a detailed description, see “—Segment Revenues.”
Consolidated operating costs and expenses. Our total operating costs and expenses increased by RMB4.9 billion, or 5%, from RMB107.8 billion
in 2022 to RMB112.7 billion (US$15.9 billion) in 2023.
Cost of Revenues. Our cost of revenues increased by RMB1.1 billion, or 2%, from RMB63.9 billion in 2022 to RMB65.0 billion (US$9.2 billion)
in 2023, primarily due to the following factors:
•
•
An increase of RMB1.1 billion in traffic acquisition costs, which reflected increasing union revenues.
Total other cost of revenues remained essentially unchanged compared to 2022. The growth of cost of revenues was slower than the growth
of revenues due to our continuous improvement of operational efficiency, including optimizing gross margin of AI Cloud business, SLG,
iQIYI, etc.
Selling, General and Administrative Expenses. Our selling, general and administrative expenses increased by RMB3.0 billion, or 15%, from
RMB20.5 billion in 2022 to RMB23.5 billion (US$3.3 billion) in 2023, primarily due to an increase in channel spending and promotional marketing
expenses.
Research and Development Expenses. Our research and development expenses increased by RMB877 million, or 4%, from RMB23.3 billion in
2022 to RMB24.2 billion (US$3.4 billion) in 2023, primarily due to an increase in server depreciation expenses and server custody fees which support
Gen-AI research and development inputs.
Operating profit. As a result of the foregoing, we generated an operating profit of RMB21.9 billion (US$3.1 billion) in 2023, a 37% increase from
RMB15.9 billion in 2022.
Total other income (loss), net. Our total other income, net was RMB3.3 billion (US$472 million), compared to total other loss, net of
RMB5.8 billion in 2022, mainly due to a fair value gain of RMB198 million (US$28 million) from long-term investments in 2023, compared to a fair
value loss of RMB3.9 billion in 2022, as well as a decrease of RMB2.2 billion in impairment of long-term investments.
Income taxes. Our income tax expense was RMB3.6 billion (US$514 million) in 2023, representing a 42% increase from RMB2.6 billion in 2022,
primarily due to an increase in profit before tax.
Net income attributable to Baidu, Inc. As a result of the foregoing, net income attributable to Baidu, Inc. increased from RMB7.6 billion in 2022
to RMB20.3 billion (US$2.9 billion) in 2023.
Year Ended December 31, 2022 Compared to Year Ended December 31, 2021
Consolidated revenues. Our total revenues in 2022 were RMB123.7 billion, decreasing by 1% from 2021.
Our online marketing revenues for Baidu Core in 2022 were RMB69.5 billion, decreasing by 6% from 2021 primarily due to the resurgence of
COVID-19 in certain cities in China.
Our online marketing revenues for iQIYI in 2022 were RMB5.3 billion, decreasing by 25% from 2021, as a result of the challenging
macroeconomic environment, pandemic resurgence, and iQIYI’s strategy leading to a fewer number of variety shows launched.
Other revenues in 2022 were RMB49.0 billion, increasing by 12% from 2021, mainly driven by cloud and other AI-powered businesses. For a
detailed description, see “—Segment Revenues.”
Consolidated operating costs and expenses. Our total operating costs and expenses decreased by RMB6.2 billion, or 5%, from RMB114.0 billion
in 2021 to RMB107.8 billion in 2022.
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Cost of Revenues. Our cost of revenues decreased by RMB379 million from RMB64.3 billion in 2021 to RMB63.9 billion in 2022, primarily due
to the following factors:
•
•
•
•
A decrease of RMB4.1 billion in content costs, which related to less recorded expense of produced content and licensed copyrights.
An increase of RMB1.1 billion in traffic acquisition costs, as a result of the increase in traffic and average unit price.
An increase of RMB1.1 billion in bandwidth costs and depreciation costs, which related to development of AI cloud business.
An increase of RMB1.5 billion in other operational cost, which mainly included an increase of cost of goods sold and other costs related to
new AI business of RMB514 million, an increase of RMB406 million in sales tax and surcharges and an increase of RMB365 million in
salaries and benefits and staff-related expense.
Selling, General and Administrative Expenses. Our selling, general and administrative expenses decreased by RMB4.2 billion from
RMB24.7 billion in 2021 to RMB20.5 billion in 2022, primarily due to a decrease in channel spending, promotional marketing and personnel-related
expenses.
Research and Development Expenses. Our research and development expenses decreased by RMB1.6 billion from RMB24.9 billion in 2021 to
RMB23.3 billion in 2022, primarily due to a decrease in personnel related expenses.
Operating profit. As a result of the foregoing, we generated an operating profit of RMB15.9 billion in 2022, a 51% increase from
RMB10.5 billion in 2021.
Total other loss, net. Our total other loss, net was RMB5.8 billion in 2022, which mainly included fair value losses of RMB3.9 billion and
impairment losses of RMB3.0 billion from long-term investments. Our total other income, net was RMB260 million in 2021, which included fair value
gains of RMB3.1 billion and impairment losses of RMB4.3 billion from long-term investments.
Income taxes. Our income tax expense was RMB2.6 billion in 2022, representing a 19% decrease from RMB3.2 billion in 2021, primarily due to
deferred tax benefit recognized on fair value loss of long-term investments in 2022 whereas deferred tax expense recognized on fair value gain of long-
term investments in 2021.
Net income attributable to Baidu, Inc. As a result of the foregoing, net income attributable to Baidu, Inc. decreased from RMB10.2 billion in
2021 to RMB7.6 billion in 2022.
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Segment Revenues
The following table sets forth our revenues by segment and the year-over-year change rate for the periods indicated, with each segment revenues
including inter-segment revenues:
Baidu Core
Online marketing services
Cloud services
Others
Subtotal
iQIYI
Online advertising services
Membership services
Content distribution
Others
Subtotal
Intersegment eliminations
Total revenue
Baidu Core
2023 compared to 2022
2021
RMB
Year ended December 31,
2022
2023
RMB
YoY%
RMB
US$
YoY%
(In millions, except percentages)
73,919
15,070
6,174
95,163
69,522
17,721
8,188
95,431
(6)
18
33
0
75,112
18,718
9,635
103,465
10,579
2,636
1,358
14,573
7,067
16,714
3,007
3,766
30,554
(1,224)
124,493
5,332
17,711
2,562
3,393
28,998
(754)
123,675
(25)
6
(15)
(10)
(5)
(38)
(1)
6,224
20,314
2,459
2,876
31,873
(740)
134,598
877
2,861
346
405
4,489
(104)
18,958
8
6
18
8
17
15
(4)
(15)
10
(2)
9
Baidu Core revenue was RMB103.5 billion (US$14.6 billion) in 2023, increasing by 8% compared to RMB95.4 billion in 2022.
Online marketing revenues of Baidu Core in 2023 were RMB75.1 billion (US$10.6 billion) in 2023, increasing by RMB5.6 billion, or 8%,
compared to RMB69.5 billion in 2022, primarily due to an increase of service demand from our customers in certain industries, including travelling,
e-commerce, healthcare, and entertainment and media, which in turn benefited from the recovery of general economy and macroeconomic environment
in these industries. We leverage our AI technology, user traffic, product design and various marketing to enhance users’ reliance on and customers’
stickiness on our platforms and services.
The number of our active online marketing customers increased from approximately 520,000 in 2022 to approximately 532,000 in 2023, and the
average revenue per customer increased from approximately RMB134,000 in 2022 to approximately RMB141,000 (US$19,000) in 2023. The increase
was primarily due to the recovery of general economy and macroeconomic environment in various industries.
Revenues from Baidu Core’s cloud services and others are included in “Others” in the consolidated statements of comprehensive income.
Cloud services revenue of Baidu Core in 2023 were RMB18.7 billion (US$2.6 billion), increasing by RMB1.0 billion, or 6%, compared to
RMB17.7 billion in 2022, mainly due to an increase in scale for IaaS, standardizing AI cloud solutions and applications for scale, and an increase in
subscription for personal cloud service, partially offset by a decrease in smart transportation revenue.
Baidu Core’s other revenues in 2023 were RMB9.6 billion (US$1.4 billion), increasing by RMB1.4 billion, or 18%, compared to RMB8.2 billion
in 2022, mainly due to increase in Apollo Self-Driving Services and Xiaodu smart devices and services.
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2022 compared to 2021
Baidu Core revenue was RMB95.4 billion in 2022, which is basically flat from RMB95.2 billion in 2021.
Online marketing revenues of Baidu Core in 2022 were RMB69.5 billion, decreasing by RMB4.4 billion, or 6%, compared to RMB73.9 billion in
2021, primarily due to the resurgence of COVID-19 in certain cities in China.
The number of our active online marketing customers decreased from approximately 535,000 in 2021 to approximately 520,000 in 2022, and the
average revenue per customer decreased from approximately RMB138,000 in 2021 to approximately RMB134,000 in 2022. The decrease was primarily
due to the resurgence of COVID-19 in certain cities in China.
Revenues from Baidu Core’s cloud services and others are included in “Others” in the consolidated statements of comprehensive income.
Cloud services revenue of Baidu Core in 2022 were RMB17.7 billion, increasing by RMB2.6 billion, or 18%, compared to RMB15.1 billion in
2021, mainly due to increase in scale for both IaaS and cloud solution projects, standardizing AI cloud solutions and applications for scale, and increase
in subscription for personal cloud service.
Baidu Core’s other revenues in 2022 were RMB8.2 billion, increasing by RMB2.0 billion, or 33%, compared to RMB6.2 billion in 2021.
iQIYI
2023 compared to 2022
iQIYI revenue was RMB31.9 billion (US$4.5 billion) in 2023, increasing by RMB2.9 billion, or 10%, from RMB29.0 billion in 2022.
iQIYI online advertising services revenue are included in “Online marketing revenue” in the consolidated statements of comprehensive income.
iQIYI’s online advertising revenues in 2023 were RMB6.2 billion (US$877 million), increasing by RMB892 million, or 17%, from
RMB5.3 billion in 2022, primarily driven by the growth of performance-based advertising business and, to a lesser extent, the growth in the brand
advertising business. Average brand advertising revenue per brand advertiser increased by 14% from RMB3.8 million in 2022 to RMB4.3 million
(US$0.6 million) in 2023. iQIYI tracks the average brand advertising revenue per brand advertiser as a key indicator to evaluate advertising services
business and adapt sales strategy, advertisement solutions and content scheduling accordingly.
Revenue from iQIYI membership services, content distribution, and others are included in “Others” in the consolidated statements of
comprehensive income.
Membership revenue of iQIYI in 2023 were RMB20.3 billion (US$2.9 billion), increasing by RMB2.6 billion, or 15%, from RMB17.7 billion in
2022, primarily driven by the growth in iQIYI’s average revenue per membership during a month, or monthly ARM, the average daily number of total
subscribing members of the year and iQIYI’s continuous efforts in refining operations to improve user experience and monetization capabilities. iQIYI’s
monthly ARM in 2023 increased by 6% to RMB15.13 in 2023, as compared to RMB14.31 in 2022. In addition, the average daily number of total
subscribing members in 2023 was 111.9 million, as compared to 103.1 million in 2022. The average daily number of subscribing members excluding
individuals with trial memberships was 111.2 million in 2023, as compared to 102.4 million in 2022. iQIYI tracks monthly ARM and average daily
number of total subscribing members as key indicators for membership revenue growth.
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iQIYI’s content distribution revenue decreased by RMB103 million, or 4%, from RMB2.6 billion in 2022 to RMB2.5 billion (US$346 million) in
2023, primarily attributable to the decrease in barter transactions, partially offset by the increase in cash transactions and revenue from distribution of
theatrical movies invested by iQIYI during 2023.
iQIYI’s other revenue in 2023 were RMB2.9 billion (US$405 million), decreasing by RMB517 million, or 15%, from RMB3.4 billion in 2022,
primarily due to the deconsolidation of live broadcasting business.
2022 compared to 2021
iQIYI revenue was RMB29.0 billion in 2022, decreasing by RMB1.6 billion, or 5%, from RMB30.6 billion in 2021.
iQIYI online advertising services revenue are included in “Online marketing revenue” in the consolidated statements of comprehensive income.
iQIYI’s online advertising revenues in 2022 were RMB5.3 billion, decreasing by RMB1.8 billion, or 25%, from RMB7.1 billion in 2021, as a
result of the challenging macroeconomic environment, pandemic resurgence, and fewer number of variety shows being launched. Average brand
advertising revenue per brand advertiser decreased by 21% from RMB4.9 million in 2021 to RMB3.8 million in 2022. iQIYI track the average brand
advertising revenue per brand advertiser as a key indicator to evaluate advertising services business and adapt sales strategy, advertisement solutions and
content scheduling accordingly.
Revenue from iQIYI membership services, content distribution, and others are included in “Others” in the consolidated statements of
comprehensive income.
Membership revenue of iQIYI in 2022 were RMB17.7 billion, increasing by RMB1.0 billion, or 6%, from RMB16.7 billion in 2021. The average
daily number of total subscribing members in 2022 was 103.1 million, as compared to 101.6 million in 2021. The average daily number of subscribing
members excluding individuals with trial memberships was 102.4 million in 2022, as compared to 100.7 million in 2021. In addition, average revenue
per membership during a month, or monthly ARM, in 2022 increased by 4% to RMB14.31, as compared to RMB13.71 in 2021. iQIYI tracks the
number of average daily subscribing members and monthly ARM as key indicators for membership revenue growth, and has been cultivating users’
willingness to pay. iQIYI is dedicated to providing more premium content through diversified approaches, as it did in the past by launching theme-based
drama theaters, members only content and the PVOD mode, to expand its subscribing member base, nurture members’ willingness to pay and diversify
its routes to membership monetization to drive membership services revenue.
iQIYI’s content distribution revenue decreased by RMB445 million, or 15%, from RMB3.0 billion in 2021 to RMB2.6 billion in 2022, primarily
attributable to the decrease in barter transactions during the year.
iQIYI’s other revenue in 2022 were RMB3.4 billion, decreasing by RMB373 million, or 10%, from RMB3.8 billion in 2021, primarily due to the
deterioration of performance in various business lines and the adjustment in business operation model of certain business lines, partially offset by the
revenue derived from third-party cooperation.
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Segment Operating Costs and Expenses
The following table sets forth our operating costs and expenses by segment and the year-over-year change rate for the periods indicated, with each
segment operating costs and expenses including inter-segment costs and expenses:
Operating Costs and Expenses:
Baidu Core
iQIYI
2021
RMB
Year ended December 31,
2022
RMB YoY%
RMB
(In millions, except percentages)
2023
US$
YoY%
80,021
35,033
80,897
27,686
1
(21)
84,640
28,884
11,922
4,068
5
4
Baidu Core. Operating costs and expenses of Baidu Core mainly consist of personnel-related costs, traffic acquisition costs, marketing and
promotion spending, depreciation expenses, costs of goods sold, content costs, bandwidth cost and other costs related to new AI business.
Cost of revenues. The cost of revenues of Baidu Core increased by 1% from RMB42.4 billion in 2022 to RMB42.6 billion (US$6.0 billion) in
2023, primarily due to the following factors:
•
•
An increase of RMB487 million in traffic acquisition costs, which arose from increasing union revenues.
A total decrease of RMB273 million in other cost of revenues due to our continuous improvement of operational efficiency, including
optimizing gross margin of AI Cloud business, SLG, etc.
The cost of revenues of Baidu Core increased by 12% from RMB37.8 billion in 2021 to RMB42.4 billion in 2022, primarily due to an increase in
traffic acquisition costs, bandwidth costs, depreciation costs, cost of goods sold and other costs related to the new AI business, personnel-related costs
and content costs.
Selling, general and administrative expenses. The selling, general and administrative expenses of Baidu Core increased by 15% from
RMB17.1 billion in 2022 to RMB19.6 billion (US$2.8 billion) in 2023, primarily due to an increase in channel spending and promotional marketing
expenses.
The selling, general and administrative expenses of Baidu Core decreased by 15% from RMB20.0 billion in 2021 to RMB17.1 billion in 2022,
primarily due to a decrease in channel spending and promotional marketing expenses.
Research and development expenses. The research and development expenses of Baidu Core increased by 5% from RMB21.4 billion in 2022 to
RMB22.4 billion (US$3.2 billion) in 2023, primarily due to an increase in server depreciation expenses and server custody fees which support Gen-AI
research and development inputs.
The research and development expenses of Baidu Core decreased by 3% from RMB22.1 billion in 2021 to RMB21.4 billion in 2022, primarily
due to a decrease of personnel-related expenses.
iQIYI. Operating costs and expenses of iQIYI mainly consist of content costs, personnel-related costs, bandwidth costs, marketing and promotion
spending, and payment platform charges.
Cost of revenues. The cost of revenues of iQIYI increased by 4% from RMB22.3 billion in 2022 to RMB23.1 billion (US$3.3 billion) in 2023.
The cost of revenues of iQIYI decreased by 19% from RMB27.5 billion in 2021 to RMB22.3 billion in 2022, primarily due to a decrease in
content costs.
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Selling, general and administrative expenses. The selling, general and administrative expenses of iQIYI increased by 16% from RMB3.5 billion in
2022 to RMB4.0 billion (US$565 million) in 2023, primarily due to increased marketing and promotional expenses, which was due to the higher
spending on user acquisition channels and content promotions.
The selling, general and administrative expenses of iQIYI decreased by 27% from RMB4.7 billion in 2021 to RMB3.5 billion in 2022, primarily
due to disciplined marketing spending and a decline in personnel-related compensation expenses.
Research and development expenses. The research and development expenses of iQIYI decreased by 7% from RMB1.9 billion in 2022 to
RMB1.8 billion (US$249 million) in 2023, primarily due to decreased personnel compensation expenses.
The research and development expenses of iQIYI decreased by 32% from RMB2.8 billion in 2021 to RMB1.9 billion in 2022, primarily due to a
decrease in personnel-related expenses.
Inflation
Inflation in China has not materially impacted our results of operations. According to the National Bureau of Statistics of China, the annual
average percent changes in the consumer price index in mainland China for 2021, 2022 and 2023 were 0.9%, 2.0% and 0.2%, respectively. The year-
over-year percent change in the consumer price index for January 2022, 2023 and 2024 was an increase of 0.9%, an increase of 2.1%, and a decrease of
0.8%, respectively. Although we have not been materially affected by inflation in the past, we can provide no assurance that we will not be affected in
the future by higher rates of inflation in China. For example, certain operating costs and expenses, such as employee compensation and office operating
expenses, may increase as a result of higher inflation. Additionally, because a substantial portion of our assets consists of cash and cash equivalents and
short-term investments, high inflation could significantly reduce the value and purchasing power of these assets. We are not able to hedge our exposure
to higher inflation in China.
Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates
We prepare financial statements in accordance with U.S. GAAP, which requires us to make judgments, estimates and assumptions that affect the
reported amounts of our assets and liabilities and the disclosure of our contingent assets and liabilities at the end of each fiscal period and the reported
amounts of revenues and expenses during each fiscal period. We continually evaluate these judgments and estimates based on our own historical
experience, knowledge and assessment of current business and other conditions, our expectations regarding the future based on available information
and assumptions that we believe to be reasonable, which together form our basis for making judgments about matters that are not readily apparent from
other sources. Since the use of estimates is an integral component of the financial reporting process, our actual results could differ from those estimates.
Some of our accounting policies require a higher degree of judgment than others in their application.
The selection of critical accounting policies, the judgments and other uncertainties affecting application of those policies and the sensitivity of
reported results to changes in conditions and assumptions are factors that should be considered when reviewing our financial statements. For further
information on our critical accounting policies, see Note 2 to our consolidated financial statements. We believe the following accounting policies
involve the most significant judgments and estimates used in the preparation of our financial statements.
Fair Value Measurements of Non-Marketable Equity Securities
We measure certain financial instruments at fair value on a nonrecurring basis, consisting primarily of our non-marketable equity securities. These
investments are accounted for under the measurement alternative and are
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measured at cost, less impairment, subject to upward and downward adjustments resulting from observable price changes for identical or similar
investments of the same issuer. These adjustments require quantitative assessments of the fair value of equity investments, primarily using a market
approach, which requires the use of unobservable inputs, such as selection of comparable companies and multiples, expected volatility, discount for lack
of marketability and probability of exit events as it relates to liquidation and redemption preferences when applicable. Non-marketable equity securities
are also evaluated for impairment, based on qualitative factors including the companies’ financial and liquidity position and access to capital resources,
among others. When indicators of impairment exist, we also prepare quantitative measurements of the fair value of our equity investments using market
approach with unobservable inputs. Our estimates of these inputs require subjective management judgment and are inherently uncertain. The fair value
information is sensitive to changes in the unobservable inputs used to determine fair value and such changes could result in the fair value at the reporting
date to be different from the fair value presented. When our assessment indicates that an impairment exists, we write down the investment to its fair
value.
Amortization of content assets
Based on factors including historical and estimated future viewership consumption patterns, our content assets (licensed copyrights and produced
content) are amortized using an accelerated method by content categories over the shorter of each content’s contractual period or estimated useful lives
within ten years, beginning with the month of first availability. We review factors that impact the amortization of the content assets on a regular basis,
such as the estimates of future viewership consumption patterns and estimated useful lives. Our estimates related to these factors require complex and
subjective management judgment and any changes in our estimates of future viewership consumption patterns and estimated useful lives may cause us
to realize different amounts of amortization in future periods.
Consolidation of Variable Interest Entities
In order to comply with the laws and regulations of mainland China limiting foreign ownership of or imposing conditions on internet content
services, value-added telecommunication-based services, online audio and video services, and mobile application distribution businesses, we operate our
websites and conduct our internet content services, value-added telecommunication-based services, online audio and video services, and mobile
application distribution businesses through the variable interest entities in mainland China by means of contractual arrangements. We have entered into
certain exclusive agreements with the variable interest entities directly or through our subsidiaries, which obligate us to absorb losses of the variable
interest entities’ that could potentially be significant to the variable interest entities or entitle the primary beneficiaries to receive economic benefits from
the variable interest entities that could potentially be significant to the variable interest entities. In addition, we have entered into certain agreements with
the variable interest entities and the nominee shareholders of variable interest entities directly or through our subsidiaries, which enable us to direct the
activities that most significantly affect the economic performance of the variable interest entities. Based on these contractual arrangements, we
consolidate the variable interest entities as required by ASC Topic 810, Consolidation, because we hold the variable interests of the variable interest
entities directly or through the subsidiaries, which are the primary beneficiaries of the variable interest entities. We will reconsider the initial
determination of whether a legal entity is a variable interest entity upon certain events listed in ASC 810-10-35-4 occurring. We will also continuously
reconsider whether we are the primary beneficiaries of the variable interest entities as facts and circumstances change. See “Item 3.D. Key Information
—Risk Factors—Risks Related to Our Corporate Structure.”
Segment Reporting
As of December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023, we had two reportable segments, Baidu Core and iQIYI. Baidu Core mainly provides search-based,
feed-based, and other online marketing services, cloud services, products and other services from our new AI initiatives. iQIYI is an online
entertainment service provider that offers original, professionally produced and partner-generated content on its platform.
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Our chief executive officer, who has been identified as the chief operating decision maker, reviews the operating results of Baidu Core and iQIYI,
to allocate resources and assess our performance. Accordingly, the financial statements include segment information which reflects the current
composition of the reportable segments in accordance with ASC Topic 280, Segment Reporting.
Revenue Recognition
Our revenues are derived principally from online marketing service and others. Revenue is recognized when control of promised goods or services
is transferred to our customers in an amount of consideration to which an entity expects to be entitled to in exchange for those goods or services.
Revenue is recorded net of value-added tax.
For arrangements that include multiple promised goods or services, we would evaluate all of the performance obligations in the arrangement to
determine whether each performance obligation is distinct. For arrangements with multiple distinct performance obligations, each distinct performance
obligation is separately accounted for and the total consideration is allocated to each performance obligation based on their relative standalone selling
price at contract inception. We generally determine standalone selling prices based on the prices charged to customers on a standalone basis or estimates
it using an expected cost plus margin approach. For arrangement with multiple components that are not distinct within the context of the contract
because they have significant integration and the customer can only benefit from these promised goods or services in conjunction with one another, we
account for them as one performance obligation.
Our revenue recognition policies by types are as follows:
(1) Online marketing services
Performance-based online marketing services
Our P4P platform enables customers to bid for priority placement of paid sponsored links and reach users who search for information related to
their products or services. P4P online marketing customers can choose from search-based and feed-based online marketing services, and select criteria
for their purchase, such as daily spending limit and user profile targeted. Revenue is recognized when all of the revenue recognition criteria are met,
which is generally when a user clicks on one of the customer-sponsored links or feed-based marketing.
To the extent we provide online marketing services based on performance criteria other than CPC, revenue is recognized when the specified
performance criteria are met along with the satisfaction of other applicable revenue recognition criteria.
Baidu Union online marketing services
Baidu Union is a program through which we expand distribution of its customers’ sponsored links or advertisements by leveraging the traffic of
Baidu Union partners’ online properties. We acquire traffic from Baidu Union partners and are responsible for service fulfillment and pricing. The
services which we provided to customers through Baidu Union partners’ online properties include CPC, other performance-based online marketing
services and online display advertising services. These services are provided in the same way to customers as those through Baidu’s own platforms or
properties. As the principal, we recognize revenue from Baidu Union on a gross basis. Payments made to Baidu Union partners are recorded as traffic
acquisition costs, which are included in “Cost of revenues” in the consolidated statements of comprehensive income.
Online display advertising services
We provide online display advertising services to our customers by integrating text description, image and/ or video, and displaying the
advertisement in the search result, in Baidu Feed or on other properties. We
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recognize revenue on a pro rata basis over the contractual term for cost per time advertising arrangements, commencing on the start date of the display
advertisement, or based on the number of times that the advertisement has been displayed for cost per thousand impressions advertising arrangements.
Collection
Certain customers of online marketing services are required to pay a deposit before using our services and are sent automated reminders to
replenish their accounts when the balance falls below a designated amount. The deposits received are recorded as “Customer deposits and deferred
revenue” on the consolidated balance sheets. The amounts due to us are deducted from the deposited amounts when users click on the paid sponsored
links in the search results or other performance criteria have been satisfied. In addition, we offer payment terms to some customers based on their
historical marketing placements and credibility. In addition, we offer payment terms to third-party agents and advertisers based on their historical
marketing placements and credibility, consistently with industry practice.
Payment terms and conditions vary by customer and are based on the billing schedule established in our contracts or purchase orders with
customers, but we generally provide credit terms to customers within one year; therefore, we have determined that our contracts do not include a
significant financing component.
Sales incentives
We provide major sales incentives to third-party agents, which are identified as customers, that entitle them to receive price reduction on the
online marketing services by meeting certain cumulative consumption requirements. We account for these incentives granted to customers as variable
consideration and net them against revenue. The amount of variable consideration is measured based on the expected value of incentives to be provided
to customers.
(2) Others
Video Membership services
We offer membership services to subscribing members with various privileges, which primarily include access to exclusive and ad-free streaming
of premium content 1080P/4K high definition video, eXave Max, Dolby Audio, and accelerated downloads and others. When the receipt of membership
fees is for services to be delivered over a period of time, the receipt is initially recorded as “Customer deposits and deferred revenue” and revenue is
recognized ratably over the membership period as services are rendered. Membership services revenue also includes fees earned from subscribing
members for on-demand content purchases and early access to premium content. We are the principal in our relationships where partners, including
consumer electronics manufacturers (TVs and cell phones), mobile operators, internet service providers and online payment agencies, provide access to
the membership services or payment processing services as we retain control over its service delivery to its subscribing members. Typically, payments
made to the partners, are recorded as “Cost of revenues.” For the sale of the right to other membership services through strategic cooperation with other
parties, we recognize revenue on a net basis when we do not control the specified services before they are transferred to the customer.
Content distribution
We generate revenues from sub-licensing content assets within the authorized scope for cash or through nonmonetary exchanges mainly with other
online video broadcasting companies, as well as from the release of feature films for exhibition in theaters. For cash sub-licensing transactions, we are
entitled to receive the sub-license fee under the sub-licensing arrangements and do not have any future obligation once we have provided the underlying
content to the sub-licensee (which is provided at or before the beginning of the
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sub-license period). The sub-licensing of content assets represents a license of functional intellectual property which grants a right to use our content
assets, and is recognized at the point in time when the content asset is made available for the customer’s use and benefit.
We also enter into nonmonetary transactions to exchange online broadcasting rights of content assets with other online video broadcasting
companies from time to time. The exchanged content assets provide rights for each party to broadcast the content assets received on its own platform
only. Each transferring party retains the right to continue broadcasting the exclusive content on its own platform and/or sublicense the rights to the
content it surrendered in the exchange. We account for these nonmonetary exchanges based on the fair value of the asset received. Barter revenues are
recognized in accordance with the same revenue recognition criteria above. We estimate the fair value of the content assets received using a market
approach based on various factors, including the purchase price of similar non-exclusive and/or exclusive contents, broadcasting schedule, cast and
crew, theme, popularity, and box office. The transaction price of barter transaction is calculated on an individual content asset basis. For a significant
barter transaction, we further review the fair value by analyzing against the cost of the content assets bartered out and/or engage a third-party valuation
firm to assess the reasonableness of its fair value. The attributable cost of sublicensing transactions, whether for cash or through nonmonetary
exchanges, is recognized as cost of revenues through the amortization of the sublicensing right component of the exclusive content assets.
Cloud service
We provide enterprise and public sector cloud services and personal cloud services, generally on either a subscription or consumption basis. For
enterprise and public sector cloud services, we offer a full suite of cloud services and solutions, including IaaS (infrastructure as a service), PaaS
(platform as a service) and SaaS (software as a service). For personal cloud services, we offer Baidu Drive membership services provided to individual
customers. Revenue related to enterprise and public sector cloud services provided on a subscription basis is recognized ratably over the contract period.
Revenue related to enterprise and public sector cloud services provided on a consumption basis, such as the amount of storage used in a period, is
recognized based on the customer’s utilization of such resources. Revenue related to personal cloud services is recognized ratably over the membership
period as services are rendered and the receipt of membership fees for services to be delivered over a period of time is initially recorded as “Customer
deposits and deferred revenue.”
We provide cloud solutions for our customers in specific industries, such as smart transportation, finance, manufacturing, energy, telecom and
media. Revenue related to cloud solutions which mainly include significant integrated hardware, software licensing and installation service, is
recognized over time if one of the following criteria is met: (i) the customer simultaneously receives and consumes the benefits as we perform; (ii) our
performance creates or enhances an asset that the customer controls as the asset is created or enhanced; or (iii) the asset delivered has no alternative use
and we have an enforceable right to payment for performance completed to date. For performance obligations satisfied over time, we recognize revenue
over time by measuring the progress toward complete satisfaction of a performance obligation. Otherwise, revenue is recognized at a point in time when
a customer obtains control of a promised asset or service and we satisfy our performance obligation.
Baidu Apollo Auto Solutions
Revenue related to Baidu Apollo auto solutions (Apollo Self-Driving Services and DuerOS for Auto), which mainly includes software licensing
revenues are recognized when earned in accordance with the terms of the underlying agreement. Generally, revenue is recognized at a point in time
when the intellectual property is made available for the customer’s use and benefit.
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Sales of hardware
We mainly sell Xiaodu smart device hardware products via third-party agents or directly to end customers. Revenue from the sales of hardware is
recognized when control of the goods is transferred to customers, which generally occurs when the products are delivered and accepted by our
customers. Revenue is recorded net of sales incentives and return allowance.
Contract assets and contract liabilities
Payment terms and conditions vary by customer and are based on the billing schedule established in our contracts or purchase orders with
customers, although terms generally include a requirement of payment within one year.
Timing of revenue recognition may differ from the timing of invoicing to customers. For certain services customers are required to pay before the
services are delivered to the customer. When either party to a revenue contract has performed, we recognize a contract asset or a contract liability on the
consolidated balance sheets, depending on the relationship between the entity’s performance and the customer’s payment.
Contract liabilities were mainly related to fees for membership services to be provided over the membership period, which were included in
“Customer deposits and deferred revenue” on the consolidated balance sheets. Contract assets mainly represent unbilled amounts related to our rights to
consideration for advertising services and cloud services delivered and were included in “Other current assets, net” on the consolidated balance sheets.
We do not disclose the value of unsatisfied performance obligations for (i) contracts with an original expected length of one year or less and
(ii) contracts for which we recognize revenue at the amount to which it has the right to invoice for services performed.
Share-based Compensation
We account for share-based compensation in accordance with ASC Topic 718, Compensation-Stock Compensation. We have elected to recognize
share-based compensation using the straight-line method for all share-based awards issued with no performance conditions. For awards with
performance conditions, compensation cost is recognized on an accelerated basis if it is probable that the performance condition will be achieved.
Forfeitures are estimated based on historical experience and are periodically reviewed. Cancellation of an award accompanied by the concurrent
grant of a replacement award is accounted for as a modification of the terms of the cancelled award, or modified awards. The compensation costs
associated with the modified awards are recognized if either the original vesting condition or the new vesting condition is achieved. Total recognized
compensation cost for the awards is at least equal to the fair value of the awards at the grant date unless at the date of the modification the performance
or service conditions of the original awards are not expected to be satisfied. The incremental compensation cost is measured as the excess of the fair
value of the replacement award over the fair value of the cancelled award at the cancellation date. Therefore, in relation to the modified awards, we
recognize share-based compensation over the vesting periods of the replacement award, which comprises (i) the amortization of the incremental portion
of share-based compensation over the remaining vesting term, and (ii) any unrecognized compensation cost of the original award, using either the
original term or the new term, whichever results in higher expenses for each reporting period.
Income Taxes
We recognize income taxes under the liability method. Deferred income taxes are recognized for differences between the financial reporting and
tax bases of assets and liabilities at enacted tax rates in effect for the years in
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which the differences are expected to reverse. We record a valuation allowance against the amount of deferred tax assets that we determine is not
more-likely-than-not to be realized. The effect on deferred taxes of a change in tax rates is recognized in earnings in the period that includes the
enactment date. For reconciliation of tax computed by applying the respective statutory income tax rate to pre-tax income, please see “Income taxes”
under Note 17 to our audited consolidated financial statements.
Deferred income taxes are recognized on the undistributed earnings of subsidiaries, which are presumed to be transferred to the parent company
and are subject to withholding taxes, unless there is sufficient evidence to show that the subsidiary has invested or will invest the undistributed earnings
indefinitely or that the earnings will be remitted in a tax-free liquidation.
We apply the provisions of ASC Topic 740, Income Taxes (“ASC 740”) in accounting for uncertainty in income taxes. ASC 740 clarifies the
accounting for uncertainty in income taxes by prescribing the recognition threshold a tax position is required to meet before being recognized in the
financial statements. We have elected to classify interest and penalties related to an uncertain tax position (if and when required) as part of income tax
expense in the consolidated statements of comprehensive income.
Long-term investments
Our long-term investments consist of equity method investments, equity investments with readily determinable fair value, equity investments
without readily determinable fair value, equity investments in private equity funds, other investments accounted for at fair value and available-for-sale
debt investments.
Investments in entities in which we can exercise significant influence but does not own a majority equity interest or control are accounted for
using the equity method of accounting in accordance with ASC Topic 323, Investments-Equity Method and Joint Ventures. Under the equity method, we
initially record its investment at cost and the difference between the cost of the equity investee and the amount of the underlying equity in the net assets
of the equity investee is accounted for as if the investee were a consolidated subsidiary. We subsequently adjust the carrying amount of our investment to
recognize our proportionate share of each equity investee’s net income or loss into earnings after the date of investment and its share of each equity
investee’s movement in accumulated other comprehensive income or loss is recognize in other comprehensive (loss) income. When calculating our
proportionate share of each equity investee’s net income or loss, we adjust the net income or loss of equity investee to include accretion of preferred
stock that is classified in temporary equity in the investee’s financial statements into earnings. We will discontinue applying the equity method if an
investment (plus additional financial support provided to the investee, if any) has been reduced to zero. When we have other investments in the equity-
method investee and we are not required to advance additional funds to the investee, we would continue to report its share of equity method losses in our
statements of comprehensive (loss) income after our equity-method investment in ordinary shares has been reduced to zero, to the extent of and as an
adjustment to the adjusted basis of our other investments in the investee. Such losses are first applied to those investments of a lower liquidation
preference before being further applied to the investments of a higher liquidation preference. We adopted a one-quarter lag in reporting for our share of
equity income (loss) to a majority of our equity method investees.
We evaluate the equity method investments for impairment at each reporting date, or more frequently if events or changes in circumstances
indicate that the carrying amount of the investment might not be recoverable. Factors considered by us when determining whether an investment has
been other-than-temporarily-impaired, includes, but are not limited to, the length of the time and the extent to which the market value has been less than
cost, the financial condition and near-term prospects of the investee, and our intent and ability to retain the investment until the recovery of its cost. An
impairment loss on the equity method investments is recognized in earnings when the decline in value is determined to be other-than-temporary and is
allocated to the individual net assets underlying equity method investments in the following order: 1) reduce any equity method goodwill to zero; 2)
reduce the individual basis differences related to the investee’s long-lived assets pro rata based on their
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amounts relative to the overall basis difference at the impairment date and 3) reduce the individual basis difference of the investee’s remaining assets in
a systematic and rational manner.
For equity investments in private equity funds, over which we do not have the ability to exercise significant influence, are measured using the net
asset value per share based on the practical expedient in ASC Topic 820, Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures (“ASC 820”), or NAV practical
expedient.
For equity securities without readily determinable fair value and do not qualify for the NAV practical expedient of the investment, we elected to
use the measurement alternative to measure those investments at cost, less any impairment, plus or minus changes resulting from observable price
changes in orderly transactions for identical or similar investments of the same issuer, if any. Significant judgments are required to determine (i) whether
observable price changes are orderly transactions and identical or similar to an investment held by us, and (ii) the selection of appropriate valuation
methodologies and underlying assumptions, including expected volatility and the probability of exit events as it relates to liquidation and redemption
features used to measure the price adjustments for the difference in rights and obligations between instruments. Equity securities with readily
determinable fair values are measured at fair value, and any changes in fair value are recognized in “Others, net” in the consolidated statements of
comprehensive (loss) income.
For equity investments measured at fair value with changes in fair value recorded in earnings, we do not assess whether those securities are
impaired. For equity investments that we elect to use the measurement alternative, we make a qualitative assessment considering impairment indicators
to evaluate whether investments are impaired at each reporting date. Impairment indicators considered include, but are not limited to, a significant
deterioration in the earnings performance or business prospects of the investee, including factors that raise significant concerns about the investee’s
ability to continue as a going concern, a significant adverse change in the regulatory, economic, or technologic environment of the investee and a
significant adverse change in the general market condition of either the geographical area or the industry in which the investee operates. If a qualitative
assessment indicates that the investment is impaired, we estimate the investment’s fair value in accordance with the principles of ASC 820. If the fair
value is less than the investment’s carrying value, we recognize an impairment loss in earnings equal to the difference between the carrying value and
fair value.
In accordance with ASC Subtopic 946-320, Financial Services—Investment Companies, Investments—Debt and Equity Securities, our
consolidated investment company accounts for long-term equity investments in unlisted companies at fair value. These investments were initially
recorded at their transaction price net of transaction costs, if any. Fair values of these investments are re-measured at each reporting date in accordance
with ASC 820.
Available-for-sale debt investments are convertible debt instruments issued by private companies and investments in preferred shares that are
redeemable at our option, which are measured at fair value. Interest income is recognized in earnings. All other changes in the carrying amount of these
debt investments are recognized in other comprehensive (loss) income.
Long-term time deposits and held-to-maturity investments
Long-term time deposits and held-to-maturity securities were mainly deposits in commercial banks and wealth management products issued by
commercial banks and other financial institutions with maturities of greater than one year.
Investments in debt securities with maturities of greater than one year that we have positive intent and ability to hold to maturity are classified as
long-term held-to-maturity investments and stated at amortized cost less allowance for credit losses.
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Licensed Copyrights, net
Licensed copyrights consist of professionally-produced content such as films, drama series, variety shows and other video content acquired from
external parties. The license fees are capitalized and, unless prepaid, a corresponding liability is recorded when the cost of the content is known, the
content is accepted by us in accordance with the conditions of the license agreement and the content is available for its first showing on our platforms.
Licensed copyrights are presented on the consolidated balance sheets as current and non-current, based on estimated time of usage.
Our licensed copyrights include the right to broadcast and, in some instances, the right to sublicense. The broadcasting right, refers to the right to
broadcast the content on its own platforms and the sublicensing right, refers to the right to sublicense the underlying content to external parties. When
licensed copyrights include both broadcasting and sublicensing rights, the content costs are allocated to these two rights upon initial recognition, based
on the relative proportion of the estimated total revenues that will be generated from each right over its estimated useful lives.
For the right to broadcast the contents on its own platforms that generates online advertising and membership services revenues, the content costs
are amortized based on factors including historical and estimated future viewership patterns, using an accelerated method by content categories over the
shorter of each content’s contractual period or estimated useful lives within ten years, beginning with the month of first availability. Content categories
accounting for most of our content include newly released drama series, newly released films, animations, library drama series and library films.
Estimates of future viewership consumption patterns and estimated useful lives are reviewed periodically, at least on an annual basis and revised, if
necessary. Revisions to the amortization patterns are accounted for as a change in accounting estimate prospectively in accordance with ASC Topic 250,
Accounting Changes and Error Corrections.
For the right to sublicense the content to external parties that generates direct content distribution revenues, the content costs are amortized based
on its estimated usage pattern and recorded as cost of revenues.
Produced Content, net
We produce original content in-house and in collaboration with external parties. Produced content primarily consists of films, episodic series,
variety shows and animations. The costs incurred in the physical production of original content include direct production costs, production overhead and
acquisition costs. Produced content also includes cash expenditures made to acquire a proportionate share of certain rights to films including profit
sharing, distribution and/or other rights. Exploitation costs are expensed as incurred. Participation costs are accrued using the individual-film-forecast-
computation method, which recognizes the costs in the same ratio as the associated ultimate revenue. Production costs for original content that are
predominantly monetized in a film group are capitalized. Production costs for original content predominantly monetized on its own are capitalized to the
extent that they are recoverable from total revenues that are expected to be earned, or ultimate revenue; otherwise, they are expensed as cost of revenues.
Ultimate revenue estimates include revenue expected to be earned from all sources, including exhibition, licensing, or exploitation of produced
content if we have demonstrated a history of earning such revenue. We estimate ultimate revenue to be earned during the estimated useful lives of
produced content based on anticipated release patterns and historical results of similar produced content, which are identified based on various factors,
including cast and crew, target audience and popularity. The capitalized production costs are reported separately as noncurrent assets with caption of
“Produced content, net” on the consolidated balance sheets.
Based on factors including historical and estimated future viewership consumption patterns, we amortize produced content that is predominantly
monetized in a film group. For produced content that is monetized on its own, we consider historical and estimated usage patterns to determine the
pattern of amortization. Based on the
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estimated patterns, we amortize produced content using an accelerated method over its estimated useful lives within ten years, beginning with the month
of first availability and such costs are included in “Cost of revenues” in the consolidated statements of comprehensive income.
Impairment of licensed copyrights and produced content
Our business model is mainly subscription and advertising based, as such the majority of our content assets (licensed copyrights and produced
content) are predominantly monetized with other content assets, whereas a smaller portion of our content assets are predominantly monetized at a
specific title level such as variety shows and investments in a proportionate share of certain film rights including profit sharing, distribution and/or other
rights. Because the identifiable cash flows related to content launched on our mainland China platform are largely independent of the cash flows of other
content launched on our overseas platform, we have identified two separate film groups. We review our film groups and individual content for
impairment when there are events or changes in circumstances that indicate the fair value of a film group or individual content may be less than its
unamortized costs. Examples of such events or changes in circumstances include, a significant adverse change in technological, regulatory, legal,
economic, or social factors, that could affect the fair value of the film group or the public’s perception of a film or the availability of a film for future
showings, a significant decrease in the number of subscribers or forecasted subscribers, or the loss of a major distributor, a change in the predominant
monetization strategy of a film that is currently monetized on its own, actual costs substantially in excess of budgeted costs, substantial delays in
completion or release schedules, or actual performance subsequent to release failing to meet expectations set before release such as a significant
decrease in the amount of ultimate revenue expected to be recognized.
When such events or changes in circumstances are identified, we assess whether the fair value of an individual content (or film group) is less than
its unamortized film costs, determines the fair value of an individual content (or film group) and recognizes an impairment charge for the amount by
which the unamortized capitalized costs exceed the individual content’s (or film group’s) fair value. We mainly use a discounted cash flow approach to
determine the fair value of an individual content or film group, of which the most significant inputs include the forecasted future revenues, costs and
operating expenses attributable to an individual content or the film group and the discount rate. An impairment loss attributable to a film group is
allocated to individual licensed copyrights and produced content within the film group on a pro rata basis using the relative carrying values of those
assets as we cannot estimate the fair value of individual contents in the film group without undue cost and effort.
Business Combinations
We account for our business combinations using the acquisition method in accordance with ASC Topic 805, Business Combinations. The
acquisition method requires that the consideration transferred to be allocated to the assets, including separately identifiable assets and liabilities we
acquired, based on their estimated fair values. The consideration transferred in an acquisition is measured as the aggregate of the fair values at the date
of exchange of the assets given, liabilities incurred, and equity instruments issued as well as the contingent considerations as of the acquisition date. The
costs directly attributable to the acquisition are expensed as incurred. Identifiable assets, liabilities and contingent liabilities acquired or assumed are
measured separately at their fair value as of the acquisition date, irrespective of the extent of any noncontrolling interests. The excess of (i) the total of
cost of acquisition, fair value of the noncontrolling interests and acquisition date fair value of any previously held equity interests in the acquiree over
(ii) the fair value of the identifiable net assets of the acquiree, is recorded as goodwill. If the cost of acquisition is less than the fair value of the net assets
of the subsidiary acquired, the difference is recognized directly in earnings.
In a business combination achieved in stages, we re-measured our previously held equity interest in the acquiree immediately before obtaining
control at its acquisition-date fair value and the re-measurement gain or loss, if any, is recognized in “Others, net” in the consolidated statements of
comprehensive (loss) income.
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The determination and allocation of fair values to the identifiable assets acquired, liabilities assumed and noncontrolling interests are based on
various assumptions and valuation methodologies requiring considerable judgment from management. The most significant variables in these valuations
are discount rates, the number of years on which to base the cash flow projections, as well as the assumptions and estimates used to determine the cash
inflows and outflows. We determine discount rates to be used based on the risk inherent in the related activity’s current business model and industry
comparisons.
B.
Liquidity and Capital Resources
As of December 31, 2023, we had RMB205.4 billion (US$28.9 billion) in cash, cash equivalents, restricted cash and short-term investments, and
the variable interest entities had RMB10.0 billion (US$1.4 billion) of cash, cash equivalents, restricted cash, and short-term investments. The cash and
cash equivalents consist of cash on hand and investments in interest-bearing demand deposit accounts, time deposits, money market funds and other
liquid investments which have original maturities of three months or less. The restricted cash primarily consists of amounts deposited and held in escrow
for the proposed acquisition of YY Live, the share purchase agreement for which has been terminated. The short-term investments primarily consist of
fixed-rate and adjustable-rate debt investments with original maturity of less than one year.
We believe that our current cash, cash equivalents, restricted cash and short-term investments and anticipated cash flow from operations will be
sufficient to meet our anticipated cash needs, including our cash needs for working capital, capital expenditures and debt repayment, for at least the next
12 months. We may, however, require additional cash due to changing business conditions or other future developments, including any investments or
acquisitions we may decide to pursue, and we may incur additional indebtedness (such as loans, convertible senior notes and notes) in the future.
Furthermore, cash transfers from our mainland China subsidiaries to their parent companies outside of mainland China are subject to PRC
government control of currency conversion. Shortages in the availability of foreign currency may restrict the ability of our mainland China subsidiaries
and the variable interest entities to remit sufficient foreign currency to pay dividends or other payments to their parent companies outside of mainland
China or our company, or otherwise satisfy their foreign currency denominated obligations. See “Item 3.D. Key Information—Risk Factors—Risks
Related to Doing Business in China—Governmental control of currency conversion may affect the value of your investment.” As of December 31,
2023, our mainland China subsidiaries and the variable interest entities held RMB168.1 billion (US$23.7 billion) of cash, cash equivalents, restricted
cash, and short-term investments, RMB217 million (US$31 million) of which were in the form of foreign currencies. As of December 31, 2023, we have
made long-term loans in an aggregate principal amount of RMB19.2 billion (US$2.7 billion) to the nominee shareholders of the variable interest entities.
As of the date of this annual report, we do not have any repayment schedule with respect to such loans to the nominee shareholders of the variable
interest entities.
Equity financing
Baidu, Inc. raised approximately US$3.1 billion in net proceeds from its global offering in connection with the listing in Hong Kong in March
2021 after deducting underwriting commissions, share issuance costs and the offering expenses.
iQIYI raised an aggregate amount of US$285 million through private investments of ordinary shares in March 2022. iQIYI received net proceeds
of US$500 million through a public offering of ordinary shares in the form of ADSs in January 2023.
Short-term loans
The total outstanding balance of our short-term loans as of December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023 was RMB4.2 billion, RMB5.3 billion and
RMB10.3 billion (US$1.4 billion), respectively, which consisted of RMB
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denominated borrowings made by our subsidiaries from financial institutions in mainland China and were repayable within one year. The total
outstanding balance of iQIYI’s short-term loans as of December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023 was RMB4.1 billion, RMB3.3 billion and RMB3.6 billion
(US$503 million), respectively. The total outstanding balance of Baidu Core’s short-term loans as of December 31, 2022 and 2023 amounted to
RMB2.0 billion and RMB6.7 billion (US$942 million), respectively.
As of December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023, the repayments of primarily all of the iQIYI’s short-term loans are guaranteed by subsidiaries of iQIYI
and collateralized either by an office building of one of iQIYI’s VIEs with a carrying amount of RMB535 million, RMB522 million and
RMB509 million (US$72 million), respectively, or restricted cash balances totaling US$5 million, nil and nil, respectively.
As of December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023, the weighted average interest rates for the outstanding borrowings were 4.80%, 3.42% and 2.82%,
respectively, and the aggregate amounts of unused lines of credit for short-term loans were RMB2.8 billion, RMB2.6 billion and RMB12.8 billion
(US$1.8 billion), respectively.
Long-term loans
In April 2021, we entered into a five-year US$3.0 billion term and revolving facilities agreement with a group of 22 arrangers. The facilities
consist of a US$1.5 billion five-year bullet maturity term loan and a US$1.5 billion five-year revolving facility. The facility was priced at 85 basis points
over LIBOR and is intended for the general corporate purposes. In June 2021, we drew down US$1.5 billion term loan and US$500 million revolving
loan under the facility commitment. In June 2023, the facilities were modified and priced at 93 basis points over SOFR (secured overnight financing
rate). In connection with the drawdowns and the modification, we entered into and restructured the two interest rate swap agreements, pursuant to which
each of the loans would be settled with a fixed annual interest rate of 1.71% during the respective terms of the loans.
Debt securities issuances
We have conducted the following rounds of debt securities issuances, which remain outstanding as of the date of this annual report:
•
•
•
In June 2015, we issued an aggregate of US$500 million senior unsecured notes due in 2025, or the 2025 Ten-year Notes, with stated
annual interest rate of 4.125%. The net proceeds from the sale of the notes were used for general corporate purposes. As of December 31,
2023, the total carrying value and estimated fair value were US$500 million and US$492 million, respectively, with respect to the 2025
Ten-year Notes. The estimated fair values were based on quoted prices for our publicly-traded debt securities as of December 31, 2023. We
are not subject to any financial covenants or other significant restrictions under the 2025 Ten-year Notes. In 2023, we paid an aggregate of
US$21 million in interest payments related to the 2025 Ten-year Notes.
In July 2017, we issued an aggregate of US$600 million senior unsecured notes due in 2027, or the 2027 Ten-year Notes, with stated
annual interest rate of 3.625%. The net proceeds from the sale of the notes were used to repay existing indebtedness and for general
corporate purposes. As of December 31, 2023, the total carrying value and estimated fair value were US$600 million and US$576 million,
respectively, with respect to the 2027 Ten-year Notes. The estimated fair values were based on quoted prices for our publicly-traded debt
securities as of December 31, 2023. We are not subject to any financial covenants or other significant restrictions under the notes. In 2023,
we paid an aggregate of US$22 million in interest payments related to the 2027 Ten-year Notes.
In March 2018, we issued an aggregate of US$1.0 billion senior unsecured notes due in 2023, or the 2023 Notes, with stated annual
interest rate of 3.875%, and an aggregate of US$500 million senior unsecured notes due in 2028, or the 2028 March Notes, with stated
annual interest rate of 4.375%. The net proceeds from the sale of the notes were used to repay existing indebtedness and for general
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•
•
•
•
corporate purposes. In September 2023, the 2023 Notes were fully repaid when they became due. As of December 31, 2023, the total
carrying value and estimated fair value of the 2028 March Notes were US$500 million and US$491 million, respectively. The estimated
fair values were based on quoted prices for our publicly-traded debt securities as of December 31, 2023. We are not subject to any
financial covenants or other significant restrictions under the 2028 March Notes. In 2023, we paid an aggregate of US$61 million in
interest payments related to these notes.
In November 2018, we issued an aggregate of US$600 million senior unsecured notes due in 2024, or the 2024 November Notes, with
stated annual interest rate of 4.375%, and an aggregate of US$400 million senior unsecured notes due in 2028, or the 2028 November
Notes, with stated annual interest rate of 4.875%. In December 2018, we issued an aggregate of US$250 million senior unsecured notes
due in 2024, or the 2024 December Notes, with stated annual interest rate of 4.375%, which constitute a further issuance of, and be
fungible with and be consolidated and form a single series with the 2024 November Notes. The net proceeds from the sale of the notes
were used to repay existing indebtedness and for general corporate purposes. As of December 31, 2023, the total carrying value and
estimated fair value were US$600 million and US$596 million, respectively, with respect to the 2024 November Notes, US$400 million
and US$400 million, respectively, with respect to the 2028 November Notes, and US$250 million and US$249 million, respectively, with
respect to the 2024 December Notes. The estimated fair values were based on quoted prices for our publicly-traded debt securities as of
December 31, 2023. We are not subject to any financial covenants or other significant restrictions under the notes. In 2023, we paid an
aggregate of US$57 million in interest payments related to these notes.
In April 2020, we issued an aggregate of US$600 million senior unsecured notes due in 2025, or the 2025 Five-year Notes, with stated
annual interest rate of 3.075%, and an aggregate of US$400 million senior unsecured notes due in 2030, or the 2030 April Notes, with
stated annual interest rate of 3.425%. The net proceeds from the sale of the notes were used to repay existing indebtedness and for general
corporate purposes. As of December 31, 2023, the total carrying value and estimated fair value were US$600 million and US$583 million,
respectively, with respect to the 2025 Five-Year Notes, US$400 million and US$363 million, respectively, with respect to the 2030 April
Notes. The estimated fair values were based on quoted prices for our publicly-traded debt securities as of December 31, 2023. We are not
subject to any financial covenants or other significant restrictions under the notes. In 2023, we paid an aggregate of US$32 million in
interest payments related to these notes.
In October 2020, we issued an aggregate of US$650 million senior unsecured notes due in 2026, or the 2026 Notes, with stated annual
interest rate of 1.720%, and an aggregate of US$300 million senior unsecured notes due in 2030, or the 2030 October Notes, with stated
annual interest rate of 2.375%. The net proceeds from the sale of the notes are to be used to repay existing indebtedness. As of
December 31, 2023, the total carrying value and estimated fair value were US$650 million and US$603 million, respectively, with respect
to the 2026 Notes, and US$300 million and US$253 million, respectively, with respect to the 2030 October Notes. The estimated fair
values were based on quoted prices for our publicly-traded debt securities as of December 31, 2023. We are not subject to any financial
covenants or other significant restrictions under the notes. In 2023, we paid an aggregate of US$18 million in interest payments related to
these notes.
In August 2021, we issued an aggregate of US$300 million senior unsecured notes due in 2027, or the 2027 Five-year Notes, with stated
annual interest rate of 1.625%, and an aggregate of US$700 million senior unsecured notes due in 2031, or the 2031 Notes, with stated
annual interest rate of 2.375%. The net proceeds from the sale of the notes are to be used for general corporate purposes, including
repayment of certain existing indebtedness. As of December 31, 2023, the total carrying value and estimated fair value were
US$300 million and US$272 million, respectively, with respect to the 2027 Five-year Notes, and US$700 million and US$578 million,
respectively, with respect to the 2031 Notes. The estimated fair values were based on quoted prices for our publicly-traded debt securities
as of December 31, 2023. We are not subject to any financial covenants or other significant restrictions
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under the notes. In 2023, we paid an aggregate of US$22 million in interest payments related to these notes.
Under the terms of the indentures governing the 2025 Ten-year Notes, the 2027 Ten-year Notes and the 2028 March Notes, events of default
include, among others, there occurring with respect to any of our indebtedness or indebtedness of our principal controlled entities, an event of default
resulting in accelerated maturity or a failure to pay principal, interest or premium when due, and that the outstanding principal amount under payment
default or accelerated maturity equals or exceeds the greater of US$100 million and 2.5% of our total equity. Under such indentures, principal controlled
entities refer to entities as to which one or more of the following conditions is/are satisfied: (i) its total revenue or consolidated total revenue attributable
to our company is at least 5% of our consolidated total revenue, (ii) its net profit or consolidated net profit attributable to our company is at least 5% of
our consolidated net profit; or (iii) its net assets or consolidated net assets attributable to our company are at least 10% of our consolidated net assets.
For example, iQIYI constitutes a principal controlled entity under such indentures.
Under the terms of the indentures governing the 2024 November Notes, the 2024 December Notes (consolidated into and form a single series with
the 2024 November Notes), the 2028 November Notes, the 2025 Five-year Notes, the 2030 April Notes, the 2026 Notes, the 2030 October Notes, the
2027 Five-year Notes and the 2031 Notes, events of default include, among others, there occurring with respect to any of our company’s indebtedness,
an event of default resulting in accelerated maturity or a failure to pay principal, interest or premium when due, and that the outstanding principal
amount under payment default or accelerated maturity equals or exceeds the greater of US$100 million and 2.5% of our total equity.
If any such event of default were to take place, the holders of those notes may declare the principal of notes to be due and payable prior to the
stated maturity. Under the terms of the indentures governing the various notes, a declaration of acceleration of the relevant series of notes will be
automatically annulled if such event of default is remedied or cured by our company or any of our company’s principal controlled entities, in the case of
the 2025 Ten-year Notes, the 2027 Ten-year Notes and the 2028 March Notes, or our company, in the case of the 2024 November Notes, the 2024
December Notes, the 2028 November Notes, the 2025 Five-year Notes, the 2030 April Notes, the 2026 Notes, the 2030 October Notes, the 2027 Five-
year Notes and the 2031 Notes, or waived by the holders of the relevant notes within 30 days after the declaration of acceleration with respect thereto
and if the annulment of the acceleration of those notes would not conflict with any judgment or decree of a court of competent jurisdiction. As of
December 31, 2023, there was no such event of default.
iQIYI convertible notes
iQIYI has conducted the following issuances of convertible notes, which remain outstanding as of the date of this annual report:
•
On March 29, 2019, iQIYI issued US$1.2 billion convertible senior notes, or the iQIYI 2025 Convertible Notes. The iQIYI 2025
Convertible Notes are senior, unsecured obligations of iQIYI, and interest is payable semi-annually in cash at a rate of 2.00% per annum
on October 1 and April 1 of each year, beginning on October 1, 2019. The iQIYI 2025 Convertible Notes will mature on April 1, 2025
unless redeemed, repurchased or converted prior to such date.
The initial conversion rate of the iQIYI 2025 Convertible Notes is 33.0003 of iQIYI’s ADS per US$1,000 principal amount of the iQIYI
2025 Convertible Notes (which is equivalent to an initial conversion price of approximately US$30.30 per ADS). Prior to October 1, 2024,
the iQIYI 2025 Convertible Notes will be convertible at the option of the holders only upon the following circumstances: (1) during any
calendar quarter commencing after the calendar quarter ending on June 30, 2019, if the last reported sale price of ADSs for at least 20
trading days (whether or not consecutive) during a period of 30 consecutive trading days ending on, and including, the last trading day of
the immediately preceding calendar quarter is greater than or equal to 130% of the conversion
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price; (2) during the five business day period after any ten consecutive trading day period in which the trading price per US$1,000
principal amount of notes was less than 98% of the product of the last reported sale price of the ADSs and the conversion rate on each such
trading day; (3) if iQIYI calls the notes for a tax redemption; or (4) upon the occurrence of specified corporate events. Thereafter, the
iQIYI 2025 Convertible Notes will be convertible at the option of the holders at any time until the close of business on the second
scheduled trading day immediately preceding the maturity date. The conversion rate is subject to adjustment in some events but is not
adjusted for any accrued and unpaid interest. In addition, following a make-whole fundamental change that occurs prior to the maturity
date or following iQIYI’s delivery of a notice of a tax redemption, iQIYI will increase the conversion rate for a holder who elects to
convert its notes in connection with such a corporate event or such tax redemption. Upon conversion, iQIYI will pay or deliver to such
converting holders, as the case may be, cash, ADSs, or a combination of cash and ADSs, at its election.
The holders may require iQIYI to repurchase all or a portion of the iQIYI 2025 Convertible Notes for cash on April 1, 2023, or upon a
fundamental change, at a repurchase price equal to 100% of the principal amount, plus accrued and unpaid interest.
In connection with the issuance of the iQIYI 2025 Convertible Notes, iQIYI purchased capped call options on iQIYI’s ADS with certain
counterparties at a price of US$85 million. The counterparties agreed to sell to iQIYI up to approximately 40 million of iQIYI’s ADSs
upon iQIYI’s exercise of the capped call. The exercise price is equal to the iQIYI 2025 Convertible Notes’ initial conversion price and the
cap price is US$40.02 per ADS, subject to certain adjustments under the terms of the capped call transactions. The capped call transactions
are expected to reduce potential dilution to existing holders of the ordinary shares and ADSs of iQIYI upon conversion of the iQIYI 2025
Convertible Notes and/or offset any potential cash payments that iQIYI is required to make in excess of the principal amount of any
converted notes, as the case may be, with such reduction and/or offset subject to a cap.
•
On December 21, 2020, iQIYI issued US$800 million convertible senior notes and offered an additional US$100 million principal amount
simultaneously, pursuant to the underwriters’ option to purchase additional notes. On January 8, 2021, the additional US$100 million
principal amount was issued pursuant to the underwriters’ exercise of their option. The convertible senior notes issued on December 21,
2020 and January 8, 2021, or collectively, the iQIYI 2026 Convertible Notes, are senior, unsecured obligations of iQIYI, and interest is
payable semi-annually in cash at a rate of 4.00% per annum on June 15 and December 15 of each year, beginning on June 15, 2021. The
iQIYI 2026 Convertible Notes will mature on December 15, 2026 unless redeemed, repurchased or converted prior to such date.
The initial conversion rate of the iQIYI 2026 Convertible Notes is 44.8179 of iQIYI’s ADS per US$1,000 principal amount of the iQIYI
2026 Convertible Notes (which is equivalent to an initial conversion price of approximately US$22.31 per ADS). Prior to June 15, 2026,
the iQIYI 2026 Convertible Notes will be convertible at the option of the holders only upon the following circumstances: (1) during any
calendar quarter commencing after the calendar quarter ending on March 31, 2021, if the last reported sale price of ADSs for at least 20
trading days (whether or not consecutive) during a period of 30 consecutive trading days ending on, and including, the last trading day of
the immediately preceding calendar quarter is greater than or equal to 130% of the conversion price; (2) during the five business day
period after any ten consecutive trading day period in which the trading price per US$1,000 principal amount of notes was less than 98%
of the product of the last reported sale price of the ADSs and the conversion rate on each such trading day; (3) if iQIYI calls the notes for a
tax redemption; or (4) upon the occurrence of specified corporate events. Thereafter, the iQIYI 2026 Convertible Notes will be convertible
at the option of the holders at any time until the close of business on the second scheduled trading day immediately preceding the maturity
date. The conversion rate is subject to adjustment in some events but is not adjusted for any accrued and unpaid interest. In addition,
following a make-whole fundamental change that occurs prior to the maturity date
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or following iQIYI’s delivery of a notice of a tax redemption, iQIYI will increase the conversion rate for a holder who elects to convert its
notes in connection with such a corporate event or such tax redemption. Upon conversion, iQIYI will pay or deliver to such converting
holders, as the case may be, cash, ADSs, or a combination of cash and ADSs, at its election.
The holders may require iQIYI to repurchase all or a portion of the iQIYI 2026 Convertible Notes for cash on August 1, 2024, or upon a
fundamental change, at a repurchase price equal to 100% of the principal amount, plus accrued and unpaid interest.
•
On December 30, 2022, iQIYI issued US$500 million convertible senior notes, pursuant to the definitive agreements entered into with
PAGAC IV-1 (Cayman) Limited, PAG Pegasus Fund LP and/or their affiliates, or collectively, the Investors, in August 2022. IQIYI also
offered an additional US$50 million principal amount simultaneously pursuant to the Investors’ option to purchase additional notes. On
February 24, 2023, the additional US$50 million principal amount was issued pursuant to the Investors’ exercise of their option. The
convertible senior notes issued on December 30, 2022 and February 24, 2023, or collectively, the iQIYI PAG Convertible Notes, are
senior, secured obligations of iQIYI by certain collateral arrangements, and interest is payable quarterly in cash at a rate of 6.00% per
annum on January 1, April 1, July 1 and October 1 of each year, beginning on April 1, 2023. The iQIYI PAG Convertible Notes will
mature on the fifth anniversary of the issuance date unless redeemed, repurchased or converted prior to such date.
The iQIYI PAG Convertible Notes will be convertible at the holder’s option at any time prior to the close of business on the second
scheduled trading day immediately preceding the maturity date and subject to the terms of the iQIYI PAG Convertible Notes, at an initial
conversion rate of 216.9668 ADS per US$1,000 principal amount of the iQIYI PAG Convertible Notes (which is equivalent to an initial
conversion price of approximately US$4.61 per ADS). Following a make-whole fundamental change that occurs prior to the maturity date,
iQIYI will increase the conversion rate for a holder who elects to convert its notes in connection with such make-whole fundamental
change.
Holders of the iQIYI PAG Convertible Notes have the right to require iQIYI to repurchase for cash all or part of their Notes at a
repurchase price equal to 120% and 130% of the principal amount of the iQIYI PAG Convertible Notes on or shortly after the third
anniversary of the issuance date and the fifth anniversary of the issuance date, respectively. Upon the closing of the transaction, the
Investors have appointed the executive chairman of PAG as a member to the board of directors, a member of the compensation committee
and a non-voting member of the audit committee of iQIYI pursuant to their rights in the definitive agreements. For the year ended
December 31, 2023, the amount of interest cost recognized of iQIYI PAG Convertible Notes was RMB473 million (US$67 million). The
repayments of iQIYI PAG Convertible Notes are guaranteed by equity interests of certain subsidiaries of iQIYI and collateralized by
partial cash consideration related to certain contracts for which RMB840 million (US$118 million) cash consideration has been charged as
of December 31, 2023 and recorded as long-term restricted cash.
•
On March 7, 2023, iQIYI issued US$600 million convertible senior notes, or the iQIYI 2028 Convertible Notes. The iQIYI 2028
Convertible Notes are senior, unsecured obligations of iQIYI, and interest is payable quarterly in cash at a rate of 6.50% per annum on
March 15, June 15, September 15 and December 15 of each year, beginning on June 15, 2023. The iQIYI 2028 Convertible Notes will
mature on March 15, 2028 unless redeemed, repurchased or converted prior to such date.
The initial conversion rate of the iQIYI 2028 Convertible Notes is 101.4636 of iQIYI’s ADS per US$1,000 principal amount of the iQIYI
2028 Convertible Notes (which is equivalent to an initial conversion price of approximately US$9.86 per ADS). Prior to September 15,
2027, the iQIYI 2028 Convertible Notes will be convertible at the option of the holders only upon the following circumstances: (1) during
any calendar quarter commencing after the calendar quarter ending on June 30, 2023 (and only during such calendar quarter), if the last
reported sale price of ADSs for at least 20 trading days (whether or not consecutive) during a period of 30 consecutive trading days
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ending on, and including, the last trading day of the immediately preceding calendar quarter is greater than or equal to 130% of the
conversion price; (2) during the five business day period after any ten consecutive trading day period in which the trading price per
US$1,000 principal amount of notes was less than 98% of the product of the last reported sale price of the ADSs and the conversion rate
on each such trading day; (3) if iQIYI calls the notes for a tax redemption or an optional redemption; or (4) upon the occurrence of
specified corporate events. Thereafter, the iQIYI 2028 Convertible Notes will be convertible at the option of the holders at any time until
the close of business on the second scheduled trading day immediately preceding the maturity date. The conversion rate is subject to
adjustment in some events but is not adjusted for any accrued and unpaid interest. In addition, following a make-whole fundamental
change that occurs prior to the maturity date or following iQIYI’s delivery of a notice of a tax redemption, iQIYI will increase the
conversion rate for a holder who elects to convert its notes in connection with such a corporate event or such tax redemption. Upon
conversion, iQIYI will pay or deliver to such converting holders, as the case may be, cash, ADSs, or a combination of cash and ADSs, at
its election.
The holders may require iQIYI to repurchase all or a portion of the iQIYI 2028 Convertible Notes for cash on March 16, 2026, or upon a
fundamental change, at a repurchase price equal to 100% of the principal amount, plus accrued and unpaid interest. On or after March 20,
2026, iQIYI may redeem for cash all or part of the iQIYI 2028 Convertible Notes, at its option, if the last reported sale price of ADSs has
been at least 130% of the conversion price then in effect on (i) each of at least 20 trading days (whether or not consecutive) during the
period of 30 consecutive trading days ending on, and including, the trading day immediately prior to the date iQIYI provides the optional
redemption notice and (ii) the trading day immediately preceding the date iQIYI provides the optional redemption notice.
If any event of default are to take place, the trustee or the holders of at least 25% in aggregate principal amount may declare the whole principal of
(or, in the case of the iQIYI PAG Convertible Notes, 120% or 130% of the principal amount for such notes, as the case may be, depending on the date of
occurrence of the event of default), and accrued and unpaid interest on, all the outstanding convertible senior notes to be due and payable immediately,
subject to certain exceptions and conditions under the respective indenture. iQIYI may also be required to pay additional interest.
If any fundamental change are to take place, holders of the notes will have the right, at their option, to require iQIYI to repurchase all of their
notes or any portion of the principal amount (or, in the case of the iQIYI PAG Convertible Notes, 120% or 130% of the principal amount for such notes,
as the case may be, depending on the date of occurrence of the fundamental change), and accrued and unpaid interests. In the event of a fundamental
change, iQIYI may also be required to issue additional ADSs upon conversion of its convertible notes. As of December 31, 2023, there was no such
event of default or fundamental change.
We may use the net proceeds from our issuance and sale of the notes to fund the operations of our mainland China subsidiaries by making
additional capital contributions to our existing mainland China subsidiaries, injecting capital to establish new mainland China subsidiaries and/or
providing loans to our mainland China subsidiaries. Such transfer of funds from Baidu, Inc. or any of our offshore subsidiaries to our mainland China
subsidiaries is subject to the PRC regulatory restrictions and procedures: (i) capital increase of the existing mainland China subsidiaries and
establishment of new mainland China subsidiaries must be registered with the local branch of SAMR and reported to the Ministry of Commerce via the
online enterprise registration system, and registered with local banks authorized by SAFE; and (ii) loans to any of our mainland China subsidiaries must
not exceed the statutory limit and must be filed with SAFE. See “Item 3.D. Key Information—Risk Factors—Risks Related to Doing Business in China
—Mainland China’s regulation of loans to and direct investment in entities in mainland China by offshore holding companies and governmental control
of currency conversion may delay or prevent us from making loans to our mainland China subsidiaries, the variable interest entities and certain related
parties, or making additional capital contributions to our mainland China subsidiaries, which could adversely affect our ability to fund and expand our
business.”
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As of December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023, we had RMB66.3 billion, RMB60.5 billion and RMB55.2 billion (US$7.8 billion) in long-term loans
and notes payables (including current portion of RMB10.5 billion, RMB6.9 billion and RMB6.0 billion (US$849 million)), RMB12.7 billion,
RMB17.9 billion and RMB10.9 billion (US$1.5 billion) in long-term convertible notes (including current portion of nil, RMB8.3 billion and
RMB2.8 billion (US$395 million)), RMB8.4 billion, RMB7.6 billion and RMB8.1 billion (US$1.1 billion) in lease liabilities (including current portion
of RMB2.9 billion, RMB2.8 billion and RMB3.1 billion (US$438 million)) and had RMB4.2 billion, RMB5.3 billion and RMB10.3 billion (US$1.4
billion) in short-term loans, respectively. Our long-term loans and notes payable, long-term convertible notes and short-term loans include those of
iQIYI hereinafter. As of December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023, iQIYI had nil, nil and RMB100 million (US$14 million) in long-term loans payables
(including current portion of nil, nil, and RMB2 million), RMB12.7 billion, RMB17.9 billion and RMB10.9 billion (US$1.5 billion) in long-term
convertible notes (including current portion of nil, RMB8.3 billion and RMB2.8 billion (US$395 million)), RMB797 million, RMB612 million and
RMB625 million (US$88 million) in lease liabilities (including current portion of RMB172 million, RMB104 million and RMB101 million (US$14
million)) and had RMB4.1 billion, RMB3.3 billion and RMB3.6 billion (US$503 million) in short-term loans, respectively.
Accounting for Convertible Senior Notes
We adopted ASU No. 2020-06, Accounting for Convertible Instruments and Contracts in an Entity’s Own Equity by using a modified
retrospective transition method through a cumulative-effect adjustment on January 1, 2022. After the adoption of ASU 2020-06, as the iQIYI 2023
Convertible Notes, the iQIYI 2025 Convertible Notes, the iQIYI 2026 Convertible Notes, the iQIYI 2028 Convertible Notes and the iQIYI PAG
Convertible Notes, or collectively, the iQIYI Notes, were not issued at a substantial premium, all of the proceeds received from the issuance of the iQIYI
Notes are recorded as a liability on the consolidated balance sheet in accordance with ASC 470-20. That is, no portion of the proceeds from issuing the
iQIYI Notes are attributed to the conversion option at inception. The difference between the principal amount of each of the iQIYI Notes and net
proceeds from the issuance is considered debt discount and is amortized at their respective effective interest rates to accrete the carrying value of the
iQIYI Notes to its face value (120% of the principal amount for iQIYI PAG Convertible Notes) on the respective put dates of the iQIYI Notes. For the
year ended December 31, 2023, the effective interest rates of the iQIYI 2026 Convertible Notes, the iQIYI PAG Convertible Notes and the iQIYI 2028
Convertible Notes were 4.53%, 12.05%, 7.15%, respectively.
The cost of the 2023 Capped Call and 2025 Capped Call of US$68 million and US$85 million were recorded as a reduction of our company’s
additional paid-in capital and non-controlling interests on the consolidated balance sheets with no subsequent changes in fair value recorded.
In 2023, the net proceeds from the issuance of the iQIYI 2028 Convertible Notes was US$590 million, after deducting underwriting discounts and
offering expenses of US$10 million from the initial proceeds of US$600 million.
In 2021 and 2023, iQIYI repurchased the iQIYI 2023 Convertible Notes and the iQIYI 2025 Convertible Notes with aggregate principal amount
of US$747 million and US$1.2 billion (equivalent to RMB8.5 billion), respectively, as requested by the holders. In 2023, iQIYI repurchased the iQIYI
2026 Convertible Notes and the iQIYI 2028 Convertible Notes with the aggregate principal amount of US$504 million (equivalent to RMB3.6 billion)
and US$26 million (equivalent to RMB185 million), respectively, upon separate and individually privately negotiated agreements with certain holders.
Following settlement of the repurchase, a difference between the net carrying amount of the repurchased iQIYI notes and the repurchased price was
recognized as extinguishment gain and reported in “Others, net” in the consolidated statements of comprehensive income.
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The carrying amount of the iQIYI Notes as of December 31, 2022 and 2023 were as follows:
Principal
Less: unamortized discount and debt issuance costs
Net carrying amount
As of December 31, 2022
RMB
17,986
112
17,874
As of December 31, 2023
RMB
(In millions)
10,801
(145)
10,946
US$
1,522
(20)
1,542
For the years ended December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023, the amounts of interest cost recognized were as follows:
Contractual interest expense
Amortization of the discount and issuance costs
Total
For the years ended December 31,
2021
2022
2023
2023
(In millions)
RMB
557
559
1,116
RMB
404
66
470
RMB
644
292
936
US$
91
41
132
As of December 31, 2023, the iQIYI 2026 Convertible Notes, iQIYI PAG Convertible Notes and iQIYI 2028 Convertible Notes will be accreted
up to the principal amount of US$396 million, US$660 million (120% of the principal amount of iQIYI PAG Convertible Notes) and US$574 million
over a remaining period of 0.59 year, 2.00 years and 2.21 years, respectively. The amount repayable within the next twelve months are classified as
“Convertible senior notes, current portion” on the consolidated balance sheets.
The aggregate amounts upon scheduled maturities of US$2 million, US$396 million and US$1.3 billion (equivalent to RMB17 million,
RMB2.8 billion and RMB9.2 billion, respectively) of the iQIYI Notes will be repaid when they become due in 2025, 2026 and 2028, respectively,
assuming there is no conversion of the iQIYI Notes, no redemption of the iQIYI Notes prior to their maturities, the convertible senior notes bondholders
hold the iQIYI Notes until their maturities and iQIYI elects to fully settle the iQIYI Notes in cash.
Cash Flows
As of December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023, we had RMB190.9 billion, RMB185.3 billion and RMB205.4 billion (US$28.9 billion) in cash, cash
equivalents, restricted cash and short-term investments. As of December 31, 2022 and 2023, we had RMB750 million and RMB840 million (US$118
million) in long-term restricted cash, which was included in “Other non-current assets” in the consolidated balance sheet.
We entered into definitive agreements with JOYY in November 2020, which were subsequently amended and supplemented, including in
February 2021, to acquire YY Live for an aggregate purchase price of approximately US$3.6 billion in cash, subject to certain adjustments. The closing
of this acquisition is subject to certain conditions, including, among others, obtaining necessary regulatory approvals from government authorities, and
the share purchase agreement is subject to termination by either party if the closing does not occur by the long stop date. As of December 31, 2023, the
long stop date, the closing conditions provided for in the share purchase agreement had not been fully satisfied. On January 1, 2024, we exercised our
contractual right to terminate the share purchase agreement. We have paid an aggregate of US$1.9 billion, after considering working capital adjustment
of US$0.1 billion, to JOYY and its designated escrow account, and deposited an aggregate of US$1.6 billion into several escrow accounts, in
accordance with the terms and schedule set forth in the share repurchase agreement. See “Item 3.D. Key Information—Risk Factors—Risks Related to
Our Business and Industry—We face risks arising from our termination of the share purchase agreement for our proposed acquisition of YY Live.”
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The following table sets forth a summary of our cash flows for the years indicated:
Net cash provided by operating activities
Net cash used in investing activities
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash
Net increase (decrease) in cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash
Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash at beginning of the year
Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash at end of the year
Operating Activities
Year ended December 31,
2021
RMB
2022
RMB
2023
RMB
US$
(in millions)
20,122 26,170 36,615 5,157
(31,444) (3,944) (50,397) (7,098)
23,396 (6,390) (14,162) (1,995)
40
11,131 17,565 (27,662) (3,896)
36,540 47,671 65,236 9,188
47,671 65,236 37,574 5,292
(943) 1,729
282
Net cash provided by operating activities increased to RMB36.6 billion (US$5.2 billion) in 2023 from RMB26.2 billion in 2022. This increase
was primarily due to an increase of RMB14.0 billion (US$2.0 billion) in net income and a net decrease of RMB3.7 billion (US$521 million) in changes
in working capital, partially offset by an increase of RMB7.8 billion (US$1.1 billion) in investment and interest income and a decrease of
RMB1.6 billion (US$231 million) in amortization and impairment of assets.
Net cash provided by operating activities increased to RMB26.2 billion in 2022 from RMB20.1 billion in 2021. This increase was primarily due to
a decrease of RMB7.9 billion in investment and interest income and a net decrease of RMB1.9 billion in changes in working capital, partially offset by a
decrease of RMB3.1 billion in amortization and impairment of licensed copyrights and produced content.
Investing Activities
Net cash used in investing activities was RMB50.4 billion (US$7.1 billion) in 2023, consisting primarily of RMB198.7 billion (US$28.0 billion)
in purchase of held-to-maturity investments, RMB11.2 billion (US$1.6 billion) in acquisition of fixed assets, RMB3.3 billion (US$470 million) in
purchase of available-for-sale investments, RMB1.5 billion (US$209 million) in purchase of equity investments, RMB152.9 billion (US$21.5 billion) in
maturities of held-to-maturity investments, RMB6.9 billion (US$1.0 billion) in proceeds from disposal of equity investments, RMB3.9 billion (US$556
million) in repayments of loans provided to related parties and RMB2.2 billion (US$304 million) in sales and maturities of available-for-sale
investments.
Net cash used in investing activities was RMB3.9 billion in 2022, consisting primarily of RMB173.9 billion in purchase of held-to-maturity
investments, RMB8.3 billion in acquisition of fixed assets, RMB7.6 billion in purchase of available-for-sale investments, RMB3.6 billion in purchase of
equity investments, RMB178.8 billion in maturities of held-to-maturity investments, RMB9.3 billion in sales and maturities of available-for-sale
investments and RMB2.0 billion in proceeds from disposal of equity investments.
Net cash used in investing activities was RMB31.4 billion in 2021, consisting primarily of RMB171.5 billion in purchase of held-to-maturity
investments, RMB25.6 billion in purchase of available-for-sale investments, RMB156.7 billion in maturities of held-to-maturity investments,
RMB25.9 billion in sales and maturities of available-for-sale investments, RMB10.9 billion in acquisition of fixed assets, RMB12.0 billion in a
prepayment of the proposed JOYY businesses acquisition and RMB9.9 billion in proceeds from disposal of equity investments.
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Financing Activities
Net cash used in financing activities was RMB14.2 billion (US$2.0 billion) in 2023, consisting primarily of repayment of RMB11.7 billion
(US$1.7 billion) for convertible senior notes by iQIYI, repayment of RMB11.0 billion (US$1.6 billion) for short-term loans, repayment of
RMB7.3 billion (US$1.0 billion) for long-term loans and RMB4.8 billion (US$671 million) used to repurchase our shares, offset by RMB15.9 billion
(US$2.2 billion) proceeds from short-term loans, RMB4.4 billion (US$622 million) net proceeds from the issuance of convertible notes by iQIYI and
RMB3.5 billion (US$488 million) proceeds from issuance of shares of our subsidiaries.
Net cash used in financing activities was RMB6.4 billion in 2022, consisting primarily of repayment of RMB11.5 billion for long-term loans,
offset by RMB3.4 billion of net proceeds from the issuance of convertible notes by iQIYI and RMB1.2 billion of net proceeds from short-term loans.
Net cash provided by financing activities was RMB23.4 billion in 2021, consisting primarily of RMB19.9 billion net proceeds from the listing on
the Hong Kong Stock Exchange, RMB12.7 billion proceeds from long-term loans and RMB6.4 billion net proceeds from our issuance of long-term
notes offset by RMB7.6 billion used to repurchase our shares and repayment of RMB7.3 billion for long-term loans.
Capital Expenditures
We made capital expenditures of RMB10.9 billion, RMB8.3 billion and RMB11.2 billion (US$1.6 billion) in 2021, 2022 and 2023, representing
9%, 7% and 8% of our total revenues, respectively. In the years of 2021, 2022 and 2023, our capital expenditures were primarily attributable to the
purchase of servers, network equipment and other computer hardware to increase our network infrastructure capacity and support Gen-AI research and
development inputs. We funded our capital expenditures primarily with net cash flows generated from operating activities.
Our capital expenditures may increase in the future as our business continues to grow, in connection with the expansion and improvement of our
network infrastructure and the construction of additional office buildings and cloud-computing based data centers. We currently plan to fund these
expenditures with our current cash, cash equivalents, restricted cash, short-term investments and anticipated cash flow generated from our operating
activities.
Material Cash Requirements
Our material cash requirements as of December 31, 2023 and any subsequent interim period primarily include payments due for our short-term
debt obligations, long-term debt obligations, operating lease obligations, purchase obligations and investment commitment obligations.
Our long-term debt obligations primarily consist of long-term loans, notes payable and convertible notes and estimated interest payments.
Our operating lease obligations primarily represent our obligations for leasing internet data center facilities and office premises, which include all
future cash outflows under ASC Topic 842, Leases under Note 16 to our audited consolidated financial statements.
Our purchase obligations include purchase obligations for fixed assets, purchase obligations for bandwidth and property management fees, and
purchase obligations for content assets.
Purchase obligations for content assets consist primarily of expenditures for content assets under non-cancelable agreements for licensed
copyrights and produced content.
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Our investment commitment obligations primarily relate to capital contributions obligation under certain arrangements which do not have
contractual maturity date.
We intend to fund our existing and future material cash requirements primarily with anticipated cash flows from operations, our existing cash
balance and other financing alternatives. We will continue to make cash commitments, including capital expenditures, to support the growth of our
business.
We have not entered into any financial guarantees or other commitments to guarantee the payment obligations of any third parties. We have not
entered into any off-balance sheet derivative instruments. Furthermore, we do not have any retained or contingent interest in assets transferred to an
unconsolidated entity that serves as credit, liquidity or market risk support to such entity. We do not have any variable interest in any unconsolidated
entity that provides financing, liquidity, market risk or credit support to us or engages in leasing, hedging or research and development services with us.
The following table sets forth our contractual obligations by specified categories as of December 31, 2023:
Short-term debt obligations
Long-term debt obligations
Operating lease obligations
Purchase obligations for fixed assets
Purchase obligations for bandwidth and property management fees
Purchase obligations for content assets
Investment commitment obligations
Total
Payment Due by Period
Less Than
Total
1 Year
1-3 Years
3-5 Years
10,257
75,240
8,791
5,177
807
14,778
1,402
116,452
10,257
8,139
3,182
5,160
653
8,627
N/A
36,018
(In RMB millions)
—
32,850
3,962
9
122
5,117
N/A
42,060
—
23,710
1,323
8
11
833
N/A
25,885
More than
5 Years
—
10,541
324
—
21
201
N/A
11,087
Other than as discussed above, we did not have any significant capital and other commitments, long-term obligations or guarantees as of
December 31, 2023. The iQIYI 2026 Convertible Notes are senior, unsecured obligations of iQIYI, and interest is payable semi-annually in cash at a
rate of 4.00% per annum on June 15 and December 15 of each year, beginning on June 15, 2021. The iQIYI 2026 Convertible Notes will mature on
December 15, 2026, unless repurchased, redeemed or converted prior to such date. The holders may require iQIYI to repurchase all or a portion of the
iQIYI 2026 Convertible Notes for cash on August 1, 2024, or upon a fundamental change.
Holding Company Structure
Baidu, Inc. is a holding company with no operations of its own. We conduct our operations in mainland China primarily through our subsidiaries
and the variable interest entities in mainland China. As a result, although other means are available for us to obtain financing at the holding company
level, Baidu, Inc.’s ability to pay dividends to the shareholders and to service any debt it may incur may depend upon dividends paid by our mainland
China subsidiaries and license and service fees paid by the variable interest entities in mainland China. If any of our subsidiaries incurs debt on its own
behalf in the future, the instruments governing such debt may restrict its ability to pay dividends to Baidu, Inc. In addition, our mainland China
subsidiaries and the variable interest entities are required to make appropriations to certain statutory reserve funds, which are not distributable as cash
dividends except in the event of a solvent liquidation of the companies.
Our mainland China subsidiaries, being foreign-invested enterprises established in mainland China, are required to make appropriations to certain
statutory reserves, namely, a general reserve fund, an enterprise
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expansion fund, a staff welfare fund and a bonus fund, all of which are appropriated from net profit as reported in their PRC statutory accounts. Each of
our mainland China subsidiaries is required to allocate at least 10% of its after-tax profits to a general reserve fund until such fund has reached 50% of
its respective registered capital. Appropriations to the enterprise expansion fund and staff welfare and bonus funds are at the discretion of the board of
directors of the mainland China subsidiaries.
The variable interest entities must make appropriations from their after-tax profits as reported in their PRC statutory accounts to non-distributable
reserve funds, namely a statutory surplus fund, a statutory public welfare fund and a discretionary surplus fund. Each of the variable interest entities is
required to allocate at least 10% of its after-tax profits to the statutory surplus fund until such fund has reached 50% of its respective registered capital.
Appropriations to the statutory public welfare fund and the discretionary surplus fund are at the discretion of the variable interest entities.
Under the laws and regulations of mainland China, our mainland China subsidiaries and the variable interest entities are subject to certain
restrictions with respect to paying dividends or otherwise transferring any of their net assets to us. The amounts restricted include the paid-up capital and
the statutory reserve funds of our mainland China subsidiaries and the net assets of the variable interest entities in which we have no legal ownership,
totaling RMB45.9 billion, RMB47.3 billion and RMB48.0 billion (US$6.8 billion) as of December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023, respectively.
C. Research and Development
We have a team of experienced engineers who are based mostly in Beijing, Shanghai and Shenzhen, China. We also have development centers in
Sunnyvale, California and Seattle, Washington. We compete aggressively for engineering and recruit most of our engineers locally and have established
various recruiting and training programs with leading universities in China. We have also recruited experienced engineers globally.
In the years ended December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023, our research and development expenditures were RMB24.9 billion, RMB23.3 billion and
RMB24.2 billion (US$3.4 billion), representing 20%, 19% and 18% of our total revenues, respectively. Our research and development expenses
primarily consist of salaries and benefits for research and development personnel, server depreciation expenses and server custody fees. We expense
research and development expenditures as they are incurred, except for capitalized software development costs that fulfill the capitalization criteria.
D.
Trend Information
Other than as disclosed elsewhere in this annual report, we are not aware of any trends, uncertainties, demands, commitments or events for the
year ended December 31, 2023 that are reasonably likely to have a material and adverse effect on our total revenues, income, profitability, liquidity or
capital resources, or that would cause the disclosed financial information to be not necessarily indicative of future results of operations or financial
conditions.
E.
Critical Accounting Estimates
For our critical accounting estimates, see “Item 5. Operating and Financial Review and Prospects—A. Operating Results—Critical Accounting
Policies and Estimates.”
Item 6.
Directors, Senior Management and Employees
A. Directors and Senior Management
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The following table sets forth information regarding our directors and executive officers as of the date of this annual report.
Directors and Executive Officers
Robin Yanhong Li
James Ding
Brent Callinicos
Yuanqing Yang
Jixun Foo
Sandy Ran Xu
Rong Luo
Haifeng Wang
Dou Shen
Victor Zhixiang Liang
Shanshan Cui
Age
Position/Title
55 Chairman of the Board of Directors and Chief Executive Officer
58 Independent Director
58 Independent Director
59 Independent Director
55 Independent Director
47 Independent Director
42 Chief Financial Officer
52 Chief Technology Officer
44 Executive Vice President
50 Senior Vice President
48 Senior Vice President
Robin Yanhong Li is our co-founder, chief executive officer and chairman of our board of directors, overseeing our overall strategy and business
operations. Mr. Li has been serving as the chairman since our inception in January 2000 and as our chief executive officer since February 2004. Mr. Li
served as our president from February 2000 to December 2003. Prior to founding our company, Mr. Li worked as an engineer for Infoseek, a pioneer in
the search industry, and as a senior consultant for IDD Information Services. Mr. Li currently serves on the board of New Oriental Education &
Technology Group Inc., a private educational services provider in China (NYSE: EDU; SEHK: 9901). Mr. Li received a bachelor’s degree in
information science from Peking University and a master’s degree in computer science from the State University of New York at Buffalo.
James Ding has served as our independent director since our initial public offering in August 2005. Mr. Ding brings a deep understanding of the
internet and artificial intelligence industry, which is relevant to and continuously supported the growth and evolution of our principal business since his
appointment. He also brings extensive experience as a high tech entrepreneur and chief executive officer of a Nasdaq-listed company. Mr. Ding is a
valuable member of the Company’s board of directors and continues to make important contribution to our company. He is also a member of our audit
committee and corporate governance and nominating committee, and the chairman of our compensation committee. Mr. Ding is currently a managing
director of GSR Ventures, which focuses on early stage companies in the artificial intelligence, big data, information technology related healthcare,
virtual reality/augmented reality and new media sectors. Prior to that, Mr. Ding served as a co-chairman of the board of directors of AsiaInfo-Linkage
Inc., a former Nasdaq-listed company, from July 2010 to January 2014. Mr. Ding also served as the chairman of the board of AsiaInfo from April 2003
to July 2010, and has served as a member of the board since AsiaInfo’s inception in 1993. Mr. Ding served as the chief executive officer and president of
AsiaInfo from 1999 to 2003 and as senior vice president and chief technology officer of AsiaInfo from 1993 to 1999. Mr. Ding currently serves as
director of the board of AsiaInfo (which is currently listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange as AsiaInfo Technologies Limited with stock code 1675
and played an important role in the design and development of China’s internet infrastructure). Mr. Ding received a master’s degree in information
science from the University of California, Los Angeles and a bachelor’s degree in chemistry from Peking University in China.
Brent Callinicos has served as our independent director since October 2015, and as the chairman of our audit committee since April 2016.
Mr. Callinicos served as the chief operating officer and the chief financial officer of Virgin Hyperloop One from January 2017 to January 2018. Prior to
that, Mr. Callinicos served as the chief financial officer of Uber Technologies Inc. from September 2013 to March 2015, and then as an advisor for 18
additional months. Prior to joining Uber, he worked at Google from January 2007 to September 2013, where he last served as vice president, treasurer
and chief accountant. He also led green energy investments and
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financial services at Google Inc. From 1992 to 2007, he served in a variety of increasingly senior roles at Microsoft Corporation, where he last served as
corporate vice-president and divisional chief financial officer of the Platforms and Services Division, and oversaw Microsoft’s Worldwide Licensing and
Pricing and Microsoft Financing. He currently serves on the board of directors of PVH Corp. (NYSE: PVH), and Rubicon Technologies, Inc. (NYSE:
RBT) and Acorns. Mr. Callinicos is a certified public accountant. Mr. Callinicos received a bachelor’s degree from the University of North Carolina at
Chapel Hill and an M.B.A. degree from the Kenan-Flagler School of Business at Chapel Hill.
Yuanqing Yang has served as our independent director since October 2015. Mr. Yang is also a member of our compensation committee and the
chairman of our corporate governance and nominating committee. Mr. Yang is currently the chairman and chief executive officer of Lenovo Group
Limited (SEHK: 992), a director of Sureinvest Holdings Limited and a director of Taikang Insurance Group. He also serves as a member of the
International Advisory Council of the Brookings Institution. Mr. Yang has more than 30 years of experience in information and communications
technology industry. Mr. Yang joined Lenovo in 1989 and Lenovo has transformed from a device provider to a solution and service provider under his
leadership. Mr. Yang holds a master’s degree in computer science from the University of Science and Technology of China and a bachelor’s degree in
computer science and engineering from Shanghai Jiao Tong University.
Jixun Foo has served as our independent director since July 2019. Mr. Foo is also a member of our audit committee and our compensation
committee. Mr. Foo currently serves as the Managing Partner at GGV Capital Asia. Mr. Foo joined GGV in 2006 and has spent the last 20 years
working with entrepreneurs in the travel and transportation, social media and commerce, and enterprise services sectors. Prior to joining GGV, Mr. Foo
was a director at Draper Fisher Jurvetson ePlanet Ventures, where he led investments in Asia. Mr. Foo also previously led investments under the finance
and investment division of the National Science and Technology Board of Singapore and served as an R&D project group leader at Hewlett Packard.
Mr. Foo currently serves on the boards of XPeng Inc. (NYSE: XPEV), Bombardier Inc. (TSX: BBD) and a number of private companies, including
Hello. Mr. Foo graduated from the National University of Singapore with a First-Class Honors degree in Engineering, and received an M.Sc. in
Management of Technology from the National University of Singapore’s Graduate School of Business.
Sandy Ran Xu has served as our independent director since January 2024. Ms. Xu has served as chief executive officer and executive director of
JD.com since May 2023. Prior to her current role, Ms. Xu served as chief financial officer of JD.com from June 2020 to May 2023. Prior to joining
JD.com, Ms. Xu was an audit partner and spent nearly 20 years with PricewaterhouseCoopers Zhong Tian LLP, Beijing office and
PricewaterhouseCoopers, San Jose office. Ms. Xu currently also serves as a director of Yonghui Superstores Co., Ltd. Ms. Xu was a Certified Public
Accountant in both China and the United States. Ms. Xu received her bachelor’s degree with a double major in information science and economics from
Peking University.
Rong Luo has served as our chief financial officer since November 2021. Prior to joining us, Mr. Luo served as the chief financial officer of TAL
Education Group, an NYSE listed company, from November 2014 to October 2021 and played several key management roles. Prior to that, Mr. Luo was
the chief financial officer of eLong Inc. from 2013 to 2014. Before that, Mr. Luo held different financial management positions at Lenovo Group and
Microsoft. Mr. Luo holds bachelor’s degrees in both information management and systems and economics from Peking University, a master’s degree in
management science and engineering from Tsinghua University, and a Ph.D. degree in management science from Peking University.
Haifeng Wang has served as our chief technology officer since May 2019. Dr. Wang joined Baidu in 2010 and was promoted to vice president in
2013. Dr. Wang oversaw our core search products from 2014 to 2017. He was promoted to senior vice president in 2018. Prior to Baidu, Dr. Wang
served as the chief research scientist at Toshiba’s R&D Center. Dr. Wang is the director of the National Engineering Research Center of Deep Learning
Technology and Application. Dr. Wang is an IEEE fellow, and a fellow (and former president) of the Association
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for Computational Linguistics (ACL) and the founding chair of ACL’s Asia-Pacific chapter. Dr. Wang obtained his bachelor’s, master’s, and Ph.D.
degrees in computer science from the Harbin Institute of Technology.
Dr. Dou Shen received a Ph.D. from the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, and currently serves as executive vice president of
Baidu and the president of Baidu AI Cloud Group. Dr. Shen currently serves as a director of iQIYI, Inc. (Nasdaq: IQ), COSCO Shipping Holdings Co.,
Ltd. (SHA: 601919) and China United Network Communications Limited (SHA: 600050). Dr. Shen joined Baidu in 2012 and has served various
management roles, including web search, display advertising, the financial services group and mobile products. Dr. Shen has published more than 40
papers in international conferences and journals, and held multiple patents on internet search and computational advertising. Currently, he serves as the
vice president of SIGKDD China Chapter.
Victor Zhixiang Liang joined Baidu in June 2005, and became senior vice president and general counsel in June 2011. Mr. Liang leads our overall
legal functions. Mr. Liang also served as an executive assistant to the CEO from January 2013 to February 2018. Prior to joining Baidu, he worked at
Davis Polk & Wardwell LLP, as a visiting attorney at their New York Office. Mr. Liang received an LL.M. degree from Yale Law School and law
degrees from the University of New South Wales and Peking University.
Shanshan Cui currently serves as our senior vice president in charge of human resources and administrative functions since May 2019. Ms. Cui
joined us in January 2000 overseeing the search technology group, and is a founding member of the company. Ms. Cui left Baidu in July 2010 to pursue
personal interests and rejoined Baidu in December 2017, initially serving as Secretary General to our Organizational Culture Committee. In this
capacity, Ms. Cui oversaw employee culture and organization effectiveness, implementing initiatives, such as OKR (objectives & key results)
management, throughout the company. Ms. Cui received a bachelor’s degree in computer science from Beijing Institute of Technology and a master’s
degree in computer science from the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences.
B.
Compensation
In 2023, we paid an aggregate of RMB25 million (US$4 million) in cash compensation and granted 2,395,968 restricted Class A ordinary shares
to our executive officers that are in office as of the date of this annual report as a group. During the same period, we also paid an aggregate of
approximately RMB1.2 million (US$174 thousand) in cash compensation to our non-executive directors as a group. Our mainland China subsidiaries
and the variable interest entities are required by law to make contributions equal to certain percentages of each employee’s salary for his or her pension
insurance, medical insurance, housing fund, unemployment insurance and other statutory benefits. Other than the above-mentioned statutory
contributions mandated by applicable laws of mainland China, we have not set aside or accrued any amount to provide pension, retirement or other
similar benefits to our executive officers and directors. No executive officer is entitled to any severance benefits upon termination of his or her
employment with our company except as required under applicable laws of mainland China.
Our board of directors and shareholders approved the issuance of up to 403,200,000 ordinary shares upon exercise of awards granted under our
2000 option plan. Our 2000 option plan terminated in January 2010 upon the expiration of its ten-year term. At the annual general meeting held on
December 16, 2008, our shareholders approved a 2008 share incentive plan, which has reserved an additional 274,302,160 Class A ordinary shares for
awards to be granted pursuant to its terms. Our 2008 share incentive plan terminated in December 2018 upon the expiration of its ten-year term. On
July 20, 2018, our board of directors approved a 2018 share incentive plan, which has reserved an additional 275,516,000 Class A ordinary shares
(taking into account the Share Subdivision) for awards to be granted pursuant to its terms. In August 2023, our board of directors approved a 2023 share
incentive plan, which has reserved an additional 281,230,346 Class A ordinary shares for awards to be granted pursuant to its terms. As of December 31,
2023, options to purchase an aggregate of 51,735,584 Class A ordinary shares and an aggregate of 353,852,576 restricted Class A ordinary shares had
been granted under the 2008, 2018 and 2023 share incentive plans.
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The following table summarizes, as of December 31, 2023, the outstanding options and restricted Class A ordinary shares that we had granted to
our current directors and executive officers and to other individuals as a group.
Name
Robin Yanhong Li
James Ding
Brent Callinicos
Yuanqing Yang
Jixun Foo
Rong Luo
Haifeng Wang
Dou Shen
Victor Zhixiang Liang
Shanshan Cui
Other individuals as a group
Ordinary Shares
Underlying
Outstanding Options
193,200
958,160
3,512,320
211,040
724,800
469,120
329,440(1)
422,960(1)
1,086,040(1)
1,368,392(1)
*(1)
*(1)
*(1)
*(1)
*
*(1)
*(1)
*
*
*(1)
*(1)
*(1)
*(1)
*
*(1)
*(1)
*(1)
*(1)
*(1)
*(1)
*(1)
*(1)
*(1)
*(1)
*(1)
*(1)
98,286,800
Exercise Price
(US$/Share)
21.566
26.834
25.863
19.778
21.888
23.251
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
20.178
—
—
23.483
12.486
—
—
—
—
12.486
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
Grant Date
February 24, 2014
February 11, 2015
April 16, 2015
February 25, 2016
October 27, 2016
February 22, 2017
February 5, 2020
February 8, 2021
February 14, 2022
August 9, 2023
February 14, 2022
February 14, 2022
February 14, 2022
February 14, 2022
November 8, 2021
November 8, 2021
August 9, 2023
April 27, 2017
August 8, 2019
February 5, 2020
February 8, 2021
February 14, 2022
August 9, 2023
August 8, 2019
February 5, 2020
February 8, 2021
February 14, 2022
August 9, 2023
February 5, 2020
February 8, 2021
February 14, 2022
August 9, 2023
February 5, 2020
February 8, 2021
February 14, 2022
August 9, 2023
—
Expiration Date
February 24, 2024
February 11, 2025
April 16, 2025
February 25, 2026
October 27, 2026
February 22, 2027
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
November 8, 2031
N/A
N/A
April 27, 2027
August 8, 2029
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
August 8, 2029
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
—
*
(1)
The options and restricted shares in aggregate held by each of these directors and officers represent less than 1% of our total outstanding shares. The options held by these directors and
officers represent less than 1% of our outstanding shares.
Restricted shares.
The following paragraphs summarize the key terms of our 2008 share incentive plan adopted on December 16, 2008, our 2018 share incentive
plan adopted on July 20, 2018 and our 2023 share incentive plan adopted in August 2023:
2008 Share Incentive Plan
The following paragraphs summarize the key terms of our 2008 share incentive plan.
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Types of Awards. We may grant the following types of awards under our 2018 share incentive plan:
•
•
•
•
options (incentive share options, or ISO);
restricted shares;
restricted share units; and
any other form of awards granted to a participant pursuant to the 2008 plan.
Plan Administration. The compensation committee of our board of directors administers our 2008 share incentive plan, but may delegate to a
committee of one or more members of our board of directors the authority to grant or amend awards to participants other than independent directors and
executive officers. The compensation committee will determine the provisions and terms and conditions of each award grant, including, but not limited
to, the exercise price, the grant price or purchase price, any restrictions or limitations on the award, any schedule for lapse of forfeiture restrictions or
restrictions on the exercisability of an award, and accelerations or waivers thereof, any provisions related to non-competition and recapture of gain on an
award, based in each case on such considerations as the committee in its sole discretion determines. The compensation committee has the sole power
and discretion to cancel, forfeit or surrender an outstanding award (whether or not in exchange for another award or combination or awards).
Award Agreement. Awards granted under our 2008 share incentive plan are evidenced by an award agreement that sets forth the terms, conditions
and limitations for each award which may include the term of an award, the provisions applicable in the event the participant’s employment or service
ends, and our authority to unilaterally or bilaterally amend, modify, suspend, cancel or rescind an award.
Eligibility. We may grant awards to employees, directors and consultants of our company or any of our related entities, which include our
subsidiaries or any entities in which we hold a substantial ownership interest. However, we may grant ISOs only to our employees and employees of our
majority-owned subsidiaries.
Acceleration of Awards upon Corporate Transactions. The outstanding awards will accelerate (i) upon occurrence of a change-of-control
corporate transaction where any person acquires at least 50% of the total combined voting power of our outstanding securities or the incumbent board
members no longer constitute at least 50% of our board, or (ii) upon occurrence of any other change-of-control corporate transaction in which the
successor entity does not assume our outstanding awards under our 2008 share incentive plan; provided that the plan participant remains an employee,
consultant or member of our board of directors on the effective date of the corporate transaction. In such event, each outstanding award will become
fully exercisable and all forfeiture restrictions on such award will lapse immediately prior to the specified effective date of the corporate transaction.
If the successor entity assumes our outstanding awards and later terminates the grantee’s employment or service without cause within 12 months
of the corporate transaction, or if the grantee resigns voluntarily with good reason, the outstanding awards automatically will become fully vested and
exercisable. The compensation committee may also, in its sole discretion, upon or in anticipation of a corporate transaction, accelerate awards, purchase
the awards from the plan participants, replace the awards, or provide for the payment of the awards in cash.
Exercise Price and Term of Awards. The exercise price per share subject to an option may be amended or adjusted in the absolute discretion of the
compensation committee, the determination of which shall be final, binding and conclusive. To the extent not prohibited by applicable laws or exchange
rules, a downward adjustment of the exercise prices of options mentioned in the preceding sentence shall be effective without the approval of our
shareholders or the approval of the affected grantees. If we grant an ISO to an employee, who, at the time of that grant, owns shares representing more
than 10% of the voting power of all classes of our share capital, the exercise price cannot be less than 110% of the fair market value of our ordinary
shares on the date of
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that grant. The compensation committee will determine the time or times at which an option may be exercised in whole or in part, including exercise
prior to vesting. The term may not exceed ten years from the date of the grant, except that five years is the maximum term of an ISO granted to an
employee who holds more than 10% of the voting power of our share capital.
Restricted Shares and Restricted Share Units. The compensation committee is also authorized to make awards of restricted shares and restricted
share units. Except as otherwise determined by the compensation committee at the time of the grant of an award or thereafter, upon termination of
employment or service during the applicable restriction period, restricted shares that are at the time subject to restrictions shall be forfeited or
repurchased in accordance with the respective award agreements.
Vesting Schedule. The compensation committee determines, and the award agreement specifies, the vesting schedule of options and other awards
granted. The compensation committee determines the time or times at which an option may be exercised in whole or in part, including exercise prior to
vesting, and also determines any conditions that must be satisfied before all or part of an option may be exercised. At the time of grant for restricted
share units, the compensation committee specifies the date on which the restricted share units become fully vested and non-forfeitable, and may specify
such conditions to vesting as it deems appropriate.
Amendment and Termination. With the approval of our board of directors, the compensation committee may at any time amend, suspend or
terminate our 2008 share incentive plan. Amendments to our 2008 share incentive plan are subject to shareholder approval, to the extent required by law,
or by stock exchange rules or regulations. Any amendment, suspension or termination of our 2008 share incentive plan must not adversely affect in any
material way awards already granted without written consent of the recipient of such awards. Unless terminated earlier, our 2008 share incentive plan
shall continue in effect for a term of ten years from the date of adoption.
2018 Share Incentive Plan
The following paragraphs summarize the key terms of our 2018 share incentive plan.
Types of Awards. We may grant the following types of awards under our 2018 share incentive plan:
•
•
•
•
options (incentive share options, or ISO);
restricted shares;
restricted share units; and
any other form of awards granted to a participant pursuant to the 2018 plan.
Plan Administration. The compensation committee of our board of directors administers our 2018 share incentive plan, but may delegate to a
committee of one or more members of our board of directors the authority to grant or amend awards to participants other than independent directors and
executive officers. The compensation committee will determine the provisions and terms and conditions of each award grant, including, but not limited
to, the exercise price, the grant price or purchase price, any restrictions or limitations on the award, any schedule for lapse of forfeiture restrictions or
restrictions on the exercisability of an award, and accelerations or waivers thereof, any provisions related to non-competition and recapture of gain on an
award, based in each case on such considerations as the committee in its sole discretion determines. The compensation committee has the sole power
and discretion to cancel, forfeit or surrender an outstanding award (whether or not in exchange for another award or combination or awards).
Award Agreement. Awards granted under our 2018 share incentive plan are evidenced by an award agreement that sets forth the terms, conditions
and limitations for each award which may include the term of an award, the provisions applicable in the event the participant’s employment or service
ends, and our authority to unilaterally or bilaterally amend, modify, suspend, cancel or rescind an award.
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Eligibility. We may grant awards to employees, directors and consultants of our company or any of our related entities, which include our
subsidiaries or any entities in which we hold a substantial ownership interest. However, we may grant ISOs only to our employees and employees of our
majority-owned subsidiaries.
Acceleration of Awards upon Corporate Transactions. The outstanding awards will accelerate (i) upon occurrence of a change-of-control
corporate transaction where any person acquires at least 50% of the total combined voting power of our outstanding securities or the incumbent board
members no longer constitute at least 50% of our board, or (ii) upon occurrence of any other change-of-control corporate transaction in which the
successor entity does not assume our outstanding awards under our 2018 share incentive plan; provided that the plan participant remains an employee,
consultant or member of our board of directors on the effective date of the corporate transaction. In such event, each outstanding award will become
fully exercisable and all forfeiture restrictions on such award will lapse immediately prior to the specified effective date of the corporate transaction.
If the successor entity assumes our outstanding awards and later terminates the grantee’s employment or service without cause within 12 months
of the corporate transaction, or if the grantee resigns voluntarily with good reason, the outstanding awards automatically will become fully vested and
exercisable. The compensation committee may also, in its sole discretion, upon or in anticipation of a corporate transaction, accelerate awards, purchase
the awards from the plan participants, replace the awards, or provide for the payment of the awards in cash.
Exercise Price and Term of Awards. The exercise price per share subject to an option may be amended or adjusted in the absolute discretion of the
compensation committee, the determination of which shall be final, binding and conclusive. To the extent not prohibited by applicable laws or exchange
rules, a downward adjustment of the exercise prices of options mentioned in the preceding sentence shall be effective without the approval of our
shareholders or the approval of the affected grantees. If we grant an ISO to an employee, who, at the time of that grant, owns shares representing more
than 10% of the voting power of all classes of our share capital, the exercise price cannot be less than 110% of the fair market value of our ordinary
shares on the date of that grant. The compensation committee will determine the time or times at which an option may be exercised in whole or in part,
including exercise prior to vesting. The term may not exceed ten years from the date of the grant, except that five years is the maximum term of an ISO
granted to an employee who holds more than 10% of the voting power of our share capital.
Restricted Shares and Restricted Share Units. The compensation committee is also authorized to make awards of restricted shares and restricted
share units. Except as otherwise determined by the compensation committee at the time of the grant of an award or thereafter, upon termination of
employment or service during the applicable restriction period, restricted shares that are at the time subject to restrictions shall be forfeited or
repurchased in accordance with the respective award agreements.
Vesting Schedule. The compensation committee determines, and the award agreement specifies, the vesting schedule of options and other awards
granted. The compensation committee determines the time or times at which an option may be exercised in whole or in part, including exercise prior to
vesting, and also determines any conditions that must be satisfied before all or part of an option may be exercised. At the time of grant for restricted
share units, the compensation committee specifies the date on which the restricted share units become fully vested and non-forfeitable, and may specify
such conditions to vesting as it deems appropriate.
Amendment and Termination. With the approval of our board of directors, the compensation committee may at any time amend, suspend or
terminate our 2018 share incentive plan. To the extent our company decides to not to follow home country practice, amendments to our 2018 share
incentive plan are subject to shareholder approval, to the extent required by law, or by stock exchange rules or regulations. Any amendment, suspension
or termination of our 2018 share incentive plan must not adversely affect in any material way awards already granted without written consent of the
recipient of such awards. Unless terminated earlier, our 2018 share incentive plan shall continue in effect for a term of ten years from the date of
adoption.
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2023 Share Incentive Plan
The following paragraphs summarize the key terms of our 2023 share incentive plan.
Types of Awards. We may grant the following types of awards under our 2023 share incentive plan:
•
•
•
•
options (incentive share options, or ISO);
restricted shares;
restricted share units; and
any other form of awards granted to a participant pursuant to the 2023 plan.
Plan Administration. The compensation committee of our board of directors administers our 2023 share incentive plan, but may delegate to a
committee of one or more members of our board of directors the authority to grant or amend awards to participants other than independent directors and
executive officers. The compensation committee will determine the provisions and terms and conditions of each award grant, including, but not limited
to, the exercise price, the grant price or purchase price, any restrictions or limitations on the award, any schedule for lapse of forfeiture restrictions or
restrictions on the exercisability of an award, and accelerations or waivers thereof, any provisions related to non-competition and recapture of gain on an
award, based in each case on such considerations as the committee in its sole discretion determines. The compensation committee has the sole power
and discretion to cancel, forfeit or surrender an outstanding award (whether or not in exchange for another award or combination or awards).
Award Agreement. Awards granted under our 2023 share incentive plan are evidenced by an award agreement that sets forth the terms, conditions
and limitations for each award which may include the term of an award, the provisions applicable in the event the participant’s employment or service
ends, and our authority to unilaterally or bilaterally amend, modify, suspend, cancel or rescind an award.
Eligibility. We may grant awards to employees, directors and consultants of our company or any of our related entities, which include our
subsidiaries or any entities in which we hold a substantial ownership interest. However, we may grant ISOs only to our employees and employees of our
majority-owned subsidiaries.
Acceleration of Awards upon Corporate Transactions. The outstanding awards will accelerate (i) upon occurrence of a change-of-control
corporate transaction where any person acquires at least 50% of the total combined voting power of our outstanding securities or the incumbent board
members no longer constitute at least 50% of our board, or (ii) upon occurrence of any other change-of-control corporate transaction in which the
successor entity does not assume our outstanding awards under our 2023 share incentive plan; provided that the plan participant remains an employee,
consultant or member of our board of directors on the effective date of the corporate transaction. In such event, each outstanding award will become
fully exercisable and all forfeiture restrictions on such award will lapse immediately prior to the specified effective date of the corporate transaction.
If the successor entity assumes our outstanding awards and later terminates the grantee’s employment or service without cause within 12 months
of the corporate transaction, or if the grantee resigns voluntarily with good reason, the outstanding awards automatically will become fully vested and
exercisable. The compensation committee may also, in its sole discretion, upon or in anticipation of a corporate transaction, accelerate awards, purchase
the awards from the plan participants, replace the awards, or provide for the payment of the awards in cash.
Exercise Price and Term of Awards. The exercise price per share subject to an option may be amended or adjusted in the absolute discretion of the
compensation committee, the determination of which shall be final, binding and conclusive. To the extent not prohibited by applicable laws or exchange
rules, a downward adjustment of the exercise prices of options mentioned in the preceding sentence shall be effective without the
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approval of our shareholders or the approval of the affected grantees. If we grant an ISO to an employee, who, at the time of that grant, owns shares
representing more than 10% of the voting power of all classes of our share capital, the exercise price cannot be less than 110% of the fair market value
of our ordinary shares on the date of that grant. The compensation committee will determine the time or times at which an option may be exercised in
whole or in part, including exercise prior to vesting. The term may not exceed ten years from the date of the grant, except that five years is the maximum
term of an ISO granted to an employee who holds more than 10% of the voting power of our share capital.
Restricted Shares and Restricted Share Units. The compensation committee is also authorized to make awards of restricted shares and restricted
share units. Except as otherwise determined by the compensation committee at the time of the grant of an award or thereafter, upon termination of
employment or service during the applicable restriction period, restricted shares that are at the time subject to restrictions shall be forfeited or
repurchased in accordance with the respective award agreements.
Vesting Schedule. The compensation committee determines, and the award agreement specifies, the vesting schedule of options and other awards
granted. The compensation committee determines the time or times at which an option may be exercised in whole or in part, including exercise prior to
vesting, and also determines any conditions that must be satisfied before all or part of an option may be exercised. At the time of grant for restricted
share units, the compensation committee specifies the date on which the restricted share units become fully vested and non-forfeitable, and may specify
such conditions to vesting as it deems appropriate.
Amendment and Termination. With the approval of our board of directors, the compensation committee may at any time amend, suspend or
terminate our 2023 share incentive plan. To the extent our company decides to not to follow home country practice, amendments to our 2023 share
incentive plan are subject to shareholder approval, to the extent required by law, or by stock exchange rules or regulations. Any amendment, suspension
or termination of our 2023 share incentive plan must not adversely affect in any material way awards already granted without written consent of the
recipient of such awards. Unless terminated earlier, our 2023 share incentive plan shall continue in effect for a term of ten years from the date of
adoption.
C.
Board Practices
Board of Directors
Our board of directors has six directors. A director is not required to hold any shares in the company by way of qualification. A director may vote
with respect to any contract, proposed contract or arrangement in which he is materially interested. A director may exercise all the powers of the
company to borrow money, mortgage its undertakings, property and uncalled capital, and issue debentures or other securities whenever money is
borrowed or as security for any obligation of the company or of any third party. The remuneration to be paid to the directors is determined by the board
of directors. There is no age limit requirement for directors.
Committees of the Board of Directors
We have three committees under the board of directors: an audit committee, a compensation committee and a corporate governance and
nominating committee. We have adopted a charter for each of the three committees.
Audit Committee
Our audit committee consists of Brent Callinicos, James Ding and Jixun Foo, all of whom satisfy the “independence” requirements of Rule
5605(a)(2) of the Nasdaq Stock Market Rules and Rule 10A-3 under the Exchange Act. Our board of directors has determined that Mr. Callinicos is an
audit committee financial expert as defined in the instructions to Item 16A of the Form 20-F. The audit committee oversees our accounting and
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financial reporting processes and the audits of the financial statements of our company. The audit committee is responsible for, among other things:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
appointing, retaining and overseeing the work of the independent auditors, including resolving disagreements between the management
and the independent auditors relating to financial reporting;
pre-approving all auditing and non-auditing services permitted to be performed by the independent auditors;
reviewing annually the independence and quality control procedures of the independent auditors;
reviewing and approving all proposed related party transactions;
discussing the annual audited financial statements with the management;
meeting separately with the independent auditors to discuss critical accounting policies, management letters, recommendations on internal
controls, the auditor’s engagement letter and independence letter and other material written communications between the independent
auditors and the management; and
attending to such other matters that are specifically delegated to our audit committee by our board of directors from time to time.
In 2023, our audit committee held meetings or passed resolutions by unanimous written consent six times.
Compensation Committee
Our compensation committee consists of James Ding, Yuanqing Yang and Jixun Foo, all of whom satisfy the “independence” requirements of
Rule 5605(a)(2) of the Nasdaq Stock Market Rules. The compensation committee assists the board in reviewing and approving our compensation
structure, including all forms of compensation relating to our directors and executive officers. Our chief executive officer may not be present at any
committee meeting while his compensation is deliberated. The compensation committee is responsible for, among other things:
•
•
•
•
reviewing and approving, or recommending to the board for its approval, the compensation for our chief executive officer and other
executive officers;
reviewing and recommending to the board for determination with respect to the compensation of our non-employee directors;
reviewing periodically and approving any incentive compensation or equity plans, programs or similar arrangements; and
selecting compensation consultant, legal counsel or other adviser only after taking into consideration all factors relevant to that person’s
independence from management.
In 2023, our compensation committee held meetings or passed resolutions by unanimous written consent six times.
Corporate Governance and Nominating Committee
Our corporate governance and nominating committee consists of Yuanqing Yang and James Ding, both of whom satisfy the “independence”
requirements of Rule 5605(a) (2) of the Nasdaq Stock Market Rules. The corporate governance and nominating committee assists the board of directors
in selecting individuals qualified to become our directors and in determining the composition of the board and its committees. The corporate governance
and nominating committee is responsible for, among other things:
•
recommending to the board nominees for election or re-election to the board or for appointments to fill any vacancies;
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•
•
•
reviewing annually the performance of each incumbent director in determining whether to recommend such director for an additional term;
overseeing the board in the board’s annual review of its own performance and the performance of the management; and
considering, preparing and recommending to the board such policies and procedures with respect to corporate governance matters as may
be required or required to be disclosed under the applicable laws or otherwise considered to be material.
In 2023, our corporate governance and nominating committee passed resolutions by unanimous written consent two times.
Terms of Directors and Executive Officers
All directors hold office until their successors have been duly appointed and qualified. None of our directors is subject to a fixed term of office. In
addition, the service agreements between us and the directors do not provide benefits upon termination of their services. Director nomination is subject
to the approval of our corporate governance and nominating committee. Our shareholders may remove any director by ordinary resolution and may in
like manner appoint another person in his stead. A valid ordinary resolution requires a majority of the votes cast at a shareholder meeting that is duly
constituted and meets the quorum requirement. Officers are appointed by and serve at the discretion of the board of directors.
Board Diversity
Country of Principal Executive Offices:
Foreign Private Issuer
Disclosure Prohibited Under Home Country Law
Total Number of Directors
Board Diversity Matrix (As of January 31, 2024)
Part I: Gender Identity
Directors
Part II: Demographic Background
Underrepresented Individual in Home Country Jurisdiction
LGBTQ+
D.
Employees
People’s Republic of China
Yes
No
6
Female
Male
Non-Binary
Did Not
Disclose
Gender
1
5
N/A
N/A
0
0
We had approximately 45,500, 41,300 and 39,800 full time employees as of December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023, respectively. As of December 31,
2023, we had approximately 21,800 employees in research and development, 8,800 employees in sales and marketing, 6,000 employees in operation and
service, and 3,200 employees in management and administration. As of December 31, 2023, we had approximately 26,300 employees in Beijing, 13,300
employees outside of Beijing but within China (for the avoidance of doubt, including Hong Kong, Macau and Taiwan), and approximately 200
employees outside of China. We also hire temporary employees and contractors from time to time. Our employees are not covered by any collective
bargaining agreement. We consider our relations with our employees to be generally good. However, as our operations and employee base further
expand, we cannot assure you that we will always be able to maintain good relations with all of our employees. See “Item 3.D. Key Information—Risk
Factors—Risks Related to Our Business and Industry—We may not be able to manage our expanding operations effectively.”
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E.
Share Ownership
The following table sets forth information with respect to the beneficial ownership of our ordinary shares as of January 31, 2024 by:
•
•
each of our directors and executive officers; and
each person known to us to own beneficially more than 5% of each class of our issued and outstanding shares.
The calculations in the table below are based on 2,805,219,752 ordinary shares, consisting of 2,280,439,432 Class A ordinary shares and
524,780,320 Class B ordinary shares issued and outstanding as of January 31, 2024.
Beneficial ownership is determined in accordance with the rules and regulations of the SEC. In computing the number of shares beneficially
owned by a person and the percentage ownership and voting power percentage of that person, we have included shares and associated votes that the
person has the right to acquire within 60 days, including through the exercise of any option, warrant or other right or the conversion of any other
security. These shares and associated votes, however, are not included in the computation of the percentage ownership of any other person.
See “—B. Compensation” for more details on options and restricted shares granted to our directors and executive officers.
Directors and Executive Officers:
Robin Yanhong Li(1)
James Ding
Brent Callinicos
Yuanqing Yang
Jixun Foo
Sandy Ran Xu
Rong Luo
Haifeng Wang
Dou Shen
Victor Zhixiang Liang
Shanshan Cui
All Directors and Executive Officers as a Group(2)
Principal Shareholders:
Handsome Reward Limited(3)
BlackRock, Inc.(4)
Class A
Ordinary
Shares
Class B
Ordinary
Shares
Total
Ordinary
Shares
% of Total
Ordinary
Shares
% of
Aggregate
Voting
Power†
72,882,496
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
78,387,112
439,200,000
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
439,200,000
512,082,496
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
517,587,112
12,764,032
128,640,168
439,200,000
—
451,964,032
128,640,168
18.2
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
18.5
16.1
4.6
59.3
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
59.3
58.5
1.5
Notes:
†
*
For each person and group included in this column, percentage of voting power is calculated by dividing the voting power beneficially owned by
such person or group by the voting power of all of our Class A ordinary shares and Class B ordinary shares as a single class. Each holder of
Class A ordinary shares is entitled to one vote per share and each holder of our Class B ordinary shares is entitled to 10 votes per share on all
matters submitted to them for a vote. Our Class A ordinary shares and Class B ordinary shares vote together as a single class on all matters
submitted to a vote of our shareholders and other matters as may otherwise be required by law. Each Class B ordinary share is convertible at any
time by the holder thereof into one Class A ordinary share.
Less than 1% of our total outstanding ordinary shares.
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**
(1)
(2)
(3)
(4)
Except for James Ding, Yuanqing Yang, Brent Callinicos, Jixun Foo and Sandy Ran Xu, the business address of our directors and executive
officers is c/o Baidu, Inc., Baidu Campus, Shangdi 10th Street, Haidian District, Beijing 100085, PRC. The business address of James Ding is
STE. 5620, China World Trade Center Tower III, No.1 Jianguomenwai Street, Chaoyang District, Beijing, 100004, China. The business address of
Yuanqing Yang is Builindg 1, No. 10 Courtyard Xibeiwang East Road, Beijing, China. The business address of Brent Callinicos is 23935 Cherry,
Chapel Hill, NC, 27517, United States of America. The business address of Jixun Foo is #21-02 Guoco Midtown, 128 Beach Road, 189773,
Singapore. The business address of Sandy Ran Xu is 14/F, JD Tower A, 18 Kechuang 11th Street, Beijing, 101111, China.
Includes (i) 3,013,200 Class A Ordinary Shares directly held by Mr. Robin Yanhong Li on record, (ii) 3,146,232 Class A ordinary shares in the
form of ADSs held by Mr. Robin Yanhong Li in the brokerage account of the administrator of our employee stock option program, (iii) 540,920
Class A Ordinary Shares issuable to Mr. Robin Yanhong Li upon vesting of restricted shares within 60 days after January 31, 2024, (iv)
439,200,000 Class B ordinary shares held on record by Handsome Reward Limited, a British Virgin Islands company wholly owned by Mr. Robin
Yanhong Li, (v) 6,333,376 Class A ordinary shares in the form of ADSs held by Handsome Reward Limited in the brokerage account of the
administrator of our employee stock option program, (vi) 6,068,640 Class A ordinary shares issuable to Handsome Reward Limited upon exercise
of options within 60 days after the date of January 31, 2024, (vii) 362,016 Class A Ordinary Shares issuable to Handsome Reward Limited upon
vesting of restricted shares within 60 days after January 31, 2024, and (viii) 53,418,112 Class A ordinary shares in the form of ADSs held by
certain employees who have granted Mr. Li irrevocable voting proxies with respect to these shares on their behalf as of January 31, 2024. This
excludes 3,732,240 Class A ordinary shares, 85,480,000 Class B ordinary shares, and 41,860 ADSs in the brokerage account of the administrator
of our employee stock option program, all of which are owned by Ms. Melissa Ma, Mr. Robin Yanhong Li’s wife, as of January 31, 2024, and
Mr. Robin Yanhong Li disclaims beneficial ownership of all of such shares.
Includes 53,418,112 Class A ordinary shares in the form of ADSs held by certain employees who have granted Mr. Robin Yanhong Li irrevocable
voting proxies with respect to these shares on their behalf as of January 31, 2024.
Includes (i) 439,200,000 Class B ordinary shares held by Handsome Reward Limited, a British Virgin Islands company wholly owned and
controlled by Mr. Robin Yanhong Li, (ii) 6,333,376 Class A ordinary shares in the form of ADSs held by Handsome Reward Limited in the
brokerage account of the administrator of our employee stock option program, (iii) 6,068,640 Class A Ordinary Shares issuable to Handsome
Reward Limited upon exercise of options within 60 days after the date of January 31, 2024, and (iv) 362,016 Class A Ordinary Shares issuable to
Handsome Reward Limited upon vesting of restricted shares within 60 days after January 31, 2024.
Includes 128,640,168 Class A ordinary shares beneficially owned by BlackRock, Inc., over which BlackRock, Inc. has sole dispositive power, as
of December 31, 2023. BlackRock, Inc. is a Delaware corporation listed on the NYSE. The principal business address of BlackRock, Inc. is 50
Hudson Yards, New York, NY 10001, United States of America. The calculation of BlackRock’s voting power is based on 116,610,874 Class A
ordinary shares, over which BlackRock, Inc. has sole voting power, as of December 31, 2023. The above information is based on the Schedule
13G/A filed by BlackRock, Inc. on February 1, 2024. The percentage of total ordinary shares and the percentage of aggregate voting power for
BlackRock Inc. are calculated based on the number of our company’s total outstanding shares as of January 31, 2024 and assuming BlackRock
Inc.’s shareholding does not change since December 31, 2023.
As of January 31, 2024, to our knowledge, approximately 38.0% of our total issued and outstanding ordinary shares were held by three record
shareholders in the United States, including approximately 37.7% held by The Bank of New York Mellon, the depositary of our ADS program. The
number of beneficial owners of ADSs in the United States is likely to be much larger than the number of record holders of our ordinary shares in the
United States. For instance, BlackRock Inc. is an ADS holder in the United States that beneficially owns 128,640,168 Class A ordinary shares as of
December 31, 2023 according to the Schedule 13G/A filed by it, but is not a record holder of our ordinary shares. Please see footnote (4) of the above
table for more details. We are not aware of any arrangement that may, at a subsequent date, result in a change of control of our company.
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Weighted Voting Rights Structure
Under our weighted voting rights structure, our share capital comprises Class A ordinary shares and Class B ordinary shares. Each Class A
ordinary share entitles the holder to exercise one vote, and each Class B ordinary share entitles the holder to exercise 10 votes, respectively, on all
matters subject to the vote at general meetings of our company. We issued Class A ordinary shares represented by our ADSs in our initial public offering
in 2005.
Pursuant to our articles of association, the directors of our board may, from time to time subject to their fiduciary duties to act in the best interests
of our company and for a proper purpose, cause our company to issue preferred shares and determine, among others, their conversion rights, which may
include conversion to Class A and/or Class B ordinary shares. Such rights are subject to the approval and discretion of the board.
Each Class B ordinary share is convertible into one Class A ordinary share at any time by the holder thereof. See “Item 3.D. Key Information—
Risk Factors—Risks Related to Our ADSs and Class A Ordinary shares—Our dual-class ordinary share structure with different voting rights could
discourage others from pursuing any change of control transactions that holders of our Class A ordinary shares and ADSs may view as beneficial.” Upon
the conversion of all the issued and outstanding Class B ordinary shares as at January 31, 2024 into Class A ordinary shares, our company would issue
524,780,320 Class A ordinary shares, representing approximately 18.7% of the total number of issued and outstanding Class A ordinary shares as at
January 31, 2024 (without taking into account any allotment and issuance of Shares pursuant to the exercise of options or the vesting of share awards
that have been or may be granted from time to time and any issuance or repurchase of Shares and/or ADSs that we may make).
Each Class B ordinary share is convertible into one Class A ordinary share at any time by the holder thereof. If at any time Robin Yanhong Li and
his Affiliates (as defined in our articles of association) collectively own less than 5% of the total number of the issued and outstanding Class B Ordinary
Shares, each issued and outstanding Class B Ordinary Share shall be automatically and immediately converted into one Class A ordinary share, and no
Class B Ordinary Shares shall be issued by our company thereafter.
Class B ordinary shares shall also be automatically and immediately converted into an equal number of Class A ordinary shares:
(1)
(2)
upon any sale, pledge, transfer, assignment or disposition of such Class B ordinary shares by a holder thereto to any person or entity which
is not an Affiliate (as defined in our articles of association) of such holder; or
where, within 6 months after by a transfer by a holder of Class B ordinary shares to an Affiliate of such holder, there is a change of the
beneficial ownership of the Class B ordinary shares held by the Affiliate.
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Apart from the aforementioned (1) and (2), a change in the beneficial ownership of Class B ordinary shares shall not cause a conversion of
Class B ordinary shares to Class A ordinary shares.
As at January 31, 2024, WVR beneficiaries were the following:
Robin Yanhong Li(1)
Melissa Ma
Integrity Partners V, LLC(2)
Total
Number of
Class A
Ordinary
Shares
Number of
Class B
Ordinary
Shares
Approximate
percentage
of voting
rights(3)
72,882,496
4,067,120
—
76,949,616
439,200,000
85,480,000
100,320
524,780,320
59.3%
11.4%
0.0%
70.7%
Notes:
(1)
(2)
Includes 53,418,112 Class A ordinary shares in the form of ADSs held by certain employees who have granted Mr. Li irrevocable voting proxies
with respect to these shares on their behalf as of January 31, 2024. As a result, the voting power held by Mr. Robin Yanhong Li represented 59.3%
of the total outstanding voting power of our company as of January 31, 2024.
To our knowledge, Integrity Partners V, LLC holds 100,320 Class B ordinary shares of our company and was not a record shareholder of any
Class A ordinary shares as at January 31, 2024. Integrity Partners V, LLC is affiliated with an early stage investor that invested in our company
before our U.S. IPO in 2005.
(3) On the basis that Class A ordinary shares entitle the shareholder to one vote per share and Class B ordinary shares entitle the shareholder to 10
votes per share.
Mr. Robin Yanhong Li, the chairman and chief executive officer of our company, owns shares in his personal capacity and through Handsome
Reward Limited. Ms. Melissa Ma is the spouse of Mr. Li and holds shares in her personal capacity. To the best knowledge of our company, Integrity and
its ultimate beneficial owner are independent third parties of and are not core connected persons of our company, and its ultimate beneficial owner does
not have a role in our company’s business and operations.
F.
Disclosure of a Registrant’s Action to Recover Erroneously Awarded Compensation
Not applicable.
Item 7.
Major Shareholders and Related Party Transactions
A. Major Shareholders
Please refer to “Item 6.E. Directors, Senior Management and Employees—Share Ownership.”
B.
Related Party Transactions
See “Item 4.C. Information on the Company—Organizational Structure—Contractual Arrangements with the Variable Interest Entities and Other
Consolidated Affiliated Entities and their Shareholders.”
Our subsidiaries, the variable interest entities, and the subsidiaries of the variable interest entities have engaged, during the ordinary course of
business, in a number of customary transactions with each other. All of these inter-company balances have been eliminated in consolidation.
See “Item 3.D. Key Information—Risk Factors—Risks Related to Our Business Industry—Termination or other changes of related party
transactions in the ordinary course of business may have an adverse impact on our
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results of operations and financial performance” for risks associated with the termination or other changes of related party transactions.
Loan transactions with Du Xiaoman
In August 2018, we completed the divestiture of Du Xiaoman, following which we recognized our non-controlling equity interest in Du Xiaoman
as an equity method investment and Du Xiaoman became a related party.
In 2018, we provided three term loans to Du Xiaoman in an aggregate amount of RMB3.8 billion with terms ranging from two to five years for
working capital purposes. These loans bear interest rates ranging from 4.28% to 5.00% in 2018, and 0% to 5.00% since 2019. Du Xiaoman repaid one
term loan in the principal amount of RMB500 million in October 2020. In December 2023, Du Xiaoman repaid the other two term loans in an aggregate
principal amount of RMB3.3 billion. After this repayment, all of the term loans to Du Xiaoman had been fully repaid.
In 2018, Du Xiaoman provided us with two term loans in an aggregate amount of RMB3.4 billion with terms of three and five years, respectively,
for general corporate purposes. The interest rates for these loans were 3.78% and 4.28%, respectively, in 2018, and have been adjusted to 0% since 2019
based on the amended agreements. The two term loans had been fully repaid to Du Xiaoman in December 2023.
As of February 29, 2024, the amount of outstanding loans between us and Du Xiaoman was insignificant.
Loan transactions with Jidu Auto
In 2022, we provided three term loans to Jidu Auto in an aggregate principal amount of RMB600 million (US$87 million) with term of one year
for working capital purposes. The interest rates for these loans were 3.465%. Jidu Auto had fully repaid the three term loans in January 2023. Jidu Auto
is a joint venture that we established with Zhejiang Geely Holding Group (Geely). As of February 29, 2024, there was no outstanding loan between us
and Jidu Auto.
Other related party transactions
Related Party A
In 2021, 2022 and 2023, related party transactions with Related Party A, which is one of our equity investees, were in the total amount of
RMB315 million, RMB158 million and RMB540 million (US$76 million), respectively, and mainly comprised of the online marketing services that we
provided to Related Party A.
Related Party B
In 2021, 2022 and 2023, related party transactions with Related Party B, which is one of our equity investees, were in the total amount of
RMB888 million, RMB889 million and RMB924 million (US$130 million), respectively, and comprised of the online marketing services, cloud
services and other services that we provided to Related Party B.
Related Party C
In 2021, 2022 and 2023, related party transactions with Related Party C, over which we can significantly influence its management or operating
policies, were in the total amount of RMB 2.0 billion, RMB2.2 billion and RMB1.8 billion (US$256 million), respectively, and mainly comprised of
online marketing services sold to the party.
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Related Party D
In 2021, 2022 and 2023, related party transactions with Related Party D, which is one of our equity investees, were in the total amount of
RMB123 million, RMB257 million and RMB338 million (US$48 million), respectively, and mainly comprised of intelligent driving services and other
services that we provided to Related Party D.
Other related parties
In 2021, 2022 and 2023, with the approval from our board of directors, we reimbursed Mr. Robin Yanhong Li the fees and expenses incurred in
connection with his use of an aircraft beneficially owned by his family member for our business purposes. The hourly rate for use of the aircraft was
determined based on an analysis of market rates for the charter of comparable aircrafts. The service charges for the use of the aircraft for 2021, 2022 and
2023 were insignificant.
Share Options and Restricted Shares Grants
Please refer to “Item 6.B. Directors, Senior Management and Employees—Compensation.”
C.
Interests of Experts and Counsel
Not applicable.
Item 8.
Financial Information
A. Consolidated Statements and Other Financial Information
We have appended consolidated financial statements filed as part of this annual report.
Legal Proceedings
From time to time, we have been involved in litigation, administrative proceedings or other disputes regarding, among other things, copyright and
trademark infringement, defamation, unfair competition, labor disputes, contract disputes and anti-monopoly inquiries. Our search results provide links
to materials, and our P4P, Baidu Wenku, Baidu Post, Baidu Wiki, Baidu Knows, Baidu Feed, Baidu Drive, iQIYI and certain other products or services
may contain materials, in which others may allege to own copyrights, trademarks or image rights or which others may claim to be defamatory or
objectionable.
In 2023, 2,775 complaints were filed against us before various courts in China, and the aggregate amount of the damages sought in these
complaints totals approximately RMB1.2 billion (US$162 million). As of December 31, 2023, 2,946 cases against us were pending before various
courts in China. The aggregate amount of damages sought under these pending cases is approximately RMB1.6 billion (US$230 million). As of
December 31, 2023, 7 cases against us were pending before various courts outside China. Some of these proceedings are in a preliminary stage with
undetermined damages sought.
For many of the above-mentioned legal proceedings, we are currently unable to estimate the reasonably possible loss or a range of reasonably
possible loss as the proceedings are in the early stages, or there is a lack of clear or consistent interpretation of laws specific to the industry-specific
complaints among different jurisdictions. As a result, there is considerable uncertainty regarding the timing or ultimate resolution of such proceedings,
which includes eventual loss, fine, penalty or business impact, if any, and therefore, an estimate for the reasonably possible loss or a range of reasonably
possible loss cannot be made. With respect to the limited number of proceedings for which we are able to estimate the reasonably possible loss or the
range of reasonably possible loss, such estimates are immaterial. However, we believe that such proceedings, individually and in the aggregate, when
finally resolved, are not reasonably likely to have a material and adverse effect on our results of operations, financial position and cash flows.
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Baidu and iQIYI have been named as defendants in several putative federal securities class actions alleging that defendants made material
misstatements and omissions regarding certain reported financial and operational results. Starting in April 2020, iQIYI and certain of its current and
former officers and directors were named as defendants in several putative federal securities class actions purportedly brought on behalf of alleged
classes of iQIYI shareholders. After one action was voluntarily dismissed by plaintiffs in June 2020, the remaining actions were consolidated in the U.S.
District Court for the Eastern District of New York in May 2021, under the caption In re iQIYI, Inc. Securities Litigation, No. 1:20-CV-01830, or the
iQIYI Action. In June 2021, lead plaintiffs in the iQIYI Action filed the consolidated amended complaint, naming iQIYI, its current and former officers,
underwriters in its initial public offering, our company and certain of our officers as defendants. Similarly, starting in August 2020, we and certain of our
current officers were named as defendants in two federal securities class actions brought by a purported class of Baidu shareholders in the U.S. District
Court for the Eastern District of New York, which were consolidated under the caption In re Baidu Inc. Securities Litigation, 20-cv-03794, or the Baidu
Action. In June 2022, lead plaintiffs in the Baidu Action filed the consolidated amended complaint, naming iQIYI, certain of its officers, our company
and certain of our officers as defendants.
The operative complaints in the iQIYI and Baidu Actions both allege that the defendants made material misstatements and omissions in
documents filed with the SEC and in other public statements regarding certain reported financial and operational results in violation of the federal
securities laws. Although parties in the iQIYI Action completed briefing on defendants’ motions to dismiss the consolidated amended complaint on
September 29, 2021, in light of the common questions of law and fact at issue in the iQIYI and Baidu Actions, the court terminated the motion to
dismiss without prejudice and ordered motion-to-dismiss briefing for the two cases under a new coordinated briefing schedule. The coordinated
motion-to-dismiss briefing was completed in March 2023. On February 26, 2024, following oral argument on the motions to dismiss, the court held
defendants’ motions in abeyance, granted plaintiffs leave to file amended consolidated complaints, and ordered the supplemental briefing on the
amended consolidated complaints to be completed by April 22, 2024. Both the iQIYI and Baidu Actions otherwise remain in the preliminary stage.
We and iQIYI will have to defend against these putative securities class action lawsuits, as applicable, including any appeals of such lawsuits
should our or iQIYI’s initial defense be unsuccessful. Because all of the ongoing securities class actions against iQIYI or us are in their preliminary
stages, we cannot predict the timing, outcome or consequences of these class actions. In the event that our or iQIYI’s initial defense of these lawsuits is
unsuccessful, we cannot assure you that we or iQIYI will prevail in any appeal. Any adverse outcome of these cases, including any plaintiff’s appeal of
a judgment in these lawsuits, could have a material adverse effect on our or iQIYI’s business, financial condition, results of operation, cash flows and
reputation. The litigation process may utilize a significant portion of our or iQIYI’s resources and divert management’s attention from the day-to-day
operations, all of which could harm our business.
Dividend Policy
Baidu, Inc., our holding company in the Cayman Islands, has never declared or paid any dividends on our ordinary shares, nor do we have any
present plan to pay any cash dividends on our ordinary shares in the foreseeable future. We currently intend to retain most, if not all, of our available
funds and any future earnings to operate and expand our business.
Our board of directors has complete discretion as to whether to distribute dividends, subject to Cayman Islands law. In addition, our shareholders
may by ordinary resolution declare a dividend, but no dividend may exceed the amount recommended by our directors. Under Cayman Islands law, a
Cayman Islands company may pay a dividend out of either profit or share premium account, provided that in no circumstances may a dividend be paid if
this would result in the company being unable to pay its debts as they fall due in the ordinary course of business. Even if our board of directors decides
to pay dividends, the form, frequency and amount of our dividends will depend upon our future operations and earnings, capital requirements and
surplus, financial condition, contractual restrictions and other factors that our board of directors may deem relevant. If we pay any
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dividends, our depositary will distribute such dividends to our ADS holders to the same extent as holders of our ordinary shares, subject to the terms of
the deposit agreement, including the fees and expenses payable thereunder. Cash dividends on our ordinary shares, if any, will be paid in U.S. dollars.
B.
Significant Changes
Except as disclosed elsewhere in this annual report, we have not experienced any significant changes since the date of our audited consolidated
financial statements included in this annual report.
Item 9.
The Offer and Listing
A. Offering and Listing Details
Our ADSs have been listed on The Nasdaq Global Market since August 5, 2005. Our ADSs currently trade on The Nasdaq Global Select Market
under the symbol “BIDU.” Prior to May 12, 2010, one ADS represented one Class A ordinary share. On May 12, 2010, we effected a change of the ADS
to Class A ordinary share ratio from 1 ADS representing 1 Class A ordinary share to 10 ADSs representing 1 Class A ordinary share. The ratio change
has the same effect as a 10-for-1 ADS split. On March 1, 2021, our shareholders approved and effected a change to our authorized share capital by
1-to-80 subdivision of shares. Concurrently, we effected a proportionate change in ADS to Class A ordinary share ratio from 10 ADSs representing 1
Class A ordinary share to each ADS representing 8 Class A ordinary shares.
Our Class A ordinary shares have been listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange since March 23, 2021 under the stock code “9888.” On June 19,
2023, the launch of our Renminbi counter supporting the new Hong Kong Dollar-RMB Dual Counter Model program by the Hong Kong Stock
Exchange became effective under the stock code “89888”.
B.
Plan of Distribution
Not applicable.
C. Markets
Our ADSs have been listed on Nasdaq since August 5, 2005 under the symbol “BIDU.”
Our Class A ordinary shares have been listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange since March 23, 2021 under the stock code “9888.”
On June 19, 2023, we launched our RMB counter under the stock code “89888” to support the Hong Kong Dollar-RMB Dual Counter Model
program established by the Hong Kong Stock Exchange.
D.
Selling Shareholders
Not applicable.
E.
Dilution
Not applicable.
F.
Expenses of the Issue
Not applicable.
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Item 10.
Additional Information
A.
Share Capital
Not applicable.
B. Memorandum and Articles of Association
The following are summaries of material provisions of our fifth amended and restated memorandum and articles of association, as well as the
Companies Act (As Revised) insofar as they relate to the material terms of our ordinary shares.
Registered Office and Objects
The Registered Office of our company is at the offices of Maples Corporate Services Limited, PO Box 309, Ugland House, Grand Cayman,
KY1-1104, Cayman Islands or at such other place as our board of directors may from time to time decide. The objects for which our company is
established are unrestricted and we have full power and authority to carry out any object not prohibited by the Companies Act (As Revised), as amended
from time to time, or any other law of the Cayman Islands.
Board of Directors
Ordinary Shares
See “Item 6.C. Directors, Senior Management and Employees—Board Practices—Board of Directors.”
General. Our ordinary shares are divided into Class A ordinary shares and Class B ordinary shares. Holders of Class A ordinary shares and
Class B ordinary shares have the same rights except for voting and conversion rights. All of our issued and outstanding ordinary shares are fully paid
and non-assessable. Certificates representing the ordinary shares are issued in registered form. Our shareholders who are nonresidents of the Cayman
Islands may freely hold and vote their shares.
Dividends. The holders of our ordinary shares are entitled to such dividends as may be declared by our board of directors subject to the
Companies Act.
Conversion. Each Class B ordinary share is convertible into one Class A ordinary share at any time by the holder thereof. Class A ordinary shares
are not convertible into Class B ordinary shares under any circumstances. Upon any transfer of Class B ordinary shares by a holder thereof to any person
or entity which is not an affiliate of such holder (as defined in our articles of association), such Class B ordinary shares shall be automatically and
immediately converted into the equal number of Class A ordinary shares. In addition, if at any time our chairman and chief executive officer, Robin
Yanhong Li, and his affiliates collectively own less than 5% of the total number of the issued and outstanding Class B ordinary shares, each issued and
outstanding Class B ordinary share shall be automatically and immediately converted into one share of Class A ordinary share, and we shall not issue
any Class B ordinary shares thereafter.
Voting Rights. All of our shareholders have the right to receive notice of shareholders’ meetings and to attend, speak and vote at such meetings. In
respect of matters requiring shareholders’ vote, each Class A ordinary share is entitled to one vote, and each Class B ordinary share is entitled to 10
votes. A shareholder may participate at a shareholders’ meeting in person, by proxy or by telephone conference or other communications equipment by
means of which all the shareholders participating in the meeting can communicate with each other. At any shareholders’ meeting, a resolution put to the
vote of the meeting shall be decided on a poll conducted by the chairman of the meeting.
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A quorum for a shareholders’ meeting consists of one or more shareholders holding at least one third of the paid up voting share capital present in
person or by proxy or, if a corporation or other non-natural person, by its duly authorized representative. We shall hold a general meeting of shareholders
as our annual general meeting and shall specify the meeting as such in the notices calling it. Our board of directors may call extraordinary general
meetings, and they must on shareholders’ requisition convene an extraordinary general meeting. A shareholder requisition is a requisition of
shareholders holding at the date of deposit of the requisition not less than ten percent (10%) of the voting power represented by the issued shares of our
company which as at that date carries the right of voting at general meetings of our company, on a one vote per share basis. At least 21 clear days’ notice
shall be given of any annual general meeting, and at least 14 clear days’ notice shall be given of any extraordinary general meeting.
An ordinary resolution to be passed by the shareholders requires the affirmative vote of a simple majority of the votes attaching to the ordinary
shares cast in a general meeting, while a special resolution requires the affirmative vote of no less than two-thirds of the votes attaching to the ordinary
shares cast in a general meeting. A special resolution is required for matters such as a change of name. Holders of the ordinary shares may effect certain
changes by ordinary resolution, including consolidating and dividing all or any of our share capital into shares of larger amount than our existing share
capital and canceling any shares.
Transfer of Shares. Subject to the restrictions of our memorandum and articles of association, as applicable, any of our shareholders may transfer
any or all of his or her ordinary shares by an instrument of transfer in the usual or common form or any other form approved by our board of directors.
Our board of directors may, in their absolute discretion (except with respect to a transfer from a shareholder to its affiliate(s)), decline to register
any transfer of shares without assigning any reason thereof. If our board of directors refuses to register a transfer they shall notify the transferee within
two months of such refusal.
Notwithstanding the foregoing, if a transfer complies with the holder’s transfer obligations and restrictions set forth under applicable law
(including but not limited to U.S. securities law provisions related to insider trading) and our articles of association, our board of directors shall
promptly register such transfer. Further, any director is authorized to confirm in writing addressed to the registered office to authorize a share transfer
and to instruct that the register of members be updated accordingly; provided that the transfer complies with the holder’s transfer obligations and
restrictions set forth under applicable law and our articles of association and such holder is not the director who authorizes the transfer or an entity
affiliated with such director. Any director is authorized to execute a share certificate in respect of such shares for and on behalf of our company.
The registration of transfers may be suspended at such time and for such periods as our board of directors may from time to time determine;
provided, however, that the registration of transfers shall not be suspended for more than 45 days in any year.
Liquidation. On a return of capital on winding up or otherwise (other than on conversion, redemption or purchase of shares), assets available for
distribution among the holders of ordinary shares may be distributed among the holders of the ordinary shares as determined by the liquidator, subject to
sanction of a special resolution of our company. If our assets available for distribution are insufficient to repay all of the paid-up capital, the assets will
be distributed so that the losses are borne by our shareholders proportionately to the capital paid up, or which ought to have been paid up, at the
commencement of the winding up on the shares held by such shareholders respectively.
Calls on Shares and Forfeiture of Shares. Our board of directors may from time to time make calls upon shareholders for any amounts unpaid on
their shares in a notice served to such shareholders at least 14 days prior to the specified time and place of payment. The shares that have been called
upon and remain unpaid on the specified time are subject to forfeiture.
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Redemption of Shares. Subject to the provisions of the Companies Act and our articles of association, we may issue shares on terms that are
subject to redemption, at our option or at the option of the holders, on such terms and in such manner as our board of directors may determine.
Repurchase of Shares. Subject to the provisions of the Companies Act and our articles of association, our board of directors may authorize
repurchase of our shares in accordance with the manner of purchase specified in our articles of association without seeking shareholder approval.
Variations of Rights of Shares. All or any of the special rights attached to any class of shares may, subject to the provisions of the Companies
Act, be varied either with the written consent of the holders of a majority of the issued shares of that class or with the sanction of a special resolution
passed at a general meeting of the holders of the shares of that class.
Inspection of Books and Records. No holders of our ordinary shares who is not a director shall have any right of inspecting any of our accounts,
books or documents except as conferred by the Companies Act or authorized by the directors or by us in general meeting. However, we will make this
annual report, which contains our audited financial statements, available to shareholders and ADS holders. See “Item 10.H. Additional Information—
Documents on Display.”
Preferred Shares
Our board of directors has the authority, without shareholder approval, to issue up to a total of 800,000,000 preferred shares in one or more series.
Our board of directors may establish the number of shares to be included in each such series and may set the designations, preferences, powers and other
rights of the shares of a series of preferred shares. While the issuance of preferred shares provides us with flexibility in connection with possible
acquisitions or other corporate purposes, it could, among other things, have the effect of delaying, deferring or preventing a change of control
transaction and could adversely affect the market price of our ADSs. We have no current plan to issue any preferred shares.
Differences in Corporate Law
The Companies Act (As Revised) is derived, to a large extent, from the older Companies Acts of England but does not follow recent United
Kingdom statutory enactments, and accordingly there are significant differences between the Companies Act (As Revised) and the current Companies
Act of England.
In addition, the Companies Act (As Revised) differs from laws applicable to United States corporations and their shareholders. Set forth below is a
summary of certain significant differences between the provisions of the Companies Act (As Revised) applicable to us and the laws applicable to United
States corporations and companies incorporated in the State of Delaware.
Mergers and Similar Arrangements
The Companies Act (As Revised) permits mergers and consolidations between Cayman Islands companies and between Cayman Islands
companies and non-Cayman Islands companies. For these purposes, (1) “merger” means the merging of two or more constituent companies and the
vesting of their undertaking, property and liabilities in one of such companies as the surviving company and (2) a “consolidation” means the
combination of two or more constituent companies into a consolidated company and the vesting of the undertaking, property and liabilities of such
companies in the consolidated company.
In order to effect such a merger or consolidation, the directors of each constituent company must approve a written plan of merger or
consolidation, which must then be authorized by (1) a special resolution of the shareholders of each constituent company, and (2) such other
authorization, if any, as may be specified in such
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constituent company’s articles of association. The written plan of merger or consolidation must be filed with the Registrar of Companies together with a
declaration as to the solvency of the consolidated or surviving company, a list of the assets and liabilities of each constituent company and an
undertaking that a copy of the certificate of merger or consolidation will be given to the members and creditors of each constituent company and that
notification of the merger or consolidation will be published in the Cayman Islands Gazette. Dissenting shareholders have the right to be paid the fair
value of their shares (which, if not agreed between the parties, will be determined by the Cayman Islands court) if they follow the required procedures,
subject to certain exceptions. Court approval is not required for a merger or consolidation which is effected in compliance with these statutory
procedures.
A merger between a Cayman parent company and its Cayman subsidiary or subsidiaries does not require authorization by a resolution of
shareholders of that Cayman subsidiary if a copy of the plan of merger is given to every member of that Cayman subsidiary to be merged unless that
member agrees otherwise. For this purpose a company is a “parent” of a subsidiary if it holds issued shares that together represent at least 90% of the
votes at a general meeting of the subsidiary.
The consent of each holder of a fixed or floating security interest over a constituent company is required unless this requirement is waived by a
court in the Cayman Islands.
Save in certain limited circumstances, a shareholder of a Cayman constituent company who dissents from the merger or consolidation is entitled to
payment of the fair value of his shares (which, if not agreed between the parties, will be determined by the Cayman Islands court) upon dissenting to the
merger or consolidation, provide the dissenting shareholder complies strictly with the procedures set out in the Companies Act. The exercise of dissenter
rights will preclude the exercise by the dissenting shareholder of any other rights to which he or she might otherwise be entitled by virtue of holding
shares, save for the right to seek relief on the grounds that the merger or consolidation is void or unlawful.
Separate from the statutory provisions relating to mergers and consolidations, the Companies Act (As Revised) also contains statutory provisions
that facilitate the reconstruction and amalgamation of companies by way of schemes of arrangement, provided that the arrangement is approved by (a)
75% in value of the shareholders or class of shareholders, as the case may be, or (b) a majority in number representing 75% in value of the creditors or
each class of creditors, as the case may be, with whom the arrangement is to be made, that are, in each case, present and voting either in person or by
proxy at a meeting, or meetings, convened for that purpose. The convening of the meetings and subsequently the arrangement must be sanctioned by the
Grand Court of the Cayman Islands. While a dissenting shareholder has the right to express to the court the view that the transaction ought not to be
approved, the Grand Court can be expected to approve the arrangement if it determines that:
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the statutory provisions as to the required majority vote have been met;
the shareholders have been fairly represented at the meeting in question and the statutory majority are acting bona fide without coercion of
the minority to promote interests adverse to those of the class;
the arrangement is such that may be reasonably approved by an intelligent and honest man of that class acting in respect of his interest; and
the arrangement is not one that would more properly be sanctioned under some other provision of the Companies Act.
The Companies Act (As Revised) also contains a statutory power of compulsory acquisition which may facilitate the “squeeze out” of dissentient
minority shareholder upon a tender offer. When a tender offer is made and accepted by holders of 90% of the shares affected within four months, the
offeror may, within a two-month period commencing on the expiration of such four-month period, require the holders of the remaining shares to transfer
such shares to the offeror on the terms of the offer. An objection can be made to the Grand Court of the
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Cayman Islands but this is unlikely to succeed in the case of an offer which has been so approved unless there is evidence of fraud, bad faith or
collusion.
If an arrangement and reconstruction by way of scheme of arrangement is thus approved, the dissenting shareholder would have no rights
comparable to appraisal rights, which would otherwise ordinarily be available to dissenting shareholders of Delaware corporations, providing rights to
receive payment in cash for the judicially determined value of the shares.
Shareholders’ Suits
In principle, we will normally be the proper plaintiff to sue for a wrong done to us as a company, and as a general rule a derivative action may not
be brought by a minority shareholder. However, based on English authorities, which would in all likelihood be of persuasive authority in the Cayman
Islands, the Cayman Islands court can be expected to follow and apply the common law principles (namely the rule in Foss v. Harbottle and the
exceptions thereto) so that a non-controlling shareholder may be permitted to commence a class action against or derivative actions in the name of our
company to challenge actions where:
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•
an act which is ultra vires or illegal and is therefore incapable of ratification by the shareholders;
the act complained of, although not ultra vires, could only be effected duly if authorized by more than a simple majority vote that has not
been obtained; and
an act which constitute a fraud against the minority where the wrongdoer are themselves in control of the company.
Indemnification of Directors and Executive Officers and Limitation of Liability
Cayman Islands law does not limit the extent to which a company’s memorandum and articles of association may provide for indemnification of
officers and directors, except to the extent any such provision may be held by the Cayman Islands courts to be contrary to public policy, such as to
provide indemnification against civil fraud or the consequences of committing a crime.
Our memorandum and articles of association permit indemnification of officers and directors for losses, damages, costs and expenses incurred in
their capacities as such unless such losses or damages arise from dishonesty or fraud of such directors or officers. This standard of conduct is generally
the same as permitted under the Delaware General Corporation Law for a Delaware corporation.
In addition, we have entered into indemnification agreements with our directors and executive officers that provide such persons with additional
indemnification beyond that provided in our memorandum and articles of association.
Insofar as indemnification for liabilities arising under the Securities Act may be permitted to our directors, officers or persons controlling us under
the foregoing provisions, we have been informed that in the opinion of the SEC, such indemnification is against public policy as expressed in the
Securities Act and is therefore unenforceable.
Directors’ Fiduciary Duties
Under Delaware corporate law, a director of a Delaware corporation has a fiduciary duty to the corporation and its shareholders. This duty has two
components: the duty of care and the duty of loyalty. The duty of care requires that a director act in good faith, with the care that an ordinarily prudent
person would exercise under similar circumstances. Under this duty, a director must inform himself of, and disclose to shareholders, all material
information reasonably available regarding a significant transaction.
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The duty of loyalty requires that a director acts in a manner he or she reasonably believes to be in the best interests of the corporation. He or she
must not use his corporate position for personal gain or advantage. This duty prohibits self-dealing by a director and mandates that the best interest of
the corporation and its shareholders take precedence over any interest possessed by a director, officer or controlling shareholder and not shared by the
shareholders generally.
In general, actions of a director are presumed to have been made on an informed basis, in good faith and in the honest belief that the action taken
was in the best interests of the corporation. However, this presumption may be rebutted by evidence of a breach of one of the fiduciary duties. Should
such evidence be presented concerning a transaction by a director, the director must prove the procedural fairness of the transaction and that the
transaction was of fair value to the corporation.
As a matter of Cayman Islands law, a director of a Cayman Islands company is in the position of a fiduciary with respect to the company and
therefore it is considered that he or she owes the following duties to the company:
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•
•
a duty to act in good faith in the best interests of the company,
a duty not to make a personal profit based on his or her position as director (unless the company permits him or her to do so),
a duty not to put himself or herself in a position where the interests of the company conflict with his or her personal interest or his or her
duty to a third party, and
a duty to exercise powers for the purpose for which such powers were intended.
A director of a Cayman Islands company owes to the company a duty of care, diligence and skill. It was previously considered that a director need
not exhibit in the performance of his or her duties a greater degree of skill than may reasonably be expected from a person of his or her knowledge and
experience. However, English and Commonwealth courts have moved towards an objective standard with regard to the required skill and care and these
authorities are likely to be followed in the Cayman Islands.
Shareholder Action by Written Consent
Under the Delaware General Corporation Law, a corporation may eliminate the right of shareholders to act by written consent by amendment to its
certificate of incorporation. Cayman Islands law and our currently effective memorandum and articles of association provide that our shareholders may
approve corporate matters by way of a unanimous written resolution signed by or on behalf of all shareholders who would have been entitled to vote on
such matter at a general meeting without a meeting being held.
Shareholder Proposals
Under the Delaware General Corporation Law, a shareholder has the right to put any proposal before the annual meeting of shareholders, provided
it complies with the notice provisions in the governing documents. A special meeting may be called by the board of directors or any other person
authorized to do so in the governing documents, but shareholders may be precluded from calling special meetings.
The Companies Act (As Revised) does not provide shareholders with an express right to put forth any proposal before a general meeting of the
shareholders. However, the Companies Act (As Revised) may provide shareholders with limited rights to requisition a general meeting but such rights
must be stipulated in the articles of association of the company.
Any one or more shareholders holding not less than one-tenth of the voting rights on a one vote per share basis, in the share capital of the
company at the date of deposit of the requisition shall at all times have the right,
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by written requisition to the board of directors or the secretary of the company, to require an extraordinary general meeting to be called by the board of
directors for the transaction of any business specified in such requisition.
Cumulative Voting
Under the Delaware General Corporation Law, cumulative voting for election of directors is not permitted unless the corporation’s certificate of
incorporation specifically provides for it. Cumulative voting potentially facilitates the representation of minority shareholders on a board of directors
since it permits the minority shareholder to cast all the votes to which the shareholder is entitled on a single director, which increases the shareholder’s
voting power with respect to electing such director.
There are no prohibitions relating to cumulative voting under the laws of the Cayman Islands, but our memorandum and articles of association do
not provide for cumulative voting. As a result, our shareholders are not afforded any less protections or rights on this issue than shareholders of a
Delaware corporation.
Removal of Directors
Under the Delaware General Corporation Law, a director of a corporation with a classified board may be removed only for cause with the
approval of a majority of the issued and outstanding shares entitled to vote, unless the certificate of incorporation provides otherwise. Under our
memorandum and articles of association, directors may be removed with or without cause, by an ordinary resolution of our shareholders at any time
before the expiration of his term of office notwithstanding anything in our memorandum and articles of association or in any agreement between our
company and such director (but without prejudice to any claim for damages under any such agreement).
Transactions with Interested Shareholders
The Delaware General Corporation Law contains a business combination statute applicable to Delaware public corporations whereby, unless the
corporation has specifically elected not to be governed by such statute by amendment to its certificate of incorporation, it is prohibited from engaging in
certain business combinations with an “interested shareholder” for three years following the date that such person becomes an interested shareholder. An
interested shareholder generally is a person or a group who or which owns or owned 15% or more of the target’s outstanding voting shares within the
past three years.
This statute has the effect of limiting the ability of a potential acquirer to make a two-tiered bid for the target in which all shareholders would not
be treated equally. The statute does not apply if, prior to the date on which such shareholder becomes an interested shareholder, the board of directors
approves either the business combination or the transaction which resulted in the person becoming an interested shareholder. This encourages any
potential acquirer of a Delaware corporation to negotiate the terms of any acquisition transaction with the target’s board of directors.
Cayman Islands law has no comparable statute. As a result, we cannot avail ourselves of the types of protections afforded by the Delaware
business combination statute. However, although Cayman Islands law does not regulate transactions between a company and its significant shareholders,
it does provide that such transactions must be entered into bona fide in the best interests of the company and for a proper purpose and not with the effect
of constituting a fraud on the minority shareholders.
Restructuring
A company may present a petition to the Grand Court of the Cayman Islands for the appointment of a restructuring officer on the grounds that the
company:
(a)
is or is likely to become unable to pay its debts; and
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(b)
intends to present a compromise or arrangement to its creditors (or classes thereof) either pursuant to the Companies Act, the law of
a foreign country or by way of a consensual restructuring.
The Grand Court may, among other things, make an order appointing a restructuring officer upon hearing of such petition, with such powers and
to carry out such functions as the court may order. At any time (i) after the presentation of a petition for the appointment of a restructuring officer but
before an order for the appointment of a restructuring officer has been made, and (ii) when an order for the appointment of a restructuring officer is
made, until such order has been discharged, no suit, action or other proceedings (other than criminal proceedings) shall be proceeded with or
commenced against the company, no resolution to wind up the company shall be passed, and no winding up petition may be presented against the
company, except with the leave of the court. However, notwithstanding the presentation of a petition for the appointment of a restructuring officer or the
appointment of a restructuring officer, a creditor who has security over the whole or part of the assets of the company is entitled to enforce the security
without the leave of the court and without reference to the restructuring officer appointed.
Dissolution; Winding Up
Under the Delaware General Corporation Law, unless the board of directors approves the proposal to dissolve, dissolution must be approved by
shareholders holding 100% of the total voting power of the corporation. Only if the dissolution is initiated by the board of directors may it be approved
by a simple majority of the corporation’s outstanding shares. Delaware law allows a Delaware corporation to include in its certificate of incorporation a
supermajority voting requirement in connection with dissolutions initiated by the board.
Under Cayman Islands law, a company may be wound up by either an order of the courts of the Cayman Islands or by a special resolution of its
members or, if the company is unable to pay its debts as they fall due, by an ordinary resolution of its members. The court has authority to order winding
up in a number of specified circumstances including where it is, in the opinion of the court, just and equitable to do so.
Variation of Rights of Shares
Under the Delaware General Corporation Law, a corporation may vary the rights of a class of shares with the approval of a majority of the
outstanding shares of such class, unless the certificate of incorporation provides otherwise. Under Cayman Islands law and our memorandum and
articles of association, if our share capital is divided into more than one class of shares, we may vary the rights attached to any class with the sanction of
a special resolution passed by a majority of not less than three-fourths of the votes cast at a separate meeting of the holders of the shares of that class.
Amendment of Governing Documents
Under the Delaware General Corporation Law, a corporation’s governing documents may be amended with the approval of a majority of the
outstanding shares entitled to vote, unless the certificate of incorporation provides otherwise.
Under Cayman Islands law, our memorandum and articles of association may only be amended with a special resolution of our shareholders.
Rights of Non-resident or Foreign Shareholders
There are no limitations imposed by our memorandum and articles of association on the rights of non-resident or foreign shareholders to hold or
exercise voting rights on our shares.
In addition, there are no provisions in our memorandum and articles of association governing the ownership threshold above which shareholder
ownership must be disclosed.
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Inspection of Books and Records
Under the Delaware General Corporation Law, any shareholder of a corporation may for any proper purpose inspect or make copies of the
corporation’s stock ledger, list of shareholders and other books and records.
Shareholders of Cayman Islands exempted companies like us have no general right under Cayman Islands law to inspect corporate records (other
than the memorandum and articles of association, the register of mortgages and charges and any special resolutions passed by our shareholders) or
obtain copies of the list of shareholders of these companies. Under Cayman Islands law, the names of our current directors can be obtained from a search
conducted at the Registrar of Companies. However, we intend to provide our shareholders with annual reports containing audited financial statements.
C. Material Contracts
We have not entered into any material contracts other than in the ordinary course of business and other than those described in “Item 4.
Information on the Company” or elsewhere in this annual report on Form 20-F.
D.
Exchange Controls
See “Item 4.B. Information on the Company—Business Overview—Regulations—Regulations on Foreign Exchange.”
E.
Taxation
The following summary of the material Cayman Islands, People’s Republic of China and U.S. federal income tax consequences of an investment
in our ADSs or ordinary shares is based upon the laws and interpretations thereof in effect as of the date of this annual report, all of which are subject to
change. This summary does not deal with all possible tax consequences relating to an investment in our ADSs or ordinary shares, such as the tax
consequences under state, local and other tax laws.
Cayman Islands Tax Considerations
According to Maples and Calder (Hong Kong) LLP, our Cayman Islands counsel, the Cayman Islands currently levies no taxes on individuals or
corporations based upon profits, income, gains or appreciation and there is no taxation in the nature of inheritance tax or estate duty. There are no other
taxes likely to be material to shareholders or ADS holders levied by the Government of the Cayman Islands except for stamp duties which may be
applicable on instruments executed in, or brought within, the jurisdiction of the Cayman Islands. The Cayman Islands is not party to any double tax
treaties that are applicable to any payments made to or by our company. There are no exchange control regulations or currency restrictions in the
Cayman Islands.
Mainland China Tax Considerations
If we are considered a mainland China resident enterprise under the EIT Law, our shareholders and ADS holders who are deemed non-resident
enterprises may be subject to the 10% enterprise income tax on the dividends payable by us or any gains realized from the transfer of our shares or
ADSs, if such income is deemed derived from mainland China; provided that (i) such foreign enterprise investor has no establishment or premises in
mainland China, or (ii) it has establishment or premises in mainland China but its income derived from mainland China has no real connection with such
establishment or premises. Furthermore, if we are considered a mainland China resident enterprise and the PRC tax authorities consider the dividends
we pay with respect to our shares or ADSs and the gains realized from the transfer of our shares or ADSs to be income derived from sources within
mainland China, it is also possible that such dividends and gains earned by non-resident individuals may be subject to the 20% mainland China
individual income tax. It is uncertain whether, if we are considered a mainland China resident enterprise, holders of our shares or ADSs would be able to
claim the benefit of tax treaties or arrangements entered into between mainland China and other jurisdictions.
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If we are required under the tax law of mainland China to withhold mainland China income tax on our dividends payable to our non-resident
shareholders and ADS holders, or if any gains realized from the transfer of our shares or ADSs by our non-resident shareholders and ADS holders are
subject to the enterprise income tax or the individual income tax, your investment in our shares or ADSs could be materially and adversely affected.
U.S. Federal Income Tax Considerations
The following discussion is a summary of U.S. federal income tax considerations under present law of the ownership and disposition of the ADSs
or ordinary shares. This summary applies only to investors that are U.S. Holders (as defined below) and that hold the ADSs or ordinary shares as capital
assets (generally, property held for investment) under the U.S. Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended. This discussion is based on the existing
federal tax laws of the United States as in effect on the date of this annual report on Form 20-F and on U.S. Treasury regulations in effect or, in some
cases, proposed, as of the date of this annual report on Form 20-F, as well as judicial and administrative interpretations thereof available on or before
such date. All of the foregoing authorities are subject to differing interpretations or change, which change could apply retroactively and there can be no
assurance that the U.S. Internal Revenue Service or a court will not take a contrary position.
The following discussion does not deal with the tax consequences to any particular investor or to persons in special tax situations such as:
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banks;
financial institutions;
insurance companies;
broker dealers;
pension plans;
cooperatives;
holders that are not U.S. Holders;
real estate investment trusts;
persons that elect to mark their securities to market;
tax-exempt entities;
persons liable for the alternative minimum tax;
regulated investment companies;
certain expatriates or former long-term residents of the United States;
governments or agencies or instrumentalities thereof;
persons holding an ADS or ordinary share as part of a straddle, hedging, conversion, constructive sale, or integrated transaction;
persons that actually or constructively own ADSs or ordinary shares representing 10% or more of our stock (by vote or value);
persons holding ADSs or ordinary shares through partnerships or other pass-through entities;
persons who are required to recognize income for U.S. federal income tax purposes no later than when such income is taken into account
in applicable financial statements;
persons whose functional currency is other than the U.S. dollar; or
persons who acquired our ADSs or ordinary shares pursuant to the exercise of any employee share option or otherwise as compensation.
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U.S. Holders are urged to consult their tax advisors about the application of the U.S. federal tax rules to their particular circumstances as well
as the state, local and foreign tax, Medicare tax and non-income tax (such as the U.S. federal estate or gift tax) consequences to them of
ownership and disposition of our ADSs or ordinary shares.
The discussion below of the U.S. federal income tax consequences will apply if you are a “U.S. Holder.” You are a “U.S. Holder” if you are the
beneficial owner of our ADSs or ordinary shares and you are, for U.S. federal income tax purposes,
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•
•
a citizen or individual resident of the United States;
a corporation (or other entity subject to tax as a corporation for U.S. federal income tax purposes) that is created or organized in or under
the laws of the United States, any State or the District of Columbia;
an estate whose income is subject to U.S. federal income taxation regardless of its source; or
a trust that (i) is subject to the supervision of a court within the United States and the control of one or more U.S. persons or (ii) has a valid
election in effect under applicable U.S. Treasury regulations to be treated as a U.S. person.
This discussion does not consider the tax treatment of partnerships or other pass-through entities that hold the ADSs or ordinary shares, or of
persons who hold the ADSs or ordinary shares through such entities. If a partnership (or other entity classified as a partnership for U.S. federal income
tax purposes) is the beneficial owner of the ADSs or ordinary shares, the U.S. federal income tax treatment of a partner in the partnership will generally
depend on the status of the partner and the activities of the partnership. Partners in a partnership holding our ordinary shares or ADSs should consult
their tax advisors regarding the United States federal income tax considerations relating to the ownership or disposition of our ordinary shares or ADSs.
The discussion below assumes that the representations contained in the deposit agreement are true and that the obligations in the deposit
agreement and any related agreement will be complied with in accordance with their terms. If you hold our ADSs, you will be treated as the holder of
the underlying ordinary shares represented by those ADSs for U.S. federal income tax purposes.
This discussion does not address any aspect of U.S. federal non-income tax laws, such as gift or estate tax laws, minimum tax considerations, or
state, local or foreign tax laws or the Medicare tax on certain net investment income. The IRS may disagree with the discussion herein, and its
determination may be upheld by a court.
Taxation of Dividends and Other Distributions on the ADSs or Ordinary Shares
Subject to the passive foreign investment company rules discussed below, the gross amount of all our distributions to you with respect to the
ADSs or ordinary shares will be included in your gross income as dividend income on the date actually or constructively received by the depositary, in
the case of our ADSs, or by you, in the case of ordinary shares, but only to the extent that the distribution is paid out of our current or accumulated
earnings and profits (computed under U.S. federal income tax principles). Because we do not intend to determine our earnings and profits on the basis of
U.S. federal income tax principles, any distribution paid will generally be treated as a “dividend” for U.S. federal income tax purposes. Dividends paid
by us will not be eligible for the dividends-received deduction allowed to corporations in respect of dividends received from U.S. corporations.
With respect to non-corporate U.S. Holders (including individual U.S. Holders), dividends may be taxed at the lower applicable capital gains rate
provided that (i) the ADSs or ordinary shares are readily tradable on an established securities market in the United States or we are eligible for the
benefit of the income tax treaty between the United States and mainland China, or the Treaty, (ii) we are not a passive foreign investment
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company (as discussed below) for either our taxable year in which the dividend was paid or for the preceding taxable year, (iii) certain holding period
requirements are met and (iv) such non-corporate U.S. Holders are not under an obligation to make related payments with respect to positions in
substantially similar or related property. For this purpose, ADSs listed on the Nasdaq Global Select Market will generally be considered to be readily
tradable on an established securities market in the United States. Even if our ADSs are listed on Nasdaq, there can be no assurance that our ADSs will
be considered readily tradable on an established securities market in future years. You should consult your tax advisor regarding the availability of the
lower rate for dividends paid with respect to our ADSs or ordinary shares.
For U.S. foreign tax credit purposes, dividends paid on the ADSs or ordinary shares will generally be treated as income from foreign sources and
will generally constitute passive category income. If mainland China withholding taxes apply to dividends paid to you with respect to the ADSs or
ordinary shares, you may be able to obtain a reduced rate of mainland China withholding taxes under the Treaty. In addition, subject to certain
conditions and limitations, mainland China withholding taxes on dividends that are non-refundable under the Treaty may be treated as foreign taxes
eligible for credit against your U.S. federal income tax liability. If you do not elect to claim a foreign tax credit, you may instead claim a deduction for
U.S. federal income tax purposes in respect of such withholding, but only for a year in which you elect to do so for all creditable foreign income taxes.
You should consult your tax advisor regarding the availability of the foreign tax credit under your particular circumstances.
Sale, Exchange or Other Disposition of the ADSs or Ordinary Shares
Subject to the passive foreign investment company rules discussed below, you will generally recognize gain or loss on any sale, exchange or other
taxable disposition of an ADS or ordinary share equal to the difference between the amount realized for the ADS or ordinary share and your tax basis in
the ADS or ordinary share. The gain or loss will generally be capital gain or loss. If you are a non-corporate U.S. Holder, including an individual U.S.
Holder, who has held the ADS or ordinary share for more than one year, you will generally be eligible for reduced capital gains tax rates. The
deductibility of capital losses is subject to limitations. Any such gain or loss that you recognize will generally be treated as U.S. source income or loss
for foreign tax credit limitation purposes, which will generally limit the availability of foreign tax credits. However, in the event we are deemed to be a
mainland China “resident enterprise” under mainland China tax law, we may be eligible for the benefits of the Treaty. In such event, if mainland China
tax were to be imposed on any gain from the disposition of the ADSs or ordinary shares, a U.S. Holder that is eligible for the benefits of the Treaty may
elect to treat such gain as mainland China source income. U.S. Holders should consult their tax advisors regarding the creditability of any mainland
China tax.
Passive Foreign Investment Company
A non-U.S. corporation, such as us, is considered a PFIC for any taxable year if either (i) at least 75% of its gross income is passive income, or
(ii) at least 50% of the value of its assets (based on an average of the quarterly values of the assets during a taxable year) is attributable to assets that
produce or are held for the production of passive income, or the asset test. We will be treated as owning our proportionate share of the assets and earning
our proportionate share of the income of any other corporation in which we own, directly or indirectly, at least 25% (by value) of the shares. Although
the law in this regard is not entirely clear, we treat the variable interest entities as being owned by us for U.S. federal income tax purposes because we
control their management decisions and we are entitled to receive economic benefits that could potentially be significant to them and, as a result, we
consolidate their results of operations in our consolidated U.S. GAAP financial statements. If it were determined, however, that we are not the owner of
the variable interest entities for U.S. federal income tax purposes, we would likely be treated as a PFIC for our current taxable year and for subsequent
taxable years.
Assuming that we are the owner of the VIEs for U.S. federal income tax purposes, and based on the market price of our ADSs and ordinary
shares, the value of our assets, and the composition of our assets and income, we
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believe that we were not a PFIC for our taxable year ended December 31, 2023. No assurance can be given that we will not be a PFIC in the current
taxable year or foreseeable taxable years, because the determination of whether we will be a PFIC is a factual determination made annually that will
depend, in part, upon the composition of our income and assets. Based on the nature of our business and activities, it is possible that the U.S. Internal
Revenue Service may challenge our classification of certain income and assets as non-passive, which may result in our company being a PFIC. The
composition of our income and assets will also be affected by how, and how quickly, we use our liquid assets. In addition, fluctuations in the market
price of our ordinary shares and/or ADSs may cause us to be a PFIC for the current or future taxable years because the value of our assets for purposes
of the asset test, including the value of our goodwill and other unbooked intangibles, may be determined by reference to the market price of our ordinary
shares and/or ADSs from time to time (which may be volatile). If our market capitalization declines, we may be classified as a PFIC for the current
taxable year or future taxable years. Under circumstances where our revenue from activities that produce passive income significantly increase relative
to our revenue from activities that produce non-passive income, or where we determine not to deploy significant amounts of cash for active purposes,
our risk of becoming classified as a PFIC may substantially increase. If we are a PFIC for any year during which you hold the ADSs or ordinary shares,
we will generally continue to be treated as a PFIC for all succeeding years during which you hold such ADSs or ordinary shares even if we cease to be a
PFIC in subsequent years, unless certain elections are made.
If we are a PFIC for any year during which you hold the ADSs or ordinary shares, we will generally continue to be treated as a PFIC for all
succeeding years during which you hold such ADSs or ordinary shares. However, if we cease to be a PFIC, you may avoid some of the adverse effects
of the PFIC regime by making a deemed sale election with respect to the ADSs or ordinary shares, as applicable, provided that you have not made a
mark-to-market election, as described below.
If we are a PFIC for any taxable year during which you hold our ADSs or ordinary shares, you will be subject to special tax rules with respect to
any “excess distribution” that you receive and any gain you realize from a sale or other disposition (including a pledge under proposed regulations) of
the ADSs or ordinary shares, unless you make a mark-to-market election as discussed below. Distributions you receive in a taxable year that are greater
than 125% of the average annual distributions you received during the shorter of the three preceding taxable years or your holding period for the ADSs
or ordinary shares will be treated as an excess distribution. Under these special tax rules:
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the excess distribution or gain will be allocated ratably over your holding period for the ADSs or ordinary shares,
the amount allocated to the current taxable year, and any taxable year prior to the first taxable year in which we became a PFIC, will be
treated as ordinary income, and
the amount allocated to each of the other taxable years would be subject to tax at the highest rate of tax in effect for you for such year and
would be increased by an additional tax equal to interest on the resulting tax deemed deferred with respect to each such other taxable year.
The tax liability for amounts allocated to years prior to the year of disposition or “excess distribution” cannot be offset by any net operating losses
for such years, and gains (but not losses) realized on the sale of the ADSs or ordinary shares cannot be treated as capital, even if you hold the ADSs or
ordinary shares as capital assets.
If we are a PFIC for any taxable year during which you hold our ADSs or ordinary shares and any of our non-U.S. subsidiaries is also a PFIC (i.e.,
a lower-tier PFIC), you will be treated as owning a proportionate amount (by value) of the shares of the lower-tier PFIC and would be subject to the
rules described above on certain distributions by a lower-tier PFIC and a disposition of shares of a lower-tier PFIC even though you would not receive
the proceeds of those distributions or dispositions. You are advised to consult your tax advisors regarding the application of the PFIC rules to any of our
subsidiaries.
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Alternatively, a U.S. Holder of “marketable stock” (as defined below) in a PFIC may make a mark-to-market election for such stock of a PFIC to
elect out of the tax treatment discussed above. The mark-to-market election is available only for “marketable stock,” which is stock that is traded in
other than de minimis quantities on at least 15 days during each calendar quarter, or “regularly traded,” on a qualified exchange or other market, as
defined in applicable Treasury regulations. Our ADSs, but not our ordinary shares, are listed on the Nasdaq Global Select Market, which is a qualified
exchange for these purposes. Our ordinary shares are listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange, which we expect to meet the requirements of a qualified
exchange or market for these purposes. We anticipate that our ADSs and ordinary shares should qualify as being regularly traded, but no assurances may
be given in this regard. Assuming that the ADSs and ordinary shares are regularly traded, if you are a holder of our ADSs or ordinary shares, it is
expected that the mark-to-market election would be available to you were we a PFIC. If you make a valid mark-to-market election for the ADSs or
ordinary shares, you will generally include in income each year an amount equal to the excess, if any, of the fair market value of the ADSs as of the
close of your taxable year over your adjusted basis in such ADSs or ordinary shares. You are allowed a deduction for the excess, if any, of the adjusted
basis of the ADSs or ordinary shares over their fair market value as of the close of the taxable year. Such deductions, however, are allowable only to the
extent of any net mark-to-market gains on the ADSs or ordinary shares included in your income for prior taxable years. Amounts included in your
income under a mark-to-market election, as well as gain on the actual sale or other disposition of the ADSs or ordinary shares, are treated as ordinary
income. Ordinary loss treatment also applies to the deductible portion of any mark-to-market loss on the ADSs or ordinary shares, as well as to any loss
realized on the actual sale or disposition of the ADSs or ordinary shares, to the extent that the amount of such loss does not exceed the net
mark-to-market gains previously included for such ADSs. Your basis in the ADSs or ordinary shares will be adjusted to reflect any such income or loss
amounts. If you make such a mark-to-market election in respect of a corporation classified as a PFIC and such corporation ceases to be classified as a
PFIC, you will not be required to take into account the gain or loss described above during any period that such corporation is not classified as a PFIC.
Because, as a technical matter, a mark-to-market election cannot be made for any lower-tier PFICs that we may own, a U.S. Holder may continue
to be subject to the general PFIC rules described above with respect to such U.S. Holder’s indirect interest in any investments held by us that are treated
as an equity interest in a PFIC for U.S. federal income tax purposes.
Alternatively, a U.S. Holder may avoid the PFIC tax consequences described above in respect to its ADSs and ordinary shares by making a timely
“qualified electing fund,” or QEF, election. To comply with the requirements of a QEF election, a U.S. Holder must receive certain information from us.
Because we do not intend to provide such information, however, such election will not be available to you with respect to the ADSs or ordinary shares.
If you hold our ADSs or ordinary shares in any year in which we are a PFIC, you will be required to file an annual information report containing
such information as the U.S. Treasury may require.
You are urged to consult your tax advisor regarding the reporting requirements that may apply and the U.S. federal income tax consequences of
holding and disposing of our ADSs or ordinary shares if we are treated as a PFIC, including the possibility of making a mark-to-market election and the
unavailability of the election to treat us as a qualified electing fund.
F.
Dividends and Paying Agents
Not applicable.
G.
Statement by Experts
Not applicable.
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H. Documents on Display
We are subject to the periodic reporting and other informational requirements of the Exchange Act, and are required to file reports and other
information with the SEC. Specifically, we are required to file annually a Form 20-F within four months after the end of each fiscal year, which is
December 31. All information filed with the SEC can be obtained over the internet at the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov. As a foreign private issuer, we
are exempt from the rules under the Exchange Act prescribing the furnishing and content of quarterly reports and proxy statements, and officers,
directors and principal shareholders are exempt from the reporting and short-swing profit recovery provisions contained in Section 16 of the Exchange
Act.
We will furnish The Bank of New York Mellon, the depositary of our ADSs, with our annual reports, which will include a review of operations
and annual audited consolidated financial statements prepared in conformity with U.S. GAAP, and all notices of shareholders’ meetings and other
reports and communications that are made generally available to our shareholders. The depositary will make such notices, reports and communications
available to holders of ADSs and, upon our request, will mail to all record holders of ADSs the information contained in any notice of a shareholders’
meeting received by the depositary from us.
In accordance with Nasdaq Stock Market Rule 5250(d), we will post this annual report on Form 20-F on our website at http://ir.baidu.com. In
addition, we will provide hardcopies of our annual report free of charge to shareholders and ADS holders upon request.
I.
Subsidiary Information
Not applicable.
J.
Annual Report to Security Holders
We intend to submit the annual report provided to security holders in electronic format pursuant to the Rules Governing the Listing of Securities
on The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited as an exhibit to a current report on Form 6-K.
Item 11.
Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk
Interest Rate Risk
Our exposure to interest rate risk primarily relates to excess cash invested in short-term instruments, long-term investments and bank facilities that
have a floating rate of interest.
Investments in both fixed rate and floating rate interest earning instruments carry a degree of interest rate risk. Fixed rate investments may have
their fair market value adversely impacted due to a rise in interest rates, while floating rate investments may produce less income than expected if
interest rates fall. Due in part to these factors, our future investment income may fall short of expectations due to changes in interest rates, or we may
suffer losses in principal if we have to sell securities which have declined in market value due to changes in interest rates. For example, as of
December 31, 2023, we had RMB168.7 billion (US$23.8 billion) short-term investments, with a weighted average duration of 0.4 year. A hypothetical
one percentage point (100 basis-point) increase in interest rates would have resulted in a decrease of RMB712 million (US$100 million) in the fair value
of our short-term investments as of December 31, 2023. We have not been, and do not expect to be, exposed to material interest rate risks relating to our
investment in short-term instruments, and therefore have not used any derivative financial instruments to manage such interest risk exposure. Our
exposure to interest rate risk also arises from our bank facilities that have a floating rate of interest. The costs of floating rate borrowings may be
affected by the fluctuations in the interest rates. We manage this risk through the use of interest rate swap contracts. In connection with the loan facilities
entered into in April 2021, we entered into two interest rate swap agreements, as amended, which effectively convert the term loans from a variable
interest rate to a fixed rate, thereby managing our exposure to changes in market interest rates under the term loans. See “Item 5.B. Operating and
Financial Review and Prospects—Liquidity and Capital Resources.”
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Table of Contents
Foreign Exchange Risk
Most of our revenues and costs are denominated in RMB, while a portion of our cash and cash equivalents, restricted cash, short-term
investments, long-term investments, long-term time deposits and held-to-maturity investments, long-term loans, notes payable and convertible senior
notes are denominated in U.S. dollars. Any significant revaluation of RMB against the U.S. dollar may materially affect our cash flows, revenues,
earnings and financial position, and the value of, and any dividends payable on, our ADS in U.S. dollars. See “Item 3.D. Key Information—Risk Factors
—Risks Related to Doing Business in China—Fluctuation in exchange rates could have a material and adverse effect on our results of operations and the
value of your investment.” In addition, we have operations in Japan. We may need to make capital injections into our Japan operations by converting
U.S. dollars into Japanese Yen, and we have JPY-denominated revenue and expenses that we may need to translate into U.S. dollars, which will expose
us to the fluctuations in the exchange rate between the U.S. dollar and the Japanese Yen. In 2023, we entered into some hedging transactions in an effort
to reduce our exposure to foreign currency exchange risk. The value of your investment in our ADSs or Class A ordinary shares will be affected by the
exchange rate between the U.S. dollar and the Renminbi or the Hong Kong dollar and the Renminbi, as applicable, because the value of our business is
effectively denominated in RMB, while our ADSs or Class A ordinary shares will be traded in U.S. dollars or Hong Kong dollars, as applicable.
The conversion of Renminbi into foreign currencies, including U.S. dollars, is based on rates set by the People’s Bank of China. The Renminbi has
fluctuated against the U.S. dollar, at times significantly and unpredictably. It is difficult to predict how market forces or PRC or U.S. government policy
may impact the exchange rate between Renminbi and U.S. dollar in the future.
To the extent that we need to convert U.S. dollars into Renminbi for our operations, appreciation of the Renminbi against the U.S. dollar would
have an adverse effect on the RMB amount we receive from the conversion. Conversely, if we decide to convert Renminbi into U.S. dollars for the
purpose of making payments for dividends on our ordinary shares or ADSs, repaying indebtedness denominated in U.S. dollars, or for other business
purposes, appreciation of the U.S. dollar against the Renminbi would have a negative effect on the U.S. dollar amounts available to us.
As of December 31, 2023, we had RMB-denominated cash and cash equivalents, restricted cash and short-term investments of RMB171.7 billion,
and U.S. dollar-denominated cash and cash equivalents, restricted cash and short-term investments of US$4.6 billion. Assuming we had converted
RMB171.7 billion into U.S. dollars at the exchange rate of RMB7.0999 for US$1.00 as of December 29, 2023, our U.S. dollar cash balance would have
been US$28.8 billion. If the RMB had depreciated by 10% against the U.S. dollar, our U.S. dollar cash balance would have been US$26.4 billion
instead. In addition, we had U.S. dollar-denominated long-term loans (including current portion), notes payable (including current portion) and
convertible senior notes (including current portion) of US$9.3 billion as of December 31, 2023. A hypothetical 10% increase in the exchange rate of the
U.S. dollar against the RMB would have resulted in an increase of RMB6.6 billion (US$932 million) in the value of our U.S. dollar-denominated long-
term loans (including current portion), notes payable (including current portion) and convertible senior notes (including current portion) as of
December 31, 2023.
Item 12.
Description of Securities Other than Equity Securities
A. Debt Securities
Not applicable.
B. Warrants and Rights
Not applicable.
C. Other Securities
Not applicable.
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D. American Depositary Shares
Fees and Charges Our ADS holders May Have to Pay
The Bank of New York Mellon is the depositary of our ADS program. A holder of ADSs may have to pay certain fees of The Bank of New York
Mellon, as depositary, and certain taxes, registration and transfer charges and fees and governmental charges and fees. The depositary collects fees for
delivery and surrender of ADSs directly from holders depositing shares or surrendering ADSs for the purpose of withdrawal or from intermediaries
acting for them or to whom ADSs are issued (including, without limitation, issuances pursuant to a stock dividend or stock split declared by us or an
exchange of stock regarding the ADSs or deposited shares or a distribution of ADSs). The depositary collects fees for making distributions to holders by
deducting those fees from the amounts distributed or by selling a portion of distributable property to pay the fees. The depositary may collect its annual
fee for depositary services by deductions from cash distributions or by directly billing holders or by charging the book-entry system accounts of
participants acting for them. The depositary may generally refuse to deliver ADSs or deposited shares or to forward any distributions until its fees for
those services are paid. The Depositary’s Office is located at 240 Greenwich Street, New York, New York 10286.
Persons depositing or withdrawing shares must pay:
US$5.00 or less per 100 ADSs (or portion thereof)
For:
•
Issuance of ADSs,
including
issuances resulting from a
distribution of shares or rights or other property
US$5.00 or less per 100 ADS (or portion thereof)
•
Cancellation of ADSs for the purpose of withdrawal, including if
US$0.02 or less per ADS (or portion thereof)
A fee equivalent to the fee that would be payable if securities distributed to
ADS holders had been shares and the shares had been deposited for issuance
of ADSs
US$0.02 or less per ADS (or portion thereof) per calendar year (to the extent
that a fee of $0.02 was not charged as a result of any cash distribution during
that calendar year)
the deposit agreement terminates
Any cash distribution to ADS holders
Distribution of securities distributed to holders of deposited
securities which are distributed by the depositary to ADS holders
•
•
•
Depositary services
Expenses of the depositary
•
Cable, telex and facsimile transmissions (when expressly provided
Registration fees
•
•
in the deposit agreement)
Converting foreign currency to U.S. dollars
Transfer and registration of shares on our share register to or from
the name of the depositary or its nominee or the custodian or its
nominee when you deposit or withdraw shares
Taxes and other governmental charges the depositary or the custodian have to
pay on any ADS or share underlying an ADS, for example, stock transfer
taxes, stamp duty or withholding taxes
•
As necessary
Expenses of depositary incurred in the conversion of foreign currency
Any charges incurred by the depositary or its agents for servicing the
deposited securities
•
•
As necessary
As necessary
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Fees and Other Payments Made by the Depositary to Us
The depositary has agreed to reimburse us certain expenses annually and we incur expenses related to the establishment and maintenance of the
ADR program, including expenses related to our listing in the U.S. and Hong Kong, compliance, and investor relations activities. In 2024, we expect to
receive certain insignificant amount of reimbursement from the depositary.
Conversion between Class A ordinary shares and ADSs
Dealings and Settlement of Class A Ordinary Shares in Hong Kong
Our Class A ordinary shares commenced trading on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange in board lots of 50 Class A ordinary shares on March 23,
2021. Dealings in our Class A ordinary shares on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange are conducted in Hong Kong dollars.
The transaction costs of dealings in our Class A ordinary shares on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange include:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Hong Kong Stock Exchange trading fee of 0.00565% of the consideration of the transaction, charged to each of the buyer and seller;
Securities and Futures Commission of Hong Kong, or SFC, transaction levy of 0.0027% of the consideration of the transaction, charged to
each of the buyer and seller;
Accounting and Financial Reporting Council of Hong Kong transaction levy of 0.00015% of the consideration of the transaction, charged
to each of the buyer and seller;
transfer deed stamp duty of HK$5.00 per transfer deed (if applicable), payable by the seller;
ad valorem stamp duty at a total rate of 0.26% of the value of the transaction, with 0.1% payable by each of the buyer and the seller;
stock settlement fee, which is currently 0.002% of the gross transaction value, subject to a minimum fee of HK$2.00 and a maximum fee
of HK$100.00 per side per trade;
brokerage commission, which is freely negotiable with the broker; and
the Hong Kong share registrar will charge between HK$2.50 to HK$20.00, depending on the speed of service (or such higher fee as may
from time to time be permitted under the Hong Kong Listing Rules), for each transfer of ordinary shares from one registered owner to
another, each share certificate canceled or issued by it and any applicable fee as stated in the share transfer forms used in Hong Kong.
Investors must settle their trades executed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange through their brokers directly or through custodians. For an investor
who has deposited his or her Class A ordinary shares in his or her stock account or in his or her designated CCASS participant’s stock account
maintained with CCASS, settlement will be effected in CCASS in accordance with the General Rules of CCASS and CCASS Operational Procedures in
effect from time to time. For an investor who holds the physical certificates, settlement certificates and the duly executed transfer forms must be
delivered to his or her broker or custodian before the settlement date.
Conversion between Class A Ordinary Shares Trading in Hong Kong and ADSs
In connection with the initial public offering of Class A ordinary shares in Hong Kong, we have established a branch register of members in Hong
Kong, or the Hong Kong share register, which will be maintained by our Hong Kong share registrar, Computershare Hong Kong Investor Services
Limited. Our principal register of members, or the Cayman share register, will continue to be maintained by our principal share registrar, Maples Fund
Services (Cayman) Limited.
All Class A ordinary shares offered in the initial public offering in Hong Kong are registered on the Hong Kong share register in order to be listed
and traded on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange. As described in further detail below, holders of Class A ordinary shares registered on the Hong Kong
share register will be able to deposit these ordinary shares into ADSs, and vice versa.
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Depositing Class A Ordinary Shares Trading in Hong Kong for delivery of ADSs
An investor who holds Class A ordinary shares registered in Hong Kong and who intends to convert them to ADSs to trade on Nasdaq must
deposit or have his or her broker deposit the Class A ordinary shares with the depositary’s Hong Kong custodian, The Hong Kong and Shanghai
Banking Corporation Limited, Hong Kong, or the custodian, in exchange for ADSs.
A deposit of Class A ordinary shares trading in Hong Kong in exchange for ADSs involves the following procedures:
•
•
If Class A ordinary shares have been deposited with CCASS, the investor must transfer Class A ordinary shares to the depositary’s account
with the custodian within CCASS by following the CCASS procedures for transfer and submit and deliver a duly completed and signed
ADS delivery form to the custodian via his or her broker.
If Class A ordinary shares are held outside CCASS, the investor must arrange for the registration of a transfer of his or her Class A
ordinary shares into the depositary’s name and the delivery of a share certificate evidencing such registration to the custodian and must
sign and deliver an ADS delivery form to the depositary, as well as any applicable required documentation as required by the depositary.
Investor shall contact the depositary for applicable documentation, if any, prior to depositing Class A ordinary shares for issuance into
ADSs.
•
Upon payment of its fees and expenses and of any taxes or charges, such as stamp taxes or stock transfer taxes or fees, if applicable, the
depositary will issue the corresponding number of ADSs and will deliver the ADSs as instructed in the ADS delivery form.
For Class A ordinary shares deposited in CCASS for issuance of ADSs, under normal circumstances, the above steps may take approximately two
business days turnaround time, or more, provided that the investor has provided timely and complete instructions. Additional time will be required if the
ADSs are to be issued in registered form in the books and records of the depositary. For Class A ordinary shares held outside CCASS in physical form,
the above steps may take 14 business days, or more, to complete. Temporary delays may arise. For example, the transfer books of the depositary may
from time to time be closed to ADS issuances. The investor will be unable to deposit Class A ordinary shares and receive ADSs until the procedures are
completed.
Surrender of ADSs for Delivery of Class A Ordinary Shares Trading in Hong Kong
An investor who holds ADSs and wishes to receive Class A ordinary shares that trade on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange must cancel the ADSs
the investor holds and withdraw Class A ordinary shares from our ADS program and cause his or her broker or other financial institution to trade such
Class A ordinary shares on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange.
An investor that holds ADSs indirectly through a broker or other financial institution should follow the procedure of the broker or financial
institution and instruct the broker to arrange for cancelation of the ADSs, and transfer of the underlying Class A ordinary shares from the depositary’s
account with the custodian within the CCASS system to the investor’s Hong Kong stock account.
For investors holding ADSs directly, the following steps must be taken:
•
•
To withdraw Class A ordinary shares from our ADS program, an investor who holds ADSs must turn in such ADSs at the office of the
depositary (and the applicable ADR(s) if the ADSs are held in certificated form), and send an instruction to cancel such ADSs to the
depositary. Those instructions must have a Medallion signature guarantee.
Upon payment of its fees and expenses and of any taxes or charges, such as stamp taxes or stock transfer taxes or fees, if applicable, the
depositary will instruct the custodian to deliver Class A ordinary shares underlying the canceled ADSs to the CCASS account designated
by an investor.
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•
If an investor prefers to receive Class A ordinary shares outside CCASS, he or she must so indicate in the instruction delivered to the
depositary.
For Class A ordinary shares to be received in CCASS, under normal circumstances, the above steps may take approximately two business days
turnaround time, or more, provided that the investor has provided timely and complete instructions. For Class A ordinary shares to be received outside
CCASS in physical form, the above steps may take 14 business days, or more, to complete. The investor will be unable to receive the Class A ordinary
shares until the procedures are completed.
Temporary delays may arise. For example, the transfer books of the depositary may from time to time be closed to ADS cancellations. In addition,
completion of the above steps and procedures for delivery of Class A ordinary shares in a CCASS account is subject to there being a sufficient number
of Class A ordinary shares on the Hong Kong share register to facilitate a withdrawal from the ADS program directly into the CCASS system. Further,
completion of the above steps and procedures for delivery of Class A ordinary shares outside CCASS is subject to there being a sufficient number of
Class A ordinary shares on the Cayman share register to facilitate a withdrawal from the ADS program outside CCASS. We are not under any obligation
to maintain or increase the number of Class A ordinary shares on the Hong Kong or Cayman share register, as the case may be, to facilitate such
withdrawals.
Depositary Requirements
Before the depositary delivers ADSs or permits withdrawal of Class A ordinary shares, the depositary may require:
•
•
production of satisfactory proof of the identity and genuineness of any signature or other information it deems necessary; and
compliance with procedures it may establish, from time to time, consistent with the deposit agreement, including completion and
presentation of transfer documents.
The depositary may refuse to deliver, transfer, or register issuances, transfers and cancelations of ADSs generally when the transfer books of the
depositary or our Hong Kong or Cayman share registrar are closed or at any time if the depositary or we determine it advisable to do so.
All costs attributable to the transfer of Class A ordinary shares to effect a withdrawal from or deposit of Class A ordinary shares into our ADS
program will be borne by the investor requesting the transfer or deposit. In particular, holders of ordinary shares and ADSs should note that the Hong
Kong share registrar will charge between HK$2.50 to HK$20, depending on the speed of service (or such higher fee as may from time to time be
permitted under the Hong Kong Listing Rules), for each transfer of Class A ordinary shares from one registered owner to another, each share certificate
canceled or issued by it and any applicable fee as stated in the share transfer forms used in Hong Kong. In addition, holders of Class A ordinary shares
and ADSs must pay up to US$5.00 per 100 ADSs (or portion thereof) for each issuance of ADSs and each cancelation of ADSs, as the case may be, in
connection with the deposit of Class A ordinary shares into, or withdrawal of ordinary shares from, the ADS facility.
Item 13.
Defaults, Dividend Arrearages and Delinquencies
None.
PART II
Item 14.
Material Modifications to the Rights of Security Holders and Use of Proceeds.
None.
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Table of Contents
Item 15.
Controls and Procedures
Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures
Our management, with the participation of our chief executive officer and chief financial officer, has performed an evaluation of the effectiveness
of our disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rule 13a-15(e) under the Exchange Act) as of the end of the period covered by this report, as
required by Rule 13a-15(b) under the Exchange Act.
Based upon that evaluation, our management has concluded that, as of December 31, 2023, our disclosure controls and procedures were effective
in ensuring that the information required to be disclosed by us in the reports that we file and furnish under the Exchange Act was recorded, processed,
summarized and reported, within the time periods specified in the SEC’s rules and forms, and that the information required to be disclosed by us in the
reports that we file or submit under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our chief executive officer and
chief financial officer, to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.
Management’s Annual Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting
Our management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting, as defined in Rule 13a-15(f)
under the Exchange Act. Our management evaluated the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting, as required by Rule 13a-15(c) of
the Exchange Act, based on criteria established in the framework in Internal Control-Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission. Based on this evaluation, our management has concluded that our internal control over
financial reporting was effective as of December 31, 2023.
Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. In addition, projections of
any evaluation of effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become
inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies and procedures may deteriorate.
Our independent registered public accounting firm, Ernst & Young Hua Ming LLP, has audited the effectiveness of our internal control over
financial reporting as of December 31, 2023, as stated in its report, which appears on page F-5 of this annual report on Form 20-F.
Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting
There were no changes in our internal controls over financial reporting that occurred during the period covered by this annual report on Form 20-F
that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.
Item 16A.
Audit Committee Financial Expert
Our board of directors has determined that Mr. Brent Callinicos, an independent director (under the standards set forth in Nasdaq Stock Market
Rule 5605(a)(2) and Rule 10A-3 under the Exchange Act) and chairman of our audit committee, is an audit committee financial expert.
Item 16B.
Code of Ethics
In July 2005, our board of directors adopted a code of business conduct and ethics that applies to our directors, officers, employees and advisors.
We have posted a copy of our code of business conduct and ethics on our website at http://ir.baidu.com.
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Item 16C.
Principal Accountant Fees and Services
The following table sets forth the aggregate fees by categories specified below in connection with certain professional services rendered by
Ernst & Young Hua Ming LLP, our principal external auditors, for the periods indicated.
Audit fees(1)
Audit-related fees(2)
2022
(RMB in thousands)
35,786
6,499
2023
(RMB in thousands)
48,436
3,630
(1)
(2)
“Audit fees” means the aggregate fees billed in each of the fiscal years listed for professional services rendered by our principal auditors for the audit of our annual statements and
assistance with and review of documents filed with the SEC.
“Audit-related Fees” in each of the fiscal years listed, represents the aggregate fees billed for the assurance and related services that are reasonably related to the offering of iQIYI’s
ADSs / convertible senior notes and review of our financial statements that are not reported under “Audit Fees.”
All audit and non-audit services provided by our independent auditors must be pre-approved by our audit committee. Our audit committee has
adopted a combination of two approaches in pre-approving proposed services: general pre-approval and specific pre-approval. With general approval,
the engagement to render services is entered into pursuant to pre-approval policies and procedures established by the audit committee. The policies and
procedures are detailed as to the particular service (not broad categories), and the audit committee is informed of each specific service quarterly. With
specific approval, the audit committee pre-approves the specific engagement to be rendered. Unless a type of service has received general pre-approval,
it will require specific pre-approval by our audit committee. Any proposed services exceeding pre-approved cost levels or budgeted amounts will also
require specific pre-approval by our audit committee.
Requests or applications to provide services that require specific approval by our audit committee will be submitted to the audit committee by both
our independent auditors and our chief financial officer and must include an assessment as to whether, in their view, the request or application is
consistent with the SEC’s rules on auditor independence.
Item 16D.
Exemptions from the Listing Standards for Audit Committees
Not applicable.
Item 16E.
Purchases of Equity Securities by the Issuer and Affiliated Purchasers
In February 2023, our board of directors authorized a share repurchase program, under which we may repurchase up to US$5.0 billion of our
ADSs or shares, effective until December 31, 2025. The table below is a summary of our repurchases in 2023, which were all conducted in the open
market pursuant to such share repurchase program.
Period
March 2023
June 2023
August 2023
September 2023
October 2023
November 2023
December 2023
Total
Total
Number of
ADSs
Purchased
1,470,468
253,155
3,675
863,566
97,878
1,851,200
792,683
5,332,625
Average
Price
Paid Per
ADS
$132.37
$121.52
$129.65
$130.35
$131.51
$122.99
$113.53
$125.45
226
Program
Total Number
of ADSs
Purchased as
Part of the
Share
Repurchase
Approximate
Dollar Value
of ADSs that May
Yet Be Purchased
Under the Share
Repurchase Program
1,470,468 US$4,805,354,695
253,155 US$4,774,590,219
3,675 US$4,774,113,746
863,566 US$4,661,551,068
97,878 US$4,648,678,789
1,851,200 US$4,420,996,857
792,683 US$4,331,002,294
5,332,625 US$4,331,002,294
Table of Contents
Item 16F.
Change in Registrant’s Certifying Accountant
Not applicable.
Item 16G.
Corporate Governance
Nasdaq Stock Market Rule 5615(a)(3) permits foreign private issuers like us to follow “home country practice” in certain corporate governance
matters. In July 2018 and August 2023, our board of directors approved the 2018 share incentive plan and the 2023 share incentive plan, respectively.
We relied on home country practice exemption and did not convene a shareholder meeting to approve the 2018 and 2023 share incentive plans. Maples
and Calder (Hong Kong) LLP, our Cayman Islands counsel, has provided a letter to the Nasdaq Stock Market certifying that under Cayman Islands law,
we are not required to obtain shareholder approval in respect of the adoption of a stock option or other equity compensation arrangement, or an
amendment to the stock option or other equity compensation plan.
Other than the practice described above, there are no significant differences between our corporate governance practices and those followed by
U.S. domestic companies under Nasdaq Stock Market Rules.
Item 16H.
Mine Safety Disclosure
Not applicable.
Item 16I.
Disclosure Regarding Foreign Jurisdictions that Prevent Inspections
Not applicable.
Item 16J.
Insider Trading Policies
Not applicable.
Item 16K.
Cybersecurity
Risk Management and Strategy
We have implemented comprehensive cybersecurity risk assessment procedures to ensure effectiveness in cybersecurity management, strategy and
governance and reporting cybersecurity risks. We have also integrated cybersecurity risk management into our overall enterprise risk management
system.
We have developed a comprehensive cybersecurity threat defense system to address both internal and external threats. This system encompasses
various levels, including network, host and application security and incorporates systematic security capabilities for threat defense, monitoring, analysis,
response, deception and countermeasures. We strive to manage cybersecurity risks and protect sensitive information through various methods, including
technical safeguards, procedural requirements, an intensive monitoring program on our corporate network, continuous testing of our security posture
both internally and with outside vendors, a robust incident response program, a review of the effectiveness of our security system with reference to
applicable security standards by qualified third parties and regular cybersecurity awareness training for employees. Both our Security Department and
Operation and Maintenance Department continuously monitor the performance of our apps, platforms and infrastructure to enable us to respond quickly
to potential problems, including potential cybersecurity threats.
As of the date of this annual report, we have not experienced any material cybersecurity incidents or identified any material cybersecurity threats
that have affected or are reasonably likely to materially affect us, our business strategy, results of operations or financial condition.
227
Table of Contents
Governance
The corporate governance and nominating committee of our board of directors is responsible for overseeing the Company’s cybersecurity risk
management and be informed on risks from cybersecurity threats. The corporate governance and nominating committee shall review, approve and
maintain oversight of the disclosure (i) on Form 6-K for material cybersecurity incidents (if any) and (ii) related to cybersecurity matters in the periodic
reports (including annual report on Form 20-F) of the Company. In addition, at the management level, we have established the Data Management
Committee, which consists of seven top executives, including the person in charge of our Security Department who has experience in dealing with
confidentiality-related cybersecurity issues, and is chaired by our senior vice president and general counsel, to oversee and manage cybersecurity related
matters and formulate policies as necessary. Our Data Management Committee reports to our corporate governance and nominating committee on a
quarterly basis regarding its assessment, identification and management on material risks from cybersecurity threats happened in the ordinary course of
our business operations. If a cybersecurity incident occurs, our data management committee will promptly organize relevant personnel for internal
assessment and, depending on the situation, seek the opinions of external experts and legal advisors. If it is determined that the incident could potentially
be a material cybersecurity event, our data management committee will promptly report the investigation and assessment results to our corporate
governance and nominating committee and our corporate governance and nominating committee will decide on the relevant response measures and
whether any disclosure is necessary. If such disclosure is determined to be necessary, our data management committee shall promptly prepare disclosure
material for review and approval by our corporate governance and nominating committee before it is disseminated to the public.
Item 17.
Financial Statements
We have elected to provide financial statements pursuant to Item 18.
PART III
Item 18.
Financial Statements
The consolidated financial statements of Baidu, Inc., its subsidiaries and the variable interest entities are included at the end of this annual report.
Item 19.
Exhibits
Exhibit
Number
1.1
2.1
2.2
2.3
Description of Document
Fifth Amended and Restated Memorandum and Articles of Association of the Registrant (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1
of Form 6-K furnished with the Securities and Exchange Commission on June 27, 2023)
Registrant’s Specimen American Depositary Receipt (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 1 of the prospectus filed with the
Securities and Exchange Commission on January 5, 2009 pursuant to Rule 424(b)(3) under the Securities Act)
Registrant’s Specimen Certificate for Class A Ordinary Shares (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.2 of Amendment No. 5 to
our Registration Statement on Form F-1 (file no. 333-126534) filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on August 2,
2005)
Form of Deposit Agreement among the Registrant, the depositary and holder of the American Depositary Receipts (incorporated
by reference to Exhibit 4.3 to our Registration Statement on Form F-1 (file no. 333-126534) filed with the Securities and Exchange
Commission on July 12, 2005)
228
Table of Contents
Exhibit
Number
2.4
2.5
2.6
2.7
2.8
2.9
2.10
2.11
2.12
2.13
2.14
2.15
2.16
2.17
2.18
2.19
2.20
Description of Document
Indenture dated November 28, 2012 between the Registrant and The Bank of New York Mellon, as trustee (incorporated by
reference to Exhibit 4.1 to Form 6-K furnished with the Securities and Exchange Commission on November 28, 2012)
First Supplemental Indenture dated November 28, 2012 between the Registrant and The Bank of New York Mellon, as trustee
(incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.2 to Form 6-K furnished with the Securities and Exchange Commission on November 28,
2012)
Second Supplemental Indenture dated August 6, 2013 between the Registrant and The Bank of New York Mellon, as trustee
(incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.5 to Form 6-K furnished with the Securities and Exchange Commission on August 6, 2013)
Third Supplemental Indenture dated June 9, 2014 between the Registrant and The Bank of New York Mellon, as trustee
(incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.5 to Form 6-K furnished with the Securities and Exchange Commission on June 9, 2014)
Fourth Supplemental Indenture dated June 30, 2015 between the Registrant and The Bank of New York Mellon, as trustee
(incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 to Form 6-K furnished with the Securities and Exchange Commission on July 2, 2015)
Form of 4.125% Notes due 2025 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 to Form 6-K furnished with the Securities and Exchange
Commission on July 2, 2015)
Fifth Supplemental Indenture dated July 6, 2017 between the Registrant and The Bank of New York Mellon, as trustee
(incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 to Form 6-K furnished with the Securities and Exchange Commission on July 7, 2017)
Form of 3.625% Notes due 2027 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 to Form 6-K furnished with the Securities and Exchange
Commission on July 7, 2017)
Sixth Supplemental Indenture dated March 29, 2018 between the Registrant and The Bank of New York Mellon, as trustee
(incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.5 to Form 6-K furnished with the Securities and Exchange Commission on November 15,
2018)
Form of 4.375% Notes due 2028 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.5 to Form 6-K furnished with the Securities and Exchange
Commission on November 15, 2018)
Seventh Supplemental Indenture dated November 14, 2018 between the Registrant and The Bank of New York Mellon, as trustee
(incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.8 to Form 6-K furnished with the Securities and Exchange Commission on November 15,
2018)
Form of 4.375% Notes due 2024 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.8 to Form 6-K furnished with the Securities and Exchange
Commission on November 15, 2018)
Form of 4.875% Notes due 2028 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.8 to Form 6-K furnished with the Securities and Exchange
Commission on November 15, 2018)
Eighth Supplemental Indenture, dated as of April 7, 2020, between the Registrant and The Bank of New York Mellon, as trustee
(incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.11 to Form 6-K furnished with the Securities and Exchange Commission on April 7, 2020)
Form of 3.075% Notes due 2025 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.11 to Form 6-K furnished with the Securities and
Exchange Commission on April 7, 2020)
Form of 3.425% Notes due 2030 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.11 to Form 6-K furnished with the Securities and
Exchange Commission on April 7, 2020)
Ninth Supplemental Indenture, dated as of October 9, 2020, between the Registrant and The Bank of New York Mellon, as trustee
(incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.3 to Form 6-K furnished with the Securities and Exchange Commission on October 9,
2020)
229
Table of Contents
Exhibit
Number
2.21
2.22
2.23
2.24
2.25
2.26
2.27
2.28
2.29
2.30
2.31
Description of Document
Form of 1.72% Notes due 2026 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.3 to Form 6-K furnished with the Securities and Exchange
Commission on October 9, 2020)
Form of 2.375% Notes due 2030 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.3 to Form 6-K furnished with the Securities and Exchange
Commission on October 9, 2020)
Tenth Supplemental Indenture, dated as of August 23, 2021, between the Registrant and The Bank of New York Mellon, as trustee
(incorporated by reference to Exhibit 2.26 of our Annual Report on Form 20-F filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission
on March 28, 2022)
Form of 1.625% Notes due 2027 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 2.27 of our Annual Report on Form 20-F filed with the
Securities and Exchange Commission on March 28, 2022)
Form of 2.375% Notes due 2031 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 2.28 of our Annual Report on Form 20-F filed with the
Securities and Exchange Commission on March 28, 2022)
Indenture dated December 4, 2018 between iQIYI, Inc. and Citicorp International Limited, as trustee, and form of 3.75% Notes
due 2023 (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 4.67 to iQIYI, Inc.’s annual report on Form 20-F (File No. 001-38431) filed
with the SEC on March 15, 2019)
Indenture dated March 29, 2019 between iQIYI, Inc. and Citicorp International Limited, as trustee, and form of 2.00% Notes due
2025 (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 4.61 to iQIYI, Inc.’s annual report on Form 20-F (File No. 001-38431) filed with
the SEC on March 12, 2020)
Description of Securities of the Registrant (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 2.31 of our Annual Report on Form 20-F filed
with the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 28, 2022)
Description of the Registrant’s US$750,000,000 3.00% Notes Due 2020 and US$500,000,000 4.13% Notes Due 2025
(incorporated herein by reference to (i) the section titled “Description of Debt Securities” in the Registrants’ registration statement
on Form F-3 (File No. 333-184757) filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on November 5, 2012 and (ii) the section
titled “Description of the Notes” in the prospectus supplement, in the form filed by the Registrant with the Securities and Exchange
Commission on June 22, 2015 pursuant to Rule 424(b) under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended)
Description of the Registrant’s US$900,000,000 2.88% Notes Due 2022 and US$600,000,000 3.63% Notes Due 2027
(incorporated herein by reference to (i) the section titled “Description of Debt Securities” in the Registrants’ registration statement
on Form F-3 (File No. 333-218972) filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on June 26, 2017 and (ii) the section titled
“Description of the Notes” in the prospectus supplement, in the form filed by the Registrant with the Securities and Exchange
Commission on June 28, 2017 pursuant to Rule 424(b) under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended)
Description of the Registrant’s US$1,000,000,000 3.88% Notes Due 2023 and US$500,000,000 4.38% Notes Due 2028
(incorporated herein by reference to (i) the section titled “Description of Debt Securities” in the Registrants’ registration statement
on Form F-3 (File No. 333-218972) filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on June 26, 2017 and (ii) the section titled
“Description of the Notes” in the prospectus supplement, in the form filed by the Registrant with the Securities and Exchange
Commission on March 22, 2018 pursuant to Rule 424(b) under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended)
230
Table of Contents
Exhibit
Number
2.32
2.33
4.1
4.2
4.3
4.4
4.5
4.6
4.7
4.8
4.9
Description of Document
Description of the Registrant’s US$600,000,000 4.38% Notes Due 2024 and US$400,000,000 4.88% Notes Due 2028
(incorporated herein by reference to (i) the section titled “Description of Debt Securities” in the Registrants’ registration statement
on Form F-3 (File No. 333-218972) filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on June 26, 2017 and (ii) the section titled
“Description of the Notes” in the prospectus supplement, in the form filed by the Registrant with the Securities and Exchange
Commission on November 8, 2018 pursuant to Rule 424(b) under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended)
Description of the Registrant’s US$300,000,000 1.625% Notes Due 2027 and US$700,000,000 2.375% Notes Due 2031
(incorporated herein by reference to (i) the section titled “Description of Debt Securities” in the Registrants’ registration statement
on Form F-3 (File No. 333-249314) filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on October 5, 2020 and (ii) the section
titled “Description of the Notes” in the prospectus supplement, in the form filed by the Registrant with the Securities and Exchange
Commission on August 19, 2021 pursuant to Rule 424(b) under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended)
2000 Option Plan (amended and restated effective December 16, 2008) (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 99.3 of Form 6-K
furnished with the Securities and Exchange Commission on December 17, 2008)
2008 Share Incentive Plan (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 99.4 of Form 6-K furnished with the Securities and Exchange
Commission on December 17, 2008)
Form of Indemnification Agreement between the Registrant and the Registrant’s directors (incorporated by reference to
Exhibit 10.3 of our Registration Statement on Form F-1 (file no. 333-126534) filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission
on July 12, 2005)
Form of Employment Agreement between the Registrant and an Executive Officer of the Registrant (incorporated by reference to
Exhibit 10.4 of our Registration Statement on Form F-1 (file no. 333-126534) filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission
on July 12, 2005)
Translation of Exclusive Technology Consulting and Services Agreement dated March 22, 2005 between Baidu Online and Baidu
Netcom and the supplementary agreement dated April 22, 2010 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.6 of our Annual Report on
Form 20-F filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 29, 2012)
Translation of Operating Agreement dated March 22, 2005 between Baidu Online and Baidu Netcom (incorporated by reference to
Exhibit 99.4 of our Registration Statement on Form F-1 (file no. 333-126534) filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission
on July 12, 2005)
Translation of Software License Agreement dated March 22, 2005 between Baidu Online and Baidu Netcom (incorporated by
reference to Exhibit 99.5 of our Registration Statement on Form F-1 (file no. 333-126534) filed with the Securities and Exchange
Commission on July 12, 2005)
Translation of Web Layout Copyright License Agreement dated March 1, 2004 between Baidu Online and Baidu Netcom and the
supplementary agreement dated August 9, 2004 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 99.8 of our Registration Statement on
Form F-1 (file no. 333-126534) filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on July 12, 2005)
Translation of Proxy Agreement dated August 9, 2004 among Baidu Online, Baidu Netcom, Robin Yanhong Li and Eric Yong Xu
(incorporated by reference to Exhibit 99.9 of our Registration Statement on Form F-1 (file no. 333-126534) filed with the
Securities and Exchange Commission on July 12, 2005)
231
Table of Contents
Exhibit
Number
4.10
4.11
4.12
4.13
4.14
4.15
4.16
4.17
4.18
4.19
4.20
Description of Document
English summary of the form of Exclusive Technology Consulting and Services Agreement/ Exclusive Business Cooperation
Agreement between a subsidiary of the Registrant and a variable interest entity (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.10 of our
Annual Report on Form 20-F filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 28, 2022)
English summary of the form of Operation Agreement among a subsidiary of the Registrant, a variable interest entity and the
shareholders of such variable interest entity (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.11 of our Annual Report on Form 20-F filed
with the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 28, 2022)
English summary of the form of Web Layout Copyright License Agreement, Software License Agreement and Trademark License
Agreement between a subsidiary of the Registrant and a variable interest entity (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.12 of our
Annual Report on Form 20-F filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 15, 2019)
English summary of the form of Proxy Agreement/Power of Attorney among a subsidiary of the Registrant, a variable interest
entity and the shareholders of the variable interest entity (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.13 of our Annual Report on
Form 20-F filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 28, 2022)
English summary of the form of Equity Pledge Agreement between a subsidiary of the Registrant and the shareholder of a variable
interest entity (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.14 of our Annual Report on Form 20-F filed with the Securities and
Exchange Commission on March 28, 2022)
English summary of the form of Exclusive Equity Purchase Option Agreement among a subsidiary of the Registrant, a variable
interest entity, the shareholders of a variable interest entity and an offshore Holding company (if applicable) (incorporated by
reference to Exhibit 4.15 of our Annual Report on Form 20-F filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 28,
2022)
English summary of the form of Loan Agreement between a subsidiary of the Registrant and the shareholder of a variable interest
entity (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.16 of our Annual Report on Form 20-F filed with the Securities and Exchange
Commission on March 28, 2022)
Translation of the Supplementary Agreement to Exclusive Technology Consulting and Services Agreement dated June 23, 2006
between Baidu Online and Beijing Perusal, dated as of April 22, 2010 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.25 of our Annual
Report on Form 20-F filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 29, 2012)
Translation of the Web Layout Copyright License Agreement dated June 23, 2006 between Baidu Online and Beijing Perusal
(incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.27 of our Annual Report on Form 20-F filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission
on March 29, 2011)
Translation of the supplementary agreements, dated March 11, 2010 and April 22, 2010 to the Software License Agreement dated
March 22, 2005 between Baidu Online and Baidu Netcom (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.48 of our Annual Report on
Form 20-F filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 29, 2011)
Translation of the supplementary agreement dated March 1, 2010 to the Web Layout Copyright License Agreement dated March 1,
2004 between Baidu Online and Baidu Netcom and the supplementary agreement dated August 9, 2004 (incorporated by reference
to Exhibit 4.50 of our Annual Report on Form 20-F filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 29, 2011)
232
Table of Contents
Exhibit
Number
4.21
4.22
4.23
4.24
4.25
4.26
4.27
4.28
4.29
4.30
4.31
Description of Document
Translation of the supplementary agreement dated April 22, 2010 to the Operating Agreement dated March 22, 2005 between
Baidu Online and Baidu Netcom (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.51 of our Annual Report on Form 20-F filed with the
Securities and Exchange Commission on March 29, 2011)
Translation of the supplementary agreement to the Loan Agreement among Robin Yanhong Li, Baidu Netcom and Baidu Online
dated September 6, 2011 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.65 of our Annual Report on Form 20-F filed with the Securities
and Exchange Commission on March 29, 2012)
Translation of the supplementary agreement to the Software License Agreement between Baidu Online and Baidu Netcom dated
January 30, 2011 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.68 of our Annual Report on Form 20-F filed with the Securities and
Exchange Commission on March 29, 2012)
Translation of the supplementary agreement to the Web Layout Copyright License Agreement between Baidu Online and Baidu
Netcom dated January 30, 2011 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.69 of our Annual Report on Form 20-F filed with the
Securities and Exchange Commission on March 29, 2012)
Translation of the supplementary agreement to the Web Layout Copyright License Agreement between Baidu Online and Baidu
Netcom dated August 15, 2013 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.64 of our Annual Report on Form 20-F filed with the
Securities and Exchange Commission on March 28, 2014)
Translation of the supplementary agreement to the Software License Agreement between Baidu Online and Baidu Netcom dated
August 15, 2013 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.65 of our Annual Report on Form 20-F filed with the Securities and
Exchange Commission on March 28, 2014)
Translation of the supplementary agreement to the Web Layout Copyright License Agreement between Baidu Online and Beijing
Perusal dated August 15, 2013 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.66 of our Annual Report on Form 20-F filed with the
Securities and Exchange Commission on March 28, 2014)
Translation of the Termination Agreements among Baidu Online, Beijing Perusal, Jiping Liu and Yazhu Zhang, former individual
shareholders of Beijing Perusal, dated March 15, 2016 and May 3, 2016, respectively (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.34 of
our Annual Report on Form 20-F filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 31, 2017)
Translation of the Amended and Restated Loan Agreements between Baidu Online and Zhixiang Liang, and between Baidu Online
and Xiaodong Wang, both dated June 20, 2016 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.35 of our Annual Report on Form 20-F filed
with the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 31, 2017)
Translation of the Equity Transfer Agreements between Jiping Liu and Zhixiang Liang, between Jiping Liu and Xiaodong Wang,
and between Yazhu Zhang and Xiaodong Wang, all dated May 3, 2016 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.36 of our Annual
Report on Form 20-F filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 31, 2017)
Translation of Proxy Agreement among Zhixiang Liang and Baidu Online and of Proxy Agreement among Xiaodong Wang and
Baidu Online, both dated May 3, 2016 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.37 of our Annual Report on Form 20-F filed with
the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 31, 2017)
233
Table of Contents
Exhibit
Number
4.32
4.33
4.34
4.35
4.36
4.37
4.38
4.39
4.40
4.41
4.42
4.43
Description of Document
Translation of the Operating Agreement among Baidu Online, Beijing Perusal, Zhixiang Liang, and Xiaodong Wang, dated May 3,
2016 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.38 of our Annual Report on Form 20-F filed with the Securities and Exchange
Commission on March 31, 2017)
Translation of the Amended and Restated Equity Pledge Agreements between Baidu Online and Zhixiang Liang, and between
Baidu Online and Xiaodong Wang, both dated June 20, 2016 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.39 of our Annual Report on
Form 20-F filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 31, 2017)
Translation of the Amended and Restated Exclusive Equity Purchase and Transfer Option Agreements among Baidu Online,
Zhixiang Liang and Beijing Perusal, and among Baidu Online, Xiaodong Wang and Beijing Perusal, both dated June 20, 2016
(incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.40 of our Annual Report on Form 20-F filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission
on March 31, 2017)
Translation of Irrevocable Power of Attorney issued by Zhixiang Liang, the individual shareholder of Beijing Perusal, dated
May 3, 2016 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.41 of our Annual Report on Form 20-F filed with the Securities and Exchange
Commission on March 31, 2017)
Translation of Irrevocable Power of Attorney issued by Xiaodong Wang, the individual shareholder of Beijing Perusal, dated
May 3, 2016 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.42 of our Annual Report on Form 20-F filed with the Securities and Exchange
Commission on March 31, 2017)
Translation of the Termination Agreement of Current Control Contracts among Baidu Online, Baidu Netcom, Robin Yanhong Li
and Zhan Wang dated June 13, 2016 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.43 of our Annual Report on Form 20-F filed with the
Securities and Exchange Commission on March 31, 2017)
Translation of the Amended and Restated Loan Agreement between Baidu Online and Hailong Xiang dated January 18, 2017
(incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.44 of our Annual Report on Form 20-F filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission
on March 31, 2017)
Translation of the Amended and Restated Loan Agreement between Baidu Online and Robin Yanhong Li dated January 18, 2017
(incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.45 of our Annual Report on Form 20-F filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission
on March 31, 2017)
Translation of the Equity Transfer Agreement between Than Wang and Hailong Xiang dated June 13, 2016 (incorporated by
reference to Exhibit 4.46 of our Annual Report on Form 20-F filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 31,
2017)
Translation of the Proxy Agreement among Robin Yanhong Li, Hailong Xiang and Baidu Online dated June 13, 2016
(incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.47 of our Annual Report on Form 20-F filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission
on March 31, 2017)
Translation of the Operating Agreement among Baidu Online, Baidu Netcom, Robin Yanhong Li, Hailong Xiang dated June 13,
2016 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.48 of our Annual Report on Form 20-F filed with the Securities and Exchange
Commission on March 31, 2017)
Translation of the Amended and Restated Equity Pledge Agreement between Baidu Online and Hailong Xiang dated January 18,
2017 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.49 of our Annual Report on Form 20-F filed with the Securities and Exchange
Commission on March 31, 2017)
234
Table of Contents
Exhibit
Number
4.44
4.45
4.46
4.47
4.48
4.49
4.50
4.51
4.54
4.55
4.56
4.58
Description of Document
Translation of the Amended and Restated Equity Pledge Agreement between Baidu Online and Robin Yanhong Li dated
January 18, 2017 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.50 of our Annual Report on Form 20-F filed with the Securities and
Exchange Commission on March 31, 2017)
Translation of the Amended and Restated Exclusive Equity Purchase and Transfer Option Agreement among Baidu Online,
Hailong Xiang and Baidu Netcom dated January 18, 2017 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.51 of our Annual Report on
Form 20-F filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 31, 2017)
Translation of the Amended and Restated Exclusive Equity Purchase and Transfer Option Agreement among Baidu Online, Robin
Yanhong Li and Baidu Netcom dated January 18, 2017 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.52 of our Annual Report on
Form 20-F filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 31, 2017)
Translation of Irrevocable Power of Attorney issued by Robin Yanhong Li, an individual shareholder of Baidu Netcom, dated
June 13, 2016 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.53 of our Annual Report on Form 20-F filed with the Securities and
Exchange Commission on March 31, 2017)
Translation of Irrevocable Power of Attorney issued by Hailong Xiang, an individual shareholder of Baidu Netcom, dated June 13,
2016 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.54 of our Annual Report on Form 20-F filed with the Securities and Exchange
Commission on March 31, 2017)
Standstill Agreement between Baidu, Inc. and Ctrip.com International, Ltd. dated October 26, 2015 (incorporated by reference to
Exhibit 3 of our Report on Schedule 13D filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission with respect to Ctrip.com
International, Ltd. on November 4, 2015)
Registration Rights Agreement between Baidu Holdings Limited and Ctrip.com International, Ltd. dated October 26, 2015
(incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4 of our Report on Schedule 13D filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission with
respect to Ctrip.com International, Ltd. on November 4, 2015)
US$2,000,000,000 Facilities Agreement between the Registrant and other parties thereto dated June 8, 2016 (incorporated by
reference to Exhibit 4.68 of our Annual Report on Form 20-F filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 31,
2017)
Share Purchase Agreement among Baidu Holdings Limited, Baidu (Hong Kong) Limited, 91 Wireless Websoft Limited and certain
investors party thereto, dated April 28, 2018 and as amended on August 21, 2018 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.54 of our
Annual Report on Form 20-F filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 15, 2019)
Amended and Restated Shareholders Agreement among Baidu Holdings Limited, Baidu (Hong Kong) Limited, Duxiaoman
(Cayman) Limited and certain investors party thereto, dated November 17, 2018 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.55 of our
Annual Report on Form 20-F filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 15, 2019)
2018 Share Incentive Plan (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.56 of our Annual Report on Form 20-F filed with the Securities
and Exchange Commission on March 15, 2019)
Translation of the Amended and Restated Loan Agreement between Baidu Online and Hailong Xiang dated May 7, 2018
(incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.58 of our Annual Report on Form 20-F filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission
on March 15, 2019)
235
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Exhibit
Number
4.59
4.60
4.61
4.62
4.63
4.64
4.65
4.66
4.67
4.69
4.70
4.71
Description of Document
Translation of the Amended and Restated Loan Agreement between Baidu Online and Robin Yanhong Li dated May 7, 2018
(incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.59 of our Annual Report on Form 20-F filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission
on March 15, 2019)
Translation of the Proxy Agreement between Robin Yanhong Li and Baidu, Inc. dated March 31, 2018 (incorporated by reference
to Exhibit 4.60 of our Annual Report on Form 20-F filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 15, 2019)
Translation of the Proxy Agreement between Hailong Xiang and Baidu, Inc. dated March 31, 2018 (incorporated by reference to
Exhibit 4.61 of our Annual Report on Form 20-F filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 15, 2019)
Translation of the Amended and Restated Exclusive Equity Purchase and Transfer Option Agreement among Baidu, Inc., Baidu
Netcom, Baidu Online and Hailong Xiang dated May 7, 2018 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.62 of our Annual Report on
Form 20-F filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 15, 2019)
Translation of the Amended and Restated Exclusive Equity Purchase and Transfer Option Agreement among Baidu, Inc., Baidu
Netcom, Baidu Online and Robin Yanhong Li dated May 7, 2018 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.63 of our Annual Report
on Form 20-F filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 15, 2019)
Translation of Irrevocable Power of Attorney issued by Robin Yanhong Li, an individual shareholder of Baidu Netcom, March 31,
2018 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.64 of our Annual Report on Form 20-F filed with the Securities and Exchange
Commission on March 15, 2019)
Translation of Irrevocable Power of Attorney issued by Hailong Xiang, an individual shareholder of Baidu Netcom, dated
March 31, 2018 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.65 of our Annual Report on Form 20-F filed with the Securities and
Exchange Commission on March 15, 2019)
Translation of the Amended and Restated Equity Pledge Agreement between Baidu Online and Hailong Xiang dated May 7, 2018
(incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.66 of our Annual Report on Form 20-F filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission
on March 15, 2019)
Translation of the Amended and Restated Equity Pledge Agreement between Baidu Online and Robin Yanhong Li dated May 7,
2018 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.67 of our Annual Report on Form 20-F filed with the Securities and Exchange
Commission on March 15, 2019)
Translation of the Loan Agreements between Baidu Online and Zhixiang Liang, and between Baidu Online and Xiaodong Wang,
both dated March 31, 2018 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.69 of our Annual Report on Form 20-F filed with the Securities
and Exchange Commission on March 15, 2019)
Translation of Proxy Agreements between Zhixiang Liang and Baidu, Inc., and between Xiaodong Wang and Baidu, Inc., dated
March 31, 2018 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.70 of our Annual Report on Form 20-F filed with the Securities and
Exchange Commission on March 15, 2019)
Translation of Irrevocable Power of Attorney issued by Zhixiang Liang, an individual shareholder of Beijing Perusal, March 31,
2018 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.71 of our Annual Report on Form 20-F filed with the Securities and Exchange
Commission on March 15, 2019)
236
Table of Contents
Exhibit
Number
4.72
4.73
4.74
4.75
4.76
4.77
4.78
4.79
4.80
4.81
4.82
4.83
Description of Document
Translation of Irrevocable Power of Attorney issued by Xiaodong Wang, an individual shareholder of Beijing Perusal, March 31,
2018 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.72 of our Annual Report on Form 20-F filed with the Securities and Exchange
Commission on March 15, 2019)
Translation of the Exclusive Equity Purchase and Transfer Option Agreement among Baidu, Inc., Baidu Online, Zhixiang Liang
and Beijing Perusal, dated March 31, 2018 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.73 of our Annual Report on Form 20-F filed
with the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 15, 2019)
Translation of the Exclusive Equity Purchase and Transfer Option Agreement among Baidu, Inc., Baidu Online, Xiaodong Wang
and Beijing Perusal, dated March 31, 2018 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.74 of our Annual Report on Form 20-F filed
with the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 15, 2019)
Translation of the Termination Agreement of Current Control Contracts among Baidu Online, Beijing Perusal, Zhixiang Liang,
Xiaodong Wang, and Baidu, Inc. dated June 28, 2018 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.75 of our Annual Report on
Form 20-F filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 15, 2019)
Translation of the Amended and Restated Loan Agreement between Baidu Online and Robin Yanhong Li dated July 10, 2019
(incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.83 of our Annual Report on Form 20-F filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission
on March 13, 2020)
Translation of the Amended and Restated Exclusive Equity Purchase and Transfer Option Agreement among Baidu, Inc., Baidu
Netcom, Baidu Online and Robin Yanhong Li dated July 10, 2019 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.84 of our Annual Report
on Form 20-F filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 13, 2020)
Translation of the Amended and Restated Equity Pledge Agreement between Baidu Online and Robin Yanhong Li dated July 10,
2019 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.85 of our Annual Report on Form 20-F filed with the Securities and Exchange
Commission on March 13, 2020)
Translation of the Termination Agreement of Current Control Contracts among Baidu, Inc., Baidu Online, Baidu Netcom, Robin
Yanhong Li and Hailong Xiang dated August 20, 2019 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.86 of our Annual Report on
Form 20-F filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 13, 2020)
Translation of Proxy Agreement between Shanshan Cui and Baidu, Inc., dated August 20, 2019 (incorporated by reference to
Exhibit 4.87 of our Annual Report on Form 20-F filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 13, 2020)
Translation of the Operating Agreement among Baidu Online, Baidu Netcom, Shanshan Cui, and Robin Yanhong Li, dated
August 20, 2019 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.88 of our Annual Report on Form 20-F filed with the Securities and
Exchange Commission on March 13, 2020)
Translation of the Loan Agreement between Baidu Online and Shanshan Cui dated August 20, 2019 (incorporated by reference to
Exhibit 4.89 of our Annual Report on Form 20-F filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 13, 2020)
Translation of the Exclusive Equity Purchase and Transfer Option Agreement among Baidu, Inc., Baidu Online, Shanshan Cui and
Baidu Netcom dated August 20, 2019 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.90 of our Annual Report on Form 20-F filed with the
Securities and Exchange Commission on March 13, 2020)
237
Table of Contents
Exhibit
Number
4.84
4.85
4.86
4.87
4.88
4.89
4.90
4.91
4.92
4.93
4.94
4.95
Description of Document
Translation of the Equity Pledge Agreement between Baidu Online and Shanshan Cui dated August 20, 2019 (incorporated by
reference to Exhibit 4.91 of our Annual Report on Form 20-F filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 13,
2020)
Amended and Restated Share Purchase Agreement among the Buyer as defined therein, Baidu (Hong Kong) Limited, JOYY Inc.
and certain investors party thereto, dated February 7, 2021 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.85 of our Annual Report on
Form 20-F filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 9, 2021)
Translation of Termination Agreement among Baidu Online, Beijing Perusal, Zhixiang Liang, Lu Wang and our company, dated
October 30, 2019 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.86 of our Annual Report on Form 20-F filed with the Securities and
Exchange Commission on March 9, 2021)
Translation of Operating Agreement among Baidu Online, Beijing Perusal, Zhixiang Liang and Shanshan Cui, dated October 30,
2019 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.87 of our Annual Report on Form 20-F filed with the Securities and Exchange
Commission on March 9, 2021)
Translation of Loan Agreement between Baidu Online and Shanshan Cui, dated October 30, 2019 (incorporated by reference to
Exhibit 4.88 of our Annual Report on Form 20-F filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 9, 2021)
Translation of Proxy Agreement between our company and Shanshan Cui, dated October 30, 2019 (incorporated by reference to
Exhibit 4.89 of our Annual Report on Form 20-F filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 9, 2021)
Translation of Exclusive Equity Purchase and Transfer Option Agreement among our company, Baidu Online, Shanshan Cui and
Beijing Perusal, dated October 30, 2019 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.90 of our Annual Report on Form 20-F filed with
the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 9, 2021)
Translation of Pledge Agreement between Baidu Online and Shanshan Cui, dated October 30, 2019 (incorporated by reference to
Exhibit 4.91 of our Annual Report on Form 20-F filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 9, 2021)
Translation of Irrevocable Power of Attorney issued by Zhixiang Liang, an individual shareholder of Beijing Perusal, dated
October 30, 2019 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.92 of our Annual Report on Form 20-F filed with the Securities and
Exchange Commission on March 9, 2021)
Translation of Irrevocable Power of Attorney issued by Shanshan Cui, an individual shareholder of Beijing Perusal, dated
October 30, 2019 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.93 of our Annual Report on Form 20-F filed with the Securities and
Exchange Commission on March 9, 2021)
Translation of Exclusive Technology Consulting and Services Agreement, effective on December 1, 2011, between Beijing QIYI
Century and Beijing Xinlian Xinde Advertisement Media Co., Ltd. (later renamed as Beijing iQIYI) (incorporated herein by
reference to Exhibit 10.49 to the registration statement on Form F-1 (File No. 333-223263) filed by iQIYI, Inc. with the SEC on
February 27, 2018)
Translation of Software Licensing Agreement, effective on December 1, 2011, between Beijing QIYI Century and Beijing Xinlian
Xinde Advertisement Media Co., Ltd. (later renamed as Beijing iQIYI) (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.50 to the
registration statement on Form F-1 (File No. 333-223263) filed by iQIYI, Inc. with the SEC on February 27, 2018)
238
Table of Contents
Exhibit
Number
4.96
4.97
4.98
4.99
4.100
4.101
4.102
4.103
4.104
4.105
4.106
4.107
Description of Document
Translation of Trademark Licensing Agreement, effective on December 1, 2011, between Beijing QIYI Century and Beijing
Xinlian Xinde Advertisement Media Co., Ltd. (later renamed as Beijing iQIYI) (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.51
to the registration statement on Form F-1 (File No. 333-223263) filed by iQIYI, Inc. with the SEC on February 27, 2018)
Translation of Business Cooperation Agreement, effective on December 1, 2011, between Beijing QIYI Century and Beijing
Xinlian Xinde Advertisement Media Co., Ltd. (later renamed as Beijing iQIYI) (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.52
to the registration statement on Form F-1 (File No. 333-223263) filed by iQIYI, Inc. with the SEC on February 27, 2018)
Translation of Amended and Restated Shareholder Voting Rights Trust Agreement between Beijing QIYI Century and Xiaohua
Geng, dated January 30, 2013 (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.7 to the registration statement on Form F-1 (File
No. 333-223263) filed by iQIYI, Inc. with the SEC on February 27, 2018)
Translation of Amended and Restated Share Pledge Agreement between Beijing QIYI Century and Xiaohua Geng, dated
January 30, 2013 (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.8 to the registration statement on Form F-1 (File
No. 333-223263) filed by iQIYI, Inc. with the SEC on February 27, 2018)
Translation of Commitment Letter issued by iQIYI, and Beijing QIYI Century, dated January 30, 2013 (incorporated herein by
reference to Exhibit 10.9 to the registration statement on Form F-1 (File No. 333-223263) filed by iQIYI, Inc. with the SEC on
February 27, 2018)
Translation of Amended and Restated Exclusive Purchase Option Agreement among iQIYI, Beijing QIYI Century, Beijing iQIYI
and Xiaohua Geng, dated January 30, 2013 (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.10 to the registration statement on
Form F-1 (File No. 333-223263) filed by iQIYI, Inc. with the SEC on February 27, 2018)
Translation of Amended and Restated Loan Agreement between Beijing QIYI Century and Xiaohua Geng, dated January 30, 2013
(incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.11 to the registration statement on Form F-1 (File No. 333-223263) filed by iQIYI,
Inc. with the SEC on February 27, 2018)
Translation of Amended and Restated Business Operation Agreement among Beijing QIYI Century, Beijing iQIYI and Xiaohua
Geng, dated January 30, 2013 (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 10.12 to the registration statement on Form F-1 (File
No. 333-223263) filed by iQIYI, Inc. with the SEC on February 27, 2018)
Translation of Irrevocable Power of Attorney issued by Beijing QIYI Century, dated January 30, 2013 (incorporated herein by
reference to Exhibit 10.13 to the registration statement on Form F-1 (File No. 333-223263) filed by iQIYI, Inc. with the SEC on
February 27, 2018)
Translation of Spousal Consent Letter issued by the spouse of Xiaohua Geng, dated September 26, 2016 (incorporated herein by
reference to Exhibit 10.14 to the registration statement on Form F-1 (File No. 333-223263) filed by iQIYI, Inc. with the SEC on
February 27, 2018)
US$3,000,000,000 Facilities Agreement between the Registrant and other parties thereto dated April 2, 2021 (incorporated by
reference to Exhibit 4.106 of Form 6-K furnished with the Securities and Exchange Commission on August 18, 2021)
Investment Agreement, dated August 30, 2022, between iQIYI, PAGAC IV-1 (Cayman) Limited and PAG Pegasus Fund LP
(incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.107 of our Annual Report on Form 20-F filed with the Securities and Exchange
Commission on March 22, 2023)
239
Table of Contents
Exhibit
Number
4.108
4.109
Description of Document
Deed of Amendment to the Investment Agreement, by and among iQIYI, PAGAC IV-1 (Cayman) Limited, and PAG Pegasus Fund
LP, dated as of December 30, 2022 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.108 of our Annual Report on Form 20-F filed with the
Securities and Exchange Commission on March 22, 2023)
Indenture, dated December 30, 2022, between iQIYI and Citicorp International Limited, as trustee (incorporated by reference to
Exhibit 4.109 of our Annual Report on Form 20-F filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 22, 2023)
4.110*
2023 Share Incentive Plan
8.1*
11.1
12.1*
12.2*
13.1**
13.2**
15.1*
15.2*
15.3*
97*
List of Principal Subsidiaries and Variable Interest Entities
Code of Business Conduct and Ethics (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 99.14 of our Registration Statement on Form F-1 (file
no. 333-126534) filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on July 12, 2005)
Certification by Principal Executive Officer Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
Certification by Principal Financial Officer Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
Certification by Principal Executive Officer Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
Certification by Principal Financial Officer Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
Consent of Maples and Calder (Hong Kong) LLP
Consent of Han Kun Law Offices
Consent of Ernst & Young Hua Ming LLP
Clawback Policy
101.INS*
Inline XBRL Instance Document—this instance document does not appear in the Interactive Data File because its XBRL tags
embedded within the Inline XBRL document
101.SCH*
Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document
101.CAL*
Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document
101.DEF*
Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document
101.LAB*
Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document
101.PRE*
Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document
104
Cover Page Interactive Data File (embedded within the Inline XBRL document)
*
**
Filed herewith
Furnished herewith
240
Table of Contents
SIGNATURES
The registrant hereby certifies that it meets all of the requirements for filing its annual report on Form 20-F and that it has duly caused and
authorized the undersigned to sign this annual report on its behalf.
Baidu, Inc.
By: /s/ Robin Yanhong Li
Name: Robin Yanhong Li
Title: Chairman and Chief Executive Officer
Date: March 15, 2024
241
Table of Contents
BAIDU, INC.
INDEX TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Reports of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm (PCAOB ID: 1408)
Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31, 2022 and 2023
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income for the Years Ended December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the Years Ended December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023
Consolidated Statements of Shareholders’ Equity for the Years Ended December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
F-1
Page(s)
F-2-F-6
F-7
F-8
F-9-F-10
F-11-F-12
F-13-F-92
Table of Contents
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
To the Shareholders and the Board of Directors of Baidu, Inc.
Opinion on the Financial Statements
We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Baidu, Inc. (the Company) as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, the related
consolidated statements of comprehensive income, cash flows and shareholders’ equity for each of the three years in the period ended December 31,
2023, and the related notes (collectively referred to as the “consolidated financial statements”). In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements
present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Company at December 31, 2023 and 2022, and the results of its operations and its
cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2023, in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles.
We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (PCAOB), the Company’s
internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2023, based on criteria established in Internal Control-Integrated Framework issued by the
Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (2013 framework) and our report dated March 15, 2024 expressed an unqualified
opinion thereon.
Basis for Opinion
These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company’s financial
statements based on our audits. We are a public accounting firm registered with the PCAOB and are required to be independent with respect to the
Company in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and
the PCAOB.
We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain
reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement, whether due to error or fraud. Our audits included
performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures
that respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the financial
statements. Our audits also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the
overall presentation of the financial statements. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.
F-2
Table of Contents
Critical Audit Matter
The critical audit matter communicated below is a matter arising from the current period audit of the financial statements that was communicated or
required to be communicated to the audit committee and that: (1) relates to accounts or disclosures that are material to the financial statements and (2)
involved our especially challenging, subjective or complex judgments. The communication of the critical audit matter does not alter in any way our
opinion on the consolidated financial statements, taken as a whole, and we are not, by communicating the critical audit matter below, providing a
separate opinion on the critical audit matter or on the accounts or disclosures to which it relates.
Description of the Matter
Impairment assessment of equity method investments and equity investments accounted for
using the measurement alternative
As described in Notes 2, 4 and 26 to the consolidated financial statements, as of December 31,
2023, the Company’s consolidated balance of equity method investments and equity
investments accounted for using the measurement alternative was RMB20,789 million
(US$2,927 million) and RMB8,093 million (US$1,140 million), respectively. For the year
ended December 31, 2023, the Company recognized impairment losses of RMB62 million
(US$9 million) and RMB753 million (US$106 million) for equity method investments and
equity investments accounted for using the measurement alternative, respectively.
The Company evaluates its equity method investments for impairment at each reporting date,
or more frequently if events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of
the investment might not be recoverable. Factors considered by the Company when
determining whether an equity method investment has been other-than-temporarily-impaired,
include, but are not limited to, the length of the time and the extent to which the market value
has been less than cost, the financial condition and near-term prospects of the investee and the
Company’s intent and ability to retain the investment until the recovery of its cost. An
impairment loss is recognized in earnings when the decline in value is determined to be other-
than-temporary. For equity investments accounted for using the measurement alternative, the
Company makes a qualitative assessment considering impairment indicators to evaluate
whether investments are impaired at each reporting date. If a qualitative assessment indicates
that an investment is impaired, the Company estimates the investment’s fair value and
recognizes an impairment loss if the fair value is less than the investment’s carrying value.
Auditing the Company’s impairment assessment was complex and highly judgmental due to
the significant judgment involved in (i) management’s assessment of whether indicators of
impairment existed, and if so, determining whether (ii) a decline in value of equity method
investments was other-than-temporary and (iii) investments in equity investments accounted
for using the measurement alternative were impaired. In addition, auditing the fair value of the
Company’s investments in investees without observable market prices was highly judgmental
due to the subjectivity of the
F-3
Table of Contents
How We Addressed the Matter in Our Audit
unobservable inputs used by management in the valuation methodologies to determine the fair
value for these investments, such as selection of comparable companies and multiples,
expected volatility, discount for lack-of-marketability and probability of exit events as it
relates to liquidation and redemption preferences, when applicable. These unobservable inputs
and resulting fair value estimates may be affected by unexpected changes in future market or
economic conditions.
We obtained an understanding, evaluated the design and tested the operating effectiveness of
controls over the Company’s impairment review processes for equity method investments and
equity investments accounted for using the measurement alternative. For example, we tested
controls over management’s identification and review of impairment indicators for these
investments, and as necessary, management’s review of the subsequent determination of
whether impairment existed and the measurement of fair value.
To test the impairment assessment of equity method investments and equity investments
accounted for using the measurement alternative, we performed audit procedures that
included, among others, evaluating management’s assessment as to whether indicators of
impairment existed and investments were impaired by considering the financial condition and
operating results of the investees, as well as other relevant market information. For equity
method investments, we also evaluated management’s determination as to whether an
indicated impairment was other-than-temporary, considering factors such as the duration and
magnitude of the decline in value and the Company’s intent and ability to retain the
investment until the recovery of its cost. We tested the completeness, accuracy and relevance
of the underlying data used by management in the valuation models to determine fair value.
With the assistance of our internal valuation specialists, we evaluated the appropriateness of
the valuation methodologies used by management to determine the fair value of investments
and tested the unobservable inputs used in the valuation methodologies by comparing certain
assumptions to industry, business and market data/information available from third-party
sources. We also independently developed our unobservable inputs and compared them to the
Company’s results, and involved our internal valuation specialists to assist with the application
of these procedures.
/s/ Ernst & Young Hua Ming LLP
We have served as the Company’s auditor since 2007.
Beijing, The People’s Republic of China
March 15, 2024
F-4
Table of Contents
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
To the Shareholders and the Board of Directors of Baidu, Inc.
Opinion on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
We have audited Baidu, Inc.’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2023, based on criteria established in Internal Control—
Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (2013 framework) (the COSO criteria). In
our opinion, Baidu, Inc. (the Company) maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2023,
based on the COSO criteria.
We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (PCAOB), the consolidated
balance sheets of the Company as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, the related consolidated statements of comprehensive income, cash flows and
shareholders’ equity for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2023, and the related notes and our report dated March 15, 2024
expressed an unqualified opinion thereon.
Basis for Opinion
The Company’s management is responsible for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting and for its assessment of the effectiveness
of internal control over financial reporting included in the accompanying Management’s Annual Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting.
Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company’s internal control over financial reporting based on our audit. We are a public accounting
firm registered with the PCAOB and are required to be independent with respect to the Company in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and
the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.
We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain
reasonable assurance about whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects.
Our audit included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, testing and
evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk, and performing such other procedures as we considered
necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.
Definition and Limitations of Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
A company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial
reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. A company’s
internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (1) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail,
accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (2) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are
recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and
expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company; and (3) provide
reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company’s assets that could have a
material effect on the financial statements.
F-5
Table of Contents
Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation
of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of
compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.
/s/ Ernst & Young Hua Ming LLP
Beijing, The People’s Republic of China
March 15, 2024
F-6
Table of Contents
BAIDU, INC.
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(Amounts in millions of Renminbi (“RMB”), and in millions of U.S. Dollars (“US$”), except for number of shares and per share data)
As of December 31,
Notes
2022
2023
RMB RMB US$
2023
ASSETS
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents
Restricted cash
Short-term investments, net of allowance of RMB277 and RMB385 (US$54) as of December 31, 2022 and 2023, respectively
Accounts receivable, net of allowance of RMB2,554 and RMB3,176 (US$447) as of December 31, 2022 and 2023, respectively
Amounts due from related parties
Other current assets, net
Total current assets
Non-current assets:
Fixed assets, net
Licensed copyrights, net
Produced content, net
Intangible assets, net
Goodwill
Long-term investments, net
Long-term time deposits and held-to-maturity investments
Amounts due from related parties
Deferred tax assets, net
Operating lease right-of-use assets
Other non-current assets
Total non-current assets
Total assets
LIABILITIES, REDEEMABLE NONCONTROLLING INTERESTS AND EQUITY
Current liabilities (including amounts of the consolidated VIEs without recourse to the primary beneficiaries of RMB30,368 and RMB34,056 (US$4,797) as of
December 31, 2022 and 2023, respectively):
Short-term loans
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities
Customer deposits and deferred revenue
Deferred income
Long-term loans, current portion
Convertible senior notes, current portion
Notes payable, current portion
Amounts due to related parties
Operating lease liabilities
Total current liabilities
Non-current liabilities (including amounts of the consolidated VIEs without recourse to the primary beneficiaries of RMB6,663 and RMB6,753 (US$951) as of
December 31, 2022 and 2023, respectively):
Deferred income
Deferred revenue
Amounts due to related parties
Long-term loans
Notes payable
Convertible senior notes
Deferred tax liabilities
Operating lease liabilities
Other non-current liabilities
Total non-current liabilities
Total liabilities
Commitments and contingencies
Redeemable noncontrolling interests
Equity
Class A Ordinary Shares, par value US$0.000000625 per share, 66,000,000,000 shares authorized, 2,360,419,600 shares and 2,377,739,600 shares issued as of
December 31, 2022 and 2023, respectively, and 2,254,485,072 shares and 2,280,411,080 shares outstanding as of December 31, 2022 and 2023, respectively
Class B Ordinary Shares, par value US$0.000000625 per share, 2,832,000,000 shares authorized, and 542,100,320 shares and 524,780,320 shares issued and
outstanding as of December 31, 2022 and 2023, respectively
Additional paid-in capital
Treasury stock
Retained earnings
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)
Total Baidu, Inc. shareholders’ equity
Noncontrolling interests
Total equity
Total liabilities, redeemable noncontrolling interests and equity
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.
F-7
53,156
11,330
4 120,839
8 11,733
5,432
9 10,360
212,850
24
10 23,973
6
6,841
7 13,002
11
1,254
11 22,477
4 55,297
5 23,629
60
24
17
2,129
16 10,365
9 19,096
178,123
390,973
25,231
11,503
168,670
10,848
1,424
12,579
230,255
27,960
6,967
13,377
881
22,586
47,957
24,666
195
2,100
10,851
18,964
176,504
406,759
3,554
1,620
23,757
1,528
201
1,772
32,432
3,938
981
1,884
124
3,181
6,755
3,474
27
296
1,528
2,671
24,859
57,291
1
13
5,343
12 38,014
13,116
72
13 —
8,305
15
6,904
14
5,067
24
2,809
16
79,630
10,257
37,717
14,627
306
2
2,802
6,029
1,603
3,108
76,451
1,445
5,312
2,060
43
—
395
849
226
438
10,768
1
159
331
24
99
13 13,722
14 39,893
9,568
15
2,898
17
4,810
16
2,058
73,538
153,168
200
481
77
14,223
34,990
8,144
2,725
5,040
1,820
67,700
144,151
28
68
11
2,003
4,928
1,147
384
710
257
9,536
20,304
19
20
8,393
9,465
1,333
21 —
—
—
21 —
79,855
21
(5,264)
21 148,341
546
21
223,478
5,934
229,412
390,973
—
87,099
(3,818)
161,240
(895)
243,626
9,517
253,143
406,759
—
12,268
(538)
22,710
(126)
34,314
1,340
35,654
57,291
Table of Contents
BAIDU, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
(Amounts in millions of Renminbi (“RMB”), and in millions of U.S. Dollars (“US$”), including number of shares, except for per share (or ADS) data)
Revenues:
Online marketing services
Others
Total revenues
Operating costs and expenses:
Cost of revenues
Selling, general and administrative
Research and development
Total operating costs and expenses
Operating profit
Other income (loss):
Interest income
Interest expense
Foreign exchange gain (loss), net
Share of losses from equity method investments
Others, net
Total other income (loss), net
Income before income taxes
Income taxes
Net income
Less: net (loss) income attributable to noncontrolling interests
Net income attributable to Baidu, Inc.
Earnings per share for Class A and Class B ordinary shares:
Basic
Diluted
Earnings per ADS (1 ADS equals 8 Class A ordinary shares):
Basic
Diluted
Weighted average number of Class A and Class B ordinary shares outstanding (in millions):
Basic
Diluted
Other comprehensive (loss) income:
Foreign currency translation adjustments
Unrealized losses on available-for-sale investments, net of reclassification
Unrealized gains (losses) on derivatives
Other comprehensive (loss) income, net of tax
Comprehensive income
Less: comprehensive (loss) income attributable to noncontrolling interests
Comprehensive income attributable to Baidu, Inc.
For the Years Ended December 31,
Notes
2021
RMB
2022
RMB
2023
RMB
2023
US$
80,695 74,711 81,203 11,437
43,798 48,964 53,395 7,521
25 124,493 123,675 134,598 18,958
64,314 63,935 65,031 9,159
24,723 20,514 23,519 3,314
24,938 23,315 24,192 3,407
113,975 107,764 112,742 15,880
10,518 15,911 21,856 3,078
4
6,245
(2,913)
(1,484)
(1,910)
(5,737)
(5,799)
5,551
(3,421)
100
(932)
(1,038)
260
8,009 1,128
(457)
(3,248)
84
595
(535)
(3,799)
252
1,785
472
3,342
10,778 10,112 25,198 3,550
2,578
514
7,534 21,549 3,036
175
7,559 20,315 2,861
3,187
7,591
(2,635)
10,226
3,649
1,234
(25)
17
22
22
22
21
3.58
3.51
2.50
2.48
6.98
6.89
28.64
28.07
20.02
19.85
55.83
55.08
0.98
0.97
7.86
7.76
2,758
2,814
2,782
2,809
2,807 2,807
2,837 2,837
(88)
(190)
149
(129)
(751)
(392)
1,266
123
(913)
(201)
(422)
(1,536)
(129)
(28)
(59)
(216)
7,462
(2,557)
10,019
7,657 20,013 2,820
(456)
160
8,113 18,874 2,660
1,139
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.
F-8
Table of Contents
BAIDU, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(Amounts in millions of Renminbi (“RMB”), and in millions of U.S. Dollars (“US$”))
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net income
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
Depreciation of fixed assets and computer parts
Amortization and impairment of intangible assets
Deferred income tax, net
Share-based compensation
Allowance for credit losses
Investment and interest (income) loss
Amortization of licensed copyrights
Amortization and impairment of produced content
Impairment of long-term investments and other assets
Share of losses from equity method investments
Gain on disposal of subsidiaries or business
Gain on disposal of fixed assets
Barter transaction revenue
Accretion on convertible senior notes and others
Other non-cash expenses (income)
Changes in operating assets and liabilities, net of effects of acquisitions and disposals:
Accounts receivable
Amounts due from related parties
Licensed copyrights
Produced content
Other assets
Customer deposits and deferred revenue
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities and other non-current liabilities
Deferred income
Amounts due to related parties
Net cash provided by operating activities
Cash flows from investing activities:
Acquisition of fixed assets
Acquisition of businesses, net of cash acquired
Acquisition of intangible assets
Purchases of time deposits and held-to-maturity investments
Maturities of time deposits and held-to-maturity investments
Purchases of available-for-sale debt investments
Sales and maturities of available-for-sale debt investments
Purchases of equity investments
Proceeds from disposal of equity investments
Disposal of subsidiaries’ shares
Loans provided to third parties
Loans provided to related parties
Repayment of loans provided to third parties
Repayment of loans provided to related parties
Prepayments made for the acquisition of businesses
Other investing activities
Net cash used in investing activities
For the Years Ended December 31,
2021
RMB
2022
RMB
2023
RMB
2023
US$
7,591
7,534 21,549
3,036
5,884
471
(449)
7,056
989
(3,930)
10,083
6,121
4,445
932
(45)
(81)
(1,244)
618
372
(2,144)
(695)
(9,731)
(10,492)
(3,644)
622
7,141
(29)
281
20,122
6,477
467
(99)
6,788
701
4,010
7,781
5,359
3,058
1,910
(868)
(58)
(876)
146
598
7,390
430
(163)
6,345
693
(3,765)
7,088
6,549
910
3,799
(157)
(36)
(418)
332
(864)
(2,369)
264
(6,144)
(7,391)
965
(460)
(1,450)
16
(189)
216
(196)
(6,381)
(6,928)
(691)
1,645
(858)
273
(147)
26,170 36,615
1,041
61
(23)
894
98
(530)
998
922
128
535
(22)
(5)
(59)
47
(121)
30
(28)
(899)
(976)
(98)
232
(122)
38
(20)
5,157
(10,896)
(247)
(344)
(8,286) (11,190)
(115)
(105)
(1,576)
(16)
(14)
(15)
(107)
(171,526) (173,934) (198,658) (27,980)
156,700 178,831 152,877 21,532
(470)
304
(209)
969
2
(207)
(1) —
— —
556
— —
12
(7,098)
(25,575)
25,895
(3,395)
9,908
—
(810)
—
810
—
(12,035)
71
(31,444)
(7,587)
9,288
(3,628)
1,984
270
—
(859)
—
—
—
98
(3,335)
2,155
(1,487)
6,884
15
(1,472)
89
(3,944) (50,397)
3,946
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.
F-9
Table of Contents
BAIDU, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (CONTINUED)
(Amounts in millions of Renminbi (“RMB”), and in millions of U.S. Dollars (“US$”))
Cash flows from financing activities:
Proceeds from short-term loans
Repayments of short-term loans
Proceeds from long-term loans
Repayments of long-term loans and borrowings from third party investors
Repayment of loans borrowed from related parties
Proceeds from issuance of long-term notes, net of issuance costs
Proceeds from issuance of convertible senior notes, net of issuance costs
Repayments or redemption of convertible senior notes
Proceeds from issuance of subsidiaries’ shares
Repurchase of ordinary shares
Proceeds from exercise of share options
Proceeds from issuance of redeemable noncontrolling interests
Acquisition of redeemable noncontrolling interests and noncontrolling interests in a subsidiary
Proceeds from Hong Kong listing, net of issuance costs
Return of equity to noncontrolling interest shareholders
Other financing activities
Net cash provided by/(used in) financing activities
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash
Net increase/(decrease) in cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash
Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash at the beginning of the year
Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash at the end of the year
Supplemental disclosures:
Interest paid
Income taxes paid
Non-cash investing and financing activities:
Acquisition of fixed assets included in accounts payable and accrued liabilities
Reconciliation of cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash:
Cash and cash equivalents
Restricted cash
Long-term restricted cash
Total cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash shown in the statements of cash flows
For the Years Ended December 31,
2021
2022
2023
RMB RMB RMB
2023
US$
633
130
3,449
4,415
684
(7,581)
335
4,935
(880)
6,273 15,928 2,243
4,487
(5,084) (11,026) (1,553)
(3,365)
18
12,673 —
(7,327) (1,032)
(7,277) (11,451)
— —
(490)
(3,477)
6,440 — — —
622
(4,751) — (11,736) (1,653)
488
(671)
15
49
(86) — —
19,873 — — —
(2,701) — — —
(31)
(6,390) (14,162) (1,995)
40
1,729
11,131 17,565 (27,662) (3,896)
36,540 47,671 65,236 9,188
47,671 65,236 37,574 5,292
3,461
(4,764)
103
351
(109)
23,396
(943)
1,227
(1,925)
200
1,212
(220)
(205)
282
2,542
3,253
2,690
3,525
2,764
3,666
389
516
1,843
1,000
1,310
184
36,850 53,156 25,231 3,554
10,821 11,330 11,503 1,620
118
750
—
47,671 65,236 37,574 5,292
840
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.
F-10
Table of Contents
BAIDU, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY
(Amounts in millions of Renminbi (“RMB”), and in millions of U.S. Dollars (“US$”), except for number of shares)
Balances at December 31, 2020
Net income
Other comprehensive loss
Issuance of ordinary shares, net of issuance costs
Issuance of shares by the Company’s subsidiaries to
noncontrolling interests
Acquisition of redeemable noncontrolling interests and
noncontrolling interests
Exercise of share-based awards
Share-based compensation
Dividends paid and payable by the Company’s subsidiaries
Accretion of redeemable noncontrolling interests
Repurchase of ordinary shares
Reclassification from mezzanine equity to ordinary shares
Equity component of convertible senior notes issued by iQIYI,
net of issuance costs
Others
Balances at December 31, 2021
Cumulative effect of accounting change
Net income
Other comprehensive income
Issuance of shares by the Company’s subsidiaries to
noncontrolling interests
Acquisition of noncontrolling interests
Exercise of share-based awards
Share-based compensation
Dividends paid and payable by the Company’s subsidiaries
Accretion of redeemable noncontrolling interests
Disposal of subsidiaries’ shares
Repurchase of ordinary shares
Others
Balances at December 31, 2022
Ordinary shares
Treasury Stock
Attributable to Baidu, Inc.
Number of
shares
Amount
RMB
2,679,129,040 —
— —
— —
95,000,000 —
Number of
shares
Additional
Retained
paid-in
Amount
earnings
capital
RMB RMB RMB
Accumulated other
comprehensive
income (loss)
RMB
Noncontrolling
interests
RMB
Total
shareholders’
equity
RMB
— —
— —
— —
— —
47,213 135,284
— 10,226
— —
19,873 —
199
—
(207)
—
6,045
(2,635)
78
—
188,741
7,591
(129)
19,873
— —
— —
279 —
— —
47,547,280 —
— —
— —
— —
— —
— —
— —
— —
— —
(57,343,528) — 57,343,528 (7,581)
— —
— —
(692) —
292 —
6,895 —
— —
—
(350)
— —
— —
— —
— —
2,764,332,792 — 57,343,528 (7,581)
— —
— —
25 —
3 —
73,888 145,160
— —
— —
— —
— —
— —
— —
(738)
398
7,559
—
— —
— —
— —
— —
— —
49,560,000 — (25,242,088) 4,242
— —
— —
— —
— —
(17,307,400) — 17,307,400 (1,925)
— —
2,796,585,392 — 49,408,840 (5,264)
— —
— —
— —
— —
— —
132
224 —
(3) —
(4,199)
6,354 —
— —
(591)
—
—
14
— —
(2) —
79,855 148,341
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
(8)
13
—
541
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
546
432
727
—
613
(51)
(41)
—
153
24
—
5,345
(309)
(25)
(431)
1,024
(83)
—
412
(20)
(2)
23
—
—
5,934
711
35
292
7,508
(51)
(391)
(7,581)
153
49
3
216,804
(636)
7,534
110
1,248
(86)
175
6,766
(20)
(593)
37
(1,925)
(2)
229,412
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.
F-11
Table of Contents
BAIDU, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY (CONTINUED)
(Amounts in millions of Renminbi (“RMB”), and in millions of U.S. Dollars (“US$”), except for number of shares)
Ordinary shares
Treasury Stock
Attributable to Baidu, Inc.
Balances at December 31, 2022
Net income
Other comprehensive loss
Issuance of shares by the Company’s
subsidiaries to noncontrolling interests
Exercise of share-based awards
Share-based compensation
Dividends paid and payable by the
Company’s subsidiaries
Accretion of redeemable noncontrolling
interests
Repurchase of ordinary shares
Others
Balances at December 31, 2023
Balances at December 31, 2023, in US$
Number of
shares
Amount
RMB
—
—
—
2,796,585,392
—
—
Number of
shares
Amount
RMB
(5,264)
—
—
49,408,840
—
—
Additional
paid-in
capital
RMB
79,855
—
—
Retained
earnings
RMB
148,341
20,315
—
—
51,267,008
—
—
—
—
—
(50,887,168)
—
—
6,210
—
1,274
—
5,965
—
(6,102)
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
(42,661,000)
—
2,805,191,400
—
—
—
—
—
—
42,661,000
—
41,182,672
—
(4,764)
—
(3,818)
(538)
—
—
5
87,099
12,268
(717)
—
(597)
161,240
22,710
Accumulated other
comprehensive
income (loss)
RMB
Noncontrolling
interests
RMB
Total
shareholders’
equity
RMB
546
—
(1,441)
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
(895)
(126)
5,934
1,234
(95)
2,175
—
351
(78)
(4)
—
—
9,517
1,340
229,412
21,549
(1,536)
3,449
108
6,316
(78)
(721)
(4,764)
(592)
253,143
35,654
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements
F-12
Table of Contents
BAIDU, INC.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2021, 2022 AND 2023
1.
ORGANIZATION AND BASIS OF PRESENTATION
Baidu, Inc. (“Baidu” or the “Company”) was incorporated under the laws of the Cayman Islands on January 18, 2000. The Company, its subsidiaries,
variable interest entities (“VIEs”) and subsidiaries of the VIEs are hereinafter collectively referred to as the “Group”.
As of December 31, 2023, the Company has major subsidiaries incorporated in countries and jurisdictions including mainland China, Hong Kong,
Cayman Islands and British Virgin Islands (“BVI”). As of December 31, 2023, the Company also effectively controls a number of VIEs through the
Primary Beneficiaries, as defined below. The VIEs include:
•
•
•
•
Beijing Baidu Netcom Science Technology Co., Ltd. (“Baidu Netcom”), controlled by the Company;
Beijing Perusal Technology Co., Ltd. (“Beijing Perusal”), controlled by the Company;
Beijing iQIYI Science & Technology Co., Ltd. (“Beijing iQIYI”), and other VIEs controlled by iQIYI, Inc. (“iQIYI VIEs”); and
Other VIEs controlled by the Company or the Company’s subsidiaries.
The Group’s operations consist of Baidu Core and iQIYI. Baidu Core offers online marketing services, and other services including cloud services and
other growth initiatives including intelligent driving, Xiaodu smart devices, etc. iQIYI is an innovative market-leading online entertainment service
provider in China and offers membership services, online advertising services, content distribution and other services. iQIYI’s platform features iQIYI
original content, as well as a comprehensive library of other professionally produced content (PPC), professional user generated content (PUGC) and
user-generated content. The Group’s principal geographic market is in mainland China. The Company does not conduct any substantive operations of its
own, but conducts its primary business operations through its subsidiaries incorporated in mainland China and contractual arrangements with the VIEs
based in mainland China.
The Group’s internet content services, value-added telecommunication-based services, internet map services, online audio and video services, and
mobile application distribution businesses in mainland China have been conducted through the applicable VIEs in order to comply with the laws and
regulations of mainland China, which restrict and impose conditions on foreign direct investment in companies involved in the provision of such
businesses. To comply with these foreign ownership restrictions, the Group operates its websites and primarily provides services subject to such
restriction in mainland China through the VIEs, the mainland China legal entities that were established or whose equity shares were held by the
individuals authorized by the Group. The paid-in capital of the VIEs was mainly funded by the Company or its subsidiaries through loans extended to
the authorized individuals who were the shareholders of the VIEs. The Company or its subsidiaries has entered into proxy agreements/shareholder
voting rights trust agreements/powers of attorney and exclusive equity purchase and transfer option agreement or exclusive purchase option agreement
with the VIEs and nominee shareholders of the VIEs, which give the Primary Beneficiaries the power to direct the activities that most significantly
affect the economic performance of the VIEs and to acquire the equity interests in the VIEs when permitted by the laws of mainland China, respectively.
Certain exclusive agreements have been entered into with the VIEs through the Primary Beneficiaries or their wholly-owned subsidiaries in mainland
China, which obligate the Primary Beneficiaries to absorb losses or receive economic benefits of the VIEs’ that could potentially be significant to the
VIEs or entitle the Primary Beneficiaries to receive economic benefits from the VIEs that could potentially be significant to the VIEs. In addition, the
Group has entered into certain agreements with the shareholders of the VIEs through the Primary Beneficiaries or their wholly-owned subsidiaries,
including loan agreements for the paid-in capital of the VIEs and equity pledge agreements for the equity interests in the VIEs held by the shareholders
of the VIEs.
F-13
Table of Contents
BAIDU, INC.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2021, 2022 AND 2023
The shareholders of the VIEs effectively assigned all of their voting rights underlying their equity interests in the VIEs to the Primary Beneficiaries. In
addition, through the other exclusive agreements, which consist of exclusive equity purchase and transfer option agreements/exclusive purchase option
agreements, commitment letters, operating agreements/business operation agreements, exclusive technology consulting and services agreements and
license agreements, the Primary Beneficiaries, by themselves or their wholly-owned subsidiaries in mainland China, demonstrate their ability and
intention to continue to exercise the ability to absorb losses or receive economic benefits that could potentially be significant to the VIEs. The VIEs are
subject to operating risks, which determine the variability of the Company’s interest in those entities. Based on these contractual arrangements, the
Company consolidates the VIEs as required by Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) Topic 810, Consolidation.
Unrecognized revenue-producing assets held by the VIEs include certain internet content provisions and other licenses, domain names and trademarks.
The internet content provisions and other licenses, which are held by the VIEs that provide the relevant services, are required under the relevant laws of
mainland China, rules and regulations for the operation of Internet businesses in mainland China, and therefore are integral to the Company’s operations.
The principal terms of the arrangements entered into amongst the VIEs, their respective shareholders and the Primary Beneficiaries are further described
below.
Proxy Agreements/Shareholder Voting Rights Trust Agreements/Powers of Attorney
Pursuant to the proxy agreement between the Company and the shareholders of Baidu Netcom, the shareholders of Baidu Netcom agreed to entrust all
the rights to exercise their voting power and any other rights as shareholders of Baidu Netcom to the person(s) designated by the Company. The
shareholders of Baidu Netcom have each executed an irrevocable power of attorney to appoint the person(s) designated by the Company as their
attorney-in-fact to vote on their behalf on all matters requiring shareholder approval. Any action taken by such attorney-in-fact in relation to the
entrusted rights shall be directed and approved by the company. The proxy agreement would be in effect for an unlimited term unless terminated in
writing by the Company. The power of attorney would be in effect for as long as the shareholders of Baidu Netcom hold any equity interests in Baidu
Netcom.
Each of the proxy agreements or shareholder voting rights trust agreements amongst the Company or other subsidiaries and the shareholders of Beijing
Perusal and other VIEs contains substantially the same terms as those described above. Each of the proxy agreements or shareholder voting rights trust
agreements will be in effect for an unlimited term unless terminated in writing by the Company or other subsidiaries. Each of the powers of attorney will
be in effect for as long as the shareholder of Beijing Perusal or other VIEs, including iQIYI VIEs, holds any equity interests in Beijing Perusal or other
VIEs, including iQIYI VIEs, as the case may be.
Exclusive Equity Purchase and Transfer Option Agreements/ Exclusive Purchase Option Agreements
Pursuant to the exclusive equity purchase and transfer option agreement amongst the shareholders of Baidu Netcom, the Company and Baidu Online,
the shareholders of Baidu Netcom irrevocably granted the Company or its designated person(s) (including Baidu Online) an exclusive option to
purchase, to the extent permitted under the laws of mainland China, all or part of the equity interests in Baidu Netcom for the cost of the initial
contributions to the registered capital or the minimum amount of consideration permitted by applicable laws of mainland China. The shareholders of
Baidu Netcom must remit to Baidu Online any amount that is paid by Baidu
F-14
Table of Contents
BAIDU, INC.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2021, 2022 AND 2023
Online in connection with the purchased equity interests as requested by the Company or its designated person(s) (including Baidu Online) to the extent
permitted by the applicable laws. The Company or its designated person(s) have sole discretion to decide when to exercise the option, whether in part or
in full. Any and all dividends and other capital distributions made by Baidu Netcom to its shareholders must be repaid to the Company in full. The
Company or its designated person(s) (including Baidu Online) also have the exclusive right to cause the shareholders of Baidu Netcom to transfer their
equity interests in Baidu Netcom to the Company or any designated third party. The Company would provide unlimited financial support to Baidu
Netcom if, in the normal operation of business, Baidu Netcom would become in need of any form of reasonable financial support. If Baidu Netcom were
to incur any loss and as a result cannot repay any loans from the Company (through Baidu Online), the Company will unconditionally forgive any such
loans to Baidu Netcom provided that Baidu Netcom provides sufficient proof for its loss and incapacity to repay. In addition, the shareholders of Baidu
Netcom must appoint the candidates recommended by Baidu Online as their representatives on Baidu Netcom’s board of directors. The agreement will
terminate when the shareholders of Baidu Netcom have transferred all their equity interests in Baidu Netcom to the Company or its designated person(s)
or upon expiration of the term of business of the Company or Baidu Netcom.
Each of the exclusive equity purchase and transfer option agreement/exclusive purchase option agreement amongst the Company, Baidu Online, Beijing
Perusal and its shareholders and iQIYI, Beijing QIYI Century, Beijing iQIYI and its shareholders contains substantially the same terms as those
described above, except that the original term of the amended and restated exclusive purchase option agreement amongst iQIYI, Beijing QIYI Century,
Beijing iQIYI and its shareholder is ten years, which has been extended to November 22, 2032, and can be further renewed at iQIYI’s discretion.
Exclusive Technology Consulting and Services Agreements
Pursuant to the exclusive technology consulting and services agreement between Baidu Online and Baidu Netcom, Baidu Online has the exclusive right
to provide technology consulting and services related to, among other things, the maintenance of servers, software development, design of
advertisements, and e-commerce technical services to Baidu Netcom. Baidu Online owns the intellectual property rights resulting from the performance
of this agreement. Baidu Netcom agrees to pay service fees to Baidu Online and Baidu Online has the right to adjust the service fees at its sole discretion
without the consent of Baidu Netcom. The agreement will be in effect for an unlimited term, until the term of business of one party expires and
extension is denied by the relevant approval authorities.
Each of the exclusive technology consulting and services agreements between Baidu Online or other subsidiaries and Beijing Perusal or other VIEs,
including iQIYI VIEs, contains substantially the same terms as those described above, except the basis of determining the service fees may differ and
that the original term of the exclusive technology consulting and services agreement between Beijing QIYI Century and Beijing iQIYI dated
November 23, 2011 is ten years, and has been extended for another ten years to November 23, 2031 in December 2020, and can be further renewed at
the discretion of Beijing QIYI Century.
Operating Agreements/Business Operation Agreements
Pursuant to the operating agreement amongst Baidu Online, Baidu Netcom and the shareholders of Baidu Netcom, Baidu Online provides guidance and
instructions on Baidu Netcom’s daily operations, financial affairs and employment and dismissal of staff. In addition, Baidu Online agrees to guarantee
Baidu Netcom’s performance under any agreements or arrangements relating to Baidu Netcom’s business arrangements with any third party. In return,
Baidu Netcom agrees that without the prior consent of Baidu Online, Baidu Netcom will
F-15
Table of Contents
BAIDU, INC.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2021, 2022 AND 2023
not engage in any transactions that could materially affect the assets, liabilities, rights or operations of Baidu Netcom, including, without limitation,
incurrence or assumption of any indebtedness, sale or purchase of any assets or rights, incurrence of any encumbrance on any of its assets or intellectual
property rights in favor of a third party or transfer of any agreements relating to its business operation to any third party. The agreement will be in effect
for an unlimited term, until the term of business of Baidu Online or Baidu Netcom expires and extension is denied by the approval authorities.
The operating agreement amongst Baidu Online, Beijing Perusal and its shareholders contains substantially the same terms as those described above.
Pursuant to the amended and restated business operation agreement amongst Beijing QIYI Century, Beijing iQIYI and its shareholder, Beijing QIYI
Century provides guidance and instructions on Beijing iQIYI’s daily operations and financial affairs. In addition, Beijing QIYI Century agrees to
guarantee Beijing iQIYI’s performance under any agreements or arrangements relating to Beijing iQIYI’s business arrangements with any third party.
The agreement can only be unilaterally revoked by Beijing QIYI Century. The original term of the agreement dated January 30, 2013 is ten years, which
has been extended for another ten years to January 30, 2033 in December 2020, and can be further renewed at Beijing QIYI Century’s discretion.
Loan Agreements
Pursuant to loan agreements amongst the shareholders of Baidu Netcom and Baidu Online Network Technology (Beijing) Co., Ltd. (“Baidu Online”),
one of the Company’s subsidiaries, Baidu Online provided interest-free loans in an aggregate amount of RMB13.4 billion (US$1.9 billion) to the
shareholders of Baidu Netcom solely for the latter to fund the capitalization of Baidu Netcom. The loans can be repaid only with the proceeds from the
sale of the shareholders’ equity interests in Baidu Netcom to Baidu Online or its designated person. The term of the loan agreements will expire on
July 9, 2029 and August 19, 2029, and can be extended with the written consent of both parties before its expiration.
Pursuant to loan agreements amongst the shareholders of Baidu Perusal and Baidu Online, the amount of loans extended to the respective shareholders
of Beijing Perusal is RMB3.2 billion (US$450 million). The term of the loan agreements will expire on March 30, 2028 and October 29, 2029, and can
be extended with the written consent of both parties before its expiration. Each of the loan agreements amongst Baidu Online or other subsidiaries and
the respective shareholders of Beijing Perusal or other VIEs, including iQIYI VIEs, contains substantially the same terms as those described above,
except that the amount of the loans and the contract expiration date varies. The term of the loan agreement amongst Beijing QIYI Century Science &
Technology Co., Ltd (“Beijing QIYI Century”, a wholly-owned foreign enterprise of iQIYI) and the shareholder of Beijing iQIYI expired on June 23,
2021 originally, which was extended in December 2020 for another ten years to June 23, 2031 and can be further extended upon the written notification
from Beijing QIYI Century.
Equity Pledge Agreements
Pursuant to the equity pledge agreement between Baidu Online and the shareholders of Baidu Netcom, the shareholders of Baidu Netcom pledged all of
their equity interests in Baidu Netcom to Baidu Online to guarantee their obligations under the loan agreement and Baidu Netcom’s performance of its
obligations under the exclusive technology consulting and services agreement. If Baidu Netcom or its shareholders breach their respective contractual
obligations, Baidu Online, as the pledgee, will be entitled to certain rights, including the right to sell the pledged equity interests. The shareholders of
Baidu Netcom agreed not to dispose of the pledged equity interests or take any actions that would prejudice Baidu Online’s interest. The equity pledge
agreement
F-16
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BAIDU, INC.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2021, 2022 AND 2023
will terminate on the date when Baidu Netcom and its shareholders have completed all their respective obligations under the exclusive technology
consulting and services agreement and the loan agreement, but such agreement will expire two years after expiration of the term of the obligations of
Baidu Netcom and its shareholders under the exclusive technology consulting and service agreement and the loan agreements if they fail to fulfill such
obligations thereunder.
Each of the equity pledge agreements amongst Baidu Online or other subsidiaries and the shareholders of Beijing Perusal or other VIEs, including iQIYI
VIEs, contains substantially the same terms, including its term to expiration, as those described above.
Business Cooperation Agreement
Pursuant to the business cooperation agreement amongst Beijing QIYI Century and Beijing iQIYI effective November 23, 2011, Beijing iQIYI agrees to
provide Beijing QIYI Century with services, including internet information services, online advertising and other services reasonably necessary within
the scope of Beijing QIYI Century’s business. Beijing iQIYI agrees to use technology services provided by Beijing QIYI Century on its platform,
including but not limited to, P2P download and video on-demand systems. Beijing QIYI Century agrees to pay specified service fees to Beijing iQIYI as
consideration for the internet information services and other services provided by Beijing iQIYI. Beijing iQIYI has the right to waive the service fees at
its discretion. The original term of this agreement is ten years, which has been extended for another ten years to November 23, 2031, and can be further
renewed at Beijing QIYI Century’s discretion.
License Agreements
Baidu Online and Baidu Netcom entered into a software license agreement and a web layout copyright license agreement (collectively, the “License
Agreements”). Pursuant to the License Agreements between Baidu Online and Baidu Netcom, Baidu Online has granted to Baidu Netcom the right to
use (including but not limited to) a software license and a web layout copyright license. Baidu Netcom may only use the licenses in its own business
operations. Baidu Online has the right to adjust the service fees at its sole discretion. The software license agreement and web layout copyright license
agreement were renewed since their original expiration and would be in effect for an unlimited term, until the term of business of one party expires and
extension is denied by the approval authorities.
Baidu Online entered into web layout copyright license agreements with Beijing Perusal. Each of the license agreements between Baidu Online and
Beijing Perusal or other VIEs contains substantially the same terms as those described above. Each of the web layout copyright license agreements were
renewed in 2013 and would be in effect for an unlimited term, until the term of business of one party expires and extension is denied by the approval
authorities.
Pursuant to the trademark license agreement and the software usage license agreement amongst Beijing QIYI Century and Beijing iQIYI effective
November 23, 2011, Beijing QIYI Century granted a non-exclusive and non-transferable license, without sublicensing rights, to Beijing iQIYI to use its
trademarks and software. Beijing iQIYI may only use the licenses in its own business operations. Beijing QIYI Century has the right to adjust the
service fees at its sole discretion. The initial term of the two agreements is five years and the software usage license agreement may be extended upon
the written consent of Beijing QIYI Century. The trademark license agreement is automatically extended for successive one-year periods after its
expiration unless Beijing QIYI Century early terminates the agreement in accordance with the provisions of the agreement. The software usage license
agreement was extended for another five years after its initial term, and was extended for another ten years to December 1, 2031, and is further
renewable at the discretion of Beijing QIYI Century.
F-17
Table of Contents
BAIDU, INC.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2021, 2022 AND 2023
Commitment Letters
Pursuant to the commitment letter dated January 30, 2013, under the condition that Beijing iQIYI remains as a consolidated variable interest entity of
iQIYI under United States generally accepted accounting principles (“U.S. GAAP”) and the relevant contractual arrangements remain in effect, iQIYI
commits to provide unlimited financial support to Beijing iQIYI, if Beijing iQIYI requires any form of reasonable financial support for its normal
business operations. If Beijing iQIYI incurs any losses and as a result cannot repay its loans from iQIYI and Beijing QIYI Century, one of iQIYI’s
subsidiaries, iQIYI and Beijing QIYI Century would unconditionally forgive their loans to Beijing iQIYI, if Beijing iQIYI provides sufficient proof for
its loss and incapacity to repay.
The commitment letters executed by other iQIYI VIEs contain terms similar to the terms described above.
Through the contractual arrangements, the shareholders of the VIEs effectively assigned their full voting rights to the Company or its subsidiaries, which
gives the Company or its subsidiaries the power to direct the activities that most significantly impact the VIEs’ economic performance. The Company or
its subsidiaries obtain the ability to approve decisions made by the VIEs and the ability to acquire the equity interests in the VIEs when permitted by the
laws of mainland China. The Company or its subsidiaries are obligated to absorb losses or receive economic benefits of the VIEs that could potentially
be significant to the VIEs through providing unlimited financial support to the VIEs or are entitled to receive economic benefits from the VIEs that
could potentially be significant to the VIEs through the exclusive technology consulting and service fees. As a result of these contractual agreements, the
Company or its subsidiaries are determined to be the primary beneficiary of the VIEs and consolidates the VIEs as required by ASC Topic 810,
Consolidation.
Through the contractual arrangements, the shareholders of the iQIYI VIEs effectively assigned all of their voting rights underlying their equity interests
in iQIYI VIEs to iQIYI. In addition, through the other exclusive agreements, which consist of the operation agreements, business cooperating
agreements, exclusive technology consulting and services agreements and trademark and software usage license agreements, iQIYI, through its wholly-
owned subsidiaries in mainland China, have the right to receive economic benefits from iQIYI VIEs that potentially could be significant to iQIYI VIEs.
Lastly, through the commitment letters, iQIYI has the obligation to absorb losses of iQIYI VIEs that could potentially be significant to iQIYI VIEs.
Therefore, iQIYI is considered the primary beneficiary of iQIYI VIEs and consolidates iQIYI VIEs and their subsidiaries.
In the opinion of the Company’s legal counsel, (i) the ownership structure relating to the VIEs of the Company is in compliance with the laws and
regulations of mainland China; (ii) the contractual arrangements with the VIEs and their shareholders constituted legal, valid and binding obligations of
such party, and are enforceable against such party in accordance with their respective terms; and (iii) the execution, delivery and performance by the
VIEs and their shareholders, and the contractual arrangements as a whole, do not result in any violation of the provisions of the articles of association
and business licenses of the VIEs, and any violation of any current laws and regulations of mainland China.
However, uncertainties in the PRC legal system could cause the Company’s current ownership structure to be found in violation of any existing and/or
future laws or regulations of mainland China and could limit the Company’s ability, through the Primary Beneficiaries, to enforce its rights under these
contractual arrangements. Furthermore, shareholders of the VIEs may have interests that are different with those of the Company, which could
potentially increase the risk that they would seek to breach the existing terms of the aforementioned arrangements.
On January 1, 2020, the Foreign Investment Law came into effect and became the principal laws and regulations governing foreign investment in
mainland China. The Foreign Investment Law does not explicitly classify
F-18
Table of Contents
BAIDU, INC.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2021, 2022 AND 2023
contractual arrangements as a form of foreign investment, but it contains a catch-all provision which includes investments made by foreign investors
through means stipulated in laws or administrative regulations or other methods prescribed by the State Council. There are uncertainties regarding the
interpretation of the Foreign Investment Law with respect to the contractual arrangements as a form of foreign investment. Since the VIEs’ internet
content services, value-added telecommunication-based services, internet map services, online audio and video services and mobile application
distribution businesses in mainland China are included in the negative list or subject to the restrictions on foreign investment, if any of the VIEs would
be deemed as a foreign invested enterprise, the Company’s current organizational structure could be in violation of existing and/or future laws or
regulations of mainland China and could limit the Company’s ability, through the Primary Beneficiaries, to enforce its rights under these contractual
arrangements with the VIEs and the Company’s ability to conduct business through the VIEs could be severely limited.
In addition, if the current organizational structure or any of the contractual arrangements were found to be in violation of any existing and/or future laws
or regulations of mainland China, the Company may be subject to penalties, which may include but not be limited to, the cancellation or revocation of
the Company’s business and operating licenses, being required to restructure the Company’s operations or discontinue the Company’s operating
activities. The imposition of any of these or other penalties may cause the Company to lose its right to direct the activities that most significantly impact
the VIEs and/or the right to receive economic benefits that could potentially be significant to the VIEs based on the contractual arrangements, which
may result in the Company no longer being able to consolidate the financial results of the VIEs in the consolidated financial statements.
Furthermore, shareholders of the VIEs may have interests that are different with those of the Company, which could potentially increase the risk that
they would seek to breach the existing terms of the aforementioned agreements.
F-19
Table of Contents
BAIDU, INC.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2021, 2022 AND 2023
The following tables set forth the financial statement balances and amounts of the VIEs and their subsidiaries included in the consolidating financial
statements after the elimination of intercompany balances and transactions among VIEs and their subsidiaries within the Group.
Assets
Cash and cash equivalents
Short-term investments, net
Accounts receivable, net
Others
Total current assets
Fixed assets, net
Intangible assets, net
Licensed copyrights, net
Produced content, net
Long-term investments, net
Long-term time deposits and held-to-maturity investments
Operating lease right-of-use assets
Others
Total non-current assets
Total
Liabilities
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities
Customer deposits and deferred revenue
Operating lease liabilities
Others
Total current third-party liabilities
Operating lease liabilities
Others
Total non-current third-party liabilities
Amounts due to the other entities within Baidu (1)
Total
Note:
(1)
It represents the elimination of intercompany balances among Baidu, Inc., its subsidiaries and the VIEs and VIEs’ subsidiaries.
F-20
As of December 31,
2023
2022
RMB RMB
(In millions)
2023
US$
3,781 4,838
681
712
4,650 5,055
8,408 7,642 1,076
8,487 8,286 1,167
25,326 25,821 3,636
7,624 9,084 1,279
118
1,209
835
1,952 1,951
275
12,534 12,349 1,739
18,157 17,428 2,455
46
330
5,460 6,241
879
10,829 11,266 1,587
58,065 59,484 8,378
83,391 85,305 12,014
300
15,749 16,385 2,308
7,387 8,007 1,128
406
2,554 2,883
4,678 6,781
955
30,368 34,056 4,797
693
4,565 4,920
2,098 1,833
258
951
6,663 6,753
18,743 13,985 1,970
55,774 54,794 7,718
Table of Contents
BAIDU, INC.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2021, 2022 AND 2023
The carrying amounts of the assets, liabilities and the results of operations of the VIEs and their subsidiaries are presented in aggregate due to the
similarity of the purpose and design of the VIEs and their subsidiaries, the nature of the assets in these VIEs and their subsidiaries and the type of the
involvement of the Company in these VIEs and their subsidiaries.
Total revenues
Net (loss) income
Net cash provided by operating activities
Net cash used in investing activities
Net cash provided by/(used in) financing activities
For the years ended December 31,
2021
RMB
2022
RMB
2023
RMB
2023
US$
(In millions)
61,380
(220)
4,121
(7,551)
3,999
62,121
212
2,938
(1,898)
(64)
67,001
4,202
5,328
(2,381)
(1,998)
9,437
592
750
(335)
(281)
As of December 31, 2023, there was no pledge or collateralization of the VIEs’ assets that can only be used to settle obligations of the VIEs, other than
aforementioned in the equity pledge agreements and collateralization of a VIE’s office building for iQIYI’s short-term loans (Note 13). The amount of
the net assets of the VIEs was RMB30.5 billion (US$4.3 billion) as of December 31, 2023. The creditors of the VIEs’ third-party liabilities did not have
recourse to the general credit of the Company in normal course of business. The Company did not provide financial or other supports not previously
contractually required to the VIEs during the years presented.
Basis of Presentation
The consolidated financial statements are prepared in accordance with United States generally accepted accounting principles (“U.S. GAAP”).
Effective on March 1, 2021, each share of Class A ordinary shares, Class B ordinary shares and preferred shares of a par value of US$0.00005 each in
the share capital of the Company (including authorized issued and unissued Class A ordinary shares, Class B ordinary shares and preferred shares)
was sub-divided into 80 shares of a par value of US$0.000000625 each (the “Share Subdivision”). Following the Share Subdivision, the authorized
share capital of the Company became US$43,520 divided into 66,000,000,000 Class A ordinary shares of a par value of US$0.000000625 each,
2,832,000,000 Class B ordinary shares of a par value of US$0.000000625 each and 800,000,000 preferred shares of a par value of US$0.000000625
each. The number of issued and unissued Class A ordinary shares, Class B ordinary shares and preferred shares as disclosed elsewhere in the
consolidated financial statements are presented on a basis after taking into account the effects of the Share Subdivision and have been retrospectively
adjusted, where applicable. Simultaneously with the Share Subdivision, the change in ratio of the Company’s ADS to Class A ordinary share (the “ADS
Ratio Change”) also became effective. Following the ADS Ratio Change, each ADS now represents eight Class A ordinary shares. Previously, ten ADSs
represented one Class A ordinary share. Given that the ADS Ratio Change was exactly proportionate to the Share Subdivision, no new ADSs were
issued to any ADS holder and the total number of the Company’s outstanding ADSs remains unchanged immediately after the Share Subdivision and the
ADS Ratio Change became effective.
2.
SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
Principles of Consolidation
The consolidated financial statements include the financial statements of the Company, its subsidiaries, VIEs and subsidiaries of the VIEs. All inter-
company transactions and balances between the Company, its subsidiaries,
F-21
Table of Contents
BAIDU, INC.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2021, 2022 AND 2023
VIEs and subsidiaries of the VIEs have been eliminated upon consolidation. The Group included the results of operations of the acquired businesses
from their respective dates of acquisition.
Comparative Information
Certain financial information of the Group’s equity method investees in Note 4, certain produced content related disclosures presented in Note 7 and
certain iQIYI’s segment revenue related disclosures presented in Note 25 have been adjusted to conform with the current year’s presentation to facilitate
comparison.
Use of Estimates
The preparation of the financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the
reported amounts of assets and liabilities, and disclosures of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported
amounts of revenues and expenses during the period. Management evaluates estimates, including those related to the standalone selling prices of
performance obligations and amounts of variable considerations of revenue contracts, the allowance for credit losses of accounts receivable, contract
assets, receivables from online payment agencies, amounts due from related parties and debt securities, fair values of certain debt and equity
investments, future viewership consumption patterns and useful lives of licensed copyrights and produced content, future revenues generated by the
broadcasting and sublicensing rights of content assets (licensed and produced), ultimate revenue of produced content predominantly monetized on its
own, fair values of licensed copyrights and produced contents monetized as a film group or individually, fair value of nonmonetary content exchanges,
the useful lives of long-lived assets, impairment of long-lived assets, long-term investments and goodwill, the purchase price allocation, deferred tax
valuation allowance, the fair value of share-based awards and estimated forfeitures for share-based awards among others. Management bases the
estimates on historical experience and on various other assumptions that are believed to be reasonable, the results of which form the basis for making
judgments about the carrying values of assets and liabilities. Actual results could differ from these estimates.
Change in Accounting Estimate
In 2021, the Group reviewed and revised the estimated useful life of its servers from four years to five years. As a result of these revisions, depreciation
expense decreased by RMB982 million, net income increased by RMB814 million, and basic and diluted net earnings per Class A and Class B ordinary
share increased by RMB0.28 and RMB0.28, respectively, for the year ended December 31, 2021.
Currency Translation for Financial Statements Presentation
Translations of amounts from RMB into U.S. dollars (US$) for the convenience of the reader have been calculated at the exchange rate of RMB7.0999
per US$1.00 on December 29, 2023, the last business day in fiscal year 2023, as published on the website of the United States Federal Reserve Board.
No representation is made that the RMB amounts could have been, or could be, converted into U.S. dollars at such rate.
Foreign Currency
The Company’s functional currency is the US$. The Company’s subsidiaries, VIEs and subsidiaries of the VIEs determine their functional currencies
based on the criteria of ASC Topic 830, Foreign Currency Matters. The Group uses the RMB as its reporting currency. The Group uses the exchange
rate as of the balance sheet date to translate its assets and liabilities and the average daily exchange rate for each month to translate its income and
expense items to reporting currency. Any translation gains (losses) are recorded in other comprehensive (loss)
F-22
Table of Contents
BAIDU, INC.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2021, 2022 AND 2023
income. Transactions denominated in foreign currencies are measured and recorded into the functional currency at the exchange rates prevailing on the
transaction dates. Assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies other than functional currency are remeasured into the functional currency at
the exchange rates prevailing at the balance sheet date. Exchange gains and losses are included in earnings as a component of “Other income, net.”
Segment Reporting
As of December 31, 2022 and 2023, the Group had two reportable segments, Baidu Core and iQIYI. Baidu Core mainly provides search-based, feed-
based and other online marketing services, cloud services, products and other services from its new AI initiatives. iQIYI is an online entertainment
service provider that offers original, professionally produced and partner-generated content on its platform.
The Group’s chief executive officer, who has been identified as the chief operating decision maker (“CODM”), reviews the operating results of Baidu
Core and iQIYI, to allocate resources and assess the Group’s performance. Accordingly, the financial statements include segment information which
reflects the current composition of the reportable segments in accordance with ASC Topic 280, Segment Reporting.
Business Combinations
The Group accounts for its business combinations using the acquisition method in accordance with ASC Topic 805, Business Combinations. The
acquisition method requires that the consideration transferred to be allocated to the assets, including separately identifiable assets and liabilities the
Group acquired, based on their estimated fair values. The consideration transferred in an acquisition is measured as the aggregate of the fair values at the
date of exchange of the assets given, liabilities incurred, and equity instruments issued as well as the contingent considerations as of the acquisition date.
The costs directly attributable to the acquisition are expensed as incurred. Identifiable assets, liabilities and contingent liabilities acquired or assumed are
measured separately at their fair value as of the acquisition date, irrespective of the extent of any noncontrolling interests. The excess of (i) the total cost
of acquisition, fair value of the noncontrolling interests and acquisition date fair value of any previously held equity interests in the acquiree over (ii) the
fair value of the identifiable net assets of the acquiree, is recorded as goodwill. If the cost of acquisition is less than the fair value of the net assets of the
subsidiary acquired, the difference is recognized directly in earnings.
In a business combination achieved in stages, the Group remeasures its previously held equity interest in the acquiree immediately before obtaining
control at its acquisition-date fair value and the re-measurement gain or loss, if any, is recognized in “Others, net” in the consolidated statements of
comprehensive income.
The determination and allocation of fair values to the identifiable assets acquired, liabilities assumed and noncontrolling interests are based on various
assumptions and valuation methodologies requiring considerable judgment from management. The most significant variables in these valuations are
discount rates, the number of years on which to base the cash flow projections, as well as the assumptions and estimates used to determine the cash
inflows and outflows. The Group determines discount rates to be used based on the risk inherent in the related activity’s current business model and
industry comparisons.
Cash, Cash Equivalents and Restricted Cash
Cash and cash equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents primarily consist of cash, money market funds, investments in interest bearing demand deposit accounts, time deposits and
highly liquid investments with original maturities of three months or less from the date of purchase and are stated at cost which approximates their fair
value.
F-23
Table of Contents
BAIDU, INC.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2021, 2022 AND 2023
Restricted cash
Restricted cash mainly represents amounts deposited and held in escrow for the acquisition of YY Live, the share purchase agreement for which has
been terminated on January 1, 2024, and restricted deposits used as security against convertible senior notes.
In the event that the obligation to maintain such restricted deposits is expected to be terminated within the next twelve months, these deposits will be
classified as current assets, included in “Restricted cash” in the consolidated balance sheets. Otherwise, they will be classified as non-current assets,
included in “Other non-current assets” in the consolidated balance sheets.
Accounts Receivable and Contract Assets, net
Accounts receivable are recognized and carried at the original invoiced amount less an allowance for credit losses. The Group’s right to consideration in
exchange for goods or services that the Group has transferred to a customer is recognized as a contract asset. The Group maintains an allowance for
credit losses in accordance with ASC Topic 326, Credit Losses (“ASC 326”) and records the allowance for credit losses as an offset to accounts
receivable and contract assets, and the estimated credit losses charged to the allowance is classified as “Selling, general and administrative” in the
consolidated statements of comprehensive income. The Group assesses collectability by reviewing accounts receivable and contract assets on a
collective basis where similar characteristics exist, primarily based on similar business lines, services or product offerings and on an individual basis
when the Group identifies specific customers with known disputes or collectability issues. In determining the amount of the allowance for credit losses,
the Group considers historical collectability based on past due status, the age of the accounts receivable balances and contract assets balances, credit
quality of the Group’s customers based on ongoing credit evaluations, current economic conditions, reasonable and supportable forecasts of future
economic conditions, and other factors that may affect the Group’s ability to collect from customers.
Receivables from Online Payment Agencies, net
Receivables from online payment agencies are funds due from the third-party online payment service providers for clearing transactions and are
included in “Other current assets, net” on the consolidated balance sheets. The cash was paid or deposited by customers or users through these online
payment agencies for services provided by the Group. The Group considers and monitors the credit worthiness of the third-party payment service
providers and recognizes credit losses based on ongoing credit evaluations. Receivable balances are written off when they are deemed uncollectible. As
of December 31, 2022 and 2023, allowance for credit losses provided for the receivables from online payment agencies were insignificant.
Investments
Short-term investments
All highly liquid investments with original maturities less than twelve months are classified as short-term investments. Investments that are expected to
be realized in cash during the next twelve months are also included in short-term investments.
The Group accounts for short-term debt investments in accordance with ASC Topic 320, Investments – Debt Securities (“ASC 320”). The Group
classifies the short-term investments in debt securities as held-to-maturity, trading or available-for-sale, whose classification determines the respective
accounting methods stipulated by ASC 320. Dividend and interest income, including amortization of the premium and discount arising at
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NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2021, 2022 AND 2023
acquisition, for all categories of investments in securities are included in earnings. Any realized gains or losses on the sale of the short-term investments
are determined on a specific identification method, and such gains and losses are reflected in earnings during the period in which gains or losses are
realized.
Securities that the Group has the positive intent and ability to hold to maturity are classified as held-to-maturity securities and stated at amortized cost
less allowance for credit losses.
Securities that are bought and held principally for the purpose of selling them in the near term are classified as trading securities, in accordance with
ASC 320. Unrealized holding gains and losses for trading securities are included in earnings.
Debt investments not classified as trading or as held-to-maturity are classified as available-for-sale debt securities, which are reported at fair value, with
unrealized gains and losses recorded in “Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)” on the consolidated balance sheets.
The allowance for credit losses of the held-to-maturity debt securities reflects the Group’s estimated expected losses over the contractual lives of the
held-to-maturity debt securities and is charged to “Others, net” in the consolidated statements of comprehensive income. Estimated allowance for credit
losses is determined by considering reasonable and supportable forecasts of future economic conditions in addition to information about past events and
current conditions. As of December 31, 2022 and 2023, the allowance for credit losses provided for the held-to-maturity debt securities held by the
Group was RMB277 million and RMB385 million (US$54 million), respectively.
Long-term investments
The Group’s long-term investments consist of equity method investments, equity investments with readily determinable fair value, equity investments
without readily determinable fair value, equity investments in private equity funds, other investments accounted for at fair value and available-for-sale
debt investments.
Investments in entities in which the Group can exercise significant influence but does not own a majority equity interest or control are accounted for
using the equity method of accounting in accordance with ASC Topic 323, Investments-Equity Method and Joint Ventures (“ASC 323”). Under the
equity method, the Group initially records its investment at cost and the difference between the cost of the equity investee and the amount of the
underlying equity in the net assets of the equity investee is accounted for as if the investee were a consolidated subsidiary. The Group subsequently
adjusts the carrying amount of its investment to recognize the Group’s proportionate share of each equity investee’s net income or loss into earnings
after the date of investment and its share of each equity investee’s movement in accumulated other comprehensive income or loss is recognize in other
comprehensive (loss) income. When calculating its proportionate share of each equity investee’s net income or loss, the Group adjusts the net income or
loss of equity investee to include accretion of preferred stock that is classified in temporary equity in the investee’s financial statements, into earnings.
The Group will discontinue applying the equity method if an investment (plus additional financial support provided to the investee, if any) has been
reduced to zero. When the Group has other investments in its equity-method investee and is not required to advance additional funds to that investee, the
Group would continue to report its share of equity method losses in its consolidated statements of comprehensive income after its equity-method
investment in ordinary shares has been reduced to zero, to the extent of and as an adjustment to the adjusted basis of the Group’s other investments in
the investee. Such losses are first applied to those investments of a lower liquidation preference before being further applied to the investments of a
higher liquidation preference. The Group adopted a one-quarter lag in reporting for its share of equity income/(loss) to a majority of its equity method
investees.
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NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2021, 2022 AND 2023
The Group evaluates its equity method investments for impairment at each reporting date, or more frequently if events or changes in circumstances
indicate that the carrying amount of the investment might not be recoverable. Factors considered by the Group when determining whether an investment
has been other-than-temporarily-impaired, include, but are not limited to, the length of the time and the extent to which the market value has been less
than cost, the financial condition and near-term prospects of the investee, and the Group’s intent and ability to retain the investment until the recovery of
its cost. An impairment loss on the equity method investments is recognized in earnings when the decline in value is determined to be other-than-
temporary and is allocated to the individual net assets underlying equity method investments in the following order: 1) reduce any equity method
goodwill to zero; 2) reduce the individual basis differences related to the investee’s long-lived assets pro rata based on their amounts relative to the
overall basis difference at the impairment date; and 3) reduce the individual basis difference of the investee’s remaining assets in a systematic and
rational manner.
For equity investments in private equity funds, over which the Group does not have the ability to exercise significant influence, are measured using the
net asset value per share based on the practical expedient in ASC Topic 820, Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures (“ASC 820”) (“NAV practical
expedient”).
For equity securities without readily determinable fair value and do not qualify for the NAV practical expedient, the Group elects to use the
measurement alternative to measure those investments at cost, less any impairment, plus or minus changes resulting from observable price changes in
orderly transactions for identical or similar investments of the same issuer, if any. Significant judgments are required to determine (i) whether observable
price changes are orderly transactions and identical or similar to an investment held by the Group; and (ii) the selection of appropriate valuation
methodologies and underlying assumptions, including expected volatility and the probability of exit events as it relates to liquidation and redemption
features used to measure the price adjustments for the difference in rights and obligations between instruments. Equity securities with readily
determinable fair values are measured at fair value, and any changes in fair value are recognized in “Others, net” in the consolidated statements of
comprehensive income.
For equity investments measured at fair value with changes in fair value recorded in earnings, the Group does not assess whether those securities are
impaired. For equity investments that the Group elects to use the measurement alternative, the Group makes a qualitative assessment considering
impairment indicators to evaluate whether investments are impaired at each reporting date. Impairment indicators considered include, but are not limited
to, a significant deterioration in the earnings performance or business prospects of the investee, including factors that raise significant concerns about the
investee’s ability to continue as a going concern, a significant adverse change in the regulatory, economic, or technologic environment of the investee
and a significant adverse change in the general market condition of either the geographical area or the industry in which the investee operates. If a
qualitative assessment indicates that the investment is impaired, the entity has to estimate the investment’s fair value in accordance with the principles of
ASC 820. If the fair value is less than the investment’s carrying value, the Group recognizes an impairment loss in earnings equal to the difference
between the carrying value and fair value.
In accordance with ASC Subtopic 946-320, Financial Services—Investment Companies, Investments—Debt and Equity Securities (“ASC 946-320”), the
Group’s consolidated investment company accounts for long-term equity investments in unlisted companies at fair value. These investments were
initially recorded at their transaction price net of transaction costs, if any. Fair values of these investments are re-measured at each reporting date in
accordance with ASC 820.
Available-for-sale debt investments are convertible debt instruments issued by private companies and investments in preferred shares that are currently
redeemable at the Group’s option, which are measured at fair
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NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2021, 2022 AND 2023
value. Interest income is recognized in earnings. All other changes in the carrying amount of these debt investments are recognized in other
comprehensive (loss) income.
Long-term time deposits and held-to-maturity investments
Long-term time deposits and held-to-maturity securities are mainly deposits in commercial banks and wealth management products issued by
commercial banks and other financial institutions with maturities of greater than one year.
Investments in debt securities with maturities of greater than one year that the Group has positive intent and ability to hold to maturity are classified as
long-term held-to-maturity investments and stated at amortized cost less allowance for credit losses.
Fair Value Measurements of Financial Instruments
Financial instruments include cash and cash equivalents, restricted cash, short-term investments, amounts due from and due to related parties, other
receivables and long-term investments. The carrying values of the aforementioned financial instruments included in current assets and liabilities
approximate their respective fair values because of their general short maturities. The carrying amounts of long-term loans approximate fair values as
the related interest rates currently offered by financial institutions for similar debt instruments of comparable maturities. The fair value of long-term
investments, notes payable and convertible senior notes that are not reported at fair value are disclosed in Note 26.
Fixed Assets
Fixed assets are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation. Depreciation is recorded on a straight-line basis over the shorter of the estimated useful
lives of the assets or the term of the related lease, as follows:
Office building
Office building related facility, machinery and equipment
Computer equipment
Office equipment
Vehicles
Leasehold improvements
– 43 to 45 years
– 10 to 15 years
– 3 to 5 years
– 3 to 5 years
– 5 years
– over the shorter of lease terms or estimated useful lives of the assets
Fixed assets have no estimated residual value except for the office building and its related facility, machinery and equipment, which mainly have an
estimated residual value of 4% of the cost.
Repair and maintenance costs are charged to expense as incurred, whereas the cost of renewals and betterments that extend the useful life of fixed assets
are capitalized as additions to the related assets. Retirements, sales and disposals of assets are recorded by removing the cost and accumulated
depreciation from the asset and accumulated depreciation accounts with any resulting gain or loss reflected in earnings. All direct and indirect costs that
are related to the construction of fixed assets and incurred before the assets are ready for their intended use are capitalized as construction in progress.
Construction in progress is transferred to specific fixed assets items and depreciation of these assets commences when they are ready for their intended
use.
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BAIDU, INC.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2021, 2022 AND 2023
Interest costs are capitalized if they are incurred during the acquisition, construction or production of a qualifying asset and such costs could have been
avoided if expenditures for the assets have not been made. Capitalization of interest costs commences when the activities to prepare the asset are in
progress and expenditures and borrowing costs are being incurred. Interest costs are capitalized until the assets are ready for their intended use. Interest
costs capitalized for the years ended December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023 were insignificant.
Licensed Copyrights, net
Licensed copyrights consist of professionally-produced content such as films, drama series, variety shows and other video content acquired from
external parties. The license fees are capitalized and, unless prepaid, a corresponding liability is recorded when the cost of the content is known, the
content is accepted by the Group in accordance with the conditions of the license agreement and the content is available for its first showing on the
Group’s platforms. Licensed copyrights are presented on the consolidated balance sheets as current and non-current based on estimated time of usage.
The Group’s licensed copyrights include the right to broadcast and, in some instances, the right to sublicense. The broadcasting right, refers to the right
to broadcast the content on its own platforms and the sublicensing right, refers to the right to sublicense the underlying content to external parties. When
licensed copyrights include both broadcasting and sublicensing rights, the content costs are allocated to these two rights upon initial recognition, based
on the relative proportion of the estimated total revenues that will be generated from each right over its estimated useful lives.
For the right to broadcast the contents on its own platforms that generates online advertising and membership services revenues, the content costs are
amortized based on factors including historical and estimated future viewership patterns, using an accelerated method by content categories over the
shorter of each content’s contractual period or estimated useful lives within ten years, beginning with the month of first availability. Content categories
accounting for most of the Group’s content include newly released drama series, newly released films, animations, library drama series and library films.
Estimates of future viewership consumption patterns and estimated useful lives are reviewed periodically, at least on an annual basis and revised, if
necessary. Revisions to the amortization patterns are accounted for as a change in accounting estimate prospectively in accordance with ASC Topic 250,
Accounting Changes and Error Corrections (“ASC 250”). For the right to sublicense the content to external parties that generates direct content
distribution revenues, the content costs are amortized based on its estimated usage pattern and recorded as cost of revenues.
Produced Content, net
The Group produces original content in-house and in collaboration with external parties. Produced content primarily consists of films, episodic series,
variety shows and animations. The costs incurred in the physical production of original content include direct production costs, production overhead and
acquisition costs. Produced content also includes cash expenditures made to acquire a proportionate share of certain rights to films including profit
sharing, distribution and/or other rights. Exploitation costs are expensed as incurred. Participation costs are accrued using the individual-film-forecast-
computation method, which recognizes the costs in the same ratio as the associated ultimate revenue. Production costs for original content that are
predominantly monetized in a film group are capitalized. Production costs for original content that are predominantly monetized on its own are
capitalized to the extent that they are recoverable from total revenues expected to be earned (“ultimate revenue”); otherwise, they are expensed as cost of
revenues. Ultimate revenue estimates include revenue expected to be earned from all sources, including exhibition, licensing, or exploitation of
produced content if the Group has demonstrated a history of earning such revenue. The Group estimates
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NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2021, 2022 AND 2023
ultimate revenue to be earned during the estimated useful lives of produced content based on anticipated release patterns and historical results of similar
produced content, which are identified based on various factors, including cast and crew, target audience and popularity. The capitalized production
costs are reported separately as noncurrent assets with caption of “Produced content, net” on the consolidated balance sheets. Based on factors including
historical and estimated future viewership consumption patterns, the Group amortizes produced content that is predominantly monetized in a film group.
For produced content that is monetized on its own, the Group considers historical and estimated usage patterns to determine the pattern of amortization.
Based on the estimated patterns, the Group amortizes produced content using an accelerated method over its estimated useful lives within ten years,
beginning with the month of first availability and such costs are included in “Cost of revenues” in the consolidated statements of comprehensive income.
Impairment of licensed copyrights and produced content
The Group’s business model is mainly subscription and advertising based, as such the majority of the Group’s content assets (licensed copyrights and
produced content) are predominantly monetized with other content assets, whereas a smaller portion of the Group’s content assets are predominantly
monetized at a specific title level such as variety shows and investments in a proportionate share of certain film rights including profit sharing,
distribution and/or other rights. Because the identifiable cash flows related to content launched on the Group’s Mainland China platform are largely
independent of the cash flows of other content launched on the Group’s overseas platform, the Group has identified two separate film groups. The Group
reviews its film groups and individual content for impairment when there are events or changes in circumstances that indicate the fair value of a film
group or individual content may be less than its unamortized costs. Examples of such events or changes in circumstances include, a significant adverse
change in technological, regulatory, legal, economic, or social factors that could affect the fair value of the film group or the public’s perception of a film
or the availability of a film for future showings, a significant decrease in the number of subscribers or forecasted subscribers, or the loss of a major
distributor, a change in the predominant monetization strategy of a film that is currently monetized on its own, actual costs substantially in excess of
budgeted costs, substantial delays in completion or release schedules, or actual performance subsequent to release failing to meet expectations set before
release such as a significant decrease in the amount of ultimate revenue expected to be recognized.
When such events or changes in circumstances are identified, the Group assesses whether the fair value of an individual content (or film group) is less
than its unamortized film costs, determines the fair value of an individual content (or film group) and recognizes an impairment charge for the amount
by which the unamortized capitalized costs exceed the individual content’s (or film group’s) fair value. The Group mainly uses a discounted cash flow
approach to determine the fair value of an individual content or film group, of which the most significant inputs include the forecasted future revenues,
costs and operating expenses attributable to an individual content or the film group and the discount rate. An impairment loss attributable to a film group
is allocated to individual licensed copyrights and produced content within the film group on a pro rata basis using the relative carrying values of those
assets as the Group cannot estimate the fair value of individual contents in the film group without undue cost and effort.
Goodwill and Intangible Assets
Goodwill
Goodwill represents the excess of the purchase price over the fair value of the identifiable net assets acquired in a business combination. The Group
assesses goodwill for impairment in accordance with ASC Subtopic 350-20, Intangibles—Goodwill and Other: Goodwill (“ASC 350-20”), which
requires goodwill to be tested for
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BAIDU, INC.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2021, 2022 AND 2023
impairment at the reporting unit level at least annually and more frequently upon the occurrence of certain events, as defined by ASC 350-20. As of
December 31, 2022 and 2023, the Group has three reporting units, consisting of Baidu Core excluding Smart Living Group (“SLG”), SLG and iQIYI.
The Group has the option to assess qualitative factors first to determine whether it is necessary to perform the quantitative test in accordance with ASC
350-20. In the qualitative assessment, the Group considers primary factors such as industry and market considerations, overall financial performance of
the reporting unit, and other specific information related to the operations. If the Group believes, as a result of the qualitative assessment, that it is
more-likely-than-not that the fair value of the reporting unit is less than its carrying amount, the quantitative impairment test described above is required.
Otherwise, no further testing is required. The quantitative impairment test compares the fair value of the reporting unit with its carrying amount,
including goodwill. If the carrying amount of a reporting unit exceeds its fair value, an impairment loss shall be recognized in an amount equal to that
excess.
The Group performed qualitative assessments for the reporting unit of Baidu Core excluding SLG in 2022 and 2023. Based on the requirements of ASC
350-20, the Group evaluated all relevant factors including, but not limited to, macroeconomic conditions, industry and market conditions, financial
performance, and the share price of the Group.
Due to the changing market conditions and fluctuations in the share price of the Group, the Group performed quantitative assessment for the reporting
unit of Baidu Core excluding SLG in 2022 and 2023. The Group estimated fair value using the income approach and the market approach. The fair
value determined using the income approach was compared with comparable market data and reconciled, as necessary. No impairment loss of goodwill
related to the reporting unit of Baidu Core excluding SLG was recorded for the years ended December 31, 2022 and 2023.
The Group performed qualitative assessments for the reporting unit of SLG in 2022 and 2023. Based on the requirements of ASC 350-20, the Group
evaluated all relevant factors including, but not limited to, macroeconomic conditions, industry and market conditions, financial performance, and the
share price of the Group. The Group weighed all factors in their entirety and concluded that it was not more-likely-than-not the fair value was less than
the carrying amount of SLG, and further impairment testing on goodwill was unnecessary as of December 31, 2022 and 2023.
The Group elected to bypass the qualitative assessment and proceeded directly to perform a quantitative test for the reporting unit of iQIYI. The Group
primarily considers the quoted market price of iQIYI’s ordinary shares to determine the fair value of the reporting unit. As of December 31, 2022 and
2023, the fair value of iQIYI exceeded its carrying amount, therefore, goodwill related to the iQIYI reporting unit was not impaired and the Group was
not required to perform further testing.
Application of a goodwill impairment test requires significant management judgment and estimation, such as identification of reporting units, estimating
the fair value of each reporting unit. Estimating the fair value of reporting units using income approach and market approach involved significant
assumptions, such as revenue growth rates, profitability in estimating future cash flows, discount rates, earnings multipliers based on market data of
comparable companies engaged in a similar business. Changes in these assumptions could materially affect the determination of fair value for each
reporting unit.
On disposal of a portion of reporting unit that constitutes a business, the attributable amount of goodwill is included in the determination of the amount
of gain or loss recognized upon disposal. When the Group disposes
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BAIDU, INC.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2021, 2022 AND 2023
of a business within the reporting unit, the amount of goodwill disposed is measured on the basis of the relative fair value of the business disposed and
the portion of the reporting unit retained.
Intangible assets
Intangible assets with finite lives are carried at cost less accumulated amortization. All intangible assets with finite lives are amortized using the straight-
line method over their estimated useful lives.
Intangible assets have weighted average useful lives from the date of purchase as follows:
Trademarks
Technology
Intellectual property right
Online literature
Others
– 11 years
– 5 years
– 8 years
– 9 years
– 13 years
Intangible assets with indefinite useful life are not amortized and are tested for impairment annually or more frequently, if events or changes in
circumstances indicate that they might be impaired in accordance with ASC Subtopic 350-30, Intangibles-Goodwill and Other: General Intangibles
Other than Goodwill (“ASC 350-30”).
Impairment of Long-Lived Assets Other Than Goodwill
The Group evaluates long-lived assets, such as fixed assets and purchased or internally developed intangible assets with finite lives other than licensed
copyrights and produced content, for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate the carrying value of an asset may not be
recoverable in accordance with ASC Topic 360, Property, Plant and Equipment. When such events occur, the Group assesses the recoverability of the
asset group based on the undiscounted future cash flows the asset group is expected to generate and recognizes an impairment loss when estimated
undiscounted future cash flows expected to result from the use of the asset group plus net proceeds expected from disposition of the asset group, if any,
is less than the carrying value of the asset group. If the Group identifies an impairment, the Group reduces the carrying amount of the asset group to its
estimated fair value based on a discounted cash flow approach or, when available and appropriate, to comparable market values and the impairment loss,
if any, is recognized in “Cost of revenues” in the consolidated statements of comprehensive income. The Group uses estimates and judgments in its
impairment tests and if different estimates or judgments had been utilized, the timing or the amount of any impairment charges could be different. Asset
groups to be disposed of would be reported at the lower of the carrying amount or fair value less costs to sell, and no longer depreciated. The assets and
liabilities of a disposal group classified as held for sale would be presented separately in the appropriate asset and liability sections of the consolidated
balance sheets.
Leases
The Group has lease agreements with lease and non-lease components, which are generally accounted for separately. The Group elected the short-term
lease exemption for all contracts with lease terms of 12 months or less.
The Group determines if an arrangement is a lease or contains a lease at lease inception. For operating leases, the Group recognizes an ROU asset and a
lease liability based on the present value of the lease payments over the lease term on the consolidated balance sheets at commencement date. For
finance leases, assets are included in
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BAIDU, INC.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2021, 2022 AND 2023
“Other non-current assets” on the consolidated balance sheets. As the implicit rates of most of the Group’s leases are not readily determinable, the
Group estimates its incremental borrowing rate based on the information available at the commencement date in determining the present value of lease
payments. The incremental borrowing rate is estimated to approximate the interest rate on a collateralized basis with similar terms and payments, and in
economic environments where the leased asset is located. The Group’s leases often include options to extend and lease terms include such extended
terms when the Group is reasonably certain to exercise those options. Lease terms also include periods covered by options to terminate the leases when
the Group is reasonably certain not to exercise those options. Lease expense is recorded on a straight-line basis over the lease term.
Revenue Recognition
The Group’s revenues are derived principally from online marketing service and others. Revenue is recognized when control of promised goods or
services is transferred to the Group’s customers in an amount of consideration to which an entity expects to be entitled to in exchange for those goods or
services. Revenue is recorded net of valued added taxes (“VAT”).
For arrangements that include multiple promised goods or services, the Group would evaluate all of the performance obligations in the arrangement to
determine whether each performance obligation is distinct. For arrangements with multiple distinct performance obligations, each distinct performance
obligation is separately accounted for and the total consideration is allocated to each performance obligation based on their relative standalone selling
price at contract inception. The Group generally determines standalone selling prices based on the prices charged to customers on a standalone basis or
estimates it using an expected cost plus margin approach. For arrangement with multiple components that are not distinct within the context of the
contract because they have significant integration and the customer can only benefit from these promised goods or services in conjunction with one
another, the Group accounts for them as one performance obligation.
The Group’s revenue recognition policies by types are as follows:
Online marketing services
Performance-based online marketing services
The Group’s pay-for-performance (“P4P”) platform enables customers to bid for priority placement of paid sponsored links and reach users who search
for information related to their products or services. P4P online marketing customers can choose from search-based and feed-based online marketing
services, and select criteria for their purchase, such as daily spending limit and user profile targeted. Revenue is recognized when all of the revenue
recognition criteria are met, which is generally when a user clicks on one of the customer-sponsored links or feed-based marketing.
To the extent the Group provides online marketing services based on performance criteria other than cost-per-click (“CPC”), revenue is recognized when
the specified performance criteria are met along with the satisfaction of other applicable revenue recognition criteria.
Baidu Union online marketing services
Baidu Union is a program through which the Group expands distribution of its customers’ sponsored links or advertisements by leveraging the traffic of
Baidu Union partners’ online properties. The Group acquires traffic
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BAIDU, INC.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2021, 2022 AND 2023
from Baidu Union partners and is responsible for service fulfillment and pricing. The services which the Group provided to customers through Baidu
Union partners’ online properties include CPC, other performance-based online marketing services and online display advertising services. These
services are provided in the same way to customers as those through Baidu’s own platforms or properties. As the principal, the Group recognizes
revenue from Baidu Union on a gross basis. Payments made to Baidu Union partners are recorded as traffic acquisition costs, which are included in
“Cost of revenues” in the consolidated statements of comprehensive income.
Online display advertising services
The Group provides online display advertising services to its customers by integrating text description, image and/or video, and displaying the
advertisement in the search result, in Baidu Feed or on other properties. The Group recognizes revenue on a pro-rata basis over the contractual term for
cost per time advertising arrangements, commencing on the start date of the display advertisement, or based on the number of times that the
advertisement has been displayed for cost per thousand impressions advertising arrangements.
Collection
Certain customers of online marketing services are required to pay a deposit before using the Group’s services and are sent automated reminders to
replenish their accounts when the balance falls below a designated amount. The deposits received are recorded as “Customer deposits and deferred
revenue” on the consolidated balance sheets. The amounts due to the Group are deducted from the deposited amounts when users click on the paid
sponsored links in the search results or other performance criteria have been satisfied. In addition, the Group offers payment terms to third-party agents
and advertisers based on their historical marketing placements and credibility, consistently with industry practice.
Payment terms and conditions vary by customer and are based on the billing schedule established in the Group’s contracts or purchase orders with
customers, but the Group generally provides credit terms to customers within one year; therefore, the Group has determined that its contracts do not
include a significant financing component.
Sales incentives
The Group provides major sales incentives to third-party agents, which are identified as customers, that entitle them to receive price reductions on the
online marketing services by meeting certain cumulative consumption requirements. The Group accounts for these incentives granted to customers as
variable consideration and net them against revenue. The amount of variable consideration is measured based on the expected value of incentives to be
provided to customers.
Others
Video Membership services
The Group offers membership services to subscribing members with various privileges, which primarily include access to exclusive and ad-free
streaming of premium content 1080P/4K high-definition video, eXave Max, Dolby Audio, and accelerated downloads and others. When the receipt of
membership fees is for services to be delivered over a period of time, the receipt is initially recorded as “Customer deposits and deferred revenue” and
revenue is recognized ratably over the membership period as services are rendered. Membership services revenue also includes fees earned from
subscribing members for on-demand content purchases and early access to premium content. The Group is the principal in its relationships where
partners, including consumer electronics
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BAIDU, INC.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2021, 2022 AND 2023
manufacturers (TVs and cell phones), mobile operators, internet service providers and online payment agencies, provide access to the membership
services or payment processing services as the Group retains control over its service delivery to its subscribing members. Typically, payments made to
the partners, are recorded as cost of revenues. For the sale of the right to other membership services through strategic cooperation with other parties, the
Group recognizes revenue on a net basis when the Group does not control the specified services before they are transferred to the customer.
Content distribution
The Group generates revenues from sub-licensing content assets within its authorized scope for cash or through nonmonetary exchanges mainly with
other online video broadcasting companies, as well as from the release of feature films for exhibition in theaters. For cash sub-licensing transactions, the
Group is entitled to receive the sub-license fee under the sub-licensing arrangements and does not have any future obligation once it has provided the
underlying content to the sub-licensee (which is provided at or before the beginning of the sub-license period). The sub-licensing of content assets
represents a license of functional intellectual property which grants a right to use the Group’s content assets, and is recognized at the point in time when
the content asset is made available for the customer’s use and benefit.
The Group also enters into nonmonetary transactions to exchange online broadcasting rights of content assets with other online video broadcasting
companies from time to time. The exchanged content assets provide rights for each party to broadcast the content assets received on its own platform
only. Each transferring party retains the right to continue broadcasting the exclusive content on its own platform and/or sublicense the rights to the
content it surrendered in the exchange. The Group accounts for these nonmonetary exchanges based on the fair value of the asset received. Barter
revenues are recognized in accordance with the same revenue recognition criteria above. The Group estimates the fair value of the content assets
received using a market approach based on various factors, including the purchase price of similar non-exclusive and/or exclusive contents, broadcasting
schedule, cast and crew, theme, popularity, and box office. The transaction price of barter transaction is calculated on an individual content asset basis.
For a significant barter transaction, the Group further reviews the fair value by analyzing against the cost of the content assets bartered out and/or
engages a third-party valuation firm to assess the reasonableness of its fair value. The attributable cost of sublicensing transactions, whether for cash or
through nonmonetary exchanges, is recognized as cost of revenues through the amortization of the sublicensing right component of the exclusive
content assets.
Cloud service
The Group provides enterprise and public sector cloud services and personal cloud services, generally on either a subscription or consumption basis. For
enterprise and public sector cloud services, the Group offers a full suite of cloud services and solutions, including IaaS (infrastructure as a service), PaaS
(platform as a service), and SaaS (software as a service). For personal cloud services, the Group offers Baidu Drive membership services provided to
individual customers. Revenue related to enterprise and public sector cloud services provided on a subscription basis is recognized ratably over the
contract period. Revenue related to enterprise and public sector cloud services provided on a consumption basis, such as the amount of storage used in a
period, is recognized based on the customer’s utilization of such resources. Revenue related to personal cloud services is recognized ratably over the
membership period as services are rendered, and the receipt of membership fees for services to be delivered over a period of time is initially recorded as
“Customer deposits and deferred revenue”.
The Group provides cloud solutions for customers in specific industries, such as smart transportation, finance, manufacturing, energy, telecom and
media. Revenue related to cloud solutions, which mainly include significant
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BAIDU, INC.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2021, 2022 AND 2023
integrated hardware, software licensing and installation service, is recognized over time if one of the following criteria is met: (i) the customer
simultaneously receives and consumes the benefits as the Group performs; (ii) the Group’s performance creates or enhances an asset that the customer
controls as the asset is created or enhanced; or (iii) the asset delivered has no alternative use and the Group has an enforceable right to payment for
performance completed to date. For performance obligations satisfied over time, the Group recognizes revenue over time by measuring the progress
toward complete satisfaction of a performance obligation. Otherwise, revenue is recognized at a point in time when a customer obtains control of a
promised asset or service and the Group satisfies its performance obligation.
Baidu Apollo auto solutions
Revenue related to Baidu Apollo auto solutions (Apollo Self-Driving services and DuerOS for Auto), which mainly includes software licensing, are
recognized when earned in accordance with the terms of the underlying agreement. Generally, revenue is recognized at a point in time when the
intellectual property is made available for the customer’s use and benefit.
Sales of hardware
The Group mainly sells Xiaodu smart device hardware products via third-party agents or directly to end customers. Revenue from the sales of hardware
is recognized when control of the goods is transferred to customers, which generally occurs when the products are delivered and accepted by the
customers. Revenue is recorded net of sales incentives and return allowance.
Contract assets and contract liabilities
Payment terms and conditions vary by customer and are based on the billing schedule established in the Group’s contracts or purchase orders with
customers, although terms generally include a requirement of payment within one year.
Timing of revenue recognition may differ from the timing of invoicing to customers. For certain services, customers are required to pay before the
services are delivered to the customer. When either party to a revenue contract has performed, the Group recognizes a contract asset or a contract
liability on the consolidated balance sheets, depending on the relationship between the entity’s performance and the customer’s payment.
Contract liabilities were mainly related to fees for membership services to be provided over the membership period, which were included in “Customer
deposits and deferred revenue” on the consolidated balance sheets. Balances of contract liabilities were RMB6.8 billion and RMB7.9 billion (US$1.1
billion) as of December 31, 2022 and 2023, respectively. Revenue recognized for the year ended December 31, 2023 that was included in contract
liabilities as of January 1, 2023 was RMB5.9 billion (US$832 million). As of December 31, 2023, the increase in the balance of contract liabilities was
primarily due to more consideration received from membership services compared to the prior year.
Contract assets mainly represent unbilled amounts related to the Group’s rights to consideration for advertising services and cloud services delivered and
are included in “Other current assets, net” on the consolidated balance sheets. As of December 31, 2022 and 2023, contract assets were RMB3.4 billion
and RMB3.3 billion (US$459 million), net of an allowance for credit losses of RMB285 million and RMB168 million (US$24 million), respectively.
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BAIDU, INC.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2021, 2022 AND 2023
As of December 31, 2023, total transaction price allocated to performance obligations that were unsatisfied or partially unsatisfied for contracts with an
original expected length of more than one year was RMB2.3 billion (US$319 million), which is expected to be recognized over the next two years.
The Group does not disclose the value of unsatisfied performance obligations for (i) contracts with an original expected length of one year or less and
(ii) contracts for which the Group recognizes revenue at the amount to which it has the right to invoice for services performed.
The Group’s disaggregated revenue disclosures are presented in Note 25.
Cost of Revenues
Cost of revenues consists primarily of traffic acquisition costs, bandwidth costs, depreciation, content costs, payroll, cost of hardware sold and other
operational costs.
Traffic acquisition costs mainly represent the amounts paid or payable to Baidu Union partners who direct search queries to the Group’s websites or
distribute the Group’s customers’ paid links through their properties. These payments are primarily based on revenue sharing arrangements under which
the Group pays its Baidu Union partners and other business partners a percentage of the fees it earns from its online marketing customers.
Advertising, Marketing and Promotional Expenses
Advertising, marketing and promotional expenses, including advertisements through various forms of media and kinds of marketing and promotional
activities, are included in “Selling, general and administrative” in the consolidated statements of comprehensive income and are expensed when
incurred. Advertising, marketing and promotional expenses for the years ended December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023 were RMB12.2 billion,
RMB10.2 billion and RMB13.2 billion (US$1.9 billion), respectively.
Research and Development Expenses
Research and development expenses consist primarily of personnel-related costs. The Group expenses research and development costs as they are
incurred, except for (i) costs to develop internal-use software or add significant upgrades and enhancements resulting in additional functionality to
internal-use software that meet the capitalization criteria in accordance with ASC Subtopic 350-40, Intangibles-Goodwill and Other, Internal-Use
Software; and (ii) costs incurred to develop software to be sold/licensed or embedded in its products sold to customers, which are capitalized once
technology feasibility is established, which is when a completed detail program design of the product is available in accordance with ASC 950-20, Costs
of Software to be Sold, Leased or Marketed.
Government Subsidies
Government subsidies primarily consist of financial subsidies received from provincial and local governments for operating a business in their
jurisdictions and compliance with specific policies promoted by the local governments. The government subsidies of operating nature with no further
conditions to be met are recorded as a reduction of operating expenses in “Selling, general and administrative” in the consolidated statements of
comprehensive income when received. The government subsidies with certain conditions are recorded as “Deferred income” when received and is
recognized as income in “Others, net” or as a reduction of specific operating costs and expenses when the conditions are met for which the grants are
intended to compensate. If the
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BAIDU, INC.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2021, 2022 AND 2023
government subsidies are related to an asset, it is recognized as a deduction of the carrying amount of the asset when the conditions are met and then
recognized ratably over the expected useful life of the related asset as a reduction to the related amortization or depreciation in the consolidated
statements of comprehensive income.
For the years ended December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023, government subsidies recorded as a reduction of operating costs and expenses were
RMB520 million, RMB728 million and RMB768 million (US$108 million), respectively.
As of December 31, 2022 and 2023, government subsidies recorded as deferred income were RMB231 million and RMB506 million (US$71 million),
respectively.
Income Taxes
The Group recognizes income taxes under the liability method. Deferred income taxes are recognized for differences between the financial reporting and
tax bases of assets and liabilities at enacted tax rates in effect for the years in which the differences are expected to reverse. The Group records a
valuation allowance against the amount of deferred tax assets that it determines is not more-likely-than-not to be realized. The effect on deferred taxes of
a change in tax rates is recognized in earnings in the period that includes the enactment date.
Deferred income taxes are recognized on the undistributed earnings of subsidiaries, which are presumed to be transferred to the parent company and are
subject to withholding taxes, unless there is sufficient evidence to show that the subsidiary has invested or will invest the undistributed earnings
indefinitely or that the earnings will be remitted in a tax-free liquidation.
The Group applies the provisions of ASC Topic 740, Income Taxes (“ASC 740”), in accounting for uncertainty in income taxes. ASC 740 clarifies the
accounting for uncertainty in income taxes by prescribing the recognition threshold a tax position is required to meet before being recognized in the
financial statements. The Group has elected to classify interest and penalties related to an uncertain tax position (if and when required) as part of income
tax expense in the consolidated statements of comprehensive income. The Group does not expect the amount of unrecognized tax benefits to increase
significantly in the next 12 months. In general, the PRC tax authorities have up to five years to conduct examinations of the tax filings of the Company’s
PRC subsidiaries. Accordingly, the PRC subsidiaries’ tax years of 2018 – 2023 remain open to examination by the respective tax authorities. The Group
may also be subject to the examination of the tax filings in other jurisdictions, which are not material to the consolidated financial statements.
Share-based Compensation
The Group accounts for share-based compensation in accordance with ASC Topic 718, Compensation-Stock Compensation (“ASC 718”). The Group
has elected to recognize share-based compensation using the straight-line method for all share-based awards issued with no performance conditions. For
awards with performance conditions, compensation cost is recognized on an accelerated basis if it is probable that the performance condition will be
achieved.
Forfeitures are estimated based on historical experience and are periodically reviewed. Cancellation of an award accompanied by the concurrent grant of
a replacement award is accounted for as a modification of the terms of the cancelled award (“modified awards”). The compensation costs associated
with the modified awards are recognized if either the original vesting condition or the new vesting condition is achieved. Total recognized compensation
cost for the awards is at least equal to the fair value of the awards at the grant date unless at the
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BAIDU, INC.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2021, 2022 AND 2023
date of the modification the performance or service conditions of the original awards are not expected to be satisfied. The incremental compensation
cost is measured as the excess of the fair value of the replacement award over the fair value of the cancelled award at the cancellation date. Therefore, in
relation to the modified awards, the Group recognizes share-based compensation over the vesting periods of the replacement award, which comprises,
(i) the amortization of the incremental portion of share-based compensation over the remaining vesting term and (ii) any unrecognized compensation
cost of the original award, using either the original term or the new term, whichever results in higher expenses for each reporting period.
Earnings Per Share (“EPS”)
The Group computes earnings per Class A and Class B ordinary shares in accordance with ASC Topic 260, Earnings Per Share (“ASC 260”), using the
two-class method. Under the provisions of ASC 260, basic earnings per share is computed using the weighted average number of ordinary shares
outstanding during the period except that it does not include unvested ordinary shares subject to repurchase or cancellation. The Group adjusts for the
accretion of the redeemable noncontrolling interests in the calculation of income available to ordinary shareholders of the Company used in the earnings
per share calculation.
Diluted earnings per share is computed using the weighted average number of ordinary shares and, if dilutive, potential ordinary shares outstanding
during the period. Potentially dilutive securities such as share options, restricted shares and convertible senior notes have been excluded from the
computation of diluted net earnings per share if their inclusion is anti-dilutive. Potential ordinary shares consist of the incremental ordinary shares
issuable upon the exercise of nonvested share options and restricted shares and contracts that may be settled in the Group’s stock or cash. The dilutive
effect of outstanding share options, restricted shares is reflected in diluted earnings per share by application of the treasury stock method. The
computation of the diluted earnings per Class A ordinary share assumes the conversion of Class B ordinary shares to Class A ordinary shares, while
diluted earnings per Class B ordinary share does not assume the conversion of such shares. The Group adjusts for the securities issued by subsidiaries
and equity method investees in the calculation of income available to ordinary shareholders of the Company used in the diluted earnings per share
calculation.
The liquidation and dividend rights of the holders of the Company’s Class A and Class B ordinary shares are identical, except with respect to voting
rights. As a result, and in accordance with ASC 260, the undistributed earnings for each year are allocated based on the contractual participation rights
of the Class A and Class B ordinary shares as if the earnings for the year had been distributed. As the liquidation and dividend rights are identical, the
undistributed earnings are allocated on a proportionate basis. Further, as the conversion of Class B ordinary shares is assumed in the computation of the
diluted earnings per Class A ordinary share, the undistributed earnings are equal to net income for that computation.
For the purposes of calculating the Group’s basic and diluted earnings per Class A and Class B ordinary shares, the ordinary shares relating to the
options that were exercised are assumed to have been outstanding from the date of exercise of such options.
Treasury stock
The Company accounts for treasury stock using the cost method. Under this method, the cost incurred to purchase the shares is recorded in “Treasury
stock” on the consolidated balance sheets. At retirement of the treasury stock, the ordinary shares account is charged only for the aggregate par value of
the shares. The excess of the acquisition cost of treasury stock over the aggregate par value is charged to retained earnings.
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BAIDU, INC.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2021, 2022 AND 2023
Contingencies
The Group records accruals for certain of its outstanding legal proceedings or claims when it is probable that a liability will be incurred and the amount
of loss can be reasonably estimated. The Group evaluates, on a quarterly basis, developments in legal proceedings or claims that could affect the amount
of any accrual, as well as any developments that would make a loss contingency both probable and reasonably estimable. The Group discloses the
amount of the accrual if it is material.
When a loss contingency is not both probable and estimable, the Group does not record an accrued liability but discloses the nature and the amount of
the claim, if material. However, if the loss (or an additional loss in excess of the accrual) is at least reasonably possible, then the Group discloses an
estimate of the loss or range of loss, unless it is immaterial or an estimate cannot be made. The assessment of whether a loss is probable or reasonably
possible, and whether the loss or a range of loss is estimable, often involves complex judgments about future events. Management is often unable to
estimate the loss or a range of loss, particularly where (i) the damages sought are indeterminate, (ii) the proceedings are in the early stages, or (iii) there
is a lack of clear or consistent interpretation of laws specific to the industry-specific complaints among different jurisdictions. In such cases, there is
considerable uncertainty regarding the timing or ultimate resolution of such matters, including eventual loss, fine, penalty or business impact, if any.
Concentration of Risks
Concentration of credit risk
Financial instruments that are potentially subject the Group to significant concentration of credit risk primarily consist of cash and cash equivalents,
restricted cash, debt securities, accounts receivable, contract assets, receivables from online payment agencies, amounts due from related parties, long-
term time deposits and held-to-maturity investments and long-term restricted cash included in “Other non-current assets”. The carrying amounts of these
assets represent the Group’s maximum exposure to credit risk. As of December 31, 2023, the Group has RMB230.9 billion (US$32.5 billion) in cash and
cash equivalents, restricted cash, debt investments and long-term restricted cash, which is held by financial institutions in mainland China and
international financial institutions outside of mainland China. In the event of bankruptcy of one of these financial institutions, the Group may not be able
to claim its cash and cash equivalents, restricted cash and debt investments back in full. The Group continues to monitor the financial strength of the
financial institutions, 82% and 18% of which are held by financial institutions in mainland China and international financial institutions outside of
mainland China, respectively. The Group’s total cash and cash equivalents, restricted cash, and debt investments held at three financial institutions in
mainland China representing 17%, 16% and 13% of the Group’s total cash and cash equivalents, restricted cash, and debt investments as of
December 31, 2023, respectively.
PRC state-owned banks, such as Bank of China, are subject to a series of risk control regulatory standards, and PRC bank regulatory authorities are
empowered to take over the operation and management when any of those banks faces a material credit crisis. The Group does not foresee substantial
credit risk with respect to cash and cash equivalents, restricted cash and short-term investments held at the PRC state-owned banks. In May 2015, a new
Deposit Insurance System (“DIS”) managed by the People’s Bank of China (“PBOC”) was implemented by the Chinese government. Deposits in the
licensed banks in mainland China are protected by DIS, up to a limit of RMB0.5 million. Hong Kong has an official Deposit Protection Scheme
(“DPS”). Deposits in the licensed banks in Hong Kong are protected by DPS, up to a limit of HK$0.5 million. In the event of bankruptcy of one of the
financial institutions in which the Group has deposits or investments, it may be unlikely to claim its deposits or investments back in full. The Group
selected reputable international financial institutions with high rating rates to place its foreign currencies. The Group regularly monitors the rating of the
international financial institutions to avoid any potential defaults. There has been no recent history of default in relation to these financial institutions.
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BAIDU, INC.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2021, 2022 AND 2023
Accounts receivable, contract assets and receivables from online payment agencies are typically unsecured and derived from revenue earned from
customers and agencies in the PRC, which are exposed to credit risk. The risk is mitigated by credit evaluations the Group performs on its customers
and its ongoing monitoring process of outstanding balances. The Group maintains an allowance for credit losses and actual losses have generally been
within management’s expectations. As of December 31, 2023, the Group had no single customer with a balance exceeding 10% of the total accounts
receivable, contract assets, and receivables from online payment agencies.
No customer generated greater than 10% of total revenues during the years presented.
Amounts due from related parties are typically unsecured. In evaluating the collectability of the amounts due from related parties, the Group considers
many factors, including the related parties’ repayment history and their credit-worthiness. The Group maintains reserves for estimated credit losses and
these losses have generally been within its expectations.
Business and economic risks
The Group participates in the dynamic and competitive high technology industry and believes that changes in any of the following areas could have a
material adverse effect on the Group’s future financial position, results of operations and cash flows: changes in the overall demand for services and
products; changes in business offerings; competitive pressures due to existing and new entrants; advances and new trends in new technologies and
industry standards; changes in bandwidth suppliers; changes in certain strategic relationships or customer relationships; regulatory considerations;
copyright regulations; cybersecurity regulations; brand maintenance and enhancement; risks associated with the Group’s ability to anticipate user
preferences and provide high-quality content in a cost-effective manner; risks associated with the Group’s ability to attract and retain employees
necessary to support its growth and risks related to health epidemics, severe weather conditions and other outbreaks.
The Group’s operations could be adversely affected by significant political, economic and social uncertainties and epidemic in mainland China.
Currency convertibility risk
Substantially all of the Group’s businesses are transacted in RMB, which is not freely convertible into foreign currencies. All foreign exchange
transactions take place either through Bank of China or other banks authorized to buy and sell foreign currencies at the exchange rates quoted by the
People’s Bank of China. Foreign exchange transactions, including foreign currency payments, require the approval of the People’s Bank of China and/or
regulatory institutions.
Foreign currency exchange rate risk
The functional currency and the reporting currency of the Group are the U.S. dollars and the RMB, respectively. The Group’s exposure to foreign
currency exchange rate risk primarily relates to cash and cash equivalents, restricted cash, short-term investments, long-term investments, long-term
time deposits and held-to-maturity securities, accounts and notes payable and convertible senior notes denominated in the U.S. dollars. The appreciation
of the U.S. dollars against the RMB was approximately 2.94% in 2023. Most of the revenues and costs of the Group are denominated in RMB, while a
portion of cash and cash equivalents, restricted cash, short-term investments, long-term investments, long-term time deposits and held-to-maturity
securities, notes payable and convertible senior notes are denominated in the U.S. dollars. It is difficult to predict how market forces or
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BAIDU, INC.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2021, 2022 AND 2023
PRC or U.S. government policy may impact the exchange rate between the Renminbi and the U.S. dollar in the future. Any significant fluctuation of the
valuation of RMB may materially affect the Group’s cash flows, revenues, earnings and financial position, and the value of, and any dividends payable
on, the ADS in U.S. dollars.
Derivative Instruments
ASC Topic 815, Derivatives and Hedging (“ASC 815”), requires all contracts which meet the definition of a derivative to be recognized on the balance
sheet as either assets or liabilities and recorded at fair value. Changes in the fair value of derivative financial instruments are either recognized
periodically in earnings or in other comprehensive (loss) income depending on the use of the derivative and whether it qualifies for hedge accounting.
Changes in fair values of derivatives not qualified as hedges are reported in earnings.
Recent Accounting Pronouncements
In March 2020, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued Accounting Standard Update (“ASU”) 2020-04, Reference Rate Reform
(Topic 848): Facilitation of the Effects of Reference Rate Reform on Financial Reporting and issued subsequent amendments within ASU 2021-01 and
ASU 2022-06 (collectively, including ASU 2020-04, “ASC 848”) in January 2021 and December 2022 respectively. ASC 848 provides optional
expedients and exceptions for applying U.S. GAAP on contract modifications and hedge accounting to contracts, hedging relationships, and other
transactions that reference LIBOR or another reference rate expected to be discontinued because of reference rate reform, if certain criteria are met. The
Group has elected the optional expedients for certain existing interest rate swaps that are designated as cash flow hedges, which did not have a material
impact on the financial position, results of operations and cash flows. The Group has evaluated the effects, if any, of the potential election of the other
optional expedients and exceptions provided in this guidance on the financial position, results of operations and cash flows, which were insignificant.
In October 2021, the FASB issued ASU 2021-08, Business Combinations (Topic 805): Accounting for Contract Assets and Contract Liabilities from
Contracts with Customers, which provides guidance on the acquirer’s accounting for acquired revenue contracts with customers in a business
combination. The amendments require an acquirer to recognize and measure contract assets and contract liabilities acquired in a business combination at
the acquisition date in accordance with ASC 606 as if it had originated the contracts. This guidance also provides certain practical expedients for
acquirers when recognizing and measuring acquired contract assets and contract liabilities from revenue contracts in a business combination. The new
guidance is required to be applied prospectively to business combinations occurring on or after the date of adoption. This guidance is effective for the
Group for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2022, including interim periods within those fiscal years. Early adoption is permitted. The adoption
of this guidance did not have a material impact on its financial position, results of operations and cash flows.
In June 2022, the FASB issued ASU 2022-03, Fair Value Measurement (Topic 820): Fair Value Measurement of Equity Securities Subject to
Contractual Sale Restrictions, which clarifies that a contractual restriction on the sale of an equity security is not considered part of the unit of account
of the equity security and, therefore, is not considered in measuring fair value. The amendments also clarify that an entity cannot, as a separate unit of
account, recognize and measure a contractual sale restriction. This guidance also requires certain disclosures for equity securities subject to contractual
sale restrictions. The new guidance is required to be applied prospectively with any adjustments from the adoption of the amendments recognized in
earnings and disclosed on the date of adoption. This guidance is effective for the Group for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2023, and interim
periods within those fiscal years. Early adoption is permitted. Effective January 1, 2023, the Group early adopted ASU
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BAIDU, INC.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2021, 2022 AND 2023
2022-03 on a prospective basis. The adoption of this guidance did not have a material impact on its financial position, results of operations and cash
flows.
In November 2023, the FASB issued ASU 2023-07, Segment Reporting: Improvements to Reportable Segment Disclosures (“ASU 2023-07”), which
focuses on improving reportable segment disclosure requirements, primarily through enhanced disclosures about significant segment expenses. A public
entity shall disclose for each reportable segment the significant expense categories and amounts that are regularly provided to the CODM and included
in reported segment profit or loss. ASU 2023-07 also requires public entities to provide in interim periods all disclosures about a reportable segment’s
profit or loss and assets that are currently required annually. Entities are permitted to disclose more than one measure of a segment’s profit or loss if such
measures are used by the CODM to allocate resources and assess performance, as long as at least one of those measures is determined in a way that is
most consistent with the measurement principles used to measure the corresponding amounts in the consolidated financial statements. ASU 2023-07 is
applied retrospectively to all periods presented in financial statements, unless it is impracticable. This update will be effective for the Group’s fiscal
years beginning after December 15, 2023, and interim periods within fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2024. Early adoption is permitted. The
Group is currently in the process of evaluating the disclosure impact of adopting ASU 2023-07.
3.
BUSINESS COMBINATIONS
In 2021, the Group completed several business combinations, total purchase consideration in aggregate was RMB326 million, among which
RMB357 million was allocated to goodwill.
In January 2023, the Group acquired 100% equity interests of an entity at a cash consideration of RMB130 million, among which RMB114 million was
allocated to goodwill.
Goodwill, which is non-deductible for tax purposes, is primarily attributable to the synergies expected to be achieved from the acquisitions.
Neither the results of operations since the acquisition dates nor the pro forma results of operations of the acquirees were presented because the effects of
these business combinations, both individually and in aggregate, were not significant to the Group’s consolidated results of operations.
The valuations used in the purchase price allocation were determined by the Group with the assistance of independent third-party valuation firm. The
valuation reports considered generally accepted valuation methodologies such as the income, market and cost approaches.
The Group entered into definitive agreements with JOYY Inc. (“JOYY”) and certain of its affiliates, to acquire YY Live on November 16, 2020, and
subsequently amended the share purchase agreement on February 7, 2021. Pursuant to the share purchase agreement, the closing of this acquisition is
subject to certain conditions, including, among others, obtaining necessary regulatory approvals from governmental authorities.
The share purchase agreement is subject to termination by either party if the closing does not occur by the long stop date. As of December 31, 2023, the
long stop date, the closing conditions provided for in the share purchase agreement had not been fully satisfied. On January 1, 2024, the Group exercised
its contractual right to terminate the share purchase agreement.
In February 2021, the Group made aggregate payments of US$1.9 billion to JOYY, after considering working capital adjustments of US$0.1 billion and
deposited an aggregate of US$1.6 billion into several escrow accounts
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BAIDU, INC.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2021, 2022 AND 2023
in accordance with the terms set forth in the share purchase agreement. As of December 31, 2023, US$1.9 billion was recorded as “Other non-current
assets” on the consolidated balance sheets and US$1.6 billion was recorded as “Restricted cash” on the consolidated balance sheets.
4.
INVESTMENTS
Short-term Investments
As of December 31, 2022 and 2023, the Group’s short-term investments primarily comprised of deposits in commercial banks with maturities between
three months and one year and wealth management products issued by commercial banks and other financial institutions.
During the years ended December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023, the Group recorded interest income from its short-term investments of RMB4.5 billion,
RMB4.5 billion and RMB5.1 billion (US$721 million) in the consolidated statements of comprehensive income, respectively.
Short-term investments classification as of December 31, 2022 and 2023 were shown as below:
Held-to-maturity debt investments
Available-for-sale debt investments
Held-to-maturity debt investments
Available-for-sale debt investments
Cost or
Amortized
cost less
allowance
for credit
losses
RMB
119,984
847
As of December 31, 2022
Gross
unrecognized
holding gains
RMB
631
—
Gross
unrecognized
holding
losses
RMB
(In millions)
(151)
—
Gross
unrealized
gains
RMB
—
8
Gross
unrealized
losses
RMB
—
—
Fair value
RMB
120,464
855
As of December 31, 2023
Cost or
Amortized
cost less
allowance
for credit
losses
RMB
166,999
1,642
Gross
unrecognized
holding gains
RMB
Gross
unrecognized
holding
losses
RMB
Gross
unrealized
gains
RMB
Gross
unrealized
losses
RMB
(In millions)
Fair value
RMB
US$
835
—
F-43
(94)
—
—
29
—
—
167,740
1,671
23,626
235
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BAIDU, INC.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2021, 2022 AND 2023
Long-term Investments
The following table sets forth a breakdown of the categories of long-term investments held by the Group as of the dates indicated:
Equity investments at fair value with readily determinable fair value
Equity investments without readily determinable fair value using the NAV practical expedient
Equity investments without readily determinable fair value using the measurement alternative
Available-for-sale debt investments
Equity method investments
Investments accounted for at fair value
Total long-term investments
As of December 31,
2023
2022
945
942
2023
RMB RMB US$
(In millions)
12,100 9,610 1,354
133
9,249 8,093 1,140
2,447 3,682
519
25,940 20,789 2,927
4,616 4,841
682
55,297 47,957 6,755
Equity investments at fair value with readily determinable fair value
Equity investments at fair value with readily determinable fair value represent investments in the equity securities of publicly listed companies, for
which the Group does not have significant influence.
Equity investments without readily determinable fair value
The Group accounted for private equity funds of which the Group does not have the ability to exercise significant influence using the NAV practical
expedient in accordance with ASC 820. For equity investments without readily determinable fair value and do not qualify for the NAV practical
expedient, the Group elected to use the measurement alternative to measure such investments at cost, less any impairment, plus or minus changes
resulting from observable price changes in orderly transactions for identical or similar investments of the same issuer, if any in accordance with ASC
321. Impairment charges recognized on equity investments without readily determinable fair value were RMB4,259 million, RMB2,456 million and
RMB753 million (US$106 million) for the years ended December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023, respectively.
The total carrying value of equity investments without readily determinable fair value that do not qualify for the NAV practical expedient held as of
December 31, 2022 and 2023 were as follows:
Initial cost basis
Cumulative unrealized gains
Cumulative unrealized losses (including impairment)
Total carrying value
F-44
As of
December 31,
2022
RMB
13,741
4,026
(8,518)
9,249
As of
December 31,
2023
RMB
(In millions)
13,586
3,099
(8,592)
8,093
As of
December 31,
2023
US$
1,914
436
(1,210)
1,140
Table of Contents
BAIDU, INC.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2021, 2022 AND 2023
Total unrealized and realized gains and losses of equity securities without readily determinable fair values that do not qualify for the NAV practical
expedient for the years ended December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023 were as follows:
Gross unrealized gains
Gross unrealized losses (including impairment)(i)
Net unrealized losses on equity securities held
Net realized gains on equity securities sold
Total net (losses) gains recognized
2021
RMB
For the years ended
December 31,
2022
RMB
2023
RMB
(In millions)
2023
US$
1,062
218 571 80
(4,424) (2,418) (744) (105)
(3,362) (2,200) (173) (25)
—
90 251 35
(3,362) (2,110) 78 10
(i)
Gross unrealized losses (downward adjustments excluding impairment) were RMB165 million, nil and RMB8 million (US$1 million) for the
years ended December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023, respectively.
Equity method investments
The carrying amount of the Group’s equity method investments were RMB25.9 billion and RMB20.8 billion (US$2.9 billion) as of December 31, 2022
and 2023, respectively. For the years ended December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023, the impairment recognized for equity method investments were
RMB57 million, RMB569 million and RMB62 million (US$9 million), respectively.
For the year ended December 31, 2023, the Group recognized share of losses from equity method investments of RMB3.8 billion (US$535 million). One
of the equity method investees modified certain terms of its preferred shares issued and the Group recognized RMB3.0 billion losses from this investee
mainly as a result of the modification.
Equity Investment in Trip.com International, Ltd. (“Trip”) (formally known as Ctrip)
As of December 31, 2022, the Group held approximately 12% of Trip’s outstanding shares. The Group was considered to have significant influence over
Trip and accounts for such investment as an equity method investment in accordance with ASC 323.
During the year ended December 31, 2023, the Group disposed an aggregate of 10 million American Depositary Shares of Trip and recognized disposal
gains in aggregate of RMB1.4 billion.
After the partial disposal of the investment in Trip, the Group held approximately 9% equity interest in Trip, and the Group can actively participate in
the operating and financing policies of Trip through its one seat on Trip’s board of directors with a total of eight members. Accordingly, the Group
continues to have significant influence over Trip and accounts for its remaining investment as an equity method investment in accordance with
ASC 323. As of December 31, 2023, the Group’s investments in Trip had a fair value of RMB15.1 billion (US$2.1 billion), based on the closing share
price.
F-45
Table of Contents
BAIDU, INC.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2021, 2022 AND 2023
Equity Investment in Jidu Auto Inc. (“Jidu”)
In January 2021, the Group entered into an agreement with Zhejiang Geely Holding Group (“Geely”) to established Jidu to produce intelligent electric
vehicles. In 2022, the Group purchased the ordinary shares with amount of US$371 million including common stock of US$171 million and
in-substance common stock of US$200 million, and preferred shares with amount of US$193 million. In 2023, the Group purchased the Series C
Warrant of Jidu with amount of RMB650 million giving rights to acquire 14,443,320 Series C Preferred Shares. After the exercise of such warrants, the
Group will hold an equity interest of 51.14%.
However, considering the substantive participating rights held by Geely, the Group accounts for its investment of the ordinary shares as an equity
method investment in accordance with ASC 323. Furthermore, the Group accounts for its investment of the preferred shares and Series C Warrant as an
equity investment without a readily determinable fair value in accordance with ASC 321.
Equity Investment in Du Xiaoman
After finishing a series of legal restructuring and recapitalization of the financial services business (“Du Xiaoman”), the Group retained 41% of Du
Xiaoman’s shares on a fully diluted basis, and accounted for it as an equity method investment in accordance with ASC 323, as the Group retained
significant influence over Du Xiaoman.
As of December 31, 2022 and 2023, in addition to the aforementioned equity method investments, the Group held other equity method investments
through its subsidiaries or VIEs and over which the Group had significant influence.
For the year ended December 31, 2023, equity method investments held by the Group in aggregate have met the significance criteria as defined under
Rule 4-08(g) of Regulation S-X. Financial information for the Group’s equity method investments are summarized as a group as follow:
As of December 31,
2023
RMB
2022
RMB
2023
US$
Current assets
Non-current assets
Current liabilities
Non-current liabilities
Noncontrolling interests
Total revenues
Gross profit
Income from operations
Net income (loss)
Net income (loss) attributable to the investees
F-46
(In millions)
230,934 271,407 38,227
147,034 154,364 21,742
179,519 227,894 32,098
37,397 30,226 4,257
347
2,461
2,434
For the years ended December 31,
2021
2022
RMB RMB
2023
2023
RMB US$
(In millions)
41,693 42,123 60,042 8,457
23,540 23,925 40,304 5,677
617 8,120 1,144
3,263 (1,292) 9,544 1,344
3,328 (1,239) 9,493 1,337
515
Table of Contents
BAIDU, INC.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2021, 2022 AND 2023
Investments accounted for at fair value
Long-term equity investments in unlisted companies held by consolidated investment companies are accounted for at fair value in accordance with ASC
946-320. These investments are carried at fair value with realized or unrealized gains and losses recorded in “Others, net” in the consolidated statements
of comprehensive income.
The methodology used in the determination of fair values for held-to-maturity debt investments, available-for-sale debt investments, equity investments
with readily determinable fair values and other investment securities accounted for at fair value are disclosed in Note 26.
Long-term investments classification, excluding equity method investments and equity investments without readily determinable fair value, as of
December 31, 2022 and 2023 are shown as below:
Equity investments at fair value with readily determinable fair value
Available-for-sale debt investments
Investments accounted for at fair value
Equity investments at fair value with readily determinable fair value
Available-for-sale debt investments
Investments accounted for at fair value
Available-for-sale debt investments
Cost or
Amortized cost
RMB
15,835
3,735
2,331
As of December 31, 2022
Gross
unrealized
gains
RMB
Gross
unrealized
losses
RMB
(In millions)
2,731
283
2,855
(6,466)
(1,571)
(570)
Fair
value
RMB
12,100
2,447
4,616
Cost or
Amortized cost
RMB
As of December 31, 2023
Gross
unrealized
gains
RMB
Gross
unrealized
losses
RMB
(In millions)
Fair value
RMB
US$
14,716
4,360
2,547
1,698
455
2,942
(6,804)
(1,133)
(648)
9,610
3,682
4,841
1,354
519
682
Majority of the available-for-sale debt investments are convertible debt instruments issued by private companies and investments in preferred shares that
are redeemable at the Group’s option, which are measured at fair value. Investments in preferred shares that are redeemable at the Group’s option have
no contractual maturity date.
The following table summarizes the estimated fair value of available-for-sale debt investments, classified by the contractual maturity date of the
investments:
Due in 1 year through 5 years
Not due at a single maturity date
Total
F-47
As of December 31,
2022 2023 2023
RMB RMB US$
(In millions)
1,581 2,154 303
866 1,528 216
2,447 3,682 519
Table of Contents
BAIDU, INC.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2021, 2022 AND 2023
5.
LONG-TERM TIME DEPOSITS AND HELD-TO-MATURITY INVESTMENTS
Long-term time deposits and held-to-maturity securities were mainly deposits in commercial banks with maturities of greater than one year and wealth
management products issued by commercial banks and other financial institutions for which the Group has the positive intent and ability to hold those
securities to maturity with maturities of greater than one year.
During the years ended December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023, the Group recorded interest income from its long-term held-to-maturity investments of
RMB326 million, RMB585 million and RMB1.3 billion (US$177 million) in the consolidated statements of comprehensive income, respectively.
Long-term time deposits and held-to-maturity investments classification as of December 31, 2022 and 2023 were shown as below:
Long-term time deposits and held-to-maturity investments
Long-term time deposits and held-to-maturity investments
Cost or
Amortized
cost
RMB
23,629
As of December 31, 2022
Gross
unrecognized
holding gains
RMB
Gross
unrecognized
holding
losses
RMB
Fair
value
RMB
(In millions)
170
(111)
23,688
Cost or
Amortized
cost
RMB
24,666
As of December 31, 2023
Gross
unrecognized
holding gains
RMB
Gross
unrecognized
holding
losses
RMB
(In millions)
Fair value
RMB
US$
261
(55)
24,872
3,503
The following table summarizes the amortized cost of long-term time deposits and held-to-maturity investments with stated contractual dates, classified
by the contractual maturity date of the investments:
Due in 1 year through 2 years
Due in 2 years through 3 years
Due in 3 years through 5 years
Total
F-48
As of December 31,
2023
2022
2023
RMB RMB US$
(In millions)
11,089 22,303 3,141
291
12,240 2,063
42
300
23,629 24,666 3,474
300
Table of Contents
BAIDU, INC.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2021, 2022 AND 2023
6.
LICENSED COPYRIGHTS, NET
Licensed copyrights
—Broadcasting rights
—Sublicensing rights
Less: current portion:
—Broadcasting rights
—Sublicensing rights
Licensed copyrights—non-current
—Broadcasting rights
—Sublicensing rights
Licensed copyrights
—Broadcasting rights
—Sublicensing rights
Less: current portion:
—Broadcasting rights
—Sublicensing rights
Licensed copyrights—non-current
—Broadcasting rights
—Sublicensing rights
Gross
carrying
value
RMB
43,217
7,399
50,616
8,213
7,399
15,612
35,004
—
35,004
Gross
carrying
value
RMB
44,838
7,668
52,506
7,774
7,668
15,442
37,064
—
37,064
As of December 31, 2022
Accumulated
amortization
RMB
Impairment
amount
RMB
(In millions)
Net carrying
value
RMB
(35,369)
(7,399)
(42,768)
(7,448)
(7,399)
(14,847)
(27,921)
—
(27,921)
(261)
—
(261)
(19)
—
(19)
(242)
—
(242)
7,587
—
7,587
746
—
746
6,841
—
6,841
As of December 31, 2023
Accumulated
amortization
RMB
Impairment
amount
RMB
(In millions)
Net carrying
value
RMB
US$
(37,060)
(7,668)
(44,728)
(7,178)
(7,668)
(14,846)
(29,882)
—
(29,882)
(229)
—
(229)
7,549
—
7,549
1,063
—
1,063
(14)
—
(14)
582
—
582
82
—
82
(215)
—
(215)
6,967
—
6,967
981
—
981
Amortization expense of RMB10.1 billion, RMB7.8 billion and RMB7.1 billion (US$998 million) was recognized as cost of revenues for the years
ended December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023, respectively.
F-49
Table of Contents
BAIDU, INC.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2021, 2022 AND 2023
Estimated amortization expense relating to the existing licensed copyrights for each of the next three years is as follow:
Within 1 year
Between 1 and 2 years
Between 2 and 3 years
7.
PRODUCED CONTENT, NET
Released, less amortization and impairment
— Predominantly monetized with other content
— Predominantly monetized on its own
In production, less impairment
— Predominantly monetized with other content
— Predominantly monetized on its own
In development, less impairment
— Predominantly monetized with other content
— Predominantly monetized on its own
Total
RMB US$
(In millions)
3,087 435
1,572 221
1,052 148
As of December 31,
2023
2022
2023
RMB RMB US$
(In millions)
3,725 4,445
61
3,815 4,506
90
626
9
635
7,676 7,630 1,075
34
8,336 7,875 1,109
245
660
816
35
851
133
7
140
13,002 13,377 1,884
947
49
996
Amortization expense of RMB4.6 billion, RMB4.6 billion and RMB5.2 billion (US$733 million) and RMB1.3 billion, RMB735 million and RMB1.1
billion (US$153 million) was recognized as “Cost of revenues” in the consolidated statements of comprehensive income for the years ended December
31, 2021, 2022 and 2023, for produced content predominantly monetized with other content assets and for produced content predominantly monetized
on its own, respectively. As of December 31, 2023, approximately RMB286 million (US$40 million) of accrued participation cost liabilities will be paid
during the upcoming operating cycle.
Estimated amortization expense relating to the existing produced content for each of the next three years is as follows:
Within 1 year
Between 1 and 2 years
Between 2 and 3 years
F-50
RMB US$
(In millions)
1,390 196
738 104
557 78
Table of Contents
BAIDU, INC.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2021, 2022 AND 2023
8.
ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE
Accounts receivable
Allowance for credit losses
The movements in the allowance for credit losses were as follows:
Balance as of January 1
Amounts charged to expenses
Amounts written off
Balance as of December 31
9.
OTHER ASSETS
Contract assets, net (i)
VAT prepayments
Inventories
Receivables from online payment agencies
Advances to suppliers
Licensed copyrights (Note 6)
Prepaid expenses
Deposits
Others (ii)
Total other current assets
Long-term prepaid expenses
Long-term restricted cash (iii)
Others
Total other non-current assets
As of December 31,
2023
US$
2022
RMB
2023
RMB
(In millions)
14,287 14,024 1,975
(2,554) (3,176) (447)
11,733 10,848 1,528
2021
RMB
2022
RMB
2023
RMB
2023
US$
(In millions)
1,320 2,069 2,554 360
830 555 669 94
(7)
(70)
2,069 2,554 3,176 447
(81)
(47)
As of December 31,
2023
2022
2023
RMB RMB US$
(In millions)
435
3,114 3,085
245
1,818 1,738
197
1,227 1,396
178
856 1,263
123
871
769
82
582
746
103
728
582
54
379
386
869 2,530
355
10,360 12,579 1,772
750
16,257 16,536 2,329
118
840
2,089 1,588
224
19,096 18,964 2,671
(i)
The allowance for credit losses on contract assets was RMB285 million and RMB168 million (US$24 million) as of December 31, 2022 and 2023,
respectively. Expenses of RMB58 million, RMB200 million and a net reversal of RMB117 million (US$16 million) were recognized for credit
losses on contract assets for the years ended December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023, respectively. No write-offs were charged against the allowance
for the years ended December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023, respectively.
F-51
Table of Contents
BAIDU, INC.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2021, 2022 AND 2023
(ii) The balance as of December 31, 2023 includes a non-trade loan and interest receivables due from PAG with the principal of US$200 million
(equivalent to RMB1.4 billion) and interest rate of 6%, which will due on July 1, 2024 if iQIYI requires repayment, or otherwise will due on the
date which PAG and its affiliates cease to hold any portion of the iQIYI PAG Convertible Notes. PAG released certain collateral secured by iQIYI
under the iQIYI PAG Convertible Notes (Note 15) and pledged to iQIYI a portion of the iQIYI PAG Convertible Notes, each in an amount
equivalent to the amount of this non-trade loan.
(iii) Long-term restricted cash represents collateral to repayments of the iQIYI PAG Convertible Notes (Note 15).
10.
FIXED ASSETS
Computer equipment
Office building
Office building related facility, machinery and equipment
Vehicles
Office equipment
Leasehold improvements
Construction in progress
Accumulated depreciation and impairment
2023
US$
2022
RMB
As of December 31,
2023
RMB
(In millions)
44,246 51,656 7,276
725
594
124
159
76
40
56,260 63,859 8,994
(32,287) (35,899) (5,056)
23,973 27,960 3,938
5,146
4,217
883
1,132
540
285
5,125
4,195
676
1,237
490
291
Depreciation expense for the years ended December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023, was RMB5.7 billion, RMB6.2 billion and RMB7.1 billion (US$1.0
billion), respectively. Impairment charges on fixed assets for the years ended December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023 were not material.
11. GOODWILL AND INTANGIBLE ASSETS
Goodwill
The Group had three reporting units, consisting of Baidu Core excluding SLG, SLG and iQIYI as of December 31, 2022 and 2023.
F-52
Table of Contents
BAIDU, INC.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2021, 2022 AND 2023
The changes in the carrying amount of goodwill for each reporting unit from 2021 to 2023 was as follows:
Balance at December 31, 2021
Goodwill disposed
Balance at December 31, 2022
Goodwill acquired (Note 3)
Goodwill disposed
Balance at December 31, 2023
Balance at December 31, 2023, in US$
Intangible Assets
Trademarks
Technology
Intellectual property right
Online literature
Others
Trademarks
Technology
Intellectual property right
Online literature
Others
Baidu Core
excluding
SLG
RMB
16,940
(66)
16,874
114
—
16,988
SLG
RMB
iQIYI
RMB
(In millions)
1,777
—
1,777
—
—
1,777
3,888
(62)
3,826
—
(5)
3,821
Total
RMB
22,605
(128)
22,477
114
(5)
22,586
2,393
250
538
3,181
Gross carrying
value
RMB
Accumulated
impairment
RMB
Accumulated
amortization
RMB
Net carrying
value
RMB
As of December 31, 2022
966
1,059
1,769
141
350
4,285
(In millions)
(238)
(52)
(473)
—
(20)
(783)
(324)
(652)
(924)
(110)
(238)
(2,248)
As of December 31, 2023
Gross carrying
value
RMB
Accumulated
impairment
RMB
Accumulated
amortization
RMB
(In millions)
966
1,062
1,568
117
329
4,042
(238)
(79)
(381)
—
(20)
(718)
(386)
(791)
(931)
(93)
(242)
(2,443)
404
355
372
31
92
1,254
Net carrying
value
RMB
342
192
256
24
67
881
US$
48
27
36
3
10
124
Amortization expense of intangible assets were RMB471 million, RMB467 million and RMB403 million (US$57 million), for the years ended
December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023, respectively.
F-53
Table of Contents
BAIDU, INC.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2021, 2022 AND 2023
Estimated amortization expense relating to the existing intangible assets with finite lives for each of the next five years is as follow:
For the years ending December 31,
2024
2025
2026
2027
2028
12. ACCOUNTS PAYABLE AND ACCRUED LIABILITIES
Accrued operating expenses
Content acquisition costs
Traffic acquisition costs
Accrued payroll and welfare
Tax payable
Bandwidth costs
Payables for purchasing inventory
Accruals for purchases of fixed assets
Payable for investments
Funds collected on behalf of service providers
Users’ and third party agents’ deposits
Interest payable
Payable to merchants
Others
Total accounts payable and accrued liabilities
13. LOANS PAYABLE
Short-term Loans
RMB
US$
(In millions)
275
206
129
113
96
39
29
18
16
14
As of December 31,
2023
RMB
2022
RMB
(In millions)
8,845
5,567
5,159
3,747
3,640
2,112
1,960
1,445
703
691
468
452
368
2,857
38,014
8,959
5,269
3,506
4,144
2,687
2,721
1,971
2,105
957
750
643
347
590
3,068
37,717
2023
US$
1,262
742
494
584
378
383
278
296
135
106
91
49
83
431
5,312
Short-term loans as of December 31, 2022 and 2023 amounted to RMB5.3 billion and RMB10.3 billion (US$1.4 billion), respectively, which consisted
of RMB denominated borrowings made by the Company’s subsidiaries from financial institutions in mainland China and were repayable within one
year. The total outstanding balance of iQIYI’s short-term loans as of December 31, 2022 and 2023 amounted to RMB3.3 billion and RMB3.6 billion
(US$503 million), respectively. The total outstanding balance of Baidu Core’s short-term loans as of December 31, 2022 and 2023 amounted to RMB2.0
billion and RMB6.7 billion (US$942 million), respectively.
As of December 31, 2022 and 2023, the repayments of primarily all of the iQIYI’s short-term loans are guaranteed by subsidiaries of iQIYI
and collateralized by an office building of one of iQIYI’s VIEs with a carrying amount of RMB522 million and RMB509 million (US$72 million)
respectively.
F-54
Table of Contents
BAIDU, INC.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2021, 2022 AND 2023
As of December 31, 2022 and 2023, the weighted average interest rates for the outstanding borrowings were approximately 3.42% and 2.82%,
respectively, and the aggregate amounts of unused lines of credit for short-term loans were RMB2.6 billion and RMB12.8 billion (US$1.8 billion),
respectively.
Structured payable arrangements
In 2021, 2022 and 2023, iQIYI entered into structured payable arrangements with banks or other financial institutions (“factoring arrangements”). Under
the factoring arrangements, the suppliers’ receivables collection process was accelerated through selling its receivables from iQIYI to the banks or other
financial institutions at a discount. For the years ended December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023, iQIYI was legally obligated to pay the banks or other
financial institutions in the amount totaling RMB1.1 billion, RMB1.5 billion and RMB1.8 billion (US$249 million), respectively, which will mature
within one year.
As a result of the factoring arrangements, the payment terms of the iQIYI’s original accounts payables were substantially modified and considered
extinguished as the nature of the original liability has changed from accounts payables to loan borrowings from banks or other financial institutions. The
proceeds from borrowings from banks or other financial institutions is a financing activity and is reported as “Proceeds from short-term loans” on the
consolidated statements of cash flows. As of December 31, 2022 and 2023, the outstanding borrowings from the factoring arrangements were
RMB755 million and RMB1.1 billion (US$149 million), respectively, which are repayable within one year and are included in “Short-term loans” on the
consolidated balance sheets.
Long-term Loans
In April 2021, the Company entered into a five-year US$3.0 billion term and revolving facilities agreement with a group of 22 arrangers. The facilities
consist of a US$1.5 billion five-year bullet maturity term loan and a US$1.5 billion five-year revolving facility. The facility was priced at 85 basis points
over LIBOR and is intended for the general corporate purposes. In June 2021, the Company drew down US$1.5 billion term loan and US$500 million
revolving loan under the facility commitment. In June 2023, the facilities were modified and priced at 93 basis points over SOFR (secured overnight
financing rate). In connection with the drawdowns and the modification, the Company entered into and restructured the two interest rate swap
agreements, pursuant to which each of the loans would be settled with a fixed annual interest rate of 1.71%, during the respective term of the loans.
The total outstanding borrowings were RMB13.7 billion and RMB14.2 billion (US$2.0 billion) as of December 31, 2022 and 2023.
The interest rate swap agreements met the definition of derivatives in accordance with ASC 815 and designated as cash flow hedge to
hedge the variability of cash flows in the interest payments associated with its variable-rate debt. The derivatives related to the interest rate swap
agreements are accounted for at fair value and included in “Other non-current assets” on the consolidated balance sheets (Note 26). As long as the
derivative remain highly effective, the Company records the changes in fair value of the derivative instrument in other comprehensive (loss) income as
described in Note 21. The gross notional amounts of derivatives designated as hedging instruments was US$2.0 billion and US$2.0 billion as of
December 31, 2022 and 2023, respectively.
F-55
Table of Contents
BAIDU, INC.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2021, 2022 AND 2023
14. NOTES PAYABLE
The Company issued and publicly sold unsecured senior notes, and the details of the tranches are shown below:
2022 Ten-year Notes
2025 Ten-year Notes
2022 Five-year Notes
2027 Ten-year Notes
2023 Notes
2028 March Notes
2024 Notes
2024 Notes
2028 November Notes
2025 Five-year Notes
2030 April Notes
2026 Notes
2030 October Notes
2027 Five-year Notes
2031 Notes
Issue date
November 28, 2012
June 30, 2015
July 6, 2017
July 6, 2017
March 29, 2018
March 29, 2018
November 14, 2018
December 10, 2018
November 14, 2018
April 7, 2020
April 7, 2020
October 9, 2020
October 9, 2020
August 23, 2021
August 23, 2021
Principal
amount
(US$ million)
750
500
900
600
1,000
500
600
250
400
600
400
650
300
300
700
Mature date
November 28, 2022
June 30, 2025
July 6, 2022
July 6, 2027
September 29, 2023
March 29, 2028
May 14, 2024
May 14, 2024
November 14, 2028
April 7, 2025
April 7, 2030
April 9, 2026
October 9, 2030
February 23,2027
August 23, 2031
Effective
interest rate
3.59%*
4.22%
3.08%*
3.73%
3.99%*
4.50%
4.51%
4.54%
4.99%
3.22%
3.54%
1.81%
2.43%
1.73%
2.49%
* The 2022 Five-year Notes, 2022 Ten-year Notes and 2023 Notes were fully repaid when they became due.
The notes listed above are collectively referred to as the “Notes”.
The 2022 Ten-year Notes bear interest at the rate of 3.500% per annum. Interest is payable semi-annually in arrears on and of each year, beginning on
May 28, 2013.
The 2025 Ten-year Notes bear interest at the rate of 4.125% per annum. Interest is payable semi-annually in arrears on and of each year, beginning on
December 30, 2015.
The 2022 Five-year Notes bear interest at the rate of 2.875% per annum and the 2027 Ten-year Notes bear interest at the rate of 3.625% per annum.
Interest is payable semi-annually in arrears on and of each year, beginning on January 6, 2018.
The 2023 Notes bear interest at the rate of 3.875% per annum and the 2028 March Notes bear interest at the rate of 4.375% per annum. Interest is
payable semi-annually in arrears on and of each year, beginning on September 29, 2018.
The 2024 Notes including US$600 million issued in November and US$250 million in December 2018, respectively, bear interest at the rate of 4.375%
per annum and the 2028 November Notes bear interest at the rate of 4.875% per annum. Interest is payable semi-annually in arrears on and of each year,
beginning on May 14, 2019.
The 2025 Five-year Notes bear interest at the rate of 3.075% per annum and the 2030 April Notes bear interest at the rate of 3.425% per annum. Interest
is payable semi-annually in arrears on and of each year, beginning on October 7, 2020.
F-56
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BAIDU, INC.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2021, 2022 AND 2023
The 2026 Notes bear interest at the rate of 1.720% per annum and the 2030 October Notes bear interest at the rate of 2.375% per annum. Interest is
payable semi-annually in arrears on and of each year, beginning on April 9, 2021.
The 2027 Five-year Notes bear interest at the rate of 1.625% per annum and the 2031 Notes bear interest at the rate of 2.375% per annum. Interest is
payable semi-annually in arrears on and of each year, beginning on February 23, 2022.
At maturity, the Notes are payable at their principal amount plus accrued and unpaid interest thereon.
The Notes do not contain any other financial covenants or other significant restrictions. In addition, the Notes are unsecured and rank lower than any
secured obligation of the Group and have the same liquidation priority as any other unsecured liabilities of the Group, but senior to those expressly
subordinated obligations, if any. The Company may, at its discretion, redeem all or any portion of the Notes at any time, at the greater of the principal
amount and the make whole amount plus accrued and unpaid interest. In addition, for the 2028 March Notes, 2024 Notes, 2028 November Notes, 2025
Five-year Notes, 2030 April Notes, 2026 Notes, 2030 October Notes, 2027 Five-year Notes and 2031 Notes, the Company may at its discretion, redeem
all or any portion of the Notes at one or three months before the maturity date of respective notes, at a price equal to 100% of the principal amount of
such notes plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any, to (but not including) the redemption date. As of December 31, 2023, the Company does not intend
to redeem any portion of the Notes prior to the stated maturity dates. For certain Notes, the Company has the obligation to redeem the Notes if a change
in control occurs as defined in the indenture of the Notes.
The outstanding Notes were issued at a discount amounting to US$16 million. The total issuance costs of US$28 million were presented as a direct
deduction from the principal amount of the outstanding Notes on the consolidated balance sheets. Both the discount and the issuance costs are amortized
as interest expense using the effective interest rate method through the maturity dates of the Notes.
The principal amount and unamortized discount and debt issuance costs as of December 31, 2022 and 2023 were as follows:
Principal amount
Unamortized discount and debt issuance costs
F-57
As of December 31,
2022
RMB
2023
RMB
(In millions)
2023
US$
46,983
(186)
46,797
41,163
(144)
41,019
5,797
(20)
5,777
Table of Contents
BAIDU, INC.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2021, 2022 AND 2023
The following table summarizes the aggregate required repayments of the principal amounts of the Group’s long-term debts (including the notes payable
and long-term loans (Note 13) but excluding convertible senior notes (Note 15)), in the succeeding five years and thereafter:
For the years ending December 31,
2024
2025
2026
2027
2028
Thereafter
15. CONVERTIBLE SENIOR NOTES
iQIYI 2023 Convertible Senior Notes
RMB
US$
(In millions)
6,037
7,908
18,815
6,390
6,390
9,940
850
1,114
2,650
900
900
1,400
On December 4, 2018, iQIYI issued US$750 million convertible senior notes (the “iQIYI 2023 Convertible Notes”). The iQIYI 2023 Convertible Notes
are senior, unsecured obligations of iQIYI, and interest is payable semi-annually in cash at a rate of 3.75% per annum on June 1 and December 1 of each
year, beginning on June 1, 2019. The iQIYI 2023 Convertible Notes will mature on December 1, 2023 unless redeemed, repurchased or converted prior
to such date.
The initial conversion rate of the iQIYI 2023 Convertible Notes is 37.1830 of iQIYI’s ADS per US$1,000 principal amount of the iQIYI 2023
Convertible Notes (which is equivalent to an initial conversion price of approximately US$26.89 per ADS). Prior to June 1, 2023, the iQIYI 2023
Convertible Notes will be convertible at the option of the holders only upon the following circumstances: (1) during any calendar quarter commencing
after the calendar quarter ending on March 31, 2019, if the last reported sale price of ADSs for at least 20 trading days (whether or not consecutive)
during a period of 30 consecutive trading days ending on, and including, the last trading day of the immediately preceding calendar quarter is greater
than or equal to 130% of the conversion price; (2) during the five business day period after any ten consecutive trading day period in which the trading
price per US$1,000 principal amount of notes was less than 98% of the product of the last reported sale price of the ADSs and the conversion rate on
each such trading day; (3) if iQIYI calls the notes for a tax redemption; or (4) upon the occurrence of specified corporate events. Thereafter, the iQIYI
2023 Convertible Notes will be convertible at the option of the holders at any time until the close of business on the second scheduled trading day
immediately preceding the maturity date. The conversion rate is subject to adjustment in some events but is not adjusted for any accrued and unpaid
interest. In addition, following a make-whole fundamental change that occurs prior to the maturity date or following iQIYI’s delivery of a notice of a tax
redemption, iQIYI will increase the conversion rate for a holder who elects to convert its notes in connection with such a corporate event or such tax
redemption. Upon conversion, iQIYI will pay or deliver to such converting holders, as the case may be, cash, ADSs, or a combination of cash and
ADSs, at its election.
The holders may require iQIYI to repurchase all or portion of the iQIYI 2023 Convertible Notes for cash on December 1, 2021, or upon a fundamental
change, at a repurchase price equal to 100% of the principal amount, plus accrued and unpaid interest.
In connection with the issuance of the iQIYI 2023 Convertible Notes, iQIYI purchased capped call options (the “2023 Capped Call”) on iQIYI’s ADS
with certain counterparties at a price of US$68 million. The counterparties
F-58
Table of Contents
BAIDU, INC.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2021, 2022 AND 2023
agreed to sell to iQIYI up to approximately 28 million of iQIYI’s ADSs upon iQIYI’s exercise of the 2023 Capped Call. The exercise price is equal to
the iQIYI 2023 Convertible Notes’ initial conversion price and the cap price is US$38.42 per ADS, subject to certain adjustments under the terms of the
capped call transactions. The capped call transactions are expected to reduce potential dilution to existing holders of the ordinary shares and ADSs of
iQIYI upon conversion of the iQIYI 2023 Convertible Notes and/or offset any potential cash payments that iQIYI is required to make in excess of the
principal amount of any converted notes, as the case may be, with such reduction and/or offset subject to a cap.
iQIYI 2025 Convertible Senior Notes
On March 29, 2019, iQIYI issued US$1.2 billion convertible senior notes (the “iQIYI 2025 Convertible Notes”). The iQIYI 2025 Convertible Notes are
senior, unsecured obligations of iQIYI, and interest is payable semi-annually in cash at a rate of 2.00% per annum on October 1 and April 1 of each year,
beginning on October 1, 2019. The iQIYI 2025 Convertible Notes will mature on April 1, 2025 unless redeemed, repurchased or converted prior to such
date.
The initial conversion rate of the iQIYI 2025 Convertible Notes is 33.0003 of iQIYI’s ADS per US$1,000 principal amount of the iQIYI 2025
Convertible Notes (which is equivalent to an initial conversion price of approximately US$30.30 per ADS). Prior to October 1, 2024, the iQIYI 2025
Convertible Notes will be convertible at the option of the holders only upon the following circumstances: (1) during any calendar quarter commencing
after the calendar quarter ending on June 30, 2019, if the last reported sale price of ADSs for at least 20 trading days (whether or not consecutive) during
a period of 30 consecutive trading days ending on, and including, the last trading day of the immediately preceding calendar quarter is greater than or
equal to 130% of the conversion price; (2) during the five business day period after any ten consecutive trading day period in which the trading price per
US$1,000 principal amount of notes was less than 98% of the product of the last reported sale price of the ADSs and the conversion rate on each such
trading day; (3) if iQIYI calls the notes for a tax redemption; or (4) upon the occurrence of specified corporate events. Thereafter, the iQIYI 2025
Convertible Notes will be convertible at the option of the holders at any time until the close of business on the second scheduled trading day
immediately preceding the maturity date. The conversion rate is subject to adjustment in some events but is not adjusted for any accrued and unpaid
interest. In addition, following a make-whole fundamental change that occurs prior to the maturity date or following iQIYI’s delivery of a notice of a tax
redemption, iQIYI will increase the conversion rate for a holder who elects to convert its notes in connection with such a corporate event or such tax
redemption. Upon conversion, iQIYI will pay or deliver to such converting holders, as the case may be, cash, ADSs, or a combination of cash and
ADSs, at its election.
The holders may require iQIYI to repurchase all or a portion of the iQIYI 2025 Convertible Notes for cash on April 1, 2023, or upon a fundamental
change, at a repurchase price equal to 100% of the principal amount, plus accrued and unpaid interest.
In connection with the issuance of the iQIYI 2025 Convertible Notes, iQIYI purchased capped call options (the “2025 Capped Call”) on iQIYI’s ADS
with certain counterparties at a price of US$85 million. The counterparties agreed to sell to iQIYI up to approximately 40 million of iQIYI’s ADSs upon
iQIYI’s exercise of the 2025 Capped Call. The exercise price is equal to the iQIYI 2025 Convertible Notes’ initial conversion price and the cap price is
US$40.02 per ADS, subject to certain adjustments under the terms of the capped call transactions. The capped call transactions are expected to reduce
potential dilution to existing holders of the ordinary shares and ADSs of iQIYI upon conversion of the iQIYI 2025 Convertible Notes and/or offset any
potential cash payments that iQIYI is required to make in excess of the principal amount of any converted notes, as the case may be, with such reduction
and/or offset subject to a cap.
F-59
Table of Contents
BAIDU, INC.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2021, 2022 AND 2023
iQIYI 2026 Convertible Senior Notes
On December 21, 2020, iQIYI issued US$800 million convertible senior notes and offered an additional US$100 million principal amount
simultaneously, pursuant to the underwriters’ option to purchase additional notes. On January 8, 2021, the additional US$100 million principal amount
was issued pursuant to the underwriters’ exercise of their option. The convertible senior notes issued on December 21, 2020 and January 8, 2021
(collectively referred to as the “iQIYI 2026 Convertible Notes”) are senior, unsecured obligations of iQIYI, and interest is payable semi-annually in cash
at a rate of 4.00% per annum on June 15 and December 15 of each year, beginning on June 15, 2021. The iQIYI 2026 Convertible Notes will mature on
December 15, 2026 unless redeemed, repurchased or converted prior to such date.
The initial conversion rate of the iQIYI 2026 Convertible Notes is 44.8179 of iQIYI’s ADS per US$1,000 principal amount of the iQIYI 2026
Convertible Notes (which is equivalent to an initial conversion price of approximately US$22.31 per ADS). Prior to June 15, 2026, the iQIYI 2026
Convertible Notes will be convertible at the option of the holders only upon the following circumstances: (1) during any calendar quarter commencing
after the calendar quarter ending on March 31, 2021, if the last reported sale price of ADSs for at least 20 trading days (whether or not consecutive)
during a period of 30 consecutive trading days ending on, and including, the last trading day of the immediately preceding calendar quarter is greater
than or equal to 130% of the conversion price; (2) during the five business day period after any ten consecutive trading day period in which the trading
price per US$1,000 principal amount of notes was less than 98% of the product of the last reported sale price of the ADSs and the conversion rate on
each such trading day; (3) if iQIYI calls the notes for a tax redemption; or (4) upon the occurrence of specified corporate events. Thereafter, the iQIYI
2026 Convertible Notes will be convertible at the option of the holders at any time until the close of business on the second scheduled trading day
immediately preceding the maturity date. The conversion rate is subject to adjustment in some events but is not adjusted for any accrued and unpaid
interest. In addition, following a make-whole fundamental change that occurs prior to the maturity date or following iQIYI’s delivery of a notice of a tax
redemption, iQIYI will increase the conversion rate for a holder who elects to convert its notes in connection with such a corporate event or such tax
redemption. Upon conversion, iQIYI will pay or deliver to such converting holders, as the case may be, cash, ADSs, or a combination of cash and
ADSs, at its election.
The holders may require iQIYI to repurchase all or a portion of the iQIYI 2026 Convertible Notes for cash on August 1, 2024, or upon a fundamental
change, at a repurchase price equal to 100% of the principal amount, plus accrued and unpaid interest.
iQIYI PAG Convertible Senior Notes
On December 30, 2022, iQIYI issued US$500 million convertible senior notes, pursuant to the definitive agreements entered into with PAGAC IV-1
(Cayman) Limited, PAG Pegasus Fund LP and/or their affiliates (collectively, the “Investors”) in August 2022. IQIYI also offered an additional US$50
million principal amount simultaneously, pursuant to the Investors’ option to purchase additional notes. On February 24, 2023, the additional US$50
million principal amount was issued pursuant to the Investors’ exercise of their option. The convertible senior notes issued on December 30, 2022 and
February 24, 2023 (collectively referred to as the “iQIYI PAG Convertible Notes”) are senior, secured obligations of iQIYI by certain collateral
arrangements, and interest is payable quarterly in cash at a rate of 6.00% per annum on January 1, April 1, July 1 and October 1 of each year, beginning
on April 1, 2023. The iQIYI PAG Convertible Notes will mature on the fifth anniversary of the issuance date unless redeemed, repurchased or converted
prior to such date.
The iQIYI PAG Convertible Notes will be convertible at the holder’s option at any time prior to the close of business on the second scheduled trading
day immediately preceding the maturity date and subject to the terms of
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Table of Contents
BAIDU, INC.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2021, 2022 AND 2023
the iQIYI PAG Convertible Notes, at an initial conversion rate of 216.9668 ADS per US$ 1,000 principal amount of the iQIYI PAG Convertible Notes
(which is equivalent to an initial conversion price of approximately US$4.61 per ADS). Following a make-whole fundamental change that occurs prior
to the maturity date, iQIYI will increase the conversion rate for a holder who elects to convert its notes in connection with such make-whole
fundamental change.
Holders of the iQIYI PAG Convertible Notes have the right to require iQIYI to repurchase for cash all or part of their Notes, at a repurchase price equal
to 120% and 130% of the principal amount of the iQIYI PAG Convertible Notes on or shortly after the third anniversary of the issuance date and the
fifth anniversary of the issuance date, respectively. Upon the closing of the transaction, the Investors have appointed the executive chairman of PAG, as
a member to the board of directors, a member of the compensation committee and a non-voting member of the audit committee of iQIYI pursuant to
their rights in the definitive agreements. For the year ended December 31, 2023, the amount of interest cost recognized of iQIYI PAG Convertible Notes
was RMB473 million (US$67 million). The repayments of iQIYI PAG Convertible Notes are guaranteed by equity interests of certain subsidiaries of
iQIYI and collateralized by partial cash consideration related to certain contracts for which RMB840 million (US$118 million) cash consideration has
been charged as of December 31, 2023 and recorded as long-term restricted cash. (Note 9).
iQIYI 2028 Convertible Senior Notes
On March 7, 2023, iQIYI issued US$600 million convertible senior notes (the “iQIYI 2028 Convertible Notes”). The iQIYI 2028 Convertible Notes are
senior, unsecured obligations of iQIYI, and interest is payable quarterly in cash at a rate of 6.50% per annum on March 15, June 15, September 15 and
December 15 of each year, beginning on June 15, 2023. The iQIYI 2028 Convertible Notes will mature on March 15, 2028 unless redeemed,
repurchased or converted prior to such date.
The initial conversion rate of the iQIYI 2028 Convertible Notes is 101.4636 of iQIYI’s ADS per US$1,000 principal amount of the iQIYI 2028
Convertible Notes (which is equivalent to an initial conversion price of approximately US$9.86 per ADS). Prior to September 15, 2027, the iQIYI 2028
Convertible Notes will be convertible at the option of the holders only upon the following circumstances: (1) during any calendar quarter commencing
after the calendar quarter ending on June 30, 2023 (and only during such calendar quarter), if the last reported sale price of ADSs for at least 20 trading
days (whether or not consecutive) during a period of 30 consecutive trading days ending on, and including, the last trading day of the immediately
preceding calendar quarter is greater than or equal to 130% of the conversion price; (2) during the five business day period after any ten consecutive
trading day period in which the trading price per US$1,000 principal amount of notes was less than 98% of the product of the last reported sale price of
the ADSs and the conversion rate on each such trading day; (3) if iQIYI calls the notes for a tax redemption or an optional redemption; or (4) upon the
occurrence of specified corporate events. Thereafter, the iQIYI 2028 Convertible Notes will be convertible at the option of the holders at any time until
the close of business on the second scheduled trading day immediately preceding the maturity date. The conversion rate is subject to adjustment in some
events but is not adjusted for any accrued and unpaid interest. In addition, following a make-whole fundamental change that occurs prior to the maturity
date or following iQIYI’s delivery of a notice of a tax redemption, iQIYI will increase the conversion rate for a holder who elects to convert its notes in
connection with such a corporate event or such tax redemption. Upon conversion, iQIYI will pay or deliver to such converting holders, as the case may
be, cash, ADSs, or a combination of cash and ADSs, at its election.
The holders may require iQIYI to repurchase all or a portion of the iQIYI 2028 Convertible Notes for cash on March 16, 2026, or upon a fundamental
change, at a repurchase price equal to 100% of the principal amount, plus accrued and unpaid interest. On or after March 20, 2026, iQIYI may redeem
for cash all or part of the iQIYI 2028 Convertible Notes, at its option, if the last reported sale price of the ADSs has been at least 130% of the
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Table of Contents
BAIDU, INC.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2021, 2022 AND 2023
conversion price then in effect on (i) each of at least 20 trading days (whether or not consecutive) during the period of 30 consecutive trading days
ending on, and including, the trading day immediately prior to the date iQIYI provides the optional redemption notice and (ii) the trading day
immediately preceding the date iQIYI provides the optional redemption notice.
If any event of default are to take place, the trustee or the holders of at least 25% in aggregate principal amount may declare the whole principal of (or,
in the case of the iQIYI PAG Convertible Notes, 120% or 130% of the principal amount for such notes, as the case may be, depending on the date of
occurrence of the event of default), and accrued and unpaid interest on, all the outstanding convertible senior notes to be due and payable immediately,
subject to certain exceptions and conditions under the respective indenture. IQIYI may also be required to pay additional interest. If any fundamental
change are to take place, holders of the notes will have the right, at their option, to require iQIYI to repurchase all of their notes or any portion of the
principal amount (or, in the case of the iQIYI PAG Convertible Notes, 120% or 130% of the principal amount for such notes, as the case may be,
depending on the date of occurrence of the fundamental change), and accrued and unpaid interests. In the event of a fundamental change, iQIYI may
also be required to issue additional ADSs upon conversion of its convertible notes. As of December 31, 2023, there was no such event of default or
fundamental change.
Accounting for Convertible Senior Notes
The Group adopted ASU No. 2020-06, Accounting for Convertible Instruments and Contracts in an Entity’s Own Equity (“ASU 2020-06”) by using a
modified retrospective transition method through a cumulative-effect adjustment on January 1, 2022. After the adoption of ASU 2020-06, as the iQIYI
2023 Convertible Notes, the iQIYI 2025 Convertible Notes, the iQIYI 2026 Convertible Notes, the iQIYI 2028 Convertible Notes and the iQIYI PAG
Convertible Notes (collectively as the “iQIYI Notes”) were not issued at a substantial premium, all of the proceeds received from the issuance of the
iQIYI Notes are recorded as a liability on the consolidated balance sheet in accordance with ASC 470-20. That is, no portion of the proceeds from
issuing the iQIYI Notes are attributed to the conversion option at inception. The difference between the principal amount of each of the iQIYI Notes and
net proceeds from the issuance is considered debt discount and is amortized at their respective effective interest rates to accrete the carrying value of the
iQIYI Notes to its face value (120% of the principal amount for iQIYI PAG Convertible Notes) on the respective put dates of the iQIYI Notes. For the
year ended December 31, 2023, the effective interest rates of the iQIYI 2026 Convertible Notes, the iQIYI PAG Convertible Notes and the iQIYI 2028
Convertible Notes were 4.53%, 12.05%, 7.15%, respectively.
The cost of the 2023 Capped Call and 2025 Capped Call of US$68 million and US$85 million were recorded as a reduction of the Company’s additional
paid-in capital and non-controlling interests on the consolidated balance sheets with no subsequent changes in fair value recorded.
In 2023, the net proceeds from the issuance of the iQIYI 2028 Convertible Notes was US$590 million, after deducting underwriting discounts and
offering expenses of US$10 million from the initial proceeds of US$600 million.
In 2021 and 2023, iQIYI repurchased the iQIYI 2023 Convertible Notes and the iQIYI 2025 Convertible Notes with aggregate principal amount of
US$747 million and US$1.2 billion (equivalent to RMB8.5 billion), respectively, as requested by the holders. In 2023, iQIYI repurchased the iQIYI
2026 Convertible Notes and the iQIYI 2028 Convertible Notes with the aggregate principal amount of US$504 million (equivalent to RMB3.6 billion)
and US$26 million (equivalent to RMB185 million), respectively, upon separate and individually privately negotiated agreements with certain holders.
Following settlement of the repurchase, a difference between the net carrying amount of the repurchased iQIYI notes and the repurchased price was
recognized as extinguishment gain and reported in “Others, net” in the consolidated statements of comprehensive income.
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BAIDU, INC.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2021, 2022 AND 2023
The carrying amount of the iQIYI Notes as of December 31, 2022 and 2023 were as follows:
Principal
Less: unamortized discount and debt issuance costs
Net carrying amount
2022
RMB
As of December 31,
2023
RMB
(In millions)
2023
US$
17,986
112
17,874
10,801
(145)
10,946
1,522
(20)
1,542
For the years ended December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023, the amounts of interest cost recognized were as follows:
Contractual interest expense
Amortization of the discount and issuance costs
Total
For the years ended December 31,
2021
RMB
2022
RMB
2023
RMB
2023
US$
557
559
1,116
(In millions)
404
66
470
644
292
936
91
41
132
As of December 31, 2023, the iQIYI 2026 Convertible Notes, iQIYI PAG Convertible Notes and iQIYI 2028 Convertible Notes will be accreted up to
the principal amount of US$396 million, US$660 million (120% of the principal amount of iQIYI PAG Convertible Notes) and US$574 million over a
remaining period of 0.59 year, 2.00 years and 2.21 years, respectively. The amount repayable within the next twelve months are classified as
“Convertible senior notes, current portion” on the consolidated balance sheets.
The aggregate amounts upon scheduled maturities of US$2 million, US$396 million and US$1.3 billion (equivalent to RMB17 million, RMB2.8 billion
and RMB9.2 billion, respectively) of the iQIYI Notes will be repaid when they become due in 2025, 2026 and 2028, respectively, assuming there is no
conversion of the iQIYI Notes, no redemption of the iQIYI Notes prior to their maturities, the convertible senior notes bondholders hold the iQIYI
Notes until their maturities and iQIYI elects to fully settle the iQIYI Notes in cash.
16. LEASES
The Group’s operating leases mainly related to land, offices facilities, IDC facilities and vehicles. For leases with terms greater than 12 months, the
Group records the related asset and obligation at the present value of lease payments over the term. Certain leases include rental escalation clauses,
renewal options and/or termination options that are factored into the Group’s determination of lease payments when appropriate. As of December 31,
2023, finance leases were insignificant.
As of December 31, 2022 and 2023, the Group’s operating leases had a weighted average remaining lease term of 14.8 years and 13.6 years,
respectively. As of December 31, 2022 and 2023, the Group’s operating leases had a weighted average discount rate of 4.30% and 4.07%, respectively.
Operating lease costs were RMB3.2 billion, RMB3.5 billion and RMB3.5 billion (US$498 million) for the years ended December 31, 2021, 2022 and
2023, respectively, which excluded short-term lease costs. Short-term lease costs were RMB475 million, RMB424 million and RMB547 million (US$77
million) for the years ended
F-63
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BAIDU, INC.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2021, 2022 AND 2023
December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023, respectively. Variable lease cost was immaterial for the years ended December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023. For the
years ended December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023, no lease costs for operating or finance leases were capitalized.
Supplemental cash flow information related to operating leases was as follows:
Cash payments for operating leases
ROU assets obtained in exchange for operating lease liabilities
Future lease payments under operating leases as of December 31, 2023 were as follows:
For the years ended
December 31,
2023
RMB
(In millions)
3,463
3,938
2023
US$
488
555
2022
RMB
3,014
2,559
Year ending December 31,
2024
2025
2026
2027
2028
Thereafter
Total future lease payments
Less: Imputed interest
Total lease liability balance
Operating leases
RMB
US$
(In millions)
3,182
2,298
1,664
1,032
291
324
8,791
643
8,148
448
324
234
145
41
46
1,238
90
1,148
As of December 31, 2023, additional operating leases that have not yet commenced were immaterial.
17.
INCOME TAXES
Cayman Islands
Under the current laws of the Cayman Islands, the Group is not subject to tax on income or capital gains. Additionally, upon payment of dividends by
the Group to its shareholders, no Cayman Islands withholding tax will be imposed.
Hong Kong
Subsidiaries in Hong Kong are subject to Hong Kong Profits Tax rate at 16.5%, and foreign-derived income is exempted from income tax. There are no
withholding taxes upon payment of dividends by the subsidiaries incorporated in Hong Kong to its shareholders.
F-64
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BAIDU, INC.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2021, 2022 AND 2023
Mainland China
Under the PRC Enterprise Income Tax (“EIT”) Law, which has been effective since January 1, 2008, domestic enterprises and Foreign Investment
Enterprises (the “FIE”) are subject to a unified 25% enterprise income tax rate, except for certain entities that are entitled to preferential tax treatments.
Preferential EIT rates at 15% is available for qualified “High and New Technology Enterprises” (“HNTEs”). The HNTE certificate is effective for a
period of three years. Further, preferential EIT rates are available for qualified Software Enterprises whereby entities are entitled to full exemption from
EIT for two years beginning from their first profitable calendar year and a 50% reduction for the subsequent three calendar years.
Certain PRC subsidiaries and VIEs, including Baidu Online, Baidu China, Baidu International and Baidu Netcom, etc. are qualified HNTEs and enjoy a
reduced tax rate of 15% for the years presented. An entity could re-apply for the HNTE certificate when the prior certificate expires. Historically, all of
the Company’s subsidiaries and VIEs successfully re-applied for the certificates when the prior ones expired. Certain subsidiaries enjoyed a reduced tax
rate as qualified Software Enterprise from 2021 to 2023.
Under the current EIT Law, dividends for earnings derived from January 1, 2008 and onwards paid by PRC entities to any of their foreign non-resident
enterprise investors are subject to a 10% withholding tax. A lower tax rate will be applied if tax treaty or arrangement benefits are available. Under the
tax arrangement between the PRC and Hong Kong, the reduced withholding tax rate for dividends paid by PRC entities is 5% provided the Hong Kong
investors meet the requirements as stipulated by relevant PRC tax regulations, such as the beneficiary owner test. Capital gains derived from the PRC
are also subject to a 10% PRC withholding tax.
Income (loss) before income taxes consists of:
Mainland China
Non-Mainland China
For the years ended December 31,
2021
RMB
2022
RMB
2023
RMB
2023
US$
(In millions)
15,055
(4,277)
10,778
18,306
(8,194)
10,112
28,449
(3,251)
25,198
4,008
(458)
3,550
Except for the investment related loss recognized, the pre-tax losses from non-Mainland China operations consist primarily of operating costs,
administration expenses and interest expenses.
Income taxes consist of:
Current income tax
Income tax refund due to reduced tax rate
Adjustments of deferred tax assets due to change in tax rates
Deferred income tax benefit
F-65
For the years ended December 31,
2021
RMB
2022
RMB
2023
RMB
2023
US$
(In millions)
3,636
—
109
(558)
3,187
3,163
(468)
119
(236)
2,578
3,812
—
111
(274)
3,649
537
—
16
(39)
514
Table of Contents
BAIDU, INC.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2021, 2022 AND 2023
The reconciliation of the actual income taxes to the amount of tax computed by applying the aforementioned statutory income tax rate to pre-tax income
is as follows:
Expected taxation at PRC statutory tax rate
Effect of differing tax rates in different jurisdictions
Non-taxable income
Non-deductible expenses
Research and development super-deduction
Effect of PRC preferential tax rates and tax holiday
Effect of tax rate changes on deferred taxes
Reversal of prior year’s income taxes
PRC withholding tax
Change in valuation allowance
Taxation for the year
Effective tax rate
For the years ended December 31,
2021
RMB
2022
RMB
2023
RMB
(In millions, except for per share data)
2,694
656
(89)
965
(1,645)
(1,557)
109
(734)
615
2,173
3,187
2,541
1,976
(44)
534
(2,274)
(1,507)
119
(913)
181
1,965
2,578
6,299
410
(456)
1,928
(3,067)
(1,833)
111
(156)
574
(161)
3,649
2023
US$
887
58
(64)
272
(432)
(259)
16
(22)
81
(23)
514
29.6%
25.5%
14.5%
14.5%
Effect of preferential tax rates inside the PRC on basic earnings per Class A and Class B
ordinary share
0.56
0.54
0.65
0.09
The tax effects of temporary differences that gave rise to the deferred tax balances at December 31, 2022 and 2023 are as follows:
As of December 31,
2022
RMB
2023
RMB
(In millions)
2023
US$
Deferred tax assets:
Allowance for credit losses
Accrued expenses, payroll and others
Fixed assets depreciation and intangible assets amortization
Net operating loss carry-forwards
Less: valuation allowance
Deferred tax assets, net
Deferred tax liabilities:
Long-lived assets arising from acquisitions
Withholding tax on PRC subsidiaries’ undistributed earnings
Tax on capital gains
Others
F-66
616
704
3,861 3,602
3,767 3,532
4,176 4,223
99
507
497
595
(10,033) (9,872) (1,390)
308
2,387 2,189
As of December 31,
2023
RMB
2022
RMB
(In millions)
2023
US$
428
1,685
797
246
3,156
220
1,475
908
211
2,814
31
207
128
30
396
Table of Contents
BAIDU, INC.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2021, 2022 AND 2023
As of December 31, 2023, the Group had tax losses of approximately RMB23.7 billion (US$3.3 billion) derived mainly from entities in the PRC and
Hong Kong. The tax losses in the PRC can be carried forward for five years to offset future taxable profit, and the period is currently extended to 10
years for entities qualified as HNTE. The tax losses of entities in the PRC will expire from 2024 to 2033, if not utilized. The tax losses in Hong Kong
can be carried forward with no expiration date.
As of December 31, 2023, dividend distribution withholding tax for the potential remittance of earnings from the PRC subsidiaries to offshore entities
was RMB1.5 billion (US$207 million). The Group believes that the underlying dividends will be distributed in the future for offshore use, such as
merger and acquisition activities. The Group did not provide for additional deferred income taxes and foreign withholding taxes on the undistributed
earnings of foreign subsidiaries during the years presented on the basis of its current intent to permanently reinvest its foreign subsidiaries’ earnings. As
of December 31, 2023, the total amount of undistributed earnings from the PRC subsidiaries and the VIEs for which no withholding tax has been
accrued was RMB171.8 billion (US$24.2 billion). Determination of the amount of unrecognized deferred tax liability related to these earnings is not
practicable.
As of December 31, 2022 and 2023, the Group has unrecognized tax benefits of RMB670 million and RMB670 million (US$94 million), respectively,
primarily related to the tax-deduction of accrued expenses which were presented in “Other non-current liabilities” in the consolidated balance sheets, if
ultimately recognized would impact the annual effective tax rate. It is possible that the amount of unrecognized benefits will change in the next 12
months, however, an estimate of the range of the possible change cannot be made at this moment.
18. EMPLOYEE DEFINED CONTRIBUTION PLAN
Full time employees of the Group in the PRC participate in a government mandated multi-employer defined contribution plan pursuant to which certain
pension benefits, medical care, unemployment insurance, employee housing fund and other welfare benefits are provided to employees. Chinese labor
regulations require that the Group make contributions to the government for these benefits based on certain percentages of the employees’ salaries. The
Group has no legal obligation for the benefits beyond the contributions. Total amounts for such employee benefits, which were expensed as incurred,
were RMB4.1 billion, RMB4.3 billion and RMB4.6 billion (US$647 million) for the years ended December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023, respectively.
19. COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES
Capital Commitments
The Group’s capital commitments primarily relate to commitments in connection with the expansion and improvement of its network infrastructure and
its plan to build additional office buildings and cloud computing based data centers. Total capital commitments contracted but not yet reflected in the
financial statements amounted to RMB5.2 billion (US$729 million) as of December 31, 2023. Almost all of the commitments relating to the network
infrastructure, office buildings and cloud computing based data centers are to be fulfilled within one year.
F-67
Table of Contents
BAIDU, INC.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2021, 2022 AND 2023
Commitments for bandwidth and property management fees
Future minimum payments under non-cancelable agreements for bandwidth and property management fees consist of the following as of December 31,
2023:
2024
2025
2026
2027
2028
Thereafter
RMB
(In millions)
653
87
35
6
5
21
807
US$
92
12
5
1
1
3
114
Licensed Copyrights and Produced Content Commitments
Future minimum payments under non-cancelable agreements for licensed copyrights and produced content consist of the following as of December 31,
2023:
2024
2025
2026
2027
2028
Thereafter
Investment Commitments
RMB
US$
(In millions)
8,627
3,787
1,330
731
102
201
14,778
1,215
533
187
103
14
28
2,080
The Group’s investment commitments primarily relate to capital contribution obligations under certain arrangements which do not have specified
contractual maturity dates. The total investment commitments contracted but not yet reflected in the consolidated financial statements amounted to
RMB1.4 billion (US$197 million).
Guarantees
The Group accounts for guarantees in accordance with ASC Topic 460, Guarantees (“ASC 460”). Accordingly, the Group evaluates its guarantees if any
to determine whether (a) the guarantee is specifically excluded from the scope of ASC 460, (b) the guarantee is subject to ASC 460 disclosure
requirements only, but not subject to the initial recognition and measurement provisions, or (c) the guarantee is required to be recorded in the financial
statements at fair value.
The corporate by-laws require that the Company indemnify its officers and directors, as well as those who act as directors and officers of other entities at
the Company’s request, against expenses, judgments, fines, settlements
F-68
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BAIDU, INC.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2021, 2022 AND 2023
and other amounts actually and reasonably incurred in connection with any proceedings arising out of their services to the Company. In addition, the
Company entered into separate indemnification agreements with each director and each executive officer of the Company that provide for
indemnification of these directors and officers under similar circumstances and under additional circumstances. The indemnification obligations are
more fully described in the by-laws and the indemnification agreements. The Company purchases standard directors and officers insurance to cover
claims or a portion of the claims made against its directors and officers. Since a maximum obligation is not explicitly stated in the Company’s by-laws
or in the indemnification agreements and will depend on the facts and circumstances that arise out of any future claims, the overall maximum amount of
the obligations cannot be reasonably estimated.
Historically, the Group was not required to make payments related to these obligations, and the fair value for these obligations was immaterial on the
consolidated balance sheets as of December 31, 2023.
Litigation
The Group was involved in certain cases pending in various PRC, U.S. and Brazil courts and arbitration as of December 31, 2023. These cases include
copyright infringement cases, unfair competition cases, and defamation cases, among others. Adverse results in these lawsuits may include awards of
damages and may also result in, or even compel, a change in the Group’s business practices, which could result in a loss of revenue or otherwise harm
the business of the Group.
Baidu and iQIYI have been named as defendants in several putative federal securities class actions alleging that defendants made material misstatements
and omissions regarding certain reported financial and operational results. Starting in April 2020, iQIYI and certain of its current and former officers
and directors were named as defendants in several putative securities class actions filed in federal court, which were purportedly brought on behalf of a
class of persons who allegedly suffered damages as a result of alleged misstatements and omissions in iQIYI’s public disclosure documents. In light of
the common questions of law and fact at issue in this case and a related action against Baidu, the Court terminated the motion to dismiss without
prejudice, and ordered a motion-to-dismiss briefing for the two cases under a new coordinated briefing schedule. The coordinated motion-to-dismiss
briefing was completed in March 2023. On February 26, 2024, following oral argument on the motions to dismiss, the Court held Defendants’ motions
in abeyance, granted Plaintiffs leave to file amended consolidated complaints, and ordered the supplemental briefing on the amended consolidated
complaints to be completed by April 22, 2024. Both of those cases remain in preliminary stage, the likelihood of any unfavorable outcome or the
amount or range of any potential loss cannot be reasonably estimated at the issuance date of the consolidated financial statements. As a result, as of
December 31, 2023, the Group did not record any liabilities for the loss contingencies pertaining to the cases described above.
For many proceedings, the Group is currently unable to estimate the reasonably possible loss or a range of reasonably possible losses as the proceedings
are in the early stages, and/or there is a lack of clear or consistent interpretation of laws specific to the industry-specific complaints among different
jurisdictions. As a result, there is considerable uncertainty regarding the timing or ultimate resolution of such matters, which includes eventual loss, fine,
penalty or business impact, if any, and therefore, an estimate for the reasonably possible loss or a range of reasonably possible losses cannot be made.
However, the Group believes that such matters, individually and in the aggregate, when finally resolved, are not reasonably likely to have a material
adverse effect on the Group’s consolidated results of operations, financial position and cash flows. With respect to the limited number of proceedings for
which the Group was able to estimate the reasonably possible losses or the range of reasonably possible losses, such loss estimates were insignificant.
F-69
Table of Contents
BAIDU, INC.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2021, 2022 AND 2023
20. REDEEMABLE NONCONTROLLING INTERESTS
Balance as of January 1
Issuance of subsidiary shares
Accretion of redeemable noncontrolling interests
Disposal of subsidiaries’ shares
Reclassification of ordinary shares from mezzanine equity to ordinary shares
Repurchase of redeemable noncontrolling interests
Balance as of December 31
2021
RMB
2022
RMB
2023
RMB
2023
US$
3,102
4,722
391
—
(153)
(914)
7,148
(In millions)
7,148
1,208
593
(556)
—
—
8,393
8,393
351
721
—
—
—
9,465
1,182
49
102
—
—
—
1,333
In 2021 and 2022, SLG issued 62,697,683 and 5,639,407, respectively, preferred shares to certain non-controlling shareholders, which could be
redeemed by such shareholders upon the occurrence of certain events that are not solely within the control of the Company. Therefore, these preferred
shares were accounted for as redeemable noncontrolling interests.
In 2021, 2022 and 2023, Baidu Kunlun issued 1,897,800, 1,068,363 and 407,103, respectively, preferred shares to certain non-controlling shareholders,
which could be redeemed by such shareholders upon the occurrence of certain events that are not solely within the control of the Company. Therefore,
these preferred shares were accounted for as redeemable noncontrolling interests.
The Company also have other subsidiaries or VIEs that have issued preferred shares which were accounted for as redeemable noncontrolling interests.
As of December 31, 2023, those redeemable noncontrolling interests were insignificant.
The Company accounts for the changes in accretion to the redemption value in accordance with ASC Topic 480, Distinguishing Liabilities from Equity.
The Company elects to use the effective interest method to account for the changes of redemption value over the period from the date of issuance to the
earliest redemption date of the noncontrolling interest.
21.
SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY
Shares
The authorized share capital consisted of 69,632,000,000 shares at a par value of US$0.000000625 per share (previously US$0.00005 per share before
the Share Subdivision as detailed in Note 1), of which 66,000,000,000 shares were designated as Class A ordinary shares, 2,832,000,000 as Class B
ordinary shares, and 800,000,000 shares designated as preferred shares (previously 825,000,000 shares were designated as Class A ordinary shares,
35,400,000 as Class B ordinary shares, and 10,000,000 shares designated as preferred shares before the Share Subdivision as detailed in Note 1). The
rights of the holders of Class A and Class B ordinary shares are identical, except with respect to voting and conversion rights. Each share of Class A
ordinary shares is entitled to one vote per share and is not convertible into Class B ordinary shares under any circumstances. Each share of Class B
ordinary shares is entitled to ten votes per share and is convertible into one Class A ordinary share at any time by the holder thereof. Upon any transfer
of Class B ordinary shares by a holder thereof to any person or entity that is not an affiliate of such holder, such Class B ordinary shares would be
automatically converted into an equal
F-70
Table of Contents
BAIDU, INC.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2021, 2022 AND 2023
number of Class A ordinary shares. The number of Class B ordinary shares transferred to Class A ordinary shares were 12,600,000, 17,200,000 and
17,320,000 during the years ended December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023, respectively.
On May 13, 2020, the Company announced a share repurchase program (“2020 share repurchase program”) under which the Company proposed to
acquire up to an aggregate of US$1.0 billion of its ordinary shares, effective until July 1, 2021 in the open market or through privately negotiated
transactions, depending on market conditions and in accordance with applicable rules and regulations. In August 2020, the board of directors approved a
change to the 2020 share repurchase program, increasing the repurchase authorization from US$1.0 billion to US$3.0 billion, and in December 2020, the
repurchase authorization was further increased from US$3.0 billion to US$4.5 billion, which is effective through December 31, 2022. In February 2023,
the board of directors authorized a share repurchase program, under which the Company may repurchase up to US$5.0 billion of its ADSs or shares,
effective until December 31, 2025.
The Company repurchased 57,343,528, 17,307,400 and 42,661,000 Class A ordinary shares from the open market with an aggregate purchase price of
RMB7.6 billion, RMB1.9 billion and RMB4.8 billion (US$669 million) during the years ended December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023, respectively, which
has been approved by the Company’s board of directors. The repurchased shares were recorded in the treasury stock account.
Treasury stock
The treasury stock account includes 49,408,840 and 41,182,672 ordinary shares repurchased from the open market as of December 31, 2022 and 2023,
respectively.
Such treasury stock is reserved for future issuance upon the exercise of the vested share options and the vesting of restricted shares. During the year
ended December 31, 2023, 50,887,168 ordinary shares had been reissued to employees and directors upon the exercise of share options and vesting of
restricted shares.
Retained Earnings
In accordance with the Regulations on Enterprises with Foreign Investment of China and their articles of association, the Company’s PRC subsidiaries,
being foreign invested enterprises established in China, are required to make appropriations to certain statutory reserves, namely a general reserve fund,
an enterprise expansion fund, a staff welfare fund and a bonus fund, all of which are appropriated from net profit as reported in their PRC statutory
accounts. Each of the Company’s PRC subsidiaries is required to allocate at least 10% of its after-tax profits to a general reserve fund until such fund has
reached 50% of its respective registered capital. Appropriations to the enterprise expansion fund and staff welfare and bonus funds are at the discretion
of the Company’s subsidiaries.
In accordance with the China Company Laws, the Company’s VIEs must make appropriations from their after-tax profits as reported in their PRC
statutory accounts to non-distributable reserve funds, namely a statutory surplus fund, a statutory public welfare fund and a discretionary surplus fund.
Each of the Company’s VIEs is required to allocate at least 10% of its after-tax profits to the statutory surplus fund until such fund has reached 50% of
its respective registered capital. Appropriations to the statutory public welfare fund and the discretionary surplus fund are made at the discretion of the
Company’s VIEs.
General reserve and statutory surplus funds are restricted to set-off against losses, expansion of production and operation and increasing registered
capital of the respective company. Staff welfare and bonus fund and statutory
F-71
Table of Contents
BAIDU, INC.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2021, 2022 AND 2023
public welfare funds are restricted to capital expenditures for the collective welfare of employees. The reserves are not allowed to be transferred to the
Company in the form of cash dividends, loans or advances, nor are they allowed for distribution except under liquidation.
PRC statutory reserve funds
Unreserved retained earnings
Total retained earnings
2022
RMB
As of December 31,
2023
RMB
(In millions)
2023
US$
1,218
147,123
148,341
1,567
159,673
161,240
221
22,489
22,710
Under PRC laws and regulations, there are restrictions on the Company’s PRC subsidiaries and VIEs with respect to transferring certain of their net
assets to the Company either in the form of dividends, loans, or advances. Amounts of net assets restricted include paid in capital and statutory reserve
funds of the Company’s PRC subsidiaries and the net assets of the VIEs in which the Company has no legal ownership, totaling RMB47.3 billion and
RMB48.0 billion (US$6.8 billion) as of December 31, 2022 and 2023, respectively.
Furthermore, cash transfers from the Company’s PRC subsidiaries to their parent companies outside of China are subject to PRC government control of
currency conversion. Shortages in the availability of foreign currency may restrict the ability of the PRC subsidiaries and variable interest entities and
their subsidiaries to remit sufficient foreign currency to pay dividends or other payments to the Company, or otherwise satisfy their foreign currency
denominated obligations.
F-72
Table of Contents
BAIDU, INC.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2021, 2022 AND 2023
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
The changes in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) by component, net of tax, were as follows:
Foreign
currency
translation
adjustments
RMB
Unrealized
gains (losses) on
available-for-sale
investments
RMB
Unrealized
gains
(losses) on
derivatives
RMB
Balance at December 31, 2020
Other comprehensive (loss) income before reclassification
Net current-period other comprehensive (loss) income
Other comprehensive (loss) income attribute to noncontrolling interests and
redeemable noncontrolling interests
Balance at December 31, 2021
Cumulative effect of accounting change
Other comprehensive (loss) income before reclassification
Net current-period other comprehensive (loss) income
Other comprehensive income (loss) attribute to noncontrolling interests and
redeemable noncontrolling interests
Balance at December 31, 2022
Other comprehensive loss before reclassification
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income
Net current-period other comprehensive loss
Other comprehensive income attribute to noncontrolling interests and
redeemable noncontrolling interests
Balance at December 31, 2023
Balance at December 31, 2023, in US$
(840)
(88)
(88)
(79)
(1,007)
13
(764)
(751)
432
(1,326)
(626)
(287)
(913)
88
(2,151)
(303)
(In millions)
1,039
(190)
(190)
1
850
—
(392)
(392)
(1)
457
(188)
(13)
(201)
7
263
37
—
149
149
—
149
—
1,266
1,266
—
1,415
(422)
—
(422)
—
993
140
Total
RMB
199
(129)
(129)
(78)
(8)
13
110
123
431
546
(1,236)
(300)
(1,536)
95
(895)
(126)
The amounts reclassified out of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) represent realized foreign currency translation adjustments, which
mainly arose from the disposal of the Group’s partial interests in Trip and realized gains (losses) on the sales of available-for-sale investments, which
were recorded in “Others, net” in the consolidated statements of comprehensive income. The amounts reclassified were determined on the basis of
specific identification. Losses on intracompany foreign currency transactions that are of a long-term-investment nature in the amount of
RMB537 million, and gains in the amount of RMB2.1 billion, RMB687 million (US$97 million) were included in the foreign currency translation
adjustments for the years ended December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023, respectively.
F-73
Table of Contents
BAIDU, INC.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2021, 2022 AND 2023
The following table sets forth the tax benefit (expense) allocated to each component of other comprehensive (loss) income for the years ended
December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023:
Unrealized (losses) gains on available-for-sale investments
Other comprehensive (loss) income before reclassification
Net current-period other comprehensive (loss) income
22. EARNINGS PER SHARE
For the years ended December 31,
2021
RMB
2022
RMB
2023
RMB
(In millions)
2023
US$
(3)
(3)
28
28
(13)
(13)
(2)
(2)
Following the Share Subdivision as detailed in Notes 1, each ordinary share was subdivided into eighty ordinary shares and each ADS represents eight
Class A ordinary shares.
A reconciliation of net income attributable to Baidu, Inc. in the consolidated statements of comprehensive income to the numerator for the computation
of basic and diluted earnings per share for the years ended December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023 is as follows:
Net income attributable to Baidu, Inc.
Accretion of the redeemable noncontrolling interests
Numerator for basic EPS computation
Impact of diluted securities of subsidiaries and equity method investees
Numerator for diluted EPS computation
F-74
For the years ended December 31,
2021
RMB
2022
RMB
2023
RMB
2023
US$
(In millions, including number of shares,
except for per share data)
10,226
(350)
9,876
—
9,876
7,559
(591)
6,968
—
6,968
20,315
(717)
19,598
(44)
19,554
2,861
(101)
2,760
(6)
2,754
Table of Contents
BAIDU, INC.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2021, 2022 AND 2023
The following table sets forth the computation of basic and diluted earnings per Class A and Class B ordinary share and basic and diluted earnings per
ADS:
Earnings per share—basic:
Numerator
Allocation of net income attributable to Baidu, Inc.
Denominator
Weighted average ordinary shares outstanding
Denominator used for basic EPS
Earnings per share—basic
Earnings per share—diluted:
Numerator
Allocation of net income attributable to Baidu, Inc. for diluted computation
Reallocation of net income attributable to Baidu, Inc. as a result of conversion of Class B to
Class A shares
Numerator for diluted EPS calculation
Denominator
Weighted average ordinary shares outstanding
Conversion of Class B to Class A ordinary shares
Share-based awards
Denominator used for diluted EPS
Earnings per share—diluted
Earnings per ADS (1 ADS equals 8 Class A ordinary shares):
Denominator used for earnings per ADS—basic
Denominator used for earnings per ADS—diluted
Earnings per ADS—basic
Earnings per ADS—diluted
For the years ended December 31,
2021
2022
2023
2023
Class A Class B Class A Class B Class A Class A Class B Class B
RMB RMB RMB RMB RMB US$ RMB US$
(In millions, including number of shares and ADS, except for
per share and per ADS data)
7,871 2,005 5,590 1,378 15,905 2,240 3,693
520
2,198
2,198
560 2,232
560 2,232
550 2,278 2,278
550 2,278 2,278
529
529
529
529
3.58 3.58 2.50 2.50
6.98 0.98 6.98 0.98
7,910 1,966 5,604 1,364 15,909 2,241 3,645
513
1,966 — 1,364 — 3,645
9,876 1,966 6,968 1,364 19,554 2,754 3,645
513 — —
513
2,198
560 2,232
560 —
56 —
550 —
27 —
550 2,278 2,278
529
30
550 2,837 2,837
529
529
529 — —
30 — —
529
529
2,814
560 2,809
3.51 3.51 2.48 2.48
6.89 0.97 6.89 0.97
275
352
28.64
28.07
279
351
20.02
19.85
285
355
285
355
55.83 7.86
55.08 7.76
The Company did not include the effect of convertible senior notes issued by iQIYI, other subsidiaries and investees in the computation of diluted
earnings per share for the years ended December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023, as its effect would be anti-dilutive. The Company did not include the effect
of certain share options issued by iQIYI, other subsidiaries and investees in the computation of diluted earnings per share for the years ended December
31, 2021 and 2022, as its effect would be anti-dilutive.
F-75
Table of Contents
BAIDU, INC.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2021, 2022 AND 2023
23.
SHARE-BASED AWARDS PLAN
Baidu, Inc.
2008 Share Incentive plan
In December 2008, the Company adopted a share incentive plan (the “2008 Plan”), which provides for the granting of share incentives, including
incentive share options (“ISOs”), restricted shares and any other form of award pursuant to the 2008 Plan, to members of the board, employees,
consultants and non-employees of the Company. The Company reserved 274,302,160 Class A ordinary shares (previously 3,428,777 Class A ordinary
shares before the Share Subdivision as detailed in Note 1) for issuance under the 2008 Plan, which expired in the year 2018. The vesting schedule, time
and condition to exercise options is determined by the Company’s compensation committee. The term of the options may not exceed ten years from the
date of the grant, except that five years is the maximum term of an ISO granted to an employee who holds more than 10% of the voting power of the
Company’s share capital.
2018 Share Incentive Plan
In July 2018, the Company adopted a share incentive plan (the “2018 Plan”), which provides for the granting of share incentives, including ISOs,
restricted shares and any other form of award pursuant to the 2018 Plan, to members of the board, employees, consultants, and non-employees of the
Company. The 2018 Plan has a ten-year term and a maximum number of 275,516,000 Class A ordinary shares (previously 3,443,950 Class A ordinary
shares before the Share Subdivision as detailed in Note 1) available for issuance pursuant to all awards under the 2018 Plan.
2023 Share Incentive Plan
In August 2023, the Company adopted a share incentive plan (the “2023 Plan”), which provides for the granting of ISOs, restricted shares, restricted
share units; and any other form of awards granted to a participant pursuant to the 2023 plan to members of the board, employees, and consultants of the
Company. The 2023 Plan has a maximum number of 281,230,346 Class A ordinary shares available for issuance pursuant to all awards under the 2023
Plan.
Under the 2008 Plan, the 2018 Plan and the 2023 Plan, the exercise price of an option may be amended or adjusted at the discretion of the compensation
committee, the determination of which would be final, binding and conclusive. To the extent not prohibited by applicable laws or exchange rules, a
downward adjustment of the exercise prices would be effective without the approval of the Company’s shareholders or the approval of the affected
grantees. If the Company grants an ISO to an employee who, at the time of that grant, owns shares representing more than 10% of the voting power of
all classes of the Company’s share capital, the exercise price cannot be less than 110% of the fair market value of the Company’s ordinary shares on the
date of that grant.
Following the Share Subdivision that took effect on March 1, 2021 as detailed in Notes 1, each Class A ordinary share was subdivided into eighty
Class A ordinary shares and each ADS represents eight Class A ordinary shares. Prior and subsequent to March 1, 2021, one ordinary share was and will
be issuable upon the vesting of one outstanding restricted share or the exercise of one outstanding share option, respectively. Therefore, following the
Share Subdivision, each share option and restricted share is subdivided into eighty share options and eighty restricted shares, the weighted average grant
date fair value per restricted share and the weighted average exercise price per share option is diluted by eighty times. The number of restricted shares
and share options, the weighted average grant date fair value per restricted share and the weighted average exercise price per share option has been
retrospectively adjusted for the Share Subdivision in the following tables.
F-76
Table of Contents
BAIDU, INC.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2021, 2022 AND 2023
Incentive share options
The following table summarizes the option activity for the year ended December 31, 2023:
Number of share
options
Weighted average
exercise price
(US$)
Weighted
average
remaining
contractual life
(Years)
Aggregate
intrinsic
value (US$ in
millions)
Incentive share options
Outstanding, December 31, 2022
Granted
Exercised
Forfeited/Cancelled
Outstanding, December 31, 2023
Vested and expected to vest at December 31,
2023
Exercisable at December 31, 2023
19,669,296
—
(1,388,560)
(497,616)
17,783,120
17,149,656
16,017,392
19
—
11
14
19
19
19
5.6
4.4
4.3
4.0
20
17
17
17
Total intrinsic value of options exercised for the years ended December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023 was RMB210 million, RMB124 million and
RMB64 million (US$9 million), respectively. The total fair value of options vested during the years ended December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023 was
RMB217 million, RMB193 million and RMB85 million (US$12 million), respectively.
Share options are usually subject to vesting schedules ranging from two to four years. As of December 31, 2023, RMB50 million (US$7 million) of
unrecognized share-based compensation cost related to share options is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average vesting period of 2.1 years.
To the extent the actual forfeiture rate is different from the original estimate, actual share-based compensation costs related to these awards may be
different from expectation.
The fair value of each option award was estimated on the date of grant using the Black-Scholes-Merton valuation model. The volatility assumption was
estimated based on historical volatility of the Company’s share price applying the guidance provided by ASC 718. Assumptions of the expected term
were based on the vesting and contractual terms and employee demographics. The risk-free rate for periods within the contractual life of the option is
based on the U.S. Treasury yield curve in effect at the time of grant.
The following table presents the assumptions used to estimate the fair values of the share options granted in the years presented:
Risk-free interest rate
Dividend yield
Expected volatility range
Expected life (in years)
For the years ended December 31,
2022
2021
1.92~2.96%
0.63~1.23%
—
—
40.66%~47.03%
38.12%~39.82%
5.26~5.49
5.80~5.86
F-77
Table of Contents
BAIDU, INC.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2021, 2022 AND 2023
Note: The company didn’t grant share options in 2023.
In addition, the Company recognizes share-based compensation expense net of estimated forfeiture for shares expected to vest over the service period of
the award. Estimated forfeiture rates are primarily based on historical experience of employee turnover. To the extent the Company revises this estimate
in the future, share-based compensation expense could be materially impacted in the year of revision, as well as in the following years.
The exercise price of options granted during the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2022 equaled the market price of the ordinary shares on the grant
date. The weighted-average grant-date fair value of options granted during the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2022 was US$12 and US$8,
respectively.
Restricted Shares
Restricted Shares activity for the year ended December 31, 2023 was as follow:
Restricted Shares
Unvested, December 31, 2022
Granted
Vested
Forfeited/Cancelled
Unvested, December 31, 2023
Number of shares
126,250,360
35,125,120
(49,878,448)
(15,334,944)
96,162,088
Weighted average grant date
fair value (US$)
17
17
17
17
17
The total fair value of the restricted shares vested during the years ended December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023 was RMB5.0 billion, RMB6.2 billion and
RMB6.1 billion (US$861 million), respectively. The weighted-average grant-date fair value of the Restricted Shares granted during the years ended
December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023 was US$23, US$15 and US$17, respectively.
As of December 31, 2023, there was RMB4.9 billion (US$686 million) of unrecognized share-based compensation cost related to restricted shares,
which is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average vesting period of 2.6 years. To the extent the actual forfeiture rate is different from the
original estimate, the actual share-based compensation costs related to these awards may be different from expectation. To the extent the Company
revises this estimate in the future, share-based compensation expense could be materially impacted in the year of revision, as well as in the following
years.
Subsidiaries-iQIYI
2010 Equity Incentive Plan
In October 2010, iQIYI adopted its 2010 Equity Incentive Plan (the “iQIYI 2010 Plan”), which permits the grant of restricted shares, options and share
appreciation rights to the employees, directors, officers and consultants to purchase iQIYI’s ordinary shares. The 2010 Plan is valid and effective for an
original term of ten years, and further extended to twenty years on September 15, 2020 commencing from its adoption. Except for service conditions,
there were no other vesting conditions for all the awards under the 2010 Plan. As of December 31, 2023, the share option pool under the iQIYI 2010
Plan approved by the Board of Directors of iQIYI was 589,729,714 iQIYI’s ordinary shares. All options granted vest over a four-year period.
F-78
Table of Contents
BAIDU, INC.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2021, 2022 AND 2023
2021 Equity Incentive Plan
On December 2, 2021, iQIYI adopted its 2021 Equity Incentive Plan (the “iQIYI 2021 Plan”), which permits the grant of restricted shares units and
options to the directors, employees, consultants and other individuals of iQIYI. Under the 2021 Plan, the maximum aggregate number of ordinary shares
which may be issued pursuant to all awards shall initially be 364,000,000 iQIYI’s ordinary shares, provided that if restricted share units or options with
US$0 exercise price are granted, each restricted share unit and option with US$0 exercise price (that entitles the holder to one ordinary share) granted
shall reduce the number of ordinary shares under the 2021 Plan available for future grants by 1.3 ordinary shares. The 2021 Plan is valid and effective
for a term of ten years commencing from its adoption. Except for service conditions, there were no other vesting conditions for all the awards under the
2021 Plan. Any unvested portion of the restricted shares units and options will be forfeited upon the termination of the grantee’s service for any reason.
In the event the grantee’s service is terminated for cause other than death or permanent disability, the vested portion of the options will be expired upon
90 days following such termination. In 2023, iQIYI has granted options under the 2021 Plan to its employees and directors. All options vest over a four-
year period.
The following table sets forth the summary of employee option activity for the year ended December 31, 2023:
Outstanding, December 31, 2022
Granted
Forfeited/Expired
Exercised
Outstanding, December 31, 2023
Vested and expected to vest at December 31,
2023
Exercisable at December 31, 2023
Number of share options
479,471,102
90,174,000
(15,212,381)
(22,145,907)
532,286,814
512,532,464
321,994,786
Weighted
average
exercise price
(US$)
0.35
0.08
0.22
0.35
0.31
0.32
0.44
Weighted
average
remaining
contractual life
(Years)
6.8
Aggregate
Intrinsic
value (US$ in
millions)
193
6.3
6.2
4.8
205
193
82
As of December 31, 2023, there was RMB878 million (US$124 million) of unrecognized share-based compensation cost related to share options granted
by iQIYI which is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of 2.5 years.
The following table summarizes the share-based compensation cost recognized by iQIYI:
Cost of revenues
Selling, general and administrative
Research and development
F-79
For the years ended December 31,
2021
RMB
173
718
328
1,219
2022
RMB
2023
RMB
(In millions)
148
424
239
811
133
315
189
637
2023
US$
19
44
27
90
Table of Contents
BAIDU, INC.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2021, 2022 AND 2023
Other Subsidiaries
In fiscal year 2023, several subsidiaries of the Company have granted restricted shares and share options tied to the valuation of the subsidiaries to the
employees of the Company, of which will be settled by the subsidiaries upon vesting or exercise of these awards. These awards are generally subject to a
four-year vesting schedule as determined by the administrator of the plan. During the year ended December 31, 2023, the expenses recognized in respect
of the share-based awards relating to these subsidiaries are insignificant.
The following table summarizes the total share-based compensation cost recognized by the Group:
For the years ended December 31,
2021
2023
RMB RMB RMB US$
2023
2022
Cost of revenues
Selling, general and administrative
Research and development
24. RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS
Related party transactions with investees
(In millions)
399
1,840
4,817
7,056
409
1,750
4,629
6,788
590
1,678
4,077
6,345
83
236
575
894
Related party transactions provided by the Company primarily related to online marketing services, cloud services and other services. The following
table summarizes the revenue recognized from transactions with investees for the years ended December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023.
For the years ended December 31,
2021
2023
RMB RMB RMB US$
2023
2022
Revenues:
Related Party A
Related Party B
Related Party D
Related Party E(i)
Other Investees
Total
(In millions)
315
888
123
126
915
2,367
158
889
257
—
939
2,243
540
924
338
—
897
2,699
76
130
48
—
126
380
(i)
The transactions mainly represent revenues arising from services including online marketing services and cloud services the Company provided to
Related Party E. Related Party E ceases to be a related party from February 2021 as the Company does not have significant influence over Related
Party E after its public listing.
The Group purchased content, traffic acquisition and other services from equity investees in an amount of RMB3.0 billion, RMB2.2 billion and
RMB2.6 billion (US$361 million) for the years ended December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023, respectively.
F-80
Table of Contents
BAIDU, INC.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2021, 2022 AND 2023
Related party transactions with others
In 2021, 2022 and 2023, related party transactions with Related Party C, over which the Company can significantly influence its management or
operating policies, were in the total amount of RMB2.0 billion, RMB2.2 billion and RMB1.8 billion (US$256 million), respectively, and mainly
comprised online marketing services provided to Related Party C.
In addition, other related party transactions were insignificant for each of the years presented, which included reimbursements to Robin Li’s use of an
aircraft beneficially owned by his family member used for the Company’s business purposes.
Balances of due from/due to related parties
As of December 31, 2022 and 2023, amounts due from/due to related parties were as follows:
Except for the non-trade balances as of December 31, 2022 and 2023 relating to transactions disclosed below, amounts due from/due to related parties
arising from the ordinary and usual course of business of the Group and were trade in nature.
Amounts due from related parties, current:
Related Party B(i)
Related Party C(ii)
Related Party D(iii)
Other related parties(iv)
Total
Amounts due from related parties, non-current:
Related Party B(i)
Other related parties(v)
Total
Amounts due to related parties, current:
Related Party B(vi)
Related Party F(vii)
Other related parties(viii)
Total
Amounts due to related parties, non-current:
Related Party F(vii)
Other related parties(ix)
Total
As of December 31,
2022
RMB
2023
RMB
(In millions)
2023
US$
3,730
337
1,059
306
5,432
341
229
499
355
1,424
48
32
70
51
201
—
60
60
36
159
195
5
22
27
3,912
66
1,089
5,067
517
76
1,010
1,603
73
11
142
226
98
1
99
76
1
77
11
—
11
(i)
The balance represents non-trade loans due from Related Party B with interest rates ranging from 0.00% to 0.50%, which were fully repaid in
December 2023, and receivables arising from providing online marketing services, cloud services and other services to Related Party B.
F-81
Table of Contents
BAIDU, INC.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2021, 2022 AND 2023
(ii)
(iii)
(iv)
(v)
(vi)
The balance mainly represents receivables arising from providing online marketing services to Related Party C.
The balance mainly represents non-trade loans due from Related Party D with interest rates of 3.465%, which were fully repaid in January 2023,
unsettled receivables, and account receivables arising from providing technical services to Related Party D.
The balance mainly represents amounts arising from content distribution services, cloud services and other services the Company provided to its
investees in ordinary course of business.
The balance mainly represents prepayments for licensed copyrights to be received from the Company’s equity investees.
The balance represents non-trade loans due to Related Party B with interest rates of nil, which were fully settled in December 2023, and amounts
arising from purchasing services from Related Party B in the ordinary course of business.
The balance mainly represents deferred revenue in relation to licenses of intellectual property to be provided to Related Party F.
(vii)
(viii) The balance mainly represents amounts arising from services including advertising services and licensing of content assets provided by the
Company’s investees and non-trade amounts payable for acquiring the equity interest of the Company’s investees.
The balance mainly represents deferred revenue relating to the future services to be provided by the Company to investees.
(ix)
25.
SEGMENT REPORTING
The Company’s operations are organized into two segments, consisting of Baidu Core and iQIYI. Baidu Core mainly provides search-based, feed-based
and other online marketing services, cloud services, products and other services from its new AI initiatives. iQIYI is an online entertainment service
provider that offers original, professionally produced and partner-generated content on its platform.
The Company derives the results of the segments directly from its internal management reporting system. The CODM reviews the performance of each
segment based on its operating results and uses these results to evaluate the performance of, and to allocate resources to, each of the segments. Because
substantially all of the Group’s long-lived assets and revenues are located in and derived from the PRC, geographical segments are not presented. The
Company does not allocate assets to its segments as the CODM does not evaluate the performance of segments using asset information.
F-82
Table of Contents
BAIDU, INC.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2021, 2022 AND 2023
The table below provides a summary of the Group’s operating segment operating results for the year ended December 31, 2021.
Total revenues
Operating costs and expenses:
Cost of revenues
Selling, general and administrative
Research and development
Total operating costs and expenses
Operating profit (loss)
Total other income (loss), net
Income (loss) before income taxes
Income taxes
Net income (loss)
Less: net income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests
Net income (loss) attributable to Baidu, Inc.
F-83
For the year ended December 31, 2021
Baidu
Core
RMB
iQIYI
RMB
Intersegment
eliminations
RMB
(In millions)
Consolidated
RMB
95,163
30,554
(1,224)
124,493
37,838
20,040
22,143
80,021
15,142
1,793
16,935
27,513
4,725
2,795
35,033
(4,479)
(1,533)
(6,012)
3,090
13,845
97
(6,109)
288
13,557
61
(6,170)
(1,037)
(42)
—
(1,079)
(145)
—
(145)
—
(145)
(2,984)
2,839
64,314
24,723
24,938
113,975
10,518
260
10,778
3,187
7,591
(2,635)
10,226
Table of Contents
BAIDU, INC.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2021, 2022 AND 2023
The table below provides a summary of the Group’s operating segment operating results for the year ended December 31, 2022.
Total revenues
Operating costs and expenses:
Cost of revenues
Selling, general and administrative
Research and development
Total operating costs and expenses
Operating profit
Total other loss, net
Income (loss) before income taxes
Income taxes
Net income (loss)
Less: net income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests
Net income (loss) attributable to Baidu, Inc.
F-84
For the year ended December 31, 2022
Baidu
Core
RMB
iQIYI
RMB
Intersegment
eliminations
RMB
(In millions)
Consolidated
RMB
95,431
28,998
(754)
123,675
42,378
17,103
21,416
80,897
14,534
(4,453)
10,081
2,494
7,587
36
7,551
22,321
3,466
1,899
27,686
1,312
(1,346)
(34)
84
(118)
18
(136)
(764)
(55)
—
(819)
65
—
65
—
65
(79)
144
63,935
20,514
23,315
107,764
15,911
(5,799)
10,112
2,578
7,534
(25)
7,559
Table of Contents
BAIDU, INC.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2021, 2022 AND 2023
The table below provides a summary of the Group’s operating segment operating results for the year ended December 31, 2023.
Total revenues
Operating costs and expenses:
Cost of revenues
Selling, general and administrative
Research and development
Total operating costs and expenses
Operating profit
Total other income (loss), net
Income before income taxes
Income taxes
Net income
Less: net income attributable to noncontrolling interests
Net income (loss) attributable to Baidu, Inc.
For the year ended December 31, 2023
Baidu Core
iQIYI
Intersegment
eliminations
Consolidated
RMB
US$
RMB
US$
RMB
US$
RMB
US$
(In millions)
103,465 14,573 31,873 4,489
(740) (104) 134,598 18,958
(664)
(118)
(94) 65,031 9,159
42,592 5,999 23,103 3,254
19,623 2,765 4,014 565
(16) 23,519 3,314
22,425 3,158 1,767 249 — — 24,192 3,407
(782) (110) 112,742 15,880
84,640 11,922 28,884 4,068
6 21,856 3,078
18,825 2,651 2,989 421
472
3,342
6 25,198 3,550
514
3,649
6 21,549 3,036
42
11 — —
42
19,555 2,755 1,952 275
23,123 3,258 2,033 286
(956) (135) — —
4,298
3,568
607
503
42
81
154
175
19,401 2,733 1,925 271 (1,011) (143) 20,315 2,861
4 1,053 149
1,234
27
22
The following table presents the Group’s revenues disaggregated by segment and by types of products or services:
For the years ended December 31,
2021
RMB
2022
RMB
2023
RMB
2023
US$
Online marketing services
Cloud services (i)
Others (i)
Baidu Core Subtotal
Membership services (i)
Online advertising services (ii)
Content distribution (i)
Others (i)
iQIYI Subtotal
Intersegment eliminations
Total revenues
6,174
8,188
(In millions)
73,919 69,522 75,112 10,579
15,070 17,721 18,718 2,636
9,635 1,358
95,163 95,431 103,465 14,573
16,714 17,711 20,314 2,861
877
346
405
6,224
2,459
2,876
5,332
2,562
3,393
7,067
3,007
3,766
30,554 28,998 31,873 4,489
(104)
(754)
124,493 123,675 134,598 18,958
(1,224)
(740)
(i)
The revenues were presented as “Others” in the consolidated statements of comprehensive income.
(ii)
The revenues were presented as “Online marketing services” in the consolidated statements of comprehensive income.
F-85
Table of Contents
BAIDU, INC.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2021, 2022 AND 2023
26. FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS
ASC 820 establishes a three-tier fair value hierarchy, which prioritizes the inputs used in measuring fair value as follows:
Level 1
Level 2
– Observable inputs that reflect quoted prices (unadjusted) for identical assets or liabilities in active markets.
–
Include observable inputs other than quoted prices included in Level 1, such as quoted prices for similar assets and liabilities in active
markets, quoted prices for identical or similar assets and liabilities in markets that are not active, or other inputs that are observable or
can be corroborated by observable market data.
Level 3
– Unobservable inputs which are supported by little or no market activity.
ASC 820 describes three main approaches to measuring the fair value of assets and liabilities: (1) market approach; (2) income approach and (3) cost
approach. The market approach uses prices and other relevant information generated from market transactions involving identical or comparable assets
or liabilities. The income approach uses valuation techniques to convert future amounts to a single present value amount. The measurement is based on
the value indicated by current market expectations about those future amounts. The cost approach is based on the amount that would currently be
required to replace an asset.
Assets and Liabilities Measured or Disclosed at Fair Value on a recurring basis
In accordance with ASC 820, the Group measures equity investments with readily determinable fair value, investments accounted for at fair value,
available-for-sale debt investments and derivatives instruments at fair value on a recurring basis. The fair values of time deposits are determined based
on the prevailing interest rates in the market. The fair values of the Group’s held-to-maturity debt investments as disclosed are determined based on the
discounted cash flow model using the discount curve of market interest rates. The fair value of the Group’s short-term available-for-sale debt
investments are measured using the income approach, based on quoted market interest rates of a similar instrument and other significant inputs derived
from or corroborated by observable market data. The fair values of the Group’s equity investments in equity securities of publicly listed companies are
measured using quoted market prices. The fair value of derivative instruments of interest rate swaps are based on broker quotes. The fair value of
financial liability is estimated based on the quoted market price of a similar asset to the underlying assets. Investments accounted for at fair value are
equity investments in listed and unlisted companies held by consolidated investment companies. These investments in unlisted companies and long-term
available-for-sale debt investments do not have readily determinable market value, which were categorized as Level 3 in the fair value hierarchy. The
Group uses a market approach based on the Group’s best estimate, which is determined by using information including but not limited to the pricing of
recent rounds of financing of the investees, liquidity factors and multiples of a selection of comparable companies.
The fair values of the Group’s notes payable are extracted directly from their quoted market prices. The fair values of the convertible senior notes are
classified as Level 2 or Level 3 in the fair value hierarchy. The Group carries the convertible senior notes at face value less unamortized debt discount
and issuance costs on its consolidated balance sheets and presents the fair value for disclosure purposes only. For further information on the convertible
senior notes, see Note 15.
F-86
Table of Contents
BAIDU, INC.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2021, 2022 AND 2023
Assets and liabilities measured on a recurring basis or disclosed at fair value are summarized below:
Total fair value at
December 31, 2022
RMB
Fair value measurement or disclosure
at December 31, 2022 using
Quoted prices in
active markets for
identical assets
(Level 1)
RMB
Significant other
observable
inputs
(Level 2)
RMB
(In millions)
Significant
unobservable
inputs
(Level 3)
RMB
Fair value disclosure(i)
Cash equivalents:
Time deposits
Money market funds
Short-term investments:
Held-to-maturity debt investments
Long-term investments:
Long-term time deposits and held-to-maturity investments
Notes payable, current portion
Convertible senior notes, current portion
Notes payable, non-current portion
Convertible senior notes, non-current portion
Fair value measurements on a recurring basis
Short-term investments:
Available-for-sale debt investments
Long-term investments:
12,968
3
120,464
23,688
6,812
6,756
36,268
7,253
3
12,968
120,464
23,688
6,812
6,756
36,268
7,253
855
855
Equity investments at fair value with readily determinable
fair value
Equity investments without readily determinable fair value
12,100
12,100
using NAV practical expedient(ii)
Investments accounted for at fair value
Available-for-sale debt investments
Other non-current assets:
Derivative instruments
Total assets measured at fair value
Amounts due to related parties, current:
Financial liability
Total liabilities measured at fair value
945
4,616
2,447
1,416
22,379
328
328
F-87
97
12,197
4,519
2,447
6,966
1,416
2,271
328
328
Table of Contents
BAIDU, INC.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2021, 2022 AND 2023
Fair value disclosure(i)
Cash equivalents:
Time deposits
Short-term investments:
Held-to-maturity debt investments
Long-term investments:
Total fair value at
December 31, 2023
US$
RMB
6,266
883
167,740
23,626
Long-term time deposits and held-to-maturity investments
24,872
3,503
Notes payable, current portion
Convertible senior notes, current portion
Notes payable, non-current portion
Convertible senior notes, non-current portion
Fair value measurements on a recurring basis
Short-term investments:
Available-for-sale debt investments
Long-term investments:
5,999
2,727
845
384
32,742
4,612
8,881
1,251
Fair value measurement or disclosure
at December 31, 2023 using
Quoted prices in
active markets for
identical assets
(Level 1)
RMB
(In millions)
Significant other
observable
inputs
(Level 2)
RMB
Significant
unobservable
inputs
(Level 3)
RMB
6,266
167,740
24,872
5,999
2,727
32,742
3,757
5,124
4,775
3,259
8,034
1,671
235
1,671
Equity investments at fair value with readily determinable fair
value
9,610
1,354
9,610
Equity investments without readily determinable fair value using
NAV practical expedient(ii)
Investments accounted for at fair value
Available-for-sale debt investments
Other non-current assets:
Derivative instruments
Total assets measured at fair value
Amounts due to related parties, current:
Financial liability
Total liabilities measured at fair value
942
4,841
3,682
133
682
519
994
21,740
140
3,063
321
321
45
45
66
9,676
423
994
3,088
321
321
(i)
Fair value disclosure shows financial instruments which are not measured at fair value in the consolidated balance sheets, but for which the fair
value is estimated for disclosure purposes.
F-88
Table of Contents
BAIDU, INC.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2021, 2022 AND 2023
(ii)
Investments are measured at fair value using NAV as a practical expedient. These investments have not been classified in the fair value hierarchy.
The fair value amounts presented in this table are intended to permit reconciliation of the fair value hierarchy to the amounts presented in the
consolidated balance sheet.
Reconciliations of assets categorized within Level 3 under the fair value hierarchy are as follow:
Investments accounted for at fair value:
Balance at December 31, 2021
Additions
Disposals
Net unrealized fair value increase recognized in earnings
Foreign currency translation adjustments
Balance at December 31, 2022
Additions
Disposals
Net unrealized fair value increase recognized in earnings
Foreign currency translation adjustments
Balance at December 31, 2023
Balance at December 31, 2023, in US$
F-89
Amounts
RMB
(In millions)
3,771
343
(212)
502
115
4,519
250
(90)
55
41
4,775
673
Table of Contents
BAIDU, INC.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2021, 2022 AND 2023
Available-for-sale debt investments:
Balance at December 31, 2021
Additions
Conversion from equity investment
Share of losses in excess of equity method investment in ordinary shares
Net unrealized fair value change recognized in other comprehensive (loss)
income
Accrued interest
Foreign currency translation adjustments
Balance at December 31, 2022
Additions
Disposals
Conversion
Share of losses in excess of equity method investment in ordinary shares
Net unrealized fair value change recognized in other comprehensive (loss)
income
Accrued interest
Foreign currency translation adjustments
Balance at December 31, 2023
Balance at December 31, 2023, in US$
Amounts
RMB
(In millions)
2,262
10
657
(161)
(432)
78
33
2,447
313
(332)
838
(7)
(71)
76
(5)
3,259
459
Assets measured at fair value on a non-recurring basis
The Group measures certain non-financial assets on a nonrecurring basis.
For equity securities accounted for under the measurement alternative, when there are observable price changes in orderly transactions for identical or
similar investments of the same issuer, the investments are re-measured to fair value (Note 4). The non-recurring fair value measurements to the carrying
amount of an investment usually requires management to estimate a price adjustment for the different rights and obligations between a similar
instrument of the same issuer with an observable price change in an orderly transaction and the investment held by the Group. These non-recurring fair
value measurements were measured as of the observable transaction dates. The valuation methodologies involved require management to use the
observable transaction price at the transaction date and other unobservable inputs (level 3) such as expected volatility and probability of exit events as it
relates to liquidation and redemption preferences. When there is impairment of equity securities accounted for under the measurement alternative and
equity method investments, the non-recurring fair value measurements are measured at the date of impairment. The fair values of the Group’s equity
method investments in publicly listed companies are measured using quoted market prices. Estimating the fair value of investees without observable
market prices is highly judgmental due to the subjectivity of the unobservable inputs (level 3) used in the valuation methodologies used to determine fair
value. The Group uses valuation methodologies, primarily the market approach, which requires management to use unobservable inputs (level 3) such as
selection of comparable companies and multiples, expected volatility, discount for lack of marketability and probability of
F-90
Table of Contents
BAIDU, INC.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2021, 2022 AND 2023
exit events as it relates to liquidation and redemption preferences, when applicable. These unobservable inputs and resulting fair value estimates may be
affected by unexpected changes in future market or economic conditions.
Other non-financial assets, intangible assets, licensed copyrights and produced content, would be measured at fair value whenever events or changes in
circumstances indicate the carrying value of an asset may not be recoverable. The fair values of non-financial long-lived assets were measured under the
income approach, based on the Group’s best estimation. Significant inputs used in the income approach primarily included future estimated cash flows
and discount rate.
The following table summarizes the Group’s financial assets held as of December 31, 2022 and 2023 for which a non-recurring fair value measurement
was recorded during the years ended December 31, 2022 and 2023:
Fair value measurements on a non-recurring basis
As of December 31, 2022
Long-term investments(i)
Produced content monetized on its own(ii)
As of December 31, 2023
Long-term investments(i)
Produced content monetized on its own(ii)
Quoted Prices
in Active
Markets for
Identical
Assets
(Level 1)
RMB
Significant
Other
Observable
Inputs
(Level 2)
RMB
Significant
Unobservable
Inputs
(Level 3)
RMB
(In millions)
Total Balance
RMB US$
Fair Value
Adjustment
RMB US$
Impairment
RMB
US$
3,466
85
99
29
256
3,338
85
(3,025)
(68)
5,383
25
758
4
43
—
580
82
5,340
25
(815)
(253)
(115)
(36)
(i)
Due to declined financial performances and changes in business circumstances of certain investees, the Group recognized impairment charges of
long-term investments in the consolidated statements of comprehensive income during the years ended December 31, 2022 and 2023. For equity
securities accounted for under the measurement alternative, when there are observable price changes in orderly transactions for identical or similar
investments of the same issuer, the investments are re-measured to fair value.
(ii) Due to adverse changes in the expected performance of certain produced content and the reduced amount of ultimate revenue expected to be
recognized, iQIYI performed an assessment to determine whether the fair value was less than unamortized content costs. iQIYI uses a discounted
cash flow approach to estimate the fair value of the produced content titles predominantly monetized on its own. The significant unobservable
inputs (level 3) include forecasted future revenues, production costs required to complete the content and exploitation and participation costs.
iQIYI considers the historical performance of similar content, the forecasted performance and/or preliminary actual performance subsequent to the
release of the produced content in estimating the fair value. Based on the above assessment, certain produced content predominantly monetized on
its own were determined to be impaired and re-measured to the fair value as of each quarter end. Impairment charges of RMB161 million,
RMB68 million and RMB253 million (US$36 million) were
F-91
Table of Contents
BAIDU, INC.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2021, 2022 AND 2023
recognized for produced content predominantly monetized on its own and was recognized as cost of revenues in the consolidated statements of
comprehensive income for the years ended December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023, respectively.
F-92
Exhibit 4.110
BAIDU, INC.
2023 SHARE INCENTIVE PLAN
(Adopted and approved by the board of directors of Baidu, Inc. as of August 9, 2023)
ARTICLE 1
PURPOSE
The purpose of this 2023 Share Incentive Plan (the “Plan”) is to promote the success and enhance the value of Baidu, Inc., a company
incorporated under the laws of the Cayman Islands (the “Company”) by linking the personal interests of the members of the Board, Employees, and
Consultants to those of the Company’s shareholders and by providing such individuals with an incentive for outstanding performance to generate
superior returns to the Company’s shareholders. The Plan is further intended to provide flexibility to the Company in its ability to motivate, attract, and
retain the services of members of the Board, Employees, and Consultants upon whose judgment, interest, and special effort the successful conduct of the
Company’s operation is largely dependent.
ARTICLE 2
DEFINITIONS AND CONSTRUCTION
Wherever the following terms are used in the Plan, they shall have the meanings specified below, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.
The singular pronoun shall include the plural where the context so indicates.
2.1 “Applicable Laws” means (i) the laws of the Cayman Islands as they relate to the Company and its Shares; (ii) the legal requirements relating
to the Plan and the Awards under applicable provisions of the corporate, securities, tax and other laws, rules, regulations and government orders; and
(iii) the rules of any applicable stock exchange, of any jurisdiction applicable to Awards granted to residents therein.
2.2 “Award” means an Option, Restricted Share, Restricted Share Unit or any other form of award granted to a Participant pursuant to the Plan.
2.3 “Award Agreement” means any written agreement, contract, or other instrument or document evidencing an Award, including through
electronic medium.
2.4 “Board” means the Board of Directors of the Company from time to time.
2.5 “Code” means the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 of the United States, as amended.
2.6 “Committee” means the committee of the Board described in Article 9.
2.7 “Consultant” means any consultant or adviser if: (a) the consultant or adviser renders bona fide services to a Service Recipient; (b) the services
rendered by the consultant or adviser are not in connection with the offer or sale of securities in a capital-raising transaction and do not directly or
indirectly promote or maintain a market for the Company’s securities; and (c) the consultant or adviser is a natural person who has contracted directly
with the Service Recipient to render such services.
2.8 “Corporate Transaction” means any of the following transactions or occurrences, provided, however, that the Committee shall determine
whether multiple transactions are related, and its determination shall be final, binding and conclusive:
(a) an amalgamation, arrangement, consolidation or scheme of arrangement (i) in which the Company is not the surviving entity, except
for any such transaction the principal purpose of which is to change the jurisdiction in which the Company is incorporated or (ii) following which the
holders of the voting securities of the Company do not continue to hold more than fifty percent (50%) of the combined voting power of the voting
securities of the surviving entity;
(b) the sale, transfer or other disposition of all or substantially all of the assets of the Company (including the capital stock or other equity
securities of the Company’s Subsidiaries and Related Entities);
(c) the completion of a voluntary or insolvent liquidation or dissolution of the Company;
(d) the direct or indirect acquisition by any person or related group of persons (other than the Company or a person that directly or
indirectly controls, is controlled by, or is under common control with, the Company) of beneficial ownership (within the meaning of Rule 13d-3 under
the Exchange Act) of securities possessing at least fifty percent (50%) of the total combined voting power of the Company’s outstanding securities; or
(e) the individuals who, as of the Effective Date, are members of the Board (the “Incumbent Board”), cease for any reason to constitute at
least fifty percent (50%) of the Board; provided that if the election, or nomination for election by the Company’s shareholders, of any new member of
the Board is approved by the Incumbent Board pursuant to then the effective Articles of Association of the Company, such new member of the Board
shall be considered as a member of the Incumbent Board.
2.9 “Disability” means that the Participant qualifies to receive long-term disability payments under the Service Recipient’s long-term disability
insurance program, as it may be amended from time to time, to which the Participant provides services regardless of whether the Participant is covered
by such policy. If the Service Recipient to which the Participant provides service does not have a long-term disability plan in place, “Disability” means
that a Participant is unable to carry out the responsibilities and functions of the position held by the Participant by reason of any medically determinable
physical or mental impairment for a period of not less than 180 consecutive days. A Participant will not be considered to have incurred a Disability
unless he or she furnishes proof of such impairment sufficient to satisfy the Committee in its discretion.
2
2.10 “Effective Date” shall have the meaning set forth in Section 10.1.
2.11 “Employee” means any person, including an officer or member of the Board of the Company, any Parent, Subsidiary or Related Entity of the
Company, who is in the employ of a Service Recipient, subject to the control and direction of the Service Recipient as to both the work to be performed
and the manner and method of performance. The payment of a director’s fee by a Service Recipient shall not be sufficient to constitute “employment”
by the Service Recipient.
2.12 “Exchange Act” means the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 of the United States, as amended.
2.13 “Fair Market Value” means, as of any date, the value of Shares determined as follows:
(a) If the Shares are listed on one or more established and regulated stock exchanges or national market systems, including without
limitation, The Nasdaq Stock Market and the Hong Kong Stock Exchange, its Fair Market Value shall be the closing sales price for such shares (or the
closing bid, if no sales were reported) as quoted on the principal exchange or system on which the Shares are listed (as determined by the Committee) on
the last trading date, on which such closing sales price or closing bid was reported, prior to the date of determination, as reported in The Wall Street
Journal or such other source as the Committee deems reliable;
(b) If the Shares are regularly quoted on an automated quotation system (including the OTC Bulletin Board) or by a recognized securities
dealer, its Fair Market Value shall be the closing sales price for such shares as quoted on such system or by such securities dealer on the date of
determination, but if selling prices are not reported, the Fair Market Value of a Share shall be the mean between the high bid and low asked prices for the
Shares on the date of determination (or, if no such prices were reported on that date, on the last date such prices were reported), as reported in The Wall
Street Journal or such other source as the Committee deems reliable; or
(c) In the absence of an established market for the Shares of the type described in (a) and (b), above, the Fair Market Value thereof shall be
determined by the Committee in good faith and in its discretion by reference to (i) the placing price of the latest private placement of the Shares and the
development of the Company’s business operations and the general economic and market conditions since such latest private placement, (ii) other third
party transactions involving the Shares and the development of the Company’s business operation and the general economic and market conditions since
such sale, (iii) an independent valuation of the Shares, or (iv) such other relevant methodologies or information as the Committee determines to be
indicative of Fair Market Value.
2.14 “Good Reason” means the occurrence after a Corporate Transaction of any of the following events or conditions unless consented to by the
Participant:
(a) a decrease in the Participant’s base salary and/or a material decrease in his or her standard management bonus plan or employee
benefits as in effect at any time within six (6) months preceding the date of a Corporate Transaction or at any time thereafter;
3
(b) a material adverse change in the Participant’s title, authority, responsibilities or duties, as measured against his or her title, authority,
responsibilities or duties immediately prior to such change, as in effect at any time within six (6) months preceding the date of a Corporate Transaction
or at any time thereafter;
(c) the imposition of a requirement that such Participant relocate more than sixty (60) miles from his or her current primary residence, or
that the principal place of business of the Company be relocated more than sixty (60) miles from the city of Beijing, China; or
(d) death or Disability of the Participant.
2.15 “Incentive Share Option” means an Option that is intended to meet the requirements of Section 422 of the Code or any successor provision
thereto.
2.16 “Independent Director” means a member of the Board who qualifies as an “independent director” as defined under the Nasdaq Marketplace
Rules.
2.17 “Non-Qualified Share Option” means an Option that is not intended to be an Incentive Share Option.
2.18 “Option” means a right granted to a Participant pursuant to Article 5 of the Plan to purchase a specified number of Shares at a specified price
during specified time periods. An Option may be either an Incentive Share Option or a Non-Qualified Share Option.
2.19 “Participant” means a person who, as a member of the Board, Consultant or Employee, has been granted an Award pursuant to the Plan.
2.20 “Parent” means a parent corporation under Section 424(e) of the Code.
2.21 “Plan” means this 2023 Share Incentive Award Plan, as it may be amended from time to time.
2.22 “Related Entity” means any business, corporation, partnership, limited liability company or other entity in which the Company, a Parent or
Subsidiary of the Company holds a substantial ownership interest, directly or indirectly but which is not a Subsidiary and which the Board designates as
a Related Entity for purposes of the Plan.
2.23 “Restricted Share” means a Share awarded to a Participant pursuant to Article 6 that is subject to certain restrictions and may be subject to
risk of forfeiture.
2.24 “Restricted Share Unit” means the right granted to a Participant pursuant to Article 6 to receive a Share at a future date.
2.25 “Securities Act” means the Securities Act of 1933 of the United States, as amended.
4
2.26 “Service Recipient” means the Company, any Parent or Subsidiary of the Company and any Related Entity to which a Participant provides
services as an Employee, Consultant or as a Director.
2.27 “Shares” means Class A Ordinary Shares, par value US$0.000000625 per share, of the Company, and such other securities of the Company
that may be substituted for Shares pursuant to Article 8.
2.28 “Subsidiary” means any corporation or other entity of which a majority of the outstanding voting shares or voting power is beneficially
owned directly or indirectly by the Company.
ARTICLE 3
SHARES SUBJECT TO THE PLAN
3.1 Number of Shares.
(a) Subject to the provisions of Article 8 and Section 3.1(b), the maximum aggregate number of Shares which may be issued pursuant to
all Awards under the Plan shall be 281,230,346, being ten percent (10%) of the total number of Class A and Class B ordinary shares of the Company
issued and outstanding as of June 30, 2023.
(b) To the extent that an Award terminates, expires, or lapses for any reason, or is settled in cash and not Shares, then any Shares subject to
the Award shall again be available for the grant of an Award pursuant to the Plan. To the extent permitted by Applicable Laws, Shares issued in
assumption of, or in substitution for, any outstanding awards of any entity acquired in any form or combination by the Company or any Parent or
Subsidiary of the Company shall not be counted against Shares available for grant pursuant to the Plan. Shares delivered by the Participant or withheld
by the Company upon the exercise of any Award under the Plan, in payment of the exercise price thereof or tax withholding thereon, may again be
optioned, granted or awarded hereunder, subject to the limitations of Section 3.1(a). If any Restricted Shares are forfeited by the Participant or
repurchased by the Company, such Shares may again be optioned, granted or awarded hereunder, subject to the limitations of Section 3.1(a).
Notwithstanding the provisions of this Section 3.1(b), no Shares may again be optioned, granted or awarded if such action would cause an Incentive
Share Option to fail to qualify as an incentive share option under Section 422 of the Code.
3.2 Shares Distributed. Any Shares distributed pursuant to an Award may consist, in whole or in part, of authorized and unissued Shares, treasury
Shares (subject to Applicable Laws) or Shares purchased on the open market. Additionally, in the discretion of the Committee, American Depository
Shares in an amount equal to the number of Shares which otherwise would be distributed pursuant to an Award may be distributed in lieu of Shares in
settlement of any Award. If the number of Shares represented by an American Depository Share is other than on a one-to-one basis, the limitations of
Section 3.1 shall be adjusted to reflect the distribution of American Depository Shares in lieu of Shares.
5
ARTICLE 4
ELIGIBILITY AND PARTICIPATION
4.1 Eligibility. Persons eligible to participate in this Plan include Employees, Consultants, and all members of the Board, as determined by the
Committee.
4.2 Participation. Subject to the provisions of the Plan, the Committee may, from time to time, select from among all eligible individuals, those to
whom Awards shall be granted and shall determine the nature and amount of each Award. No individual shall have any right to be granted an Award
pursuant to this Plan.
4.3 Jurisdictions. In order to assure the viability of Awards granted to Participants employed in various jurisdictions, the Committee may provide
for such special terms as it may consider necessary or appropriate to accommodate differences in local law, tax policy, or custom applicable in the
jurisdiction in which the Participant resides or is employed. Moreover, the Committee may approve such supplements to, or amendments, restatements,
or alternative versions of, the Plan as it may consider necessary or appropriate for such purposes without thereby affecting the terms of the Plan as in
effect for any other purpose; provided, however, that no such supplements, amendments, restatements, or alternative versions shall increase the share
limitations contained in Section 3.1 of the Plan. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Committee may not take any actions hereunder, and no Awards shall
be granted, that would violate any Applicable Laws.
ARTICLE 5
OPTIONS
5.1 General. The Committee is authorized to grant Options to Participants on the following terms and conditions:
(a) Exercise Price. The exercise price per Share subject to an Option shall be determined by the Committee and set forth in the Award
Agreement which may be a fixed or variable price related to the Fair Market Value of the Shares; provided, however, that no Option may be granted to
an individual subject to taxation in the United States at less than the Fair Market Value on the date of grant. The exercise price per Share subject to an
Option may be amended or adjusted in the absolute discretion of the Committee or the Board, the determination of which shall be final, binding and
conclusive. For the avoidance of doubt, to the extent not prohibited by Applicable Laws (including any applicable exchange rule), a downward
adjustment of the exercise prices of Options mentioned in the preceding sentence shall be effective without the approval of the Company’s shareholders
or the approval of the affected Participants.
(b) Time and Conditions of Exercise. The Committee shall determine the time or times at which an Option may be exercised in whole or in
part, including exercise prior to vesting; provided that the term of any Option granted under the Plan shall not exceed ten years, except as provided in
Section 11.1. The Committee shall also determine the conditions, if any, that must be satisfied before all or part of an Option may be exercised.
6
(c) Payment. The Committee shall determine the methods by which the exercise price of an Option may be paid, the form of payment,
including, without limitation (i) cash or check denominated in U.S. Dollars, (ii) to the extent permissible under the Applicable Laws, cash or check in
Chinese Renminbi, (iii) cash or check denominated in any other local currency as approved by the Committee, (iv) Shares held for such period of time
as may be required by the Committee in order to avoid adverse financial accounting consequences and having a Fair Market Value on the date of
delivery equal to the aggregate exercise price of the Option or exercised portion thereof, (v) the delivery of a notice that the Participant has placed a
market sell order with a broker with respect to Shares then issuable upon exercise of the Option, and that the broker has been directed to pay a sufficient
portion of the net proceeds of the sale to the Company in satisfaction of the Option exercise price; provided that payment of such proceeds is then made
to the Company upon settlement of such sale, (vi) other property acceptable to the Committee with a Fair Market Value equal to the exercise price, or
(vii) any combination of the foregoing. Notwithstanding any other provision of the Plan to the contrary, no Participant shall be permitted to pay the
exercise price of an Option in any method which would violate Applicable Law, including without limitation Section 13(k) of the Exchange Act.
(d) Evidence of Grant. All Options shall be evidenced by an Award Agreement between the Company and the Participant. The Award
Agreement shall include such additional provisions as may be specified by the Committee.
5.2 Incentive Share Options. Incentive Share Options may be granted to Employees of the Company or a Parent or Subsidiary of the Company.
Incentive Share Options may not be granted to Employees of a Related Entity or to Independent Directors or Consultants. The terms of any Incentive
Share Options granted pursuant to the Plan, in addition to the requirements of Section 5.1, must comply with the following additional provisions of this
Section 5.2:
(a) Expiration of Option. An Incentive Share Option may not be exercised to any extent by anyone after the first to occur of the following
events:
(i) Ten years from the date it is granted, unless an earlier time is set in the Award Agreement;
(ii) Three months after the Participant’s termination of employment as an Employee other than for Disability or death; and
(iii) One year after the date of the Participant’s termination of employment or service on account of Disability or death. Upon the
Participant’s Disability or death, any Incentive Share Options exercisable at the Participant’s Disability or death may be exercised by the Participant’s
legal representative or representatives, by the person or persons entitled to do so pursuant to the Participant’s last will and testament, or, if the Participant
fails to make testamentary disposition of such Incentive Share Option or dies intestate, by the person or persons entitled to receive the Incentive Share
Option pursuant to the applicable laws of descent and distribution.
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(b) Individual Dollar Limitation. The aggregate Fair Market Value (determined as of the time the Option is granted) of all Shares with
respect to which Incentive Share Options are first exercisable by a Participant in any calendar year may not exceed US$100,000 or such other limitation
as imposed by Section 422(d) of the Code, or any successor provision. To the extent that Incentive Share Options are first exercisable by a Participant in
excess of such limitation, the excess shall be considered Non-Qualified Share Options.
(c) Exercise Price. The exercise price of an Incentive Share Option shall be equal to the Fair Market Value on the date of grant. However,
the exercise price of any Incentive Share Option shall be granted to any individual who, at the date of grant, owns Shares possessing more than ten
percent (10%) of the total combined voting power of all classes of shares of the Company only if such Option is granted at a price that is not less than
110% of Fair Market Value on the date of grant and the Option is exercisable for no more than five years from the date of grant.
(d) Transfer Restriction. The Participant shall give the Company prompt notice of any disposition of Shares acquired by exercise of an
Incentive Share Option within (i) two years from the date of grant of such Incentive Share Option or (ii) one year after the transfer of such Shares to the
Participant.
(e) Expiration of Incentive Share Options. No Award of an Incentive Share Option may be made pursuant to this Plan after the tenth
anniversary of the Effective Date.
(f) Right to Exercise. During a Participant’s lifetime, an Incentive Share Option may be exercised only by the Participant.
ARTICLE 6
RESTRICTED SHARES AND RESTRICTED SHARE UNITS
6.1 Grant of Restricted Shares. The Committee is authorized to make Awards of Restricted Shares and/or Restricted Share Units to any Participant
selected by the Committee in such amounts and subject to such terms and conditions as determined by the Committee. All Awards of Restricted Shares
shall be evidenced by an Award Agreement.
6.2 Issuance and Restrictions. Restricted Shares shall be subject to such restrictions on transferability and other restrictions as the Committee may
impose (including, without limitation, limitations on the right to vote Restricted Shares or the right to receive dividends on the Restricted Shares). These
restrictions may lapse separately or in combination at such times, pursuant to such circumstances, in such installments, or otherwise, as the Committee
determines at the time of the grant of the Award or thereafter.
6.3 Forfeiture/Repurchase. Except as otherwise determined by the Committee at the time of the grant of the Award or thereafter, upon termination
of employment or service during the applicable restriction period, Restricted Shares that are at that time subject to restrictions shall be forfeited or
repurchased in accordance with the Award Agreement; provided, however, that the Committee may (a) provide in any Restricted Share Award
Agreement that restrictions or forfeiture and repurchase conditions relating to Restricted Shares will be waived in whole or in part in the event of
terminations resulting from specified causes, and (b) in other cases waive in whole or in part restrictions or forfeiture and repurchase conditions relating
to Restricted Shares.
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6.4 Certificates for Restricted Shares. Restricted Shares granted pursuant to the Plan may be evidenced in such manner as the Committee shall
determine. If certificates representing Restricted Shares are registered in the name of the Participant, certificates must bear an appropriate legend
referring to the terms, conditions, and restrictions applicable to such Restricted Shares, and the Company may, at its discretion, retain physical
possession of the certificate until such time as all applicable restrictions lapse.
6.5 Restricted Share Units. At the time of grant, the Committee shall specify the date or dates on which the Restricted Share Units shall become
fully vested and nonforfeitable, and may specify such conditions to vesting as it deems appropriate. At the time of grant, the Committee shall specify the
maturity date applicable to each grant of Restricted Share Units which shall be no earlier than the vesting date or dates of the Award and may be
determined at the election of the grantee. On the maturity date, the Company shall, subject to Sections 7.4 and 7.5, transfer to the Participant one
unrestricted, fully transferable Share for each Restricted Share Unit scheduled to be paid out on such date and not previously forfeited.
ARTICLE 7
PROVISIONS APPLICABLE TO AWARDS
7.1 Award Agreement. Awards under the Plan shall be evidenced by Award Agreements that set forth the terms, conditions and limitations for
each Award which may include the term of an Award, the provisions applicable in the event the Participant’s employment or service terminates, and the
Company’s authority to unilaterally or bilaterally amend, modify, suspend, cancel or rescind an Award.
7.2 Limits on Transfer. No right or interest of a Participant in any Award may be pledged, encumbered, or hypothecated to or in favor of any party
other than the Company or a Subsidiary, or shall be subject to any lien, obligation, or liability of such Participant to any other party other than the
Company or a Subsidiary. Except as otherwise provided by the Committee, no Award shall be assigned, transferred, or otherwise disposed of by a
Participant other than by will or the laws of descent and distribution. The Committee by express provision in the Award or an amendment thereto may
permit an Award (other than an Incentive Share Option) to be transferred to, exercised by and paid to certain persons or entities related to the Participant,
including but not limited to members of the Participant’s family, charitable institutions, or trusts or other entities whose beneficiaries or beneficial
owners are members of the Participant’s family and/or charitable institutions, or to such other persons or entities as may be expressly approved by the
Committee, pursuant to such conditions and procedures as the Committee may establish. Any permitted transfer shall be subject to the condition that the
Committee receive evidence satisfactory to it that the transfer is being made for estate and/or tax planning purposes (or to a “blind trust” in connection
with the Participant’s termination of employment or service with the Company or a Subsidiary to assume a position with a governmental, charitable,
educational or similar non-profit institution) and on a basis consistent with the Company’s lawful issue of securities.
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7.3 Beneficiaries. Notwithstanding Section 7.2, a Participant may, in the manner determined by the Committee, designate a beneficiary to exercise
the rights of the Participant and to receive any distribution with respect to any Award upon the Participant’s death. A beneficiary, legal guardian, legal
representative, or other person claiming any rights pursuant to the Plan is subject to all terms and conditions of the Plan and any Award Agreement
applicable to the Participant, except to the extent the Plan and Award Agreement otherwise provide, and to any additional restrictions deemed necessary
or appropriate by the Committee. If the Participant is married and resides in a community property jurisdiction, a designation of a person other than the
Participant’s spouse as his or her beneficiary with respect to more than 50% of the Participant’s interest in the Award shall not be effective without the
prior written consent of the Participant’s spouse. If no beneficiary has been designated or survives the Participant, payment shall be made to the person
entitled thereto pursuant to the Participant’s will or the laws of descent and distribution. Subject to the foregoing, a beneficiary designation may be
changed or revoked by a Participant at any time provided the change or revocation is filed with the Committee.
7.4 Share Certificate. Notwithstanding anything herein to the contrary, the Company shall not be required to issue or deliver any certificates
evidencing Shares pursuant to the exercise of any Award, unless and until the Board has determined, with advice of counsel, that the issuance and
delivery of such Shares is in compliance with all Applicable Laws, regulations of governmental authorities and, if applicable, the requirements of any
exchange on which the Shares are listed or traded. All Share certificates delivered pursuant to the Plan are subject to any stop-transfer orders and other
restrictions as the Committee deems necessary or advisable to comply with all Applicable Laws, and the rules of any national securities exchange or
automated quotation system on which the Shares are listed, quoted, or traded. The Committee may place legends on any Share certificate to reference
restrictions applicable to the Share. In addition to the terms and conditions provided herein, the Board may require that a Participant make such
reasonable covenants, agreements, and representations as the Board, in its discretion, deems advisable in order to comply with any such laws,
regulations, or requirements. The Committee shall have the right to require any Participant to comply with any timing or other restrictions with respect
to the settlement or exercise of any Award, including a window-period limitation, as may be imposed in the discretion of the Committee.
7.5 Paperless Administration. Subject to Applicable Laws, the Committee may make Awards, provide applicable disclosure and procedures for
exercise of Awards by an internet website or interactive voice response system for the paperless administration of Awards.
7.6 Foreign Currency. A Participant may be required to provide evidence that any currency used to pay the exercise price of any Award were
acquired and taken out of the jurisdiction in which the Participant resides in accordance with Applicable Laws, including foreign exchange control laws
and regulations. In the event the exercise price for an Award is paid in Chinese Renminbi or other foreign currency, as permitted by the Committee, the
amount payable will be determined by conversion from U.S. dollars at the official rate promulgated by the People’s Bank of China for Chinese
Renminbi, or for jurisdictions other than the People’s Republic of China, the exchange rate as selected by the Committee on the date of exercise.
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ARTICLE 8
CHANGES IN CAPITAL STRUCTURE
8.1 Adjustments. In the event of any distribution, share split, combination or exchange of Shares, amalgamation, arrangement or consolidation,
reorganization of the Company, including the Company becoming a subsidiary in a transaction not involving a Corporate Transaction, spin-off,
recapitalization or other distribution (other than normal cash dividends) of Company’s assets to its shareholders, or any other change affecting the Shares
or the share price of a Share, the Committee shall make such proportionate and equitable adjustments, if any, to reflect such change with respect to
(a) the aggregate number and type of shares that may be issued under the Plan (including, but not limited to, adjustments of the limitations in Section 3.1
and substitutions of shares in a parent or surviving company); (b) the terms and conditions of any outstanding Awards (including, without limitation, any
applicable performance targets or criteria with respect thereto); and (c) the grant or exercise price per share for any outstanding Awards under the Plan.
The form and manner of any such adjustments shall be determined by the Committee in its sole discretion.
8.2 Outstanding Awards – Corporate Transactions. Except as provided otherwise in an individual Award Agreement or any other written
agreement entered into by and between the Company and a Participant, in the event of a Corporate Transaction:
(a) If the Award is either (i) assumed by the successor entity or Parent thereof or replaced with a comparable Award (as determined by the
Committee) with respect to shares of the capital stock of the successor entity or Parent thereof or (ii) replaced with a cash incentive program of the
successor entity which preserves the compensation element of such Award existing at the time of the Corporate Transaction and provides for subsequent
payout in accordance with the same vesting schedule applicable to such Award, then such Award (if assumed), the replacement Award (if replaced), or
the cash incentive program automatically shall become fully vested, exercisable and payable and be released from any restrictions on transfer (other than
transfer restrictions applicable to Options) and repurchase or forfeiture rights, immediately upon termination of the Participant’s employment or service
with all Service Recipients within twelve (12) months of the Corporate Transaction without cause or voluntarily by the Participant for Good Reason.
(b) If a Participant’s Awards are not converted, assumed, or replaced by a successor, as described in clause (a) above, such Awards shall
become fully exercisable and all forfeiture restrictions on such Awards shall lapse immediately prior to the specified effective date of such Corporate
Transaction, provided that the Participant remains an Employee, Consultant or member of the Board on the effective date of the Corporate Transaction.
(c) Notwithstanding clause (a) or clause (b) above, upon an occurrence of a Corporate Transaction set forth in Sections 2.8(d) and 2.8(e), a
Participant’s Awards shall become fully exercisable and the forfeiture restrictions with respect to such amount shall lapse.
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(d) Upon, or in anticipation of, a Corporate Transaction, the Committee may in its sole discretion provide for (i) any and all Awards
outstanding hereunder to terminate at a specific time in the future and shall give each Participant the right to exercise such Awards during a period of
time as the Committee shall determine, (ii) either the purchase of any Award for an amount of cash equal to the amount that could have been attained
upon the exercise of such Award or realization of the Participant’s rights had such Award been currently exercisable or payable or fully vested (and, for
the avoidance of doubt, if as of such date the Committee determines in good faith that no amount would have been attained upon the exercise of such
Award or realization of the Participant’ s rights, then such Award may be terminated by the Company without payment), (iii) the replacement of such
Award with other rights or property selected by the Committee in its sole discretion or the assumption of or substitution of such Award by the successor
or surviving corporation, or a parent or subsidiary thereof, with appropriate adjustments as to the number and kind of Shares and prices, or (iv) provide
for payment of Awards in cash based on the value of Shares on the date of the Corporate Transaction plus reasonable interest on the Award through the
date such Award would otherwise be vested or have been paid in accordance with its original terms, if necessary to comply with Section 409A of the
Code.
8.3 Outstanding Awards – Other Changes. In the event of any other change in the capitalization of the Company or corporate change other than
those specifically referred to in this Article 8, the Committee may, in its absolute discretion, make such adjustments in the number and class of shares
subject to Awards outstanding on the date on which such change occurs and in the per share grant or exercise price of each Award as the Committee may
consider appropriate to prevent dilution or enlargement of rights.
8.4 No Other Rights. Except as expressly provided in the Plan, no Participant shall have any rights by reason of any subdivision or consolidation
of shares of any class, the payment of any dividend, any increase or decrease in the number of shares of any class or any dissolution, liquidation, merger,
or consolidation of the Company or any other corporation. Except as expressly provided in the Plan or pursuant to action of the Committee under the
Plan, no issuance by the Company of shares of any class, or securities convertible into shares of any class, shall affect, and no adjustment by reason
thereof shall be made with respect to, the number of shares subject to an Award or the grant or exercise price of any Award.
ARTICLE 9
ADMINISTRATION
9.1 Committee. The Plan shall be administered by the Compensation Committee of the Board; provided, however that the Compensation
Committee may delegate to a committee of one or more members of the Board the authority to grant or amend Awards to Participants other than
Independent Directors and executive officers of the Company. The Committee shall consist of at least two individuals, each of whom qualifies as a
non-employee director within the meaning of Rule 16b-3(b)(3) under the Exchange Act. Reference to the Committee shall refer to the Board if the
Compensation Committee has not been established or ceases to exist and the Board does not appoint a successor Committee. Notwithstanding the
foregoing, the full Board, acting by majority of its members in office shall conduct the general administration of the Plan if required by Applicable
Laws, and with respect to Awards granted to Independent Directors and for purposes of such Awards the term “Committee” as used in the Plan shall be
deemed to refer to the Board.
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9.2 Action by the Committee. A majority of the Committee shall constitute a quorum. The acts of a majority of the members present at any
meeting at which a quorum is present, and acts approved in writing by a majority of the Committee in lieu of a meeting, shall be deemed the acts of the
Committee. Each member of the Committee is entitled to, in good faith, rely or act upon any report or other information furnished to that member by
any officer or other employee of the Company or any Subsidiary, the Company’s independent certified public accountants, or any executive
compensation consultant or other professional retained by the Company to assist in the administration of the Plan.
9.3 Authority of Committee. Subject to any specific designation in the Plan, the Committee has the exclusive power, authority and discretion to:
(a) Designate eligible Employees, members of the Board and Consultants to receive Awards;
(b) Determine the type or types of Awards to be granted to each Participant;
(c) Determine the number of Awards to be granted and the number of Shares to which an Award will relate;
(d) Determine the terms and conditions of any Award granted pursuant to the Plan, including, but not limited to, the exercise price, grant
price, or purchase price, any restrictions or limitations on the Award, any schedule for lapse of forfeiture restrictions or restrictions on the exercisability
of an Award, and accelerations or waivers thereof, any provisions related to non-competition and recapture of gain on an Award, based in each case on
such considerations as the Committee in its sole discretion determines;
(e) Determine whether, to what extent, and pursuant to what circumstances an Award may be settled in, or the exercise price of an Award
may be paid in, cash, Shares, other Awards, or other property, or an Award may be canceled, forfeited, or surrendered (whether or not in exchange for
another Award or combination of Awards);
(f) Prescribe the form of each Award Agreement, which need not be identical for each Participant;
(g) Decide all other matters that must be determined in connection with an Award;
(h) Establish, adopt, or revise any rules and regulations as it may deem necessary or advisable to administer the Plan;
(i) Interpret the terms of, and any matter arising pursuant to, the Plan or any Award Agreement; and
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(j) Make all other decisions and determinations that may be required pursuant to the Plan or as the Committee deems necessary or
advisable to administer the Plan.
9.4 Decisions Binding. The Committee’s interpretation of the Plan, any Awards granted pursuant to the Plan, any Award Agreement and all
decisions and determinations by the Committee with respect to the Plan are final, binding, and conclusive on all parties.
ARTICLE 10
EFFECTIVE AND EXPIRATION DATE
10.1 Effective Date. The Plan will be effective as of August 9, 2023, the date when it is adopted and approved by the Board in accordance with the
applicable provisions of the Company’s then effective Memorandum of Association and Articles of Association (the “Effective Date”).
10.2 Expiration Date. The Plan will expire on, and no Award may be granted pursuant to the Plan after, the tenth (10th) anniversary of the
Effective Date. Any Awards that are outstanding on the tenth anniversary of the Effective Date shall remain in force according to the terms of the Plan
and the applicable Award Agreement.
ARTICLE 11
AMENDMENT, MODIFICATION, AND TERMINATION
11.1 Amendment, Modification, And Termination. With the approval of the Board, at any time and from time to time, the Committee may
terminate, amend or modify the Plan; provided, however, that unless the Company decides to follow home country practice, (a) to the extent necessary
and desirable to comply with Applicable Laws, or stock exchange rules, the Company shall obtain shareholder approval of any Plan amendment in such
a manner and to such a degree as required, and (b) shareholder approval is required for any amendment to the Plan that (i) increases the number of
Shares available under the Plan (other than any adjustment as provided by Article 8), (ii) permits the Committee to extend the term of the Plan or the
exercise period for an Option beyond ten years from the date of grant, or (iii) results in a material increase in benefits or a change in eligibility
requirements.
11.2 Awards Previously Granted. Except with respect to amendments made pursuant to Section 12.15, no termination, amendment, or
modification of the Plan shall adversely affect in any material way any Award previously granted pursuant to the Plan without the prior written consent
of the Participant.
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ARTICLE 12
GENERAL PROVISIONS
12.1 No Rights to Awards. No Participant, employee, or other person shall have any claim to be granted any Award pursuant to the Plan, and
neither the Company nor the Committee is obligated to treat Participants, employees, and other persons uniformly.
12.2 No Shareholders Rights. No Award gives the Participant any of the rights of a Shareholder of the Company unless and until Shares are in fact
issued to such person in connection with such Award.
12.3 Taxes. No Shares shall be delivered under the Plan to any Participant until such Participant has made arrangements acceptable to the
Committee for the satisfaction of any income and employment tax withholding obligations under Applicable Laws. The Company or any Subsidiary
shall have the authority and the right to deduct or withhold, or require a Participant to remit to the Company, an amount sufficient to satisfy all
applicable taxes (including the Participant’s payroll tax obligations) required or permitted by law to be withheld with respect to any taxable event
concerning a Participant arising as a result of this Plan. The Committee may in its discretion and in satisfaction of the foregoing requirement allow a
Participant to elect to have the Company withhold Shares otherwise issuable under an Award (or allow the return of Shares) having a Fair Market Value
equal to the sums required to be withheld. Notwithstanding any other provision of the Plan, the number of Shares which may be withheld with respect to
the issuance, vesting, exercise or payment of any Award (or which may be repurchased from the Participant of such Award after such Shares were
acquired by the Participant from the Company) in order to satisfy all of the Participant’s income and payroll tax liabilities with respect to the issuance,
vesting, exercise or payment of the Award shall, unless specifically approved by the Committee, be limited to the number of Shares which have a Fair
Market Value on the date of withholding or repurchase equal to the aggregate amount of such liabilities based on the minimum statutory income and
payroll tax withholding rates that are applicable to such supplemental taxable income under Applicable Laws.
12.4 No Right to Employment or Services. Nothing in the Plan or any Award Agreement shall interfere with or limit in any way the right of the
Service Recipient to terminate any Participant’s employment or services at any time, nor confer upon any Participant any right to continue in the employ
or service of any Service Recipient.
12.5 Effect of Plan upon Other Compensation Plans. The adoption of the Plan shall not affect any other compensation or incentive plans in effect
for any Service Recipient. Nothing in the Plan shall be construed to limit the right of any Service Recipient: (a) to establish any other forms of
incentives or compensation for Employees, members of the Board or Consultants, or (b) to grant or assume options or other rights or awards otherwise
than under the Plan in connection with any proper corporate purpose including without limitation, the grant or assumption of options in connection with
the acquisition by purchase, lease, merger, consolidation or otherwise, of the business, stock or assets of any corporation, partnership, limited liability
company, firm or association.
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12.6 Unfunded Status of Awards. The Plan is intended to be an “unfunded” plan for incentive compensation. With respect to any payments not yet
made to a Participant pursuant to an Award, nothing contained in the Plan or any Award Agreement shall give the Participant any rights that are greater
than those of a general creditor of the Company or any Subsidiary.
12.7 Indemnification. To the extent allowable pursuant to applicable law, each member of the Committee or of the Board shall be indemnified and
held harmless by the Company from any loss, cost, liability, or expense that may be imposed upon or reasonably incurred by such member in connection
with or resulting from any claim, action, suit, or proceeding to which he or she may be a party or in which he or she may be involved by reason of any
action or failure to act pursuant to the Plan and against and from any and all amounts paid by him or her in satisfaction of judgment in such action, suit,
or proceeding against him or her; provided that he or she gives the Company an opportunity, at its own expense, to handle and defend the same before he
or she undertakes to handle and defend it on his or her own behalf. The foregoing right of indemnification shall not be exclusive of any other rights of
indemnification to which such persons may be entitled pursuant to the Company’s Memorandum of Association and Articles of Association, as a matter
of law, or otherwise, or any power that the Company may have to indemnify them or hold them harmless.
12.8 Relationship to other Benefits. No payment pursuant to the Plan shall be taken into account in determining any benefits pursuant to any
pension, retirement, savings, profit sharing, group insurance, welfare or other benefit plan of the Company or any Subsidiary except to the extent
otherwise expressly provided in writing in such other plan or an agreement thereunder.
12.9 Expenses. The expenses of administering the Plan shall be borne by the Company and its Subsidiaries.
12.10 Titles and Headings. The titles and headings of the Sections in the Plan are for convenience of reference only and, in the event of any
conflict, the text of the Plan, rather than such titles or headings, shall control.
12.11 Fractional Shares. No fractional Share shall be issued and the Committee shall determine, in its discretion, whether cash shall be given in
lieu of fractional shares or whether such fractional shares shall be eliminated by rounding up or down as appropriate.
12.12 Government and Other Regulations. The obligation of the Company to make payment of awards in Shares or otherwise shall be subject to
all Applicable Laws and to such approvals by government agencies as may be required. The Company shall be under no obligation to register any of the
Shares paid pursuant to the Plan under the Securities Act or any other similar law in any applicable jurisdiction. If the Shares paid pursuant to the Plan
may in certain circumstances be exempt from registration pursuant to the Securities Act or other Applicable Laws, the Company may restrict the transfer
of such Shares in such manner as it deems advisable to ensure the availability of any such exemption.
12.13 Governing Law. The Plan and all Award Agreements shall be construed in accordance with and governed by the laws of the Cayman
Islands.
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12.14 Section 409A. To the extent that the Committee determines that any Award granted under the Plan is or may become subject to
Section 409A of the Code, the Award Agreement evidencing such Award shall incorporate the terms and conditions required by Section 409A of the
Code. To the extent applicable, the Plan and the Award Agreements shall be interpreted in accordance with Section 409A of the Code and the U.S.
Department of Treasury regulations and other interpretative guidance issued thereunder, including without limitation any such regulation or other
guidance that may be issued after the Effective Date. Notwithstanding any provision of the Plan to the contrary, in the event that following the Effective
Date the Committee determines that any Award may be subject to Section 409A of the Code and related U.S. Department of Treasury guidance
(including such U.S. Department of Treasury guidance as may be issued after the Effective Date), the Committee may adopt such amendments to the
Plan and the applicable Award agreement or adopt other policies and procedures (including amendments, policies and procedures with retroactive
effect), or take any other actions, that the Committee determines is necessary or appropriate to (a) exempt the Award from Section 409A of the Code and
/or preserve the intended tax treatment of the benefits provided with respect to the Award, or (b) comply with the requirements of Section 409A of the
Code and related U.S. Department of Treasury guidance.
12.15 Appendices. The Committee may approve such supplements, amendments or appendices to the Plan as it may consider necessary or
appropriate for purposes of compliance with applicable laws or otherwise and such supplements, amendments or appendices shall be considered a part
of the Plan; provided, however, that no such supplements shall increase the share limitations contained in Section 3.1 of the Plan.
* * * * *
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List of Principal Subsidiaries and Variable Interest Entities
Exhibit 8.1
Subsidiaries:
Baidu Holdings Limited—Incorporated in the British Virgin Islands
Baidu (Hong Kong) Limited—Incorporated in Hong Kong
Baidu Online Network Technology (Beijing) Co., Ltd.—Incorporated in mainland China
Baidu (China) Co., Ltd.—Incorporated in mainland China
Baidu.com Times Technology (Beijing) Co., Ltd.—Incorporated in mainland China
Dulian Network Technology (Hainan) Co., Ltd.—Incorporated in mainland China
iQIYI, Inc.—Incorporated in the Cayman Islands
Beijing QIYI Century Science & Technology Co., Ltd.—Incorporated in mainland China
Beijing Duyou Information Technology Co., Ltd.—Incorporated in mainland China
Variable Interest Entities:
Beijing Baidu Netcom Science Technology Co., Ltd.—Incorporated in mainland China
Beijing Perusal Technology Co., Ltd.—Incorporated in mainland China
Beijing iQIYI Science & Technology Co., Ltd.—Incorporated in mainland China
Exhibit 12.1
Certification by the Principal Executive Officer
Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
I, Robin Yanhong Li, certify that:
1.
I have reviewed this annual report on Form 20-F of Baidu, Inc.;
2. Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make
the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this
report;
3. Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects
the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the company as of, and for, the periods presented in this report;
4. The company’s other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in
Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f))
for the company and have:
(a) Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision,
to ensure that material information relating to the company, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities,
particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;
(b) Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed under our
supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external
purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles;
(c) Evaluated the effectiveness of the company’s disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the
effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and
(d) Disclosed in this report any change in the company’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the period covered by the
annual report that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the company’s internal control over financial reporting; and
5. The company’s other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting,
(a)
to the company’s auditors and the audit committee of the company’s board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions):
(b) All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are
reasonably likely to adversely affect the company’s ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and
Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the company’s internal control
over financial reporting.
Date: March 15, 2024
/s/ Robin Yanhong Li
By:
Name: Robin Yanhong Li
Title:
Chief Executive Officer
Exhibit 12.2
Certification by the Principal Financial Officer
Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
I, Rong Luo, certify that:
1.
I have reviewed this annual report on Form 20-F of Baidu, Inc.;
2. Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make
the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this
report;
3. Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects
the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the company as of, and for, the periods presented in this report;
4. The company’s other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in
Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rule 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f))
for the company and have:
(a) Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision,
to ensure that material information relating to the company, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities,
particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;
(b) Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed under our
supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external
purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles;
(c) Evaluated the effectiveness of the company’s disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the
effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and
(d) Disclosed in this report any change in the company’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the period covered by the
annual report that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the company’s internal control over financial reporting; and
5. The company’s other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting,
to the company’s auditors and the audit committee of the company’s board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent function):
(a) All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are
reasonably likely to adversely affect the company’s ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and
(b) Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the company’s internal
control over financial reporting.
Date: March 15, 2024
/s/ Rong Luo
By:
Name: Rong Luo
Title:
Chief Financial Officer
Certification by the Principal Executive Officer
Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
Exhibit 13.1
In connection with the Annual Report of Baidu, Inc. (the “Company”) on Form 20-F for the year ended December 31, 2023 as filed with the
Securities and Exchange Commission on the date hereof (the “Report”), I, Robin Yanhong Li, Chief Executive Officer of the Company, certify, pursuant
to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, that to my knowledge:
(1) The Report fully complies with the requirements of Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934; and
(2) The information contained in the Report fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and results of operations of the
Company.
Date: March 15, 2024
/s/ Robin Yanhong Li
By:
Name: Robin Yanhong Li
Title:
Chief Executive Officer
Certification by the Principal Financial Officer
Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
Exhibit 13.2
In connection with the Annual Report of Baidu, Inc. (the “Company”) on Form 20-F for the year ended December 31, 2023 as filed with the
Securities and Exchange Commission on the date hereof (the “Report”), I, Rong Luo, Chief Financial Officer of the Company, certify, pursuant to 18
U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, that to my knowledge:
(1) The Report fully complies with the requirements of Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934; and
(2) The information contained in the Report fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and results of operations of the
Company.
Date: March 15, 2024
/s/ Rong Luo
By:
Name: Rong Luo
Title:
Chief Financial Officer
[Maples and Calder (Hong Kong) LLP Letterhead]
Exhibit 15.1
Baidu, Inc.百度集團股份有限公司
Baidu Campus
No. 10 Shangdi 10th Street
Haidian District, Beijing 100085
The People’s Republic of China
15 March 2024
Dear Sirs
Baidu, Inc. 百度集團股份有限公司
We consent to the reference to our firm under the heading “Item 10.E. Additional Information—Taxation—Cayman Islands Tax Considerations” and
“Item 16G. Corporate Governance” in Baidu Inc.’s Annual Report on Form 20-F for the year ended 31 December 2023 (the “Annual Report”), which
will be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) in the month of March 2024, and further consent to the incorporation by
reference into the Registration Statement (Form S-8 No. 333-129374) pertaining to Baidu, Inc.’s 2000 Option Plan, Registration Statement (Form S-8
No. 333-158678) pertaining to Baidu, Inc.’s 2008 Share Incentive Plan, and Registration Statement (Form S-8 No. 333-232429) pertaining to Baidu
Inc.’s 2018 Share Incentive Plan of the summary of our opinion under the heading “Item 10.E. Additional Information—Taxation—Cayman Islands Tax
Considerations” and “Item 16G. Corporate Governance” in the Annual Report. We also consent to the filing with the SEC of this consent letter as an
exhibit to the Annual Report.
In giving such consent, we do not thereby admit that we come within the category of persons whose consent is required under Section 7 of the Securities
Act of 1933, or under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, in each case, as amended, or the regulations promulgated thereunder.
Yours faithfully,
/s/ Maples and Calder (Hong Kong) LLP
Maples and Calder (Hong Kong) LLP
[Han Kun Law Offices Letterhead]
Exhibit 15.2
March 15, 2024
Baidu, Inc.
Baidu Campus
No. 10 Shangdi 10th Street
Haidian District, Beijing
People’s Republic of China 100085
Dear Sir/Madam:
We hereby consent to the reference of our name under the heading “Item 4.B. Information on the Company—Business Overview—Regulations” in
Baidu, Inc.’s Annual Report on Form 20-F for the year ended December 31, 2023 (the “Annual Report”), which will be filed with the Securities and
Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) in the month of March 2024, and further consent to the incorporation by reference into the Registration Statement
(Form S-8 No. 333-129374) pertaining to Baidu, Inc.’s 2000 Option Plan, Registration Statement (Form S-8 No. 333-158678) pertaining to Baidu, Inc.’s
2008 Share Incentive Plan, and Registration Statement (Form S-8 No. 333-232429) pertaining to Baidu Inc.’s 2018 Share Incentive Plan of the summary
of our opinion under the heading “Item 4.B. Information on the Company—Business Overview—Regulations” in the Annual Report. We also consent to
the filing of this consent letter with the SEC as an exhibit to the Annual Report.
In giving such consent, we do not thereby admit that we come within the category of persons whose consent is required under Section 7 of the Securities
Act of 1933, or under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, in each case, as amended, or the regulations promulgated thereunder.
Very truly yours,
/s/ Han Kun Law Offices
Han Kun Law Offices
We consent to the incorporation by reference in the following Registration Statements:
Consent of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
(1) Registration Statement (Form S-8 No. 333-129374) pertaining to the 2000 Option Plan of Baidu, Inc.,
(2) Registration Statement (Form S-8 No. 333-158678) pertaining to the 2008 Share Incentive Plan of Baidu, Inc., and
(3) Registration Statement (Form S-8 No. 333-232429) pertaining to the 2018 Share Incentive Plan of Baidu, Inc.
of our reports dated March 15, 2024, with respect to the consolidated financial statements of Baidu, Inc. and the effectiveness of internal control over
financial reporting of Baidu, Inc. included in this Annual Report (Form 20-F) of Baidu, Inc. for the year ended December 31, 2023.
Exhibit 15.3
/s/ Ernst & Young Hua Ming LLP
Beijing, The People’s Republic of China
March 15, 2024
BAIDU, INC.
CLAWBACK POLICY
Exhibit 97
The Compensation Committee (the “Committee”) of the Board of Directors (the “Board”) of Baidu, Inc. (the “Company”) believes that it is
appropriate for the Company to adopt this Clawback Policy (the “Policy”) to be applied to the Executive Officers of the Company and adopts this Policy
to be effective as of the Effective Date.
1.
Definitions
For purposes of this Policy, the following definitions shall apply:
a)
b)
c)
d)
e)
f)
“Group” means the Company and each of its subsidiaries or consolidated affiliated entities, as applicable.
“Covered Compensation” means any Incentive-Based Compensation granted, vested or paid to a person who served as an Executive
Officer at any time during the performance period for the Incentive-Based Compensation and that was Received (i) on or after
October 2, 2023 (the effective date of the Nasdaq listing standard), (ii) after the person became an Executive Officer, and (iii) at a
time that the Company had a class of securities listed on a national securities exchange or a national securities association such as
Nasdaq.
“Effective Date” means December 1, 2023.
“Erroneously Awarded Compensation” means the amount of Covered Compensation granted, vested or paid to a person during the
fiscal period when the applicable Financial Reporting Measure relating to such Covered Compensation was attained that exceeds the
amount of Covered Compensation that otherwise would have been granted, vested or paid to the person had such amount been
determined based on the applicable Restatement, computed without regard to any taxes paid (i.e., on a pre-tax basis). For Covered
Compensation based on stock price or total shareholder return, where the amount of Erroneously Awarded Compensation is not
subject to mathematical recalculation directly from the information in a Restatement, the Committee will determine the amount of
such Covered Compensation that constitutes Erroneously Awarded Compensation, if any, based on a reasonable estimate of the
effect of the Restatement on the stock price or total shareholder return upon which the Covered Compensation was granted, vested or
paid and the Committee shall maintain documentation of such determination and provide such documentation to Nasdaq.
“Exchange Act” means the U.S. Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended.
“Executive Officer” means the Company’s president, principal financial officer, principal accounting officer (or if there is no such
accounting officer, the controller), any vice-president of the Company in charge of a principal business unit, division, or function
(such as sales, administration, or finance), any other officer who performs a policy-making function, or any other person who
performs similar policy-making functions for the Company. Executive officers of the Company’s parent(s) or subsidiaries are
deemed executive officers of the Company if they perform such policy-making functions for the Company. “Policy-making
function” does not include policy-making functions that are not significant. Both current and former Executive Officers are subject
to the Policy in accordance with its terms.
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g)
h)
i)
j)
k)
l)
m)
“Financial Reporting Measure” means (i) any measure that is determined and presented in accordance with the accounting principles
used in preparing the Company’s financial statements, and any measures derived wholly or in part from such measures and may
consist of IFRS/U.S. GAAP or non-IFRS/non-U.S. GAAP financial measures (as defined under Regulation G of the Exchange Act
and Item 10 of Regulation S-K under the Exchange Act), (ii) stock price or (iii) total shareholder return. Financial Reporting
Measures need not be presented within the Company’s financial statements or included in a filing with the SEC.
“Home Country” means the Company’s jurisdiction of incorporation, i.e., the Cayman Islands.
“Incentive-Based Compensation” means any compensation that is granted, earned or vested based wholly or in part upon the
attainment of a Financial Reporting Measure.
“Lookback Period” means the three completed fiscal years (plus any transition period of less than nine months that is within or
immediately following the three completed fiscal years and that results from a change in the Company’s fiscal year) immediately
preceding the date on which the Company is required to prepare a Restatement for a given reporting period, with such date being the
earlier of: (i) the date the Board, a committee of the Board, or the officer or officers of the Company authorized to take such action if
Board action is not required, concludes, or reasonably should have concluded, that the Company is required to prepare a
Restatement, or (ii) the date a court, regulator or other legally authorized body directs the Company to prepare a Restatement.
Recovery of any Erroneously Awarded Compensation under the Policy is not dependent on if or when the Restatement is actually
filed.
“Nasdaq” means the Nasdaq Stock Market.
“Received”: Incentive-Based Compensation is deemed “Received” in the Company’s fiscal period during which the Financial
Reporting Measure specified in or otherwise relating to the Incentive-Based Compensation award is attained, even if the grant,
vesting or payment of the Incentive-Based Compensation occurs after the end of that period.
“Restatement” means a required accounting restatement of any Company financial statement due to the material noncompliance of
the Company with any financial reporting requirement under the securities laws, including (i) to correct an error in previously issued
financial statements that is material to the previously issued financial statements (commonly referred to as a “Big R” restatement) or
(ii) to correct an error in previously issued financial statements that is not material to the previously issued financial statements but
that would result in a material misstatement if the error were corrected in the current period or left uncorrected in the current period
(commonly referred to as a “little r” restatement). Changes to the Company’s financial statements that do not represent error
corrections under the then-current relevant accounting standards will not constitute Restatements. Recovery of any Erroneously
Awarded Compensation under the Policy is not dependent on fraud or misconduct by any person in connection with the Restatement.
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n)
“SEC” means the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission.
2.
Recovery of Erroneously Awarded Compensation
In the event of a Restatement, any Erroneously Awarded Compensation Received during the Lookback Period prior to the Restatement (a) that is
then-outstanding but has not yet been paid shall be automatically and immediately forfeited and (b) that has been paid to any person shall be subject to
reasonably prompt repayment to the Group in accordance with Section 3 of this Policy. The Committee must pursue (and shall not have the discretion to
waive) the forfeiture and/or repayment of such Erroneously Awarded Compensation in accordance with Section 3 of this Policy, except as provided
below.
Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Committee (or, if the Committee is not a committee of the Board responsible for the Company’s executive
compensation decisions and composed entirely of independent directors, a majority of the independent directors serving on the Board) may determine
not to pursue the forfeiture and/or recovery of Erroneously Awarded Compensation from any person if the Committee determines that such forfeiture
and/or recovery would be impracticable due to any of the following circumstances: (i) the direct expense paid to a third party (for example, reasonable
legal expenses and consulting fees) to assist in enforcing the Policy would exceed the amount to be recovered, including the costs that could be incurred
if pursuing such recovery would violate local laws other than the Company’s Home Country laws (following reasonable attempt(s) by the Group to
recover such Erroneously Awarded Compensation, the documentation of such attempt(s), and the provision of such documentation to Nasdaq), (ii)
pursuing such recovery would violate the Company’s Home Country laws adopted prior to November 28, 2022 (provided that the Company obtains an
opinion of Home Country counsel acceptable to Nasdaq that recovery would result in such a violation and provides such opinion to Nasdaq), or
(iii) recovery would likely cause any otherwise tax-qualified retirement plan, under which benefits are broadly available to employees of the Group, to
fail to meet the requirements of 26 U.S.C. 401(a)(13) or 26 U.S.C. 411(a) and regulations thereunder.
3.
Means of Repayment
In the event that the Committee determines that any person shall repay any Erroneously Awarded Compensation, the Committee shall provide
written notice to such person by email or certified mail to the physical address on file with the Group for such person, and the person shall satisfy such
repayment in a manner and on such terms as required by the Committee, and the Group shall be entitled to set off the repayment amount against any
amount owed to the person by the Group, to require the forfeiture of any award granted by the Group to the person, or to take any and all necessary
actions to reasonably promptly recover the repayment amount from the person, in each case, to the fullest extent permitted under applicable law,
including without limitation, Section 409A of the U.S. Internal Revenue Code and the regulations and guidance thereunder. If the Committee does not
specify a repayment timing in the written notice described above, the applicable person shall be required to repay the Erroneously Awarded
Compensation to the Group by wire, cash or cashier’s check no later than thirty (30) days after receipt of such notice.
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4.
No Indemnification
No person shall be indemnified, insured or reimbursed by the Group in respect of any loss of compensation by such person in accordance with this
Policy, nor shall any person receive any advancement of expenses for disputes related to any loss of compensation by such person in accordance with
this Policy, and no person shall be paid or reimbursed by the Group for any premiums paid by such person for any third-party insurance policy covering
potential recovery obligations under this Policy. For this purpose, “indemnification” includes any modification to current compensation arrangements or
other means that would amount to de facto indemnification (for example, providing the person a new cash award which would be cancelled to effect the
recovery of any Erroneously Awarded Compensation). In no event shall the Group be required to award any person an additional payment if any
Restatement would result in a higher incentive compensation payment.
5.
Miscellaneous
This Policy generally will be administered and interpreted by the Committee, provided that the Board may, from time to time, exercise discretion
to administer and interpret this Policy, in which case, all references herein to “Committee” shall be deemed to refer to the Board. Any determination by
the Committee with respect to this Policy shall be final, conclusive and binding on all interested parties. Any discretionary determinations of the
Committee under this Policy, if any, need not be uniform with respect to all persons, and may be made selectively amongst persons, whether or not such
persons are similarly situated.
This Policy is intended to satisfy the requirements of Section 954 of the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act, as it may
be amended from time to time, and any related rules or regulations promulgated by the SEC or the Nasdaq, including any additional or new
requirements that become effective after the Effective Date which upon effectiveness shall be deemed to automatically amend this Policy to the extent
necessary to comply with such additional or new requirements.
The provisions in this Policy are intended to be applied to the fullest extent of the law. To the extent that any provision of this Policy is found to be
unenforceable or invalid under any applicable law, such provision will be applied to the maximum extent permitted and shall automatically be deemed
amended in a manner consistent with its objectives to the extent necessary to conform to applicable law. The invalidity or unenforceability of any
provision of this Policy shall not affect the validity or enforceability of any other provision of this Policy. Recovery of Erroneously Awarded
Compensation under this Policy is not dependent upon the Group satisfying any conditions in this Policy, including any requirements to provide
applicable documentation to the Nasdaq.
The rights of the Group under this Policy to seek forfeiture or reimbursement are in addition to, and not in lieu of, any rights of recovery, or
remedies or rights other than recovery, that may be available to the Group pursuant to the terms of any law, government regulation or stock exchange
listing requirement or any other policy, code of conduct, employee handbook, employment agreement, equity award agreement, or other plan or
agreement of the Group.
6.
Amendment and Termination
To the extent permitted by, and in a manner consistent with applicable law, including SEC and Nasdaq rules, the Committee may terminate,
suspend or amend this Policy at any time in its discretion.
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7.
Successors
This Policy shall be binding and enforceable against all persons and their respective beneficiaries, heirs, executors, administrators or other legal
representatives with respect to any Covered Compensation granted, vested or paid to or administered by such persons or entities.
5