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UNITED STATES
SECURITY 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
☒ ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(D) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
OR
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
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: 001-34936
NOAH HOLDINGS LIMITED
(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)
No.1226, South Shenbin Road, Minhang District,
Shanghai, People’s Republic of China
(Address of principal executive offices)
Qing Pan, Chief Financial Officer
Noah Holdings Limited
No.1226, South Shenbin Road, Minhang District,
Shanghai, People’s Republic of China
Phone: (86) 21 8035 8292
Facsimile: (86) 21 8035 9641
(Name, Telephone, E-mail 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, two of which represent
one ordinary share, par value US$0.00005 per share
ordinary shares, par value US$0.00005 per share
Trading Symbol(s)
NOAH
Name of exchange on which registered
New York Stock Exchange
6686
The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited
(Title of Each Class and Name of Each Exchange on Which Registered)
Securities registered or to be registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act:
NONE
(Title of Class)
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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: 328,034,660 ordinary shares issued, par value US$0.00005 per share.
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 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 the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer,” and “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 incentivebased 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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INTRODUCTION
FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
PART I
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Identity of Directors, Senior Management and Advisers
Item 1.
Offer Statistics and Expected Timetable
Item 2.
Key Information
Item 3.
Item 4.
Information on the Company
Item 4A. Unresolved Staff Comments
Item 5.
Item 6.
Item 7. Major Shareholders and Related Party Transactions
Item 8.
Item 9.
Item 10. Additional Information
Item 11. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk
Item 12. Description of Securities Other than Equity Securities
Operating and Financial Review and Prospects
Directors, Senior Management and Employees
Financial Information
The Offer and Listing
PART II
Item 13. Defaults, Dividend Arrearages and Delinquencies
Item 14. Material Modifications to the Rights of Security Holders and Use of Proceeds
Item 15. Controls and Procedures
Item 16. Reserved
Item 16A. Audit Committee Financial Expert
Item 16B. Code of Ethics
Item 16C. Principal Accountant Fees and Services
Item 16D. Exemptions from the Listing Standards for Audit Committees
Item 16E. Purchases of Equity Securities by the Issuer and Affiliated Purchasers
Item 16F. Change in Registrant’s Certifying Accountant
Item 16G. Corporate Governance
Item 16H. Mine Safety Disclosure
Item 16I. Disclosure Regarding Foreign Jurisdictions that Prevent Inspections
Item 16J. Insider trading policies
Item 16K. Cybersecurity
PART III
Item 17. Financial Statements
Item 18. Financial Statements
Item 19. Exhibits
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INTRODUCTION
Unless otherwise indicated and except where the context otherwise requires, references in this annual report on Form 20-F to:
● “active clients” for a given period refer to registered clients who purchase one or more investment products distributed or
provided by us during a given period, excluding clients in our other business segment;
● “ADSs” refer to our American depositary shares, two of which represent one ordinary share;
● “assets under advisory” or “AUA” refers to clients’ total outstanding assets managed by Gopher or third party product
providers;
● “assets under management” or “AUM” refers to the amount of capital commitments made by investors to the funds we
provide continuous management services without adjustment for any gain or loss from investment, for which we are
entitled to receive recurring service fees or performance-based income, except for public securities investments. For pubic
securities investments, the “assets under management” or “AUM” refers to the net asset value of the investments we
manage, for which we are entitled to receive recurring service fees and performance-based income;
● “China” or the “PRC” refers to the People’s Republic of China, excluding, for the purpose of this annual report only, Hong
Kong, Macau and Taiwan;
● “Consolidated Affiliated Entities” refer to Noah Investment and its subsidiaries;
● “Contractual Arrangements” refer to variable interest entity structure and, where the context requires, the agreements
underlying the structure;
● “CSRC” refer to the China Securities Regulatory Commission;
● “FOF” refers to fund of funds;
● “Gopher Asset Management” refers to Gopher Asset Management Co., Ltd., a limited liability company established under
the laws of the PRC on February 9, 2012, and one of the Consolidated Affiliated Entities;
● “Gopher GP” refers to Gopher Capital GP Limited, an exempted company with limited liability incorporated in the
Cayman Islands on May 11, 2012, and one of the significant subsidiaries;
● “HK$” or “Hong Kong dollars” or “HK dollars” refers to Hong Kong dollars, the lawful currency of Hong Kong;
● “HNW” refers to high net worth;
● “HNW clients” or “HNW investors” refer to clients/investors with investable financial assets of no less than RMB6
million;
● “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” refers 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 Stock Exchange” refers to The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited;
● “investment products” refer to products we distribute to clients, such as mutual fund products, private secondary products,
private equity products and other products;
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● “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;
● “MoM” refers to manager of managers;
● “NAV” refers to net asset value;
● “Noah Group” refers to Shanghai Noah Investment (Group) Co., Ltd., a limited liability company established under the
laws of the PRC on August 24, 2007, and one of the significant subsidiaries;
● “Noah HK” refers to Noah Holdings (Hong Kong) Limited, a limited company incorporated under the laws of Hong Kong
on September 1, 2011, and one of the significant subsidiaries;
● “Noah Investment” refers to Shanghai Noah Investment Management Co., Ltd., a limited liability company established
under the laws of the PRC on August 26, 2005, and one of the Consolidated Affiliated Entities;
● “Noah Upright” refers to Noah Upright Fund Distribution Co., Ltd., a limited liability company established under the laws
of the PRC on November 18, 2003, and one of the significant subsidiaries;
● “NYSE” refers to the New York Stock Exchange;
● “ordinary shares” refer to our ordinary shares, par value US$0.00005 per share;
● “PCAOB” refers to the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board;
● “private funds” refer to investment funds which raise capital through non-public offerings of funds targeting qualified
investors;
● “registered clients” refer to clients who have completed a preliminary know-your-client and anti-money laundering review
process, but may or may not have purchased any products from us;
● “RMB” or “Renminbi” refers to the legal currency of China;
● “Shanghai Gopher” refers to Shanghai Gopher Asset Management Co., Ltd., a limited liability company established in the
PRC on December 14, 2012, and one of the Consolidated Affiliated Entities;
● “Shanghai Massa” refers to Shanghai Gopher Massa Asset Management Co., Ltd., a limited liability company established
under the laws of the PRC on June 29, 2015, and one of the Consolidated Affiliated Entities;
● “Shanghai Nuohong” refers to Shanghai Nuohong Real Estate Co., Ltd., a limited liability company established under the
laws of the PRC on May 30, 2013, and one of the significant subsidiaries;
● “transaction value” refers to the aggregate value of the investment products we distribute during a given period; and
● “we,” “us,” “our company,” “our group,” “our” and “Noah” refer to Noah Holdings Limited and its subsidiaries, and, in the
context of describing our operations and consolidated financial information, the Consolidated Affiliated Entities.
Unless otherwise noted, all translations from RMB to U.S. dollars (“USD” or “US$”) are made at a rate of RMB7.0999 to
US$1.00, the effective noon buying rate for December 29, 2023 as set forth in the H.10 statistical release of the Federal Reserve Board.
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FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
This annual report on Form 20-F contains forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties. All statements other
than statements of historical facts are forward-looking statements. Known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, including
those listed under “Risk Factors,” may cause our actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from those
expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements.
You can identify some of these forward-looking statements by words or phrases such as “may,” “will,” “expect,” “anticipate,”
“aim,” “estimate,” “intend,” “plan,” “believe,” “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:
● our goals and strategies;
● our future business development, financial condition and results of operations;
● the expected growth of the industries in which we operate;
● our expectations regarding demand for and market acceptance of the products and services we distribute, manage or offer;
● our expectations regarding keeping and strengthening our relationships with product providers;
● relevant government policies and regulations relating to the industries in which we operate;
● our ability to attract and retain qualified employees;
● our ability to stay abreast of market trends and technological advances;
● our plans to invest in research and development to enhance our product choices and service offerings;
● competition in the industries in which we operate;
● general economic and business conditions in China and internationally;
● our ability to obtain certain licenses and permits necessary to operate and expand our businesses;
● our ability to effectively protect our intellectual property rights and not infringe on the intellectual property rights of others;
and
● all other risks and uncertainties described in the section headed “Risk Factors” in this annual report.
These forward-looking statements involve various risks and uncertainties. Although we believe that our expectations expressed
in these forward-looking statements are reasonable, our expectations may later be found to be incorrect. Our actual results could be
materially different from our expectations. Other sections of this annual report include additional factors that could adversely impact our
business and financial performance. Moreover, we operate in an evolving environment. New risk factors and uncertainties emerge from
time to time and it is not possible for our management to predict all risk factors and uncertainties, 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 to differ materially from
those contained in any forward-looking statements. You should thoroughly read this annual report and the documents that we refer to
herein with the understanding that our actual future results may be materially different from, or worse than, what we expect. We qualify
all of our forward-looking statements by these cautionary statements.
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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 Consolidated Affiliated Entities and Their Respective
Individual Shareholders
Noah Holdings Limited is a Cayman Islands holding company with no business operations. We conduct our operations through
our subsidiaries and the Consolidated Affiliated Entities. Because we are an exempted company incorporated in the Cayman Islands, we
are classified as a foreign enterprise under PRC laws and regulations, and our wholly-owned PRC subsidiaries are foreign-invested
enterprises, or the subsidiaries of the foreign-invested enterprises. PRC laws and regulations impose certain restrictions or prohibitions
on foreign ownership of PRC companies engaging in value-added telecommunications services.
To comply with PRC laws and regulations, we rely on the Contractual Arrangements with Noah Investment and its subsidiaries
to operate a portion of our operations in China, primarily the asset management business. A series of contractual agreements, including
an exclusive option agreement, an exclusive support service agreement, a share pledge agreement and power of attorney, have been
entered into by and among Noah Group, Noah Investment and its shareholders. These contractual arrangements enable us to (1) be
considered as the primary beneficiary of Noah Investment and its subsidiaries for accounting purposes and consolidate the financial
results of the Consolidated Affiliated Entities; (2) receive substantially all of the economic benefits from Noah Investment and its
subsidiaries in consideration for the services provided by Noah Group; and (3) have an exclusive option to purchase all or part of the
equity interests in Noah Investment when and to the extent permitted by PRC law, or request any existing shareholder of Noah
Investment to transfer any or part of the equity interests in Noah Investment to another PRC person or entity designated by us at any time
at our discretion. For more details of these contractual arrangements, see “Item 4. Information on the Company—C. Organizational
Structure—Contractual Arrangements.”
Because of the Contractual Arrangements, we are the primary beneficiary of Noah Investment and its subsidiaries and hence
treat them as our consolidated entities and consolidate their results of operations into our consolidated financial statements in accordance
with U.S. GAAP. The Consolidated Affiliated Entities, Noah Investment and its subsidiaries, generated RMB1,505.1 million,
RMB1,282.2 million and RMB992.7 million (US$139.8 million) in net revenues in 2021, 2022 and 2023, respectively, which
contributed 35.1%, 41.4% and 30.1% of our total net revenues in the respective years. In addition, we hold the required licenses and
permits necessary to conduct our asset management business in China through the Consolidated Affiliated Entities. Investors of our
ordinary shares or ADSs are not purchasing equity interest in the Consolidated Affiliated Entities in China but instead are purchasing
equity interest in a Cayman Islands holding company with no direct equity ownership of the Consolidated Affiliated Entities.
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Our corporate structure is subject to risks associated with the Contractual Arrangements with the Consolidated Affiliated
Entities. The Contractual Arrangements may not be as effective as direct ownership in providing us with control over the Consolidated
Affiliated Entities and we may incur substantial costs to enforce the terms of the arrangements. Additionally, there are substantial
uncertainties regarding the interpretation and application of current and future PRC laws and regulations. It is uncertain whether any new
PRC laws or regulations relating to the Contractual Arrangements will be adopted or if adopted, what they would provide. If the
corporate structure and the Contractual Arrangements are deemed by relevant regulatory authority or court to be illegal or invalid, either
in whole or in part, we may lose control of the Consolidated Affiliated Entities and have to modify such structure to comply with
regulatory requirements. Further, if the corporate structure and the Contractual Arrangements are found to be in violation of any existing
or future PRC laws or regulations, the relevant regulatory authority would have broad discretion to take action in dealing with the
violation or failure, in which case, we could be subject to severe penalties, including being prohibited from continuing its operations or
unwinding the Contractual Arrangements. Since PRC administrative and court authorities have significant discretion in interpreting and
implementing statutory provisions and contractual terms, it may be difficult to evaluate the outcome of administrative and court
proceedings and the level of legal protection we enjoy. Our Cayman Islands holding company, our subsidiaries and Consolidated
Affiliated 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 Consolidated Affiliated Entities and, consequently, significantly affect the
financial performance of the Consolidated Affiliated Entities and our company as a whole. See “Item 3. Key Information—D. Risk
Factors—Risks Related to Corporate Structure.”
We face various legal and operational risks and uncertainties associated with the countries or regions where we are based in and
having our operations,as well as the laws and regulations envoled, such as China, Hong Kong, Cayman Islands, and the United States.
There exist complex regulatory requirements on the ability of a China-based company, like us, to conduct its business, accept foreign
investments or be listed on the exchanges of the United States or other foreign exchange outside of China. For example, we need to be
compliant with regulatoy requirements in relation to regulatory approvals on offerings that are conducted overseas by and foreign
investment in China-based issuers, the use of the Consolidated Affiliated Entities, anti-monopoly regulatory actions, and oversight on
cybersecurity and data privacy. Operations may also be influenced as the government deems appropriate to advance regulatory and
societal goals and policy positions. In recent years, the PRC government haspromulgated certain regulations and rules to exert more
oversight over offerings and listings that are conducted overseas and/or foreign investment in China-based issuers. Furthermore,
implementation of industry-wide regulations directly targeting our operations could cause the value of our securities to significantly
decline. For a detailed description of the related risks, see “Item 3. Key Information—D. Risk Factors—Risks Related to Doing Business
in China—The approval of or filing with the CSRC or other PRC government authorities may be required under PRC law in connection
with our issuance of securities overseas, and, if required, we cannot predict whether or for how long we will be able to obtain such
approval or complete such filing” and “Item 3. Key Information—D. Risk Factors—Risks Related to Doing Business in China—PRC
governmental authorities’ complex regulatory requirements on offerings conducted overseas by, and foreign investment in, China-based
issuers could limit or hinder our ability to offer or continue to offer securities to investors and result in a material adverse change in our
operations and the value of our ADSs.”
Additionally, as the case in other civil law jurisdictions, risks and uncertainties regarding the enforcement of laws, and quickly
evolving policies, laws and regulations in China, could adversely affect us. The PRC legal system is a civil law system based on written
statutes. Prior court decisions may be cited for reference but have limited precedential value. Because certain recently enacted laws, rules
and regulations are relatively new, and because of the limited number of published decisions and the nonbinding nature of these
decisions, the interpretation and enforcement of these laws, rules and regulations involve uncertainties. Therefore, it is possible that our
existing operations may be found not to be in full compliance with relevant laws and regulations in the future. Furthermore, some of the
government policies are not published or not on a timely basis andwe may not be aware of our potential violation of these policies and
rules as the result. For a detailed description of the related risks, see “Item 3. Key Information—D. Risk Factors—Risks Related to
Doing Business in China—PRC governmental authorities’ complex regulatory requirements on offerings conducted overseas by, and
foreign investment in, China-based issuers could limit or hinder our ability to offer or continue to offer securities to investors and result
in a material adverse change in our operations and the value of our ADSs.”
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In addition, pursuant to the Holding Foreign Companies Accountable Act, which was enacted on December 18, 2022 and
further amended by the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2023, signed into law on December 29, 2022, or the HFCA Act, 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 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 the HFCA Act Determination
Report, or 2021 determinations, according to which our independent registered public accounting firm is subject to the determinations
that the PCAOB is unable to inspect or investigate completely. On April 12, 2022, we were identified by the SEC under the HFCA Act as
having filed audit reports issued by a registered public accounting firm that cannot be inspected or investigated completely by the
PCAOB in connection with our filing of the annual report on Form 20-F for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2021. On December 15,
2022, the PCAOB vacated its 2021 determinations 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 afte we filed our annual report on Form 20-F for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2022 and do not
expect to identified as a Commission-Identified Issuer under the HFCAA 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 registered public
accounting 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 continue to 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 again 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 HFCA Act. 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. For a detailed description
of the related risks, see “Item 3. Key Information—D. 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. Our ADSs may be
prohibited from trading in the United States under the Holding Foreign Companies Accountable Act in the future if the PCAOB is unable
to inspect or investigate completely auditors located in China. The delisting or prohibition of trading of our ADSs, or the threat of their
being delisted or prohibited from trading, may materially and adversely affect the value of your investment.”
Enforceability of Civil Liabilities
Cayman Islands
We are incorporated in the Cayman Islands as an exempted company with limited liability in order to enjoy the following
benefits:
● political and economic stability;
● an effective judicial system;
● a favorable tax system;
● the absence of exchange regulation or currency restrictions; and
● the availability of professional and support services.
However, certain disadvantages accompany incorporation in the Cayman Islands. These disadvantages include, but are not
limited to, the following:
● the Cayman Islands has a less developed body of securities laws as compared to the United States and these securities laws
provide significantly less protection to investors; and
● Cayman Islands companies may not have standing to sue before the federal courts of the United States.
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Our memorandum and articles of association do not contain provisions requiring that disputes, including those arising under the
securities laws of the United States, between us, our officers, directors and shareholders, be arbitrated.
Substantially all of our operations are conducted in China, and substantially all of our assets are located in China. A majority of
our directors and executive officers are nationals or residents of jurisdictions other than the United States and a substantial portion of
their assets are located outside the United States. As a result, it may be difficult for a shareholder to effect service of process within the
United States upon these persons, or to enforce against us or them judgments obtained in United States courts, including judgments
predicated upon the civil liability provisions of the securities laws of the United States or any state in the United States.
Maples and Calder (Hong Kong) LLP, our counsel as to Cayman Islands law, has advised us that the courts of the Cayman
Islands are unlikely to:
● recognize or enforce judgments of United States courts obtained against us or our directors or officers predicated upon the
civil liability provisions of the securities laws of the United States or any state in the United States; or
● in original actions brought in the jurisdiction of the Cayman Islands, impose liabilities against us or our directors or officers
predicated upon the securities laws of the United States or any state in the United States, so far as the liabilities imposed by
those provisions are penal in nature.
Maples and Calder (Hong Kong) LLP has informed us that in those circumstances, although there is no statutory enforcement in
the Cayman Islands of judgments obtained in the federal or state courts of the United States, the courts of the Cayman Islands will
recognize and enforce a foreign money judgment of a foreign court of competent jurisdiction without retrial on the merits based on the
principle that a judgment of a competent foreign court imposes upon the judgment debtor an obligation to pay the sum for which
judgment has been given, provided such judgment (a) is given by a foreign court of competent jurisdiction, (b) imposes on the judgment
debtor a liability to pay a liquidated sum for which the judgment has been given, (c) is final and conclusive, (d) is not in respect of taxes,
a fine or a penalty, and (e) is not inconsistent with a Cayman Islands judgment in respect of the same manner, impeachable on the
grounds of fraud and is 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
under civil liability provisions of the U.S. federal securities 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. A Cayman Islands court may stay enforcement proceedings
if concurrent proceedings are being brought elsewhere.
PRC
We have been advised by Zhong Lun Law Firm, our PRC legal counsel, that there is uncertainty as to whether the courts of the
PRC would enforce judgments of United States courts or Cayman courts obtained against us or these persons predicated upon the civil
liability provisions of the United States federal and state securities laws. Zhong Lun Law Firm has further advised us that the recognition
and enforcement of foreign judgments are provided for under PRC Civil Procedures Law. PRC courts may recognize and enforce foreign
judgments in accordance with the requirements of PRC Civil Procedures Law based either on treaties between China and the country
where the judgment is made or on reciprocity between jurisdictions. China does not have any treaties or other form of reciprocity with
the United States or the Cayman Islands that provide for the reciprocal recognition and enforcement of foreign civil judgments. In
addition, some of our directors and senior executive officers reside within China for a significant portion of the time and are PRC
nationals. Furthermore, according to the PRC Civil Procedures Law, courts in the PRC will not enforce a foreign judgment against us or
our directors and officers if they decide that the judgment violates the basic principles of PRC law or national sovereignty, security or
public interest. As a result, it may be difficult or impossible for our shareholders to effect service of process upon us or these persons
inside China, and it is uncertain whether and on what basis a PRC court would enforce a judgment rendered by a court in the United
States or in the Cayman Islands. Under the PRC Civil Procedures Law and the PRC Law on Choice of Law for Foreign-related Civil
Relationships, foreign shareholders may originate actions based on PRC law against us in the PRC, if they can establish sufficient nexus
to the PRC for a PRC court to have jurisdiction, and meet other procedural requirements, including, among others, the plaintiff must have
a direct interest in the case, and there must be a concrete claim, a factual basis and a cause for the suit. However, it would be difficult for
foreign shareholders to establish sufficient nexus to the PRC by virtue only of holding the ADSs or ordinary shares.
7
Table of Contents
For a detailed description of the related risks, see “Item 3. Key Information—D. Risk Factors—Risks Related to Our ADSs—
Holders of your ordinary shares and/or ADSs may have difficulty effecting service of process and enforcing judgments obtained against
us, our directors and our management, and the ability of U.S. or Hong Kong authorities to bring and enforce actions in the PRC may also
be limited.”
You should carefully consider all of the information in this annual report before making an investment in the ADSs. In
particular, as we are a China based company incorporated in the Cayman Islands, you should pay special attention to subsections headed
“Item 3. Key Information—D. Risk Factors—Risks Related to Corporate Structure” and “Item 3. Key Information—D. Risk Factors—
Risks Related to Doing Business in China.” Below please find a summary of the principal risks and uncertainties we face, organized
under relevant headings:
Risks Related to Corporate Structure
● We are a Cayman Islands holding company primarily operating in China through our subsidiaries and Consolidated
Affiliated Entities, including Noah Investment with which we have maintained Contractual Arrangements and its
subsidiaries in the PRC. Investors thus are not purchasing, and may never directly hold, equity interests in the
Consolidated Affiliated Entities. There are substantial uncertainties regarding the interpretation and application of current
and future PRC laws, regulations, and rules relating to such agreements that establish the Contractual Arrangements for a
portion of our China operations, including potential future actions by the PRC government, which could affect the
enforceability of the Contractual Arrangements with Noah Investment and its subsidiaries and, consequently, significantly
affect the financial condition and results of operations of us. If the PRC government finds that such agreements do not
comply with PRC laws, regulations, and rules, or if these laws, regulations, and rules or the interpretation thereof change
in the future, we could be subject to severe penalties or be forced to relinquish our interests in Noah Investment and its
subsidiaries or forfeit its rights under the Contractual Arrangements.
● We rely on the Consolidated Affiliated Entities to operate a portion of our China operations, which may not be as effective
as direct ownership in providing operational control.
● Contractual Arrangements among our PRC subsidiary, Noah Group, one of the Consolidated Affiliated Entities, Noah
Investment, and Noah Investment’s shareholders may be subject to scrutiny by the PRC tax authorities, who may determine
that we or Noah Investment and its subsidiaries owe additional taxes, which could substantially reduce our consolidated
net income and the value of your investment.
● Because certain shareholders of the Consolidated Affiliated Entities are our directors and executive officers, their fiduciary
duties to us may conflict with their respective roles in the Consolidated Affiliated Entities. If any of the shareholders of the
Consolidated Affiliated Entities fails to act in the best interests of our company or our shareholders, our business and
results of operations may be materially and adversely affected.
● We may rely to a large extent on dividends and other distributions on equity paid by our PRC subsidiaries to fund any cash
and financing requirements we may have, and any limitation on the ability of our PRC subsidiaries to pay dividends to us
could have a material adverse effect on our ability to conduct our business.
● Our current corporate structure and business operations may be affected by the newly enacted Foreign Investment Law.
● PRC regulation of loans to and direct investment in PRC entities by offshore holding companies and governmental control
of conversion of foreign currencies into Renminbi may delay or prevent us from using any offshore cash we may have to
make loans to our PRC subsidiaries and Consolidated Affiliated Entities or to make additional capital contributions to our
PRC subsidiaries, which could materially and adversely affect our liquidity and our ability to fund and expand our
business.
8
Table of Contents
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. Our ADSs may be prohibited from trading in the United States under the Holding Foreign Companies
Accountable Act in the future if the PCAOB is unable to inspect or investigate completely auditors located in China. The
delisting of our ADSs, or the threat of their being delisted, may materially and adversely affect the value of your
investment.
● The approval of or filing with the CSRC or other PRC government authorities may be required under PRC law in
connection with our future issuance of securities overseas, and, if required, we cannot predict whether or for how long we
will be able to obtain such approval or complete such filing.
● PRC governmental authorities’ complex regulatory requirements on offerings conducted overseas by, and foreign
investment in, China-based issuers could limit or hinder our ability to offer or continue to offer securities to investors and
result in a material adverse change in our operations and the value of our ADSs.
● Our business is subject to various evolving PRC laws and regulations regarding data privacy and cybersecurity. Failure of
cybersecurity and data privacy concerns could subject us to penalties, damage our reputation and brand, and harm our
business and results of operations.
Risks Related to Our Business
● The investment products that we distribute or manage involve various risks and any failure to identify or fully appreciate
such risks may negatively affect our reputation, client relationships, operations and prospects.
● Our reputation and brand recognition are crucial to our business. Any harm to our reputation or failure to maintain,
protect, promote or enhance our brand recognition may materially and adversely affect our business, financial condition
and results of operations.
● Our businesses may be adversely impacted by general economic and market conditions.
● The performance of our investment portfolio may affect the AUM, revenue and profitability of our asset management
business.
● We may not be able to continue to grow at our historical rate of growth, and if we fail to manage our growth effectively, our
business may be materially and adversely affected.
● Because a significant portion of the one-time commissions and recurring service fees we earn on the distribution of
investment products are based on commission and fee rates, any decrease in these commission and fee rates may have an
adverse effect on our revenues, cash flow and results of operations.
● The investment products we distribute are supplied by a limited number of product partners; and the renegotiation or
termination of our relationships with such product partners could significantly impact our business.
● Because the laws and regulations governing the industries of wealth management, asset management and other businesses
in China are developing and subject to further change, any failure to obtain or maintain requisite approvals, licenses or
permits necessary to conduct our operations or any failure to comply with laws and regulations applicable to our business
and services could harm our business.
● Some of our clients may redeem their investments from time to time, which could reduce our recurring service fees.
● Our lending business is subject to credit risks, which could adversely affect our results of operations.
9
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● Our business involves relatively new business models which may not be successful.
Risks Related to Our ADSs and Ordinary Shares
● The market price for our ADSs and/or ordinary shares have been and may continue to be volatile.
● There is no assurance if and when we will pay dividends in the future. Therefore, you should not rely on an investment in
our ADSs and/or ordinary shares as a source of future dividend income.
● Substantial future sales or perceived potential sales of our ADSs and/or ordinary shares in the public market could cause
the price of our ADSs and/or ordinary shares to decline.
● We adopt different practices as to certain matters as compared with many other companies listed on the Hong Kong Stock
Exchange.
● Techniques employed by short sellers may drive down the trading price of our ADSs and/or ordinary shares.
● If securities or industry analysts do not publish research or reports about our business, or if they adversely change their
recommendations regarding our ADSs and/or ordinary shares, the market price for our ADSs and /or ordinary shares and
trading volume could decline.
● Holders of our ordinary shares and/or ADSs may have difficulty effecting service of process and enforcing judgments
obtained against us, our directors and our management, and the ability of U.S. or Hong Kong authorities to bring and
enforce actions in the PRC may also be limited.
● There is uncertainty as to whether Hong Kong stamp duty will apply to the trading or conversion of our ADSs.
Permits and Permission Required from the PRC Authorities for Our Operations
Our PRC subsidiaries and the Consolidated Affiliated Entities have obtained all material licenses and approvals required for our
operations in China. Given the uncertainties of interpretation and implementation of relevant laws and regulations and the enforcement
practice by relevant government authorities, we may be required to obtain additional licenses, permits, filings, or approvals for our
business operations in the future. If we fail to obtain or maintain the required licenses, permits and approvals, we may be subject to fines,
confiscation of the income derived from the related business, the suspension of operations and adverse publicity arising from such non-
compliance with government regulations. In addition, there can be no assurance that we will be able to obtain, maintain and renew all of
the approvals, licenses and permits required for our business operations upon their expiration in a timely manner or at all, which may
materially impact our business operations.
In addition, the PRC government has promulgated certain regulations and rules to exert more oversight over offerings that are
conducted overseas and/or foreign investment in China-based issuers. On February 17, 2023, the CSRC promulgated the Trial
Administrative Measures of Overseas Securities Offering and Listing by Domestic Companies (the “Trial Measures”) as well as five
supporting guidelines (together with Trial Measures, the “Filing Measures”), which took effect on March 31, 2023 and implemented a
filing-based regulatory system over PRC domestic companies seeking to offer or list equity securities in an overseas market, whether
through direct or indirect form. The Filing Measures stipulate certain circumstances under which the overseas offering or listing would
be prohibited, as well as the measures taken by a PRC domestic company required by the CSRC if it falls into any of such circumstances
prior to the overseas offering or listing, such as postponement or termination of the proposed overseas offering or listing, and reporting to
the CSRC and competent authorities under the State Council in a timely manner. According to the Filing Measures and the Notice on
Administrative Arrangement of Overseas Securities Offering and Listing of Domestic Companies issued by the CSRC on February 17,
2023, our future issuances of equity securities, such as shares, convertible bonds and exchangeable bonds, etc., to foreign investors and
listings are subject to the filing requirement. For detailed information, see “Item 3. Key Information—D. Risk Factors—Risks Related to
Doing Business in China—The approval of or filing with the CSRC or other PRC government authorities may be required under PRC
law in connection with our issuance of securities overseas, and, if required, we cannot predict whether or for how long we will be able to
obtain such approval or complete such filing.”
10
Table of Contents
Transfer of Funds and Other Assets between Our Company, Its Subsidiaries and the Consolidated Affiliated Entities
Noah Holdings Limited is a holding company incorporated in the Cayman Islands. We conduct business in the PRC through our
PRC subsidiaries and Consolidated Affiliated Entities. Under PRC law, we may provide funding to our PRC subsidiaries only through
capital contributions or loans, and to the Consolidated Affiliated Entities only through loans, subject to the satisfaction of applicable
government registration and approval requirements.
We may also rely significantly on dividends and other distributions by our PRC subsidiaries for our cash and financing
requirements, including the funds necessary to pay dividends and other cash distributions to our shareholders and pay any debt we may
incur. If our PRC subsidiaries incur debt on their own behalf in the future, the instruments governing the debt may restrict their ability to
pay dividends or make other distributions to us. Under the Contractual Arrangements, we, through our PRC subsidiary Noah Group, are
also entitled to substantially all of the economic benefits of the Consolidated Affiliated Entities in the form of service fees and license
fees. For risks relating to the fund flows of our operations in China, see “Item 3. Key Information—D. Risk Factors—Risks Related to
Doing Business in China—PRC regulations relating to offshore investment activities by PRC residents may subject our PRC resident
beneficial owners or our PRC subsidiaries to liabilities or penalties, limit our ability to inject capital into our PRC subsidiaries, limit our
PRC subsidiaries’ ability to increase its registered capital or distribute profits to us, or may otherwise adversely affect us” and “Item 3.
Key Information—D. Risk Factors—Risks Related to Doing Business in China—The dividends we receive from our PRC subsidiaries
may be subject to PRC tax under the PRC Enterprise Income Tax Law, which would have a material adverse effect on our financial
condition and results of operations. In addition, if we are classified as a PRC resident enterprise for PRC income tax purposes, such
classification could result in unfavorable tax consequences to us and our non-PRC shareholders or ADS holders.” In addition, the PRC
tax authorities may require us to adjust our taxable income under the Contractual Arrangements, which would materially and adversely
affect its ability to pay dividends and other distributions to us.
Our PRC subsidiaries are permitted to pay dividends to us only out of their retained earnings, if any, as determined in
accordance with PRC accounting standards and regulations. Under PRC laws, each of our PRC subsidiaries and the Consolidated
Affiliated Entities are required to set aside at least 10% of its after-tax profits each year, if any, to fund a statutory reserve until such
reserve reaches 50% of its registered capital. Although the statutory reserves can be used, among other ways, to increase the registered
capital and eliminate future losses in excess of retained earnings of the respective companies, the reserve funds are not distributable as
cash dividends except in the event of liquidation. As a result of these PRC laws and regulations, our PRC subsidiaries are restricted in
their ability to transfer a portion of their net assets, including general reserve and registered capital, either in the form of dividends, loans
or advances. Such restricted portion amounted to RMB2,950.5 million, RMB2,826.6 million and RMB2,872.8 million (US$404.6
million) as of December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023, respectively.
Under the Contractual Arrangements, Noah Group provides certain support services to the Consolidated Affiliated Entities and
is entitled to receive service fees from the Consolidated Affiliated Entities in exchange. The Contractual Arrangements provide that the
Consolidated Affiliated Entities shall pay Noah Group a service fee on a quarterly basis. The amount of the service fees shall be verified
and determined according to actual services provided by Noah Group, provided that the total service fees shall be equal to the revenue
less expenses and the license fees. The license fees are paid by the Consolidated Affiliated Entities to Noah Group on a yearly basis, in
consideration of the intellectual property rights licenses granted by Noah Group. The amount of the license fees shall be determined by
the board of Noah Group. Pursuant to the Contractual Arrangements, Noah Group is entitled to collect all or part of the revenue as the
agent of the Consolidated Affiliated Entities, subject to a joint decision by the parties. Under that circumstance, Noah Group shall deduct
the service fees from the revenue it collects on behalf of the Consolidated Affiliated Entities. During the three years ended December 31,
2021, 2022 and 2023, Noah Group did not charge any service fees or licenses fees from the Consolidated Affiliated Entities under the
Contractual Arrangements, and there was no cash flows or transfers of other assets between Noah Group and the Consolidated Affiliated
Entities under the Contractual Arrangements. See “—Financial Information Related to the VIEs” and “—Intercompany Revenues
between the Consolidated Affiliated Entities and Oue Subsidiaries” for other services provided, cash flows or transfer of other assets
between our company, our subsidiaries and the Consolidated Affiliated Entities during the three years ended December 31, 2021, 2022
and 2023.
11
Table of Contents
Neither the PRC subsidiaries of our Company nor the Consolidated Affiliated Entities is obligated to make dividends or
distributions to our company under the Contractual Arrangements. The Directors recommended (i) final dividend of RMB509.0 million
(approximately US$71.7 million) in aggregate in respect of the year ended December 31, 2023, which will be paid out of the corporate
actions budget equivalent to 50% of the non-GAAP net income attributable to Shareholders in 2023 in accordance with the capital
management and shareholder return policy of the Company adopted on November 29, 2023; and (ii) special dividend of RMB509.0
million (approximately US$71.7 million) in aggregate, which will be paid out of the accumulated return surplus cash from the years prior
to 2023, to Shareholders whose names appear on the register of members of the Company as of the record date for dividend distribution.
Based on the number of issued Shares as of the date of this annual report, if declared and paid, (i) a final dividend of RMB1.55
(equivalent to approximately US$0.22) per share (tax inclusive) in respect of the year ended December 31, 2023, and (ii) a non-recurring
special dividend of RMB1.55 (equivalent to approximately US$0.22) per share (tax inclusive); will be paid out to Shareholders who are
entitled to dividends, both subject to adjustment to the number of Shares of the Company entitled to dividend distribution as of the record
date for dividend distribution, and the equivalent U.S. dollars amount is also subject to exchange rate adjustment. Recommendations on
the final dividend and special dividend are subject to respective approval by the Shareholders at the forthcoming annual general meeting
to be held on or around June 12, 2024. If the proposed final dividend and special dividend are approved by the Shareholders, the
Company expects to pay such dividend by August 2024. See “Item 8. Financial Information-A. Consolidated Statements and Other
Financial Information-Dividend Policy.”
Furthermore, cash transfers from our PRC subsidiaries to our subsidiaries outside of China are subject to PRC government
control of currency conversion. Restrictions on the availability of foreign currency may affect the ability of our PRC subsidiaries and
Consolidated Affiliated Entities to remit sufficient foreign currency to pay dividends or other payments to us, or otherwise satisfy their
foreign currency denominated obligations. See “Item 3. Key Information—D. Risk Factors—Risks Related to Doing Business in China
—PRC foreign exchange regulations restricting the conversion of Renminbi into foreign currencies may limit our ability to utilize our
revenues effectively and affect the value of your investment.”
Financial Information Related to the Consolidated Affiliated Entities
The following tables set forth the summary condensed consolidated balance sheets data as of December 31, 2022 and 2023 and
the summary of the condensed consolidated statements of operations and cash flows for the years ended December 31, 2021, 2022 and
2023 of (i) our company, (ii) our subsidiaries other than Noah Group, (iii) Noah Group, which is the primary beneficiary of the
Consolidated Affiliated Entities, (iv) the Consolidated Affiliated Entities, and (v) eliminating adjustments. Our consolidated financial
statements are prepared and presented in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States. Our subsidiaries’
and Consolidated Affiliated Entities’ historical results are not necessarily indicative of results expected for future periods. You should
read this information together with our consolidated financial statements and the related notes and “Item 5. Operating and Financial
Review and Prospects” included elsewhere in this annual report.
12
Table of Contents
Selected Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets Data
Our
Subsidiaries
Other than
As of December 31, 2023
Consolidated
Eliminations of
Our company Noah Group Noah Group Affiliated Entities Adjustments
(RMB in thousands)
Consolidated
total
Assets
Cash and cash equivalents
Restricted cash
Short-term investments
Accounts receivable, net
Amounts due from related parties, net
Loans receivables, net
Investments in subsidiaries and the
Consolidated Affiliated Entities
Amounts due from internal companies
Long-term investments
Investment in affiliates
Property and equipment, net
Operating lease right-of-use assets, net
Deferred tax assets
Other assets
Total assets
Liabilities
Accrued payroll and welfare expenses
Income tax payable
Amounts due to internal companies
Deferred revenue
Contingent liabilities
Deferred tax liabilities
Operating lease liabilities, non-current
Other liabilities
Total liabilities
Total net assets
826,080
2,894,839
— 144,658
— 260,057
—
847
446,124
87,216
— 251,934
51,119
—
—
172
54,593
—
10,530,683
—
363,423
69,329
—
— 377,283
309,644
— 2,403,227
— 128,824
— 283,584
21,714
11,742,747
238,712
7,895,431
— 389,378
—
62,504
934,179
—
482,802
2,100,000
69,152
—
— 229,748
70,489
—
476,719
3,397,990
4,497,441
15,432
1,432,413
10,310,334
5,250,166
2,815,600
—
1,314
4,372
—
73,492
33,857
8,284,685
30,030
10,183
—
—
—
—
—
38,162
78,375
8,206,310
13
1,420,089
9,775
119,399
57,682
251,235
34,987
—
149,250
433,201
852,163
74,600
10,195
74,418
90,549
3,577,543
—
—
—
—
—
—
5,192,127
154,433
379,456
503,978
393,891
286,921
—
(15,780,849)
—
(3,034,179)
—
810,484
— 1,526,544
— 2,482,199
139,019
—
431,494
—
384,832
—
12,685,378
(18,815,028)
144,688
17,007
—
—
— (3,034,179)
—
—
—
—
—
(3,034,179)
(15,780,849)
3,672
—
32,656
6,044
179,149
383,216
3,194,327
564,096
89,694
—
72,824
482,802
262,404
76,533
709,462
2,257,815
10,427,563
Table of Contents
Assets
Cash and cash equivalents
Restricted cash
Short-term investments
Accounts receivable and contract assets, net
Amounts due from related parties, net
Loans receivables, net
Investments in subsidiaries and the
Consolidated Affiliated Entities
Amounts due from internal companies
Long-term investments
Investment in affiliates
Property and equipment, net
Operating lease right-of-use assets, net
Deferred tax assets
Other assets
Total assets
Liabilities
Accrued payroll and welfare expenses
Income tax payable
Amounts due to internal companies
Deferred revenue
Contingent liabilities
Deferred tax liabilities
Operating lease liabilities, non-current
Other liabilities
Total liabilities
Total net assets
Our
Subsidiaries
Other than
As of December 31, 2022
Consolidated
Eliminations of
Our company Noah Group Noah Group Affiliated Entities Adjustments
(RMB in thousands)
Consolidated
Total
349,845
2,482,018
—
21,287
— 233,385
335,983
—
823
113,810
— 396,975
5,323
—
—
166
41,214
—
1,566,729
1,916
82,594
161,957
287,577
68,805
—
—
—
—
—
4,403,915
23,203
315,979
498,106
443,424
465,780
361,831
5,481,095
9,636,776
—
— 425,103
269,975
— 2,446,935
— 154,594
— 265,589
724
10,349,999
192,883
7,338,537
—
— 929,380
—
1,314
3,688
—
78,747
28,603
6,569,530
— 387,336
—
3,749
467,178
—
469,018
406,440
59,351
99,000
— 212,049
76,321
—
296,870
8,107
1,541,116
944,303
5,797,421
9,405,696
45,486
—
—
—
—
20,000
—
35,339
100,825
6,468,705
14
—
— (15,117,871)
—
(929,380)
—
—
348,992
774,095
— 1,491,820
858,700
— 2,486,317
35,694
168,192
—
13,598
436,441
—
92,105
290,863
—
68,653
11,798,135
(16,047,251)
3,587,320
236,131
123,099
55,762
8,616
—
17,719
6,850
192,619
640,796
2,946,524
—
—
(929,380)
—
—
—
—
—
(929,380)
(15,117,871)
668,953
126,848
—
67,967
568,018
249,768
83,171
532,935
2,297,660
9,500,475
Table of Contents
Selected Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations Data
For the year ended December 31, 2023
Our
Subsidiaries
other than
Consolidated
Eliminations of
Our company Noah Group Noah Group Affiliated Entities Adjustments
Net revenue
Total operating cost and expenses
(Loss) income from operations
Total other income (expenses)
Income tax expenses
Income (loss) from equity in affiliates
Income from equity in subsidiaries and the
Consolidated Affiliated Entities
Net income
—
(29,430)
(29,430)
38,269
(20,421)
6,233
1,014,843
1,009,494
2,767,075
(1,895,713)
871,362
99,873
(155,953)
(3,887)
—
811,395
(RMB in thousands)
122,737
(119,282)
3,455
(15,613)
(5,207)
—
992,666
(740,138)
252,528
(11,197)
(80,779)
51,782
(587,782)
587,782
—
—
—
—
321,785
304,420
—
212,334
(1,336,628)
(1,336,628)
For the year ended December 31, 2022
Our
Subsidiaries
other than
Consolidated
Eliminations of
Our company Noah Group Noah Group Affiliated Entities Adjustments
Net revenue
Total operating cost and expenses
(Loss) income from operations
Total other income (expenses)
Income tax expenses
Income from equity in affiliates
Income from equity in subsidiaries and the
Consolidated Affiliated Entities
Net income
—
(32,302)
(32,302)
15,333
—
51,459
942,081
976,571
1,960,197
(1,454,846)
505,351
(69,688)
(68,632)
(15,476)
—
351,555
(RMB in thousands)
95,892
(175,719)
(79,827)
10,029
(2,681)
—
1,282,220
(586,993)
695,227
105,426
(195,795)
53,165
(237,937)
237,937
—
—
—
—
277,970
205,491
—
658,023
(1,220,051)
(1,220,051)
For the year ended December 31, 2021
Our
Subsidiaries
other than
Consolidated
Eliminations of
Our company Noah Group Noah Group Affiliated Entities Adjustments
Net revenue
Total operating cost and expenses
(Loss) income from operations
Total other (expenses) income
Income tax expenses
Income from equity in affiliates
Income from equity in subsidiaries and the
Consolidated Affiliated Entities
Net income
—
(42,240)
(42,240)
(21,853)
—
68,388
1,309,836
1,314,131
2,975,886
(2,238,991)
736,895
103,108
(133,024)
83,485
—
790,464
(RMB in thousands)
46,221
(179,871)
(133,650)
(5,979)
34,530
—
1,505,108
(867,215)
637,893
23,868
(195,446)
150,106
(234,121)
234,121
—
—
—
—
790,762
685,663
—
616,421
(2,100,598)
(2,100,598)
Consolidated
total
3,294,696
(2,196,781)
1,097,915
111,332
(262,360)
54,128
—
1,001,015
Consolidated
total
3,100,372
(2,011,923)
1,088,449
61,100
(267,108)
89,148
—
971,589
Consolidated
total
4,293,094
(3,094,196)
1,198,898
99,144
(293,940)
301,979
—
1,306,081
15
Table of Contents
Selected Condensed Consolidated Cash Flows Data
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities
Net cash (used in) provided by investing activities
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities
175,921
(16,400)
283,607
1,277,300
(283,158)
(472,942)
(127,241)
8,857
164,180
(7,660)
(131,120)
—
— 1,318,320
(247,141)
(199,835)
174,680
(174,680)
Our company Noah Group Noah Group Affiliated Entities Adjustments
total
(RMB in thousands)
For the year ended December 31, 2023
Our
Subsidiaries
other than
Consolidated
Eliminations of Consolidated
Net cash provided by (used in) operating
activities
Net cash (used in) provided by investing
activities
Net cash provided by financing activities
Net cash provided by (used in) operating
activities
Net cash used in investing activities
Net cash provided by (used in) financing
activities
For the year ended December 31, 2022
Our
Subsidiaries
other than
Consolidated
Eliminations of Consolidated
Our company Noah Group Noah Group Affiliated Entities Adjustments
total
(RMB in thousands)
55,195
(39,428)
(44,810)
661,944
—
632,901
(17,492)
87,997
321,986
145,764
(614)
45,698
(275,289)
—
45,698
(45,698)
74,289
233,761
For the year ended December 31, 2021
Our
Subsidiaries
other than
Consolidated
Eliminations of Consolidated
Our company Noah Group Noah Group Affiliated Entities Adjustments
total
(RMB in thousands)
63,125
(1,120,785)
(105,959)
(719,823)
1,002,272
(2,100,280)
562,400
(207,114)
— 1,521,838
(2,572,094)
1,575,908
93,861
(115,391)
1,100,733
(16,416)
(1,575,908)
(513,121)
Intercompany Revenues between the Consolidated Affiliated Entities and Our Subsidiaries
The intercompany services between the Consolidated Affiliated Entities and our subsidiaries principally consist of shared
services within the group, including the support of information technology, marketing activities, strategic development, human resources
and legal consulting.
The Consolidated Affiliated Entities provide shared services to our subsidiaries, the amounts of which were RMB38.4 million,
RMB64.4 million and RMB19.6 million (US$2.8 million), for the years ended December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023, respectively. The
intercompany service charge is eliminated at the consolidation level.
Our subsidiaries provide investment consulting services and shared services to the Consolidated Affiliated Entities, the amounts
of which were RMB187.0 million, RMB264.4 million and RMB359.1 million (US$50.1 million) for the years ended December 31, 2021,
2022 and 2023, respectively. The intercompany service charge is eliminated at the consolidation level.
For the years ended December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023, cash paid by the Consolidated Affiliated Entities to our subsidiaries for
the services rendered were RMB112.8 million, RMB323.5 million and RMB395.2 million (US$55.7 million), respectively.
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Dividends or Distributions Made to the Holding Company
The income of our holding company attributable to our non-PRC subsidiaries was RMB655.4 million, RMB551.2 million and
RMB748.0 million (US$105.3 million) for the years ended December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023, respectively. Among which, Gopher
CCM Limited made distributions of RMB12.1 million to our holding company for the year ended December 31, 2021. Gopher CCM
Limited generated revenue through direct equity investments and is not subject to tax on income or capital gains under the current laws
of the Cayman Islands where it was incorporated. No dividend or distribution was made to our holding company by our non-PRC
subsidiaries for the year ended December 31, 2022 and 2023.
The income (loss) of our holding company attributable to our PRC-based subsidiaries was RMB38.0 million, RMB(267.2)
million and RMB54.5 million (US$7.7 million) for the years ended December 31, 2021, and 2022 and 2023, respectively. Among which,
Noah Group made distributions of RMB200.0 million (US$28.2 million) and RMB5.0 million to our holding company for the year ended
December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively, and paid RMB20.0 million (US$2.8 million) and RMB0.5 million dividend tax to PRC tax
authorities. No dividends or distributions have been made to our holding company by our PRC-based subsidiaries for the years ended
December 31, 2021.
The income of our holding company attributable to the Consolidated Affiliated Entities was RMB616.4 million, RMB658.0
million and RMB212.3 million (US$29.9 million) for the years ended December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023, respectively. No dividends or
distributions have been made to our holding company by the Consolidated Affiliated Entities.
A.
B.
[Reserved]
Capitalization and Indebtedness
Not applicable.
C.
Reasons for the Offer and Use of Proceeds
Not applicable.
D.
Risk Factors
Risks Related to Corporate Structure
We are a Cayman Islands holding company primarily operating in China through our subsidiaries and Consolidated Affiliated
Entities, including Noah Investment with which we have maintained Contractual Arrangements and its subsidiaries in the PRC.
Investors thus are not purchasing, and may never directly hold, equity interests in the Consolidated Affiliated Entities. There are
substantial uncertainties regarding the interpretation and application of current and future PRC laws, regulations, and rules relating
to such agreements that establish the Contractual Arrangements for a portion of our China operations, including potential future
actions by the PRC government, which could affect the enforceability of the Contractual Arrangements with Noah Investment and its
subsidiaries and, consequently, significantly affect the financial condition and results of operations of our company. If the PRC
government finds that such agreements do not comply with PRC laws, regulations, and rules, or if these laws, regulations, and rules
or the interpretation thereof change in the future, we could be subject to severe penalties or be forced to relinquish our interests in
Noah Investment and its subsidiaries or forfeit its rights under the Contractual Arrangements.
We operate our domestic asset management business under the Contractual Arrangements. In our domestic asset management
business, we act as the general partner of relevant investment funds which investment portfolio includes, among others, investments in
third-party managed funds and equity investments into private companies. The PRC government regulates certain businesses through
strict business licensing requirements and laws and regulations, including restrictions on foreign investment. These third-party managed
funds or investee companies may target or operate certain businesses that are subject to foreign investment restrictions, which may
require that investors shall not be foreign-invested enterprises (“FIEs”) or their foreign ownership percentage shall be limited to a
specified ceiling to the extent permitted by relevant foreign investment regulations. We adopted the Contractual Arrangements because if
we were to conduct our domestic asset management business through our PRC subsidiaries which are FIEs, we may lose the accessibility
to the investments in certain businesses that are subject to foreign investment restrictions. Therefore, we rely on the Contractual
Arrangements that we entered into with Noah Investment and its shareholders to carry out our domestic asset management business.
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The Contractual Arrangements with Noah Investment and its shareholders enable us to (1) be considered as the primary
beneficiary of Noah Investment and its subsidiaries for accounting purposes and consolidate the financial results of the Consolidated
Affiliated Entities; (2) receive substantially all of the economic benefits from Noah Investment and its subsidiaries in consideration for
the services provided by Noah Group; and (3) have an exclusive option to purchase all or part of the equity interests in Noah Investment
when and to the extent permitted by PRC law, or request any existing shareholder of Noah Investment to transfer any or part of the equity
interests in Noah Investment to another PRC person or entity designated by us at any time at our discretion. Because of the Contractual
Arrangements, we are the primary beneficiary of Noah Investment and its subsidiaries and hence treat them as the Consolidated
Affiliated Entities and consolidate their results of operations into ours. In addition, we hold the required licenses and permits necessary to
conduct our asset management business in China through the Consolidated Affiliated Entities. Investors of our ADSs are not purchasing
equity interest in the Consolidated Affiliated Entities in China but instead are purchasing equity interest in a Cayman Islands holding
company with no direct equity ownership of the Consolidated Affiliated Entities. For further details on the Contractual Arrangements,
see “Item 4. Information on the Company—C. Organizational Structure—Contractual Arrangements.”
Certain shareholders of Noah Investment have ceased to be PRC citizens. According to the provisions of the Regulations on
Mergers and Acquisitions of Domestic Enterprises by Foreign Investors (Revised in 2009) issued by the MOFCOM on June 22, 2009,
the change of nationality of a shareholder of a domestic company who is a natural person will not cause our company to cease to be
deemed a domestic company. However, if the funds for which we have been acting, or will act as the general partner or fund manager
invest into other equity investment funds or investee companies in China, it is possible that these funds or investee companies may be
recognized by PRC governmental authorities as having foreign ultimate beneficiaries. This may result in violation of foreign investment
restrictions by these funds or investee companies or limit our potential investment opportunities due to restrictions on foreign
investments in certain industries in China, thus adversely affect our domestic asset management business.
We believe that our corporate structure and the Contractual Arrangements do not result in a violation of the current applicable
PRC laws and regulations. Our PRC legal counsel, Zhong Lun Law Firm, based on its understanding of PRC laws and regulations
currently in effect, is of the opinion that each of the contracts under the Contractual Arrangements among our wholly-owned PRC
subsidiary, Noah Group, Noah Investment, and its shareholders, is valid, legal and binding in accordance with its terms. However, we
have been further advised by our PRC legal counsel that as there are substantial uncertainties regarding the interpretation and application
of PRC laws and regulations and relevant regulatory measures concerning the foreign investment restrictions and administrative licenses
and permits related to various underlying industries, there can be no assurance that the PRC government authorities or courts, or other
authorities that regulate the industries that our funds are directly or indirectly investing into, would agree that our corporate structure or
any of the contracts under the Contractual Arrangements comply with PRC licensing, registration or other regulatory requirements, with
existing policies or with requirements or policies that may be adopted in the future. PRC laws and regulations governing the legality,
validity and enforceability of the Contractual Arrangements are uncertain and the relevant government authorities have broad discretion
in interpreting these laws and regulations.
We believe that our corporate structure and the Contractual Arrangements do not result in a violation of the current applicable
PRC laws and regulations. Our PRC Legal Adviser, based on its understanding of PRC laws and regulations currently in effect, is of the
opinion that each of the contracts under the Contractual Arrangements among our wholly-owned PRC subsidiary, Noah Group, Noah
Investment, and its shareholders, is valid, legal and binding in accordance with its terms. However, we have been further advised by our
PRC Legal Adviser that as there are substantial uncertainties regarding the interpretation and application of PRC laws and regulations
and relevant regulatory measures concerning the foreign investment restrictions and administrative licenses and permits related to
various underlying industries, there can be no assurance that the PRC government authorities or courts, or other authorities that regulate
the industries that our funds are directly or indirectly investing into, would agree that our corporate structure or any of the contracts under
the Contractual Arrangements comply with PRC licensing, registration or other regulatory requirements, with existing policies or with
requirements or policies that may be adopted in the future. PRC laws and regulations governing the legality, validity and enforceability of
the Contractual Arrangements are uncertain and the relevant government authorities have broad discretion in interpreting these laws and
regulations.
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If our corporate structure and the Contractual Arrangements are deemed by relevant regulatory authorities to be illegal, either in
whole or in part, we may lose control of the Consolidated Affiliated Entities and have to modify such structure to comply with regulatory
requirements. However, there can be no assurance that we can achieve this without material disruption to our business. Further, if our
corporate structure and the Contractual Arrangements are found to be in violation of any existing or future PRC laws or regulations, the
relevant regulatory authorities would have broad discretion in dealing with such violations, including:
● revoking our business and operating licenses;
● levying fines on us;
● confiscating any of our income that they deem to be obtained through illegal operations;
● shutting down our services;
● discontinuing or restricting our operations in China;
● imposing conditions or requirements with which we may not be able to comply;
● requiring us to change our corporate structure and the Contractual Arrangements;
● restricting or prohibiting our use of the proceeds from overseas offering to finance the Consolidated Affiliated Entities’
business and operations; and
● taking other regulatory or enforcement actions that could be harmful to our business.
As of the date of this annual report, we had not encountered any interference or encumbrance from any PRC regulators in
operating our business through the Consolidated Affiliated Entities under the Contractual Arrangements. However, new PRC laws, rules
and regulations may be introduced to impose additional requirements that may be applicable to our corporate structure and the
Contractual Arrangements. Occurrence of any of these events could materially and adversely affect our business, financial condition and
results of operations. In addition, if the imposition of any of these penalties or requirement to restructure our corporate structure causes
us to lose the rights to direct the activities of the Consolidated Affiliated Entities or our right to receive its economic benefits, we would
no longer be able to consolidate the financial results of the Consolidated Affiliated Entities in our consolidated financial statements.
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We rely on the Consolidated Affiliated Entities to operate a portion of our China operations, which may not be as effective as direct
ownership in providing operational control.
As noted above, we rely on the Consolidated Affiliated Entities, to operate a portion of our operations in China. The Contractual
Arrangements may not be as effective as direct ownership in providing us with control over the Consolidated Affiliated Entities. If Noah
Investment or its shareholders fail to perform their respective obligations under the Contractual Arrangements, our recourse to the assets
held by the Consolidated Affiliated Entities is indirect and we may have to incur substantial costs and expend significant resources to
enforce such arrangements in reliance on legal remedies under PRC law. These remedies may not always be effective, particularly in
light of uncertainties in the PRC legal system. Furthermore, in connection with litigation, arbitration or other judicial or dispute
resolution proceedings, assets under the name of any of record holder of equity interests in the Consolidated Affiliated Entities, including
such equity interests, may be put under court custody. As a consequence, we cannot be certain that the equity interests will be disposed
pursuant to the Contractual Arrangement or ownership by the record holder of the equity interests. In addition, we may lose the ability to
use and enjoy assets held by any of the Consolidated Affiliated Entities that are important to the operation of our business if those
Consolidated Affiliated Entities declare bankruptcy or become subject to dissolution or liquidation proceedings. The Contractual
Arrangements are governed by PRC law and provide for the resolution of disputes through arbitration in the PRC. Accordingly, these
contracts would be interpreted in accordance with PRC law and any disputes would be resolved in accordance with PRC legal
procedures. Under the Contractual Arrangements, as a legal matter, if our Noah Investment or its shareholders fail to perform their
respective obligations under the Contractual Arrangements, we may have to incur substantial costs and expend additional resources to
enforce such arrangements. We may also have to rely on legal remedies under PRC law, including seeking specific performance or
injunctive relief, and claiming damages, which we cannot assure you will be effective. In addition, future development in the PRC legal
system may affect our ability to exert effective control over the Consolidated Affiliated Entities.
Contractual Arrangements among our PRC subsidiary, Noah Group, one of the Consolidated Affiliated Entities, Noah Investment,
and Noah Investment’s shareholders may be subject to scrutiny by the PRC tax authorities, who may determine that we or Noah
Investment and its subsidiaries owe additional taxes, which could substantially reduce our consolidated net income and the value of
your investment.
Under applicable PRC laws and regulations, arrangements and transactions among related parties may be subject to audit or
challenge by the PRC tax authorities. We are not able to determine whether the Contractual Arrangements that we have entered into
among our PRC subsidiary, Noah Group, one of the Consolidated Affiliated Entities, Noah Investment, and Noah Investment’s
shareholders will be regarded by the PRC tax authorities as arm’s length transactions. We could face material and adverse tax
consequences if the PRC tax authorities determine that the Contractual Arrangements among Noah Group, Noah Investment, and Noah
Investment’s shareholders were not entered into on an arm’s length basis or resulted in an impermissible reduction in taxes under
applicable PRC laws, rules and regulations, and adjust Noah Investment’s income in the form of a transfer pricing adjustment. A transfer
pricing adjustment could, among other things, result in a reduction, for PRC tax purposes, of expense deductions recorded by Noah
Investment, which could in turn increase its respective tax liabilities. In addition, the PRC tax authorities may impose punitive interest on
Noah Investment for the adjusted but unpaid taxes at the rate of 5% over the basic Renminbi lending rate published by the PBOC
according to applicable regulations. Although Noah Group did not generate any revenues from providing services to Noah Investment
under the Contractual Arrangements in the past, if there are such revenues in the future and the PRC tax authorities decide to make
transfer pricing adjustments on Noah Investment’s net income, our consolidated net income may be adversely affected.
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Because certain shareholders of the Consolidated Affiliated Entities are our directors and executive officers, their fiduciary duties to
us may conflict with their respective roles in the Consolidated Affiliated Entities. If any of the shareholders of the Consolidated
Affiliated Entities fails to act in the best interests of our company or our shareholders, our business and results of operations may be
materially and adversely affected.
Certain shareholders of Noah Investment, one of the Consolidated Affiliated Entities, are our directors and executive officers,
including Ms. Jingbo Wang, our chairwoman, Mr. Zhe Yin, our director, and Mr. Boquan He, our independent director. Conflicts of
interest may arise between the dual roles of those individuals who are either our directors or executive officers and shareholders of the
Consolidated Affiliated Entities. The fiduciary duties owed by these directors and officers to our company under Cayman Islands law,
including their duties to act honestly, in good faith and in our best interests, may conflict with their roles as shareholders of the
Consolidated Affiliated Entities, as what is in the best interest of the Consolidated Affiliated Entities may not be in the best interests of
our company. In addition, these individuals may breach or cause Noah Investment and its subsidiaries to breach or refuse to renew the
existing Contractual Arrangements with us. We do not have existing arrangements to address such potential conflicts of interest, other
than to replace the current directors of Noah Investment, either by exercising our option under the exclusive option agreement with Noah
Investment’s shareholders to cause them to transfer all of their equity ownership in Noah Investment to a PRC entity or individual
designated by us, and this new shareholder of Noah Investment could then appoint new directors of Noah Investment to replace the
current directors, or cause our PRC subsidiary, Noah Group, in the capacity of the attorney-in-fact of Noah Investment’s shareholders to
directly appoint new directors of Noah Investment to replace these individuals.
We rely on Noah Investment’s shareholders to comply with PRC law, which protects contracts and provides that directors and
executive officers owe a duty of loyalty to our company and require them to avoid conflicts of interest and not to take advantage of their
positions for personal gains. Although our independent directors or disinterested officers may take measures to prevent the parties with
dual roles from making decisions that may favor themselves as shareholders of the Consolidated Affiliated Entities, we cannot assure you
that these measures would be effective in all instances and that when conflicts arise, those individuals will act in the best interest of our
company or that conflicts will be resolved in our favor. If we cannot resolve any conflicts of interest or disputes between us and those
individuals, we would have to rely on legal proceedings, which may materially disrupt our business. There is also substantial uncertainty
as to the outcome of any such legal proceeding.
If we exercise the option to acquire equity ownership of Noah Investment, the ownership transfer may subject us to certain limitations
and substantial costs.
Pursuant to the Contractual Arrangements, Noah Group or its designated person(s) has the exclusive option to elect to purchase
at any time, when permitted by the then applicable PRC laws, all or any part of the equity interests in Noah Investment from its
shareholder. The transfer price of the relevant equity interest shall be the minimum purchase price permitted under PRC law or a higher
price as otherwise agreed by Noah Group. In the event that Noah Group exercises the options under the exclusive option agreement to
acquire the equity interests in Noah Investment, the equity transfer price may be subject to review and tax adjustment by the relevant tax
authority. Such tax amounts could be substantial and our financial condition may be adversely affected as a result.
We may rely to a large extent on dividends and other distributions on equity paid by our PRC subsidiaries to fund any cash and
financing requirements we may have, and any limitation on the ability of our PRC subsidiaries to pay dividends to us could have a
material adverse effect on our ability to conduct our business.
We are a holding company, and we may rely to a large extent on dividends and other distributions on equity paid by our PRC
subsidiaries for our cash and financing requirements, including the funds necessary to pay dividends and other cash distributions to our
shareholders and any debt we may incur. If our PRC subsidiaries incur debt on their own behalf in the future, the instruments governing
the debt may restrict their ability to pay dividends or make other distributions to us. In addition, the PRC tax authorities may require us to
adjust our taxable income under the Contractual Arrangements that Noah Group currently has in place with the Consolidated Affiliated
Entities in a manner that would materially and adversely affect its ability to pay dividends and other distributions to us.
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In addition, our PRC subsidiaries and Consolidated Affiliated Entities are required to maintain certain statutory reserves and
may also allocate a portion of their after-tax profits to staff welfare and bonus funds, which in each case are not distributable as cash
dividends except in the event of liquidation. Any limitation on the ability of our PRC subsidiaries and affiliated entities to pay dividends
or make other distributions to us could materially and adversely limit our ability to grow, make investments or acquisitions that could be
beneficial to our business, pay dividends, or otherwise fund and conduct our business.
Our current corporate structure and business operations may be affected by the newly enacted Foreign Investment Law.
On March 15, 2019, the National People’s Congress promulgated the Foreign Investment Law, which took effect on January 1,
2020 and replaced the previous laws regulating foreign investment in China, namely, the Sino-Foreign Equity Joint Venture Enterprise
Law, the Sino-Foreign Cooperative Joint Venture Enterprise Law and the Wholly Foreign-Invested Enterprises Law together with their
implementation rules and ancillary regulations. The Foreign Investment Law embodies an expected PRC regulatory trend 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. See “Item 4. Information on the Company—B. Business Overview—
Regulations in China—Regulation on Foreign Investment.”
The corporate structure implemented through the Contractual Arrangements structure has been adopted by many PRC-based
companies, including us, to comply with laws and regulations in China. However, uncertainties still exist in relation to the interpretation
and implementation of current and future PRC laws and regulations, including the Foreign Investment Law, especially in regard to the
permissibility of the Contractual Arrangements. While the Foreign Investment Law does not comment on the concept of “de facto
control” and does not define contractual arrangements as a form of foreign investment explicitly, it has a catch-all provision under the
definition of “foreign investment” to include investments made by foreign investors in China through means stipulated by laws,
administrative regulations, or provisions of the State Council. We cannot assure you that future laws and regulations will not provide for
contractual arrangements as a form of foreign investment. Therefore, there can be no assurance that our control over the Consolidated
Affiliated Entities under the Contractual Arrangements will not be deemed as foreign investment in the future. In the event that any
possible implementing regulations of the Foreign Investment Law or any other future laws, administrative regulations, or provisions of
the State Council deem contractual arrangements as a type of foreign investment, when the funds that we act as the general partner invest
into other equity investment funds or companies in China (either directly or through the investments in other equity investment funds),
there could be a risk that such funds or companies may be deemed as having foreign investment in their shareholding structure when
governmental authorities review such funds or investee companies’ applications for certain approvals or licenses in industries that are
subject to foreign investment restrictions. Any such future changes in applicable laws or regulations could reduce the investment
opportunities available to us.
PRC regulation of loans to and direct investment in PRC entities by offshore holding companies and governmental control of
conversion of foreign currencies into Renminbi may delay or prevent us from using any offshore cash we may have to make loans to
our PRC subsidiaries and Consolidated Affiliated Entities or to make additional capital contributions to our PRC subsidiaries, which
could materially and adversely affect our liquidity and our ability to fund and expand our business.
We are an offshore holding company conducting our operations in China through our PRC subsidiaries and Consolidated
Affiliated Entities. We may make loans to our PRC subsidiaries and Consolidated Affiliated Entities, or we may make additional capital
contributions to our PRC subsidiaries.
Any loans made by us to our PRC subsidiaries are subject to PRC regulations and foreign exchange loan registrations. For
example, loans by us to our PRC subsidiaries to finance their activities cannot exceed statutory limits, i.e., the difference between its total
amount of investment and its registered capital, or certain amount calculated based on elements including capital or net assets and the
cross-border financing leverage ratio (“Macro-prudential Management Mode”) under relevant PRC laws and the loans must be registered
with the local counterpart of the SAFE, or filed with SAFE in its information system. We may also provide loans to the Consolidated
Affiliated Entities or its subsidiaries or other domestic PRC entities under the Macro-prudential Management Mode. According to the
Circular of the People’s Bank of China and the State Administration of Foreign Exchange on Adjusting the Macro-prudent Adjustment
Parameter for Cross-border Financing issued on July 20, 2023, the macro-prudent adjustment parameter for cross-border financing has
been increased to 1.5 from 1.25. Moreover, any medium or long-term loan to be provided by us to the Consolidated Affiliated Entities or
its subsidiaries or other domestic PRC entities must also be registered with the NDRC. We may also decide to finance our PRC
subsidiaries by means of capital contributions. These capital contributions must be recorded with the competent administration for
market regulation.
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On March 30, 2015, SAFE issued the Circular of the State Administration of Foreign Exchange on Reforming the
Administrative Approach Regarding the Settlement of the Foreign Exchange Capital of Foreign-invested Enterprises (“SAFE Circular
19”) which took effect and replaced previous regulations from June 1, 2015. Pursuant to SAFE Circular 19, up to 100% of foreign
currency capital of a foreign-invested enterprise may be converted into RMB capital according to the actual operation, and within the
business scope, of the enterprise in its discretion. Although SAFE Circular 19 allows for the use of RMB converted from the foreign
currency-denominated capital for equity investments in the PRC, the restrictions continue to apply as to FIEs’ use of the converted RMB
for purposes beyond the business scope, for entrusted loans or for inter-company RMB loans. SAFE promulgated the Circular Regarding
Further Promotion of the Facilitation of Cross-Border Trade and Investment on October 23, 2019 (“SAFE Circular 28”), pursuant to
which all foreign-invested enterprises can make equity investments in the PRC with their capital funds in accordance with relevant laws
and regulations. As SAFE Circular 28 is newly issued, its interpretation and implementation in actual practice are still subject to
uncertainties.
In light of the various requirements imposed by PRC regulations on loans to and direct investment in PRC entities by offshore
holding companies, we cannot assure you that we will be able to complete the necessary government registrations or the record-filings on
a timely basis, if at all, with respect to future loans by us to our PRC subsidiaries or the Consolidated Affiliated Entities or with respect to
future capital contributions by us to our PRC subsidiaries. If we fail to complete such registrations or record-filings, our ability to use any
offshore cash we may have, including the proceeds we receive from any future offshore offering of equity or debt securities, and to
capitalize or otherwise fund our PRC operations may be negatively affected, which could materially and adversely affect our liquidity
and our ability to fund and expand our business.
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. Our ADSs may be prohibited from trading in the United States under the Holding Foreign Companies Accountable Act in
the future if the PCAOB is unable to inspect or investigate completely auditors located in China. The delisting of our ADSs, or the
threat of their being delisted, may materially and adversely affect the value of your investment.
Pursuant to the Holding Foreign Companies Accountable Act, or the HFCA Act, the SEC will identify a “Commission-
Identified Issuer” if an issuer has filed an annual report containing an audit report issued by a registered public accounting firm that the
PCAOB has determined it is unable to inspect or investigate completely because of a position taken by an authority in the foreign
jurisdiction, and will then impose a trading prohibition on an issuer after it is identified as a Commission Identified Issuer for two
consecutive years.
Our auditor, the independent registered public accounting firm that issues the audit report included in our annual report filed
with the Securities and Exchange Commission, 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
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 16, 2021, the PCAOB issued a report, or 2021 determination, 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. The PCAOB identified our auditor as one of the registered public accounting firms that the PCAOB was unable to inspect or
investigate completely. On April 12, 2022, we were identified by the SEC under the HFCA Act as having filed audit reports issued by a
registered public accounting firm that cannot be inspected or investigated completely by the PCAOB in connection with our filing of the
annual report on Form 20-F for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2022.
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On December 15, 2022, the PCAOB vacated its 2021 determinations 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 afte we filed our annual report on Form 20-F for the fiscal year ended
December 31, 2022 and do not expect to identified as a Commission-Identified Issuer under the HFCAA 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 registered public accounting 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 continue to 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 again 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
HFCA Act. 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.
The approval of or filing with the CSRC or other PRC government authorities may be required under PRC law in connection with
our future issuance of securities overseas, and, if required, we cannot predict whether or for how long we will be able to obtain such
approval or complete such filing.
On July 6, 2021, the General Office of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China and the General Office of the
State Council issued the Opinions on Strictly Cracking Down Illegal Securities Activities in accordance with the Law (the “Opinions on
Securities Activities”), which announced the plans to take effective measures to enhance the administration over illegal securities
activities and the supervision on the offering and listing of PRC domestic companies in an overseas market, including promoting the
construction of relevant regulatory systems.
On February 17, 2023, the CSRC promulgated the Trial Administrative Measures of Overseas Securities Offering and Listing
by Domestic Companies (the “Trial Measures”) as well as five supporting guidelines (together with Trial Measures, the “Filing
Measures”), which took effect on March 31, 2023 and implemented a filing-based regulatory system over PRC domestic companies
seeking to offer or list equity securities in an overseas market, whether through direct or indirect form. The Filing Measures stipulate
certain circumstances under which the overseas offering or listing would be prohibited, as well as the measures taken by a PRC domestic
company required by the CSRC if it falls into any of such circumstances prior to the overseas offering or listing, such as postponement or
termination of the proposed overseas offering or listing, and reporting to the CSRC and competent authorities under the State Council in
a timely manner. According to the Filing Measures and the Notice on Administrative Arrangement of Overseas Securities Offering and
Listing of Domestic Companies issued by the CSRC on February 17, 2023, our future issuances of equity securities, such as shares,
convertible bonds and exchangeable bonds, etc., to foreign investors and listings are subject to the filing requirement. For details, please
see “Item 4. Information on the Company — B. Business Overview — Regulations in China — Regulations on Securities Offering and
Listing Outside of the PRC.”
On November 14, 2021, the Cyberspace Administration of China (the “CAC”) publicly solicited opinions on the Regulations on
Network Data Security Management (Draft for Comments), according to which, data processors seeking a public listing in Hong Kong
that affect or may affect national security shall apply for cybersecurity review. On December 28, 2021, the Revised Cybersecurity
Review Measures was released, which stipulate, among others, that the procurement of network products and services by critical
information infrastructure operators and the data processing activities conducted by network platform operators which affect or may
affect national security shall be subject to cybersecurity review. See also “—Risks Related to Our Business—Our business is subject to
various evolving PRC laws and regulations regarding data privacy and cybersecurity. Failure of cybersecurity and data privacy concerns
could subject us to penalties, damage our reputation and brand, and harm our business and results of operations.”
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The foregoing regulations remain unclear on how they will be interpreted, amended and implemented by the relevant PRC
governmental authorities. We cannot assure you that we will be able to strictly comply with the relevant regulatory requirements,
including but not limited to completing the filing procedures with the CSRC for our future issuance or offering of securities, on a timely
manner, or at all.In addition, we cannot assure you that any new rules or regulations promulgated in the future will not impose additional
requirements on any of our future proposed offering of securities overseas or the listing of our ADSs, and to what extent the filing
documents may satisfy the requirements of the CSRC. If it is determined in the future that any additional approvals, filings, registrations
or other kind of governmental authorisation from the CSRC or other PRC governmental authorities are required for any of our future
offerings of securities overseas or to maintain the listing status of our ADSs, it is uncertain whether we can or how long it will take us to
obtain such authorisation, and whether any such authorisation could be rescinded. Any failure to obtain or delay in obtaining such
authorisation, or a rescission of any such authorization if obtained by us, may subject us to regulatory actions or other sanctions from the
CSRC or other PRC governmental authorities, which may have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition or results of
operations.
PRC governmental authorities’ complex regulatory requirements on offerings conducted overseas by, and foreign investment in,
China-based issuers could limit or hinder our ability to offer or continue to offer securities to investors and result in a material
adverse change in our operations and the value of our ADSs.
We conduct our business primarily through our subsidiaries in which we hold equity ownership interests, and the Consolidated
Affiliated Entities controlled under the Contractual Arrangements. Our operations in China are governed by PRC laws and regulations.
The PRC governmental authorities have complex regulatory requirements on the conduct of our business, and they may implement
stricter requirements and urge us to adjust accordingly, which could result in a material adverse change in our operation and/or the value
of our ADSs. Also, the PRC governmental authorities have promulgated certain regulations and rules to exert more oversight over
offerings that are conducted overseas and/or foreign investment in China-based issuers. Any such action could limit or hinder our ability
to offer or continue to offer securities to investors. In addition, implementation of industry-wide regulations directly targeting our
operations could cause the value of our securities to significantly decline. Therefore, investors of our company and our business may face
potential uncertainty from actions taken by the PRC governmental authorities affecting our business.
In particular, as the case in many other civil law jurisdictions, the PRC legal system is evolving rapidly,certain recently enacted
laws, rules and regulations are relatively new, and unlike the common law system, prior court decisions may be cited for reference but
have limited precedential value. Therefore, it is possible that our existing operations may be found not to be in full compliance with
relevant laws and regulations in the future.
In addition,the PRC government has promulgated relevant laws, rules and regulations that may impose additional and
significant obligations and liabilities on overseas listed Chinese companies regarding its overseas offering and listing, data security,
cross-border data flow, and compliance with China’s securities laws. See also “—Risks Related to Our Business—The approval of or
filing with the CSRC or other PRC government authorities may be required under PRC law in connection with our future issuance of
securities overseas, and, if required, we cannot predict whether or for how long we will be able to obtain such approval or complete such
filing”, “—Any failure to ensure cybersecurity or protection of our clients’ personal data or privacy could lead to legal liabilities,
adversely affect our reputation and have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition or results of operations” and “—
Our business is subject to various evolving PRC laws and regulations regarding data privacy and cybersecurity. Failure of cybersecurity
and data privacy concerns could subject us to penalties, damage our reputation and brand, and harm our business and results of
operations.” It is uncertain whether or how these new laws, rules and regulations and the interpretation and implementation thereof may
affect us, but among other things, our ability to obtain external financing through the issuance of equity securities overseas could be
negatively affected.
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Our business is subject to various evolving PRC laws and regulations regarding data privacy and cybersecurity. Failure of
cybersecurity and data privacy concerns could subject us to penalties, damage our reputation and brand, and harm our business and
results of operations.
We face significant challenges with respect to cybersecurity and data privacy, including the receipt, processing, storage, and
transmission of the data of our clients and others, much of which is confidential. We are subject to various regulatory requirements
relating to cybersecurity and data privacy, including, without limitation the PRC Cybersecurity Law (the “Cybersecurity Law”). The
Cybersecurity Law requires, among others, a network operator to adopt technical measures and other necessary measures to safeguard
the safety and stability of network operations, effectively respond to network security incidents, prevent illegal and criminal activities,
and maintain the integrity, confidentiality and availability of network data. The Cybersecurity Law also reaffirms certain basic principles
and requirements on personal information protection.
Regulatory requirements on cybersecurity and data privacy are constantly evolving and can be subject to varying interpretations,
resulting in uncertainties about the scope of our responsibilities in that regard. For example, on June 10, 2021, the Standing Committee of
the National People’s Congress promulgated the PRC Data Security Law (the “Data Security Law”), which took effect on September 1,
2021. The Data Security Law applies to data processing activities, including the collection, storage, use, processing, transmission,
availability and disclosure of data, and security supervision of such activities within the territory of the PRC. According to the Data
Security Law, whoever carries out data processing activities shall establish a sound data security management system throughout the
whole process, organize data security education and training, and take corresponding technical measures and other necessary measures to
ensure data security. The Data Security Law provides a national data security review system, under which data processing activities that
affect or may affect national security shall be reviewed, and prohibits any individual or entity in China from providing data stored in
PRC to foreign judicial or law enforcement departments without the approval of competent PRC authorities. In Addition, the Personal
Information Protection Law of the PRC (the “Personal Information Protection Law”), issued on August 20, 2021 by the SCNPC, further
details the general rules and principles on personal information processing and further increases the potential liability of personal
information processor. Even though we have already taken necessary organizational and technical measures in accordance with
applicable legal requirements to protect the safety of our network facilities and the data processed by us, we may still face risks inherent
in handling and protecting large volumes of data, including protecting the data temporarily hosted in our system, detecting and
prohibiting unauthorized data sharing and transfers, preventing attacks on our system by outside parties, foiling any fraudulent behavior
or improper use by our employees, and maintaining and updating our database. Any system failure, security breach or attempts by third
parties to illegally obtain the data that results in any actual or perceived release of client data could damage our reputation and brand,
deter current and potential clients from using our services, affect our business and results of operations, and expose us to potential legal
liability.
The Regulations on Network Data Security Management (Draft for Comments), or the Draft Network Data Regulations, was
released by CAC on November 14, 2021. The CAC has solicited comments on this draft until December 13, 2021. According to the
Draft Network Data Regulations, listing abroad of data processors processing over one million users’ personal information and listing in
Hong Kong which affects or may affect national security, etc. shall be subject to the cybersecurity review requirement theriunder. As of
the date of this annual report, the Network Data Regulations had not yet been formally adopted and there is no timetable as to when it
will be enacted. As such, substantial uncertainties exist with respect to the enactment timetable, final content, interpretation and
implementation, and we cannot assure that relevant governmental authorities will not interpret the laws and regulations in ways that may
negatively affect us.
On December 28, 2021, Measures for Cybersecurity Review was issued by CAC jointly with other governmental authorities,
which took effect on February 15, 2022. Under the Measures for Cybersecurity Review, the procurement of network products and
services by critical information infrastructure operators and the data processing activities conducted by network platform operators which
affect or may affect national security shall be subject to cybersecurity review. Besides, according to the Article 7 of the Measures for
Cybersecurity Review, a network platform operator who processes the personal information of more than one million users and is
seeking for listing in a foreign country must apply for a cybersecurity review. In addition, according to Article 16 of the Measures for
Cybersecurity Review, member organizations of the cybersecurity review working mechanism (“the Working Members”) may initiate
cybersecurity review towards network products, network services, and data processing activities ex officio, which means we may be also
subject to cybersecurity review when the Working Members initiate such cybersecurity review ex officio.
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Based on Measures for Cybersecurity Review, cybersecurity review shall focus on the assessment of a number of national
security risk factors of the relevant object or situation, including but not limited to, risks of any illegal control or supply chain
interruption of critical information infrastructure, and risks of illegal use or cross-border transmission of data. As advised by our PRC
legal counsel, Zhong Lun Law Firm, we should not be deemed as an operator of critical information infrastructure and the network
products and services purchased and used by us are general network products and services in the market, and there is no obvious risk of
supply chain interruption. We have not received any material queries or notifications from the CAC or other PRC governmental
authorities and have not been subject to any material administrative penalties or other sanctions by any competent regulatory authorities
in relation to cybersecurity, data and personal information protection. There has been no material cybersecurity or data protection
incidents with respect to data or personal information theft, leakage, damage or loss. Our data will be transferred to recipients located in
regions and countries outside the territory of mainland China, such as Hong Kong and the United States. However, since we process less
than one million users’ personal information and transmit an insignificant number of users’ personal information to overseas recipients,
the possibility for us to apply to the CAC for cybersecurity review is relatively low. Besides, we have taken necessary technical and
organizational measures to protect the security of the data being transferred abroad, including using data encryption to secure personal
information when it is in transit. We have also established a basic cybersecurity and data protection system pursuant to the Cybersecurity
Law, the Data Security Law, the Personal Information Protection Law and other relevant laws and regulations.
There are uncertainties as to the interpretation and application of these cybersecurity laws, regulations and standards, which
laws may be interpreted and applied in a manner that is inconsistent with our current policies and practices or require changes to the
features of our system. If we are unable to address any data security and information protection concerns, any compromise of security
that results unauthorized disclosure or transfer of personal data, or to comply with the then applicable laws and regulations, we may incur
additional costs and liability and result in governmental enforcement actions, litigation, fines and penalties or adverse publicity and could
cause our clients to lose trust in us, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations, financial condition
and prospects. We may also be subject to new laws, regulations or standards or new interpretations of existing laws, regulations or
standards, including those in the areas of data security and data privacy, which could require us to incur additional costs and restrict our
business operations.
Fluctuations in exchange rates could have a material adverse effect on the value of your investment.
The value of the 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. In June 2010, the PRC government allowed the Renminbi to
appreciate slowly against the U.S. dollar. However, starting from June 2015, the trend of appreciation changed and the Renminbi started
to depreciate against the U.S. dollar gradually. In recent years, the exchange rate between Renminbi and U.S. dollar has fluctuated. It is
difficult to predict how market forces or PRC or U.S. government policy may impact the exchange rate between the Renminbi and the
U.S. dollar in the future.
The majority of our sales contracts were denominated in Renminbi and majority of our costs and expenses are denominated in
Renminbi, while a portion of our financial assets are denominated in U.S. dollars. Very limited hedging options are available in China to
reduce our exposure to exchange rate fluctuations, and we have not used any forward contracts or currency borrowings to hedge our
exposure to foreign currency risk. While we may decide to enter into 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 PRC exchange regulations that restrict our ability to convert Renminbi into foreign currency. As a result, any
significant revaluation of the Renminbi or the U.S. dollar may adversely affect our cash flows, earnings and financial position, and the
value of, and any dividends payable on, our ADSs. For example, an appreciation of the Renminbi against the U.S. dollar would make any
new RMB-denominated investments or expenditures more costly to us, to the extent that we need to convert U.S. dollars into Renminbi
for such purposes. An appreciation of the Renminbi against the U.S. dollar would also result in foreign currency translation losses for
financial reporting purposes when we translate our U.S. dollar-denominated financial assets into Renminbi, our reporting currency.
Conversely, if we decide to convert Renminbi into U.S. dollars for the purpose of making payments for dividends on our ADSs, for
payment of interest expenses, for strategic acquisitions or investments or for other business purposes, appreciation of the U.S. dollar
against the Renminbi would have a negative effect on us.
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PRC foreign exchange regulations restricting the conversion of Renminbi into foreign currencies may limit our ability to utilize our
revenues effectively and affect the value of your investment.
The PRC government imposes regulations on the convertibility of the Renminbi into foreign currencies and, in certain cases, the
remittance of currency out of China. We receive the majority of our revenues in Renminbi. Under our current corporate structure, we
may rely on dividend payments from our PRC subsidiaries to fund any cash and financing requirements we may have. Under existing
PRC foreign exchange regulations, payments of current account items, including profit distributions, interest payments and trade and
service-related foreign exchange transactions, can be made in foreign currencies without prior approval from SAFE by complying with
certain procedural requirements. Therefore, our PRC subsidiaries are currently able to pay dividends in foreign currencies to us without
prior approval from SAFE by complying with certain procedural requirements. However, approval from or registration with appropriate
government authorities or designated banks is required where Renminbi is to be converted into foreign currency and remitted out of
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 regulation system
prevents us from obtaining sufficient foreign currencies to satisfy our foreign currency demands, we may not be able to pay dividends in
foreign currencies to our shareholders, including holders of our ADSs.
PRC regulations relating to offshore investment activities by PRC residents may subject our PRC resident beneficial owners or our
PRC subsidiaries to liabilities or penalties, limit our ability to inject capital into our PRC subsidiaries, limit our PRC subsidiaries’
ability to increase its registered capital or distribute profits to us, or may otherwise adversely affect us.
SAFE has promulgated several rules and regulations that require PRC individuals and PRC corporate entities to register with
and obtain approval from SAFE or its local branches in connection with their direct or indirect offshore investment activities (the “SAFE
Rules”). In July 2014, SAFE promulgated the SAFE Circular 37, which replaces the Circular on Relevant Issues Concerning Foreign
Exchange Administration on PRC Residents’ Financing and Round-Trip Investment via Offshore Special Purpose Vehicles, or SAFE
Circular 75. These SAFE Rules are applicable to our shareholders who are PRC individuals or PRC corporate entities and may be
applicable to any offshore acquisitions that we make in the future.
Pursuant to SAFE Circular 37, PRC residents (including PRC individuals and PRC corporate entities) who make direct or
indirect investments in offshore special purpose vehicles (the “SPV”), are required to register such investments with SAFE or its local
branches. In addition, any PRC resident who is a direct or indirect shareholder of an SPV is required to update its registration with the
local branch of SAFE with respect to that SPV, to reflect any change of the basic information, such as any change relating to the PRC
individual shareholder, name or operation period, or any material events, such as increase or decrease of capital contribution, share
transfer or exchange, or merger or division. In February 2015, SAFE promulgated a Notice on Further Simplifying and Improving
Foreign Exchange Administration Policy on Direct Investment, or SAFE Notice 13. Pursuant to SAFE Notice 13, applications for foreign
exchange registration of inbound foreign direct investments and outbound direct investments, including those required under SAFE
Circular 37, shall be filed with qualified banks instead of SAFE. Qualified banks should examine the applications and accept
registrations under the supervision of SAFE. However, due to the uncertainty in the implementation of regulations by the PRC
government authorities, as the case in many other civil law jurisdictions, these SAFE registrations may not always be practically
available under all circumstances prescribed in these regulations.
We may not be fully informed of the identities of all our shareholders or beneficial owners who are PRC residents, and we do
not have control over them and cannot compel them to comply with the SAFE Rules. Therefore, we cannot provide assurance that any
applicable registrations or any amendment under the SAFE Rules has been or will be completed in a timely manner, or at all. The failure
or inability of our existing or future shareholders or beneficial owners who are PRC residents to register or amend their foreign exchange
registrations under the SAFE Rules may subject such shareholders, beneficial owners or our PRC subsidiaries to fines and legal
sanctions, or could result in liability under PRC laws for evasion of applicable foreign exchange restrictions, including (i) the
requirement by SAFE to return the foreign exchange remitted overseas or into the PRC within a period of time specified by SAFE, with a
fine of up to 30% of the total amount of foreign exchange remitted overseas or into PRC and deemed to have been evasive or illegal and
(ii) in circumstances involving serious violations, a fine of no less than 30% of and up to the total amount of remitted foreign exchange
deemed evasive or illegal. Failure to register or comply with relevant requirements may also restrict our cross-border investment
activities or limit our ability to contribute additional capital to our PRC subsidiaries and limit our PRC subsidiaries’ ability to make
distributions or pay dividends to us. These risks may have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of
operations.
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Furthermore, as these foreign exchange, inbound investment and outbound investment related regulations and their
interpretation and implementation have been constantly evolving, as the case in many other civil law jurisdictions, it is unclear how these
regulations, and any future regulation concerning offshore or cross-border transactions, will be interpreted, amended and implemented by
the relevant government authorities. We cannot predict how these regulations will affect our business operations or future strategy. For
example, we may be subject to a 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 PRC domestic company, we cannot assure you that we or the owners of such
company, as the case may be, will be able to obtain the necessary approvals or complete the necessary filings and registrations required
by the foreign exchange regulations. This may restrict our ability to implement our acquisition strategy and could adversely affect our
business and prospects.
In addition, our offshore financing activities, such as the issuance of foreign debt, are also subject to PRC laws and regulations.
In accordance with such laws and regulations, we may be required to complete filing and registration with the National Development and
Reform Commission prior to such activities. Failure to comply with the requirements may result in administrative hearing, warning,
notification and other regulatory penalties and sanctions.
Failure to comply with PRC regulations regarding the registration of share options held by our employees who are “domestic
individuals” may subject such employee or us to fines and legal or administrative sanctions.
In January 2007, SAFE issued Implementing Rules for the Administrative Measures of Foreign Exchange Matters for
Individuals (the “Individual Foreign Exchange Rule”), which, among other things, specified approval requirements for certain capital
account transactions such as a PRC citizen’s participation in the employee stock ownership plans or stock option plans of an overseas
publicly-listed company. On February 15, 2012, SAFE issued the Notices on Issues Concerning the Foreign Exchange Administration for
Domestic Individuals Participating in Stock Incentive Plan of Overseas Publicly-Listed Company (the “Stock Incentive Plan Rules”),
pursuant to which “domestic individuals” (both PRC residents and non-PRC residents who reside in the PRC for a continuous period of
not less than one year, excluding foreign diplomatic personnel and representatives of international organizations) participating in any
stock incentive plan of an overseas-listed company are required, through qualified PRC agents (which could be the PRC subsidiary of
such overseas-listed company), to register with SAFE and complete certain other procedures related to the stock incentive plan.
We and our employees who are “domestic individuals” and have been granted share options (the “PRC optionees”), became
subject to the Stock Incentive Plan Rules when our company became an overseas-listed company upon the completion of our initial
public offering. We and our PRC optionees have completed the registration requirement under the Stock Incentive Plan Rules and intend
to continue making such registration on an on-going basis as new awards are granted. If we or our PRC optionees fail to comply with the
Individual Foreign Exchange Rule and the Stock Incentive Plan Rules, we and/or our PRC optionees may be subject to fines and other
legal sanctions. We may also face regulatory uncertainties that could restrict our ability to adopt additional option plans for our directors
and employees under PRC law. In addition, the SAT has issued a few circulars concerning employee stock options. Under these circulars,
our employees working in China who exercise stock options will be subject to PRC individual income tax. Our PRC subsidiaries have
obligations to file documents related to employee stock options with relevant tax authorities and withhold individual income taxes of
those employees who exercise their stock options. If our employees fail to pay and we fail to withhold their income taxes, we may face
sanctions imposed by tax authorities or any other PRC government authorities. However, there are substantial uncertainties regarding the
interpretation and implementation of the Individual Foreign Exchange Rule and the Stock Incentive Plan Rules. We cannot guarantee that
our current practices will comply with future interpretations of the Individual Foreign Exchange Rule and the Stock Incentive Plan Rule,
and any failure to comply could subject us to fines and other legal sanctions.
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The dividends we receive from our PRC subsidiaries may be subject to PRC tax under the PRC Enterprise Income Tax Law, which
would have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations. In addition, if we are classified as a PRC
resident enterprise for PRC income tax purposes, such classification could result in unfavorable tax consequences to us and our non-
PRC shareholders or ADS holders.
Pursuant to the PRC Enterprise Income Tax Law, or the EIT Law, dividends generated and payable by a foreign-invested
enterprise in China to its foreign investors are subject to a 10% withholding tax, unless any such foreign investor’s jurisdiction of
incorporation has a tax treaty with China that provides for a different withholding arrangement. We are a Cayman Islands holding
company and the majority of our income may come from dividends we receive, directly or indirectly, from our wholly foreign-owned
PRC subsidiaries. Since there is currently no such tax treaty between China and the Cayman Islands, dividends we directly receive from
our wholly foreign-owned PRC subsidiaries will generally be subject to a 10% withholding tax.
In addition, under the Arrangement between the Mainland of China and the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region for the
Avoidance of Double Taxation and the Prevention of Fiscal Evasion with respect to Taxes on Income, where a Hong Kong resident
enterprise, which is considered a non-PRC tax resident enterprise, directly holds at least 25% of the equity interests in a PRC enterprise,
the withholding tax rate in respect to the payment of dividends by such PRC enterprise to such Hong Kong resident enterprise is reduced
to 5% from a standard rate of 10%, subject to approval of the PRC local tax authority. Accordingly, our Hong Kong subsidiaries, such as
Noah Insurance (Hong Kong) Limited (“Noah Insurance”), are able to enjoy the 5% withholding tax rate for the dividends they receive
from their PRC subsidiaries in which they hold a more than 25% of the equity interests if they satisfy the conditions prescribed in
relevant tax rules and regulations and obtain the approvals as required. However, if Noah Insurance is considered to be a non-beneficial
owner for purposes of the tax arrangement, any dividends paid to it by our wholly foreign-owned PRC subsidiaries directly would not
qualify for the preferential dividend withholding tax rate of 5%, but rather would be subject to a rate of 10%.
Furthermore, under the EIT Law and the Implementation Rules to the PRC Enterprise Income Tax Law, an enterprise
established outside of the PRC with its “de facto management body” within the PRC is considered a PRC resident enterprise and will be
subject to PRC enterprise income tax on its global income at the rate of 25%. See “Item 4. Information on the Company—B. Business
Overview—Regulations in China—Regulations on Tax—PRC Enterprise Income Tax.” We do not believe that our company or any of its
subsidiaries outside of China is a PRC resident enterprise for the year ended December 31, 2023, because neither we nor these
subsidiaries are controlled by a PRC enterprise or PRC enterprise group, and because our records and these subsidiaries’ records
(including the resolutions of the respective boards of directors and the resolutions of the respective shareholders) are maintained outside
the PRC. However, the tax resident status of an enterprise is subject to determination by the PRC tax authorities and uncertainties remain
with respect to the interpretation of the term “de facto management body.” If the PRC tax authorities determine that our company or any
of its subsidiaries outside of China is a PRC resident enterprise for PRC tax purposes, they would be subject to a 25% PRC enterprise
income tax on their global income. In addition, if our company is considered a PRC resident enterprise for PRC tax purposes, we may be
required to withhold a 10% withholding tax from dividends we pay to our shareholders that are non-PRC resident enterprises, including
the holders of our ADSs. Furthermore, non-PRC resident enterprise shareholders (including our ADS holders) may be subject to a 10%
PRC tax on gains realized on the sale or other disposition of ADSs or ordinary shares, if such income is treated as sourced from within
the PRC. It is unclear whether our non-PRC individual shareholders (including our ADS holders) would be subject to any PRC tax on
dividends or gains obtained by such non-PRC individual shareholders in the event we are determined to be a PRC resident enterprise. If
any PRC tax were to apply to such dividends or gains, it would generally apply at a rate of 20% unless a reduced rate is available under
an applicable tax treaty. However, it is also unclear whether our non-PRC shareholders would be able to claim the benefits of any tax
treaty between their country of tax residence and the PRC in the event that we are considered as a PRC resident enterprise. If we are
required to withhold such PRC income tax under the EIT Law, your investment in our ADSs may be materially and adversely affected.
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We face uncertainties with respect to the application of the Circular on Strengthening the Administration of Enterprise Income Tax
for Share Transfers by Non-PRC Resident Enterprises.
The SAT has issued several rules and notices to tighten the scrutiny over acquisition transactions in recent years, including the
Notice on Certain Corporate Income Tax Matters on Indirect Transfer of Properties by Non-PRC Resident Enterprises issued in February
2015 (“SAT Circular 7”). Pursuant to these rules and notices, if a non-PRC resident enterprise indirectly transfers PRC taxable
properties, referring to properties of an establishment or a place in the PRC, real estate properties in the PRC or equity investments in a
PRC tax resident enterprise, by disposition of equity interests in an overseas non-public holding company, without a reasonable
commercial purpose and resulting in the avoidance of PRC enterprise income tax, such indirect transfer should be deemed as a direct
transfer of PRC taxable properties and gains derived from such indirect transfer may be subject to the PRC withholding tax at a rate of up
to 10%. SAT Circular 7 has listed several factors to be taken into consideration by the tax authorities in determining whether an indirect
transfer has a reasonable commercial purpose. However, in spite of these factors, an indirect transfer satisfying all the following criteria
shall be deemed to lack reasonable commercial purpose and be taxable under the PRC laws: (i) 75% or more of the equity value of the
overseas enterprise being transferred is derived directly or indirectly from the PRC taxable properties; (ii) at any time during the one-year
period before the indirect transfer, 90% or more of the asset value of the overseas enterprise (excluding cash) is comprised directly or
indirectly of investments in the PRC, or 90% or more of its income is derived directly or indirectly from the PRC; (iii) the functions
performed and risks assumed by the overseas enterprise and any of its subsidiaries that directly or indirectly hold the PRC taxable
properties are limited and are insufficient to prove their economic substance; and (iv) the foreign tax payable on the gain derived from
the indirect transfer of the PRC taxable properties is lower than the potential PRC tax on the direct transfer of such assets. Nevertheless,
an indirect transfer falling into the scope of certain safe harbors under SAT Circular 7 may not be subject to PRC tax. Such safe harbors
include qualified group restructuring, secondary market equity trading and tax treaty exemptions.
On October 17, 2017, the SAT released the Public Notice Regarding Issues Concerning the Withholding of Non-resident
Enterprise Income Tax at Source, or SAT Public Notice 37, effective from December 1, 2017. SAT Public Notice 37 replaced a series of
circulars and revised the rules governing the administration of withholding tax on China-sourced income derived by nonresident
enterprises. SAT Public Notice 37 provided certain key changes to the current withholding regime including, such as (i) the withholding
obligation for a non-resident enterprise which is declaring a dividend arises on the day the payment is actually made rather than on the
day of the resolution to declare the dividends; and (ii) the provision that a non-resident enterprise must self-report tax within seven days
if its withholding agents fail to withhold or is removed.
Under SAT Circular 7 and SAT Public Notice 37, the entities or individuals obligated to pay the transfer price to the transferor
shall be withholding agents and shall withhold the PRC tax from the transfer price. If a withholding agent fails to do so, the transferor
shall report to and pay the PRC tax to the PRC tax authorities. In case neither a withholding agent nor the transferor complies with the
obligations under SAT Circular 7 and SAT Public Notice 37, in addition to imposing penalties such as late payment interest on the
transferors, the tax authority may also hold a withholding agent liable and impose a penalty of 50% to 300% of the unpaid tax on the
withholding agent, provided that such penalty imposed on the withholding agent may be reduced or waived if the withholding agent has
submitted the relevant materials in connection with the indirect transfer to the PRC tax authorities in accordance with SAT Circular 7 and
SAT Public Notice 37.
However, there is no assurance that the tax authorities will not apply SAT Circular 7 and SAT Public Notice 37 to previous
investments by non-PRC resident investors in our company or our pre-listing restructuring, if any of such transactions were determined
by the tax authorities to lack reasonable commercial purpose. As a result, we and our existing non-PRC resident investors may be at risk
of being taxed under these rules and notices and may be required to expend valuable resources to comply with or to establish that we
should not be taxed under such rules and notices, which may have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and results of
operations or such non-PRC resident investors’ investments in us. We have conducted and may conduct acquisitions involving corporate
structures, and historically our shares were transferred by certain then shareholders to our current shareholders. 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 for the investigation of PRC tax authorities with respect thereto. Any PRC tax imposed on a transfer of our
shares or any adjustment of such gains would cause us to incur additional costs and may have a negative impact on the value of your
investment in us.
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The enforcement of the Labor Contract Law, Social Insurance Law and other labor-related regulations in the PRC may increase our
labor cost and adversely affect our business and our results of operations.
In June 2007, the National People’s Congress of China enacted the Labor Contract Law of the PRC (the “Labor Contract Law”),
which became effective in January 2008 and was subsequently amended in July 2013. The Labor Contract Law establishes more
restrictions on and increases costs for employers to dismiss employees, including specific provisions related to fixed-term employment
contracts, temporary employment, probation, consultation with the labor union and employee assembly, employment without a contract,
dismissal of employees, compensation upon termination and overtime work and collective bargaining. According to the Labor Contract
Law, an employer is obliged to sign a labor contract with unlimited term with an employee if the employer continues to hire the
employee after the expiration of two consecutive fixed-term labor contracts, subject to certain conditions, or after the employee has
worked for the employer for ten consecutive years. The employer is also required to pay compensation to an employee if the employer
terminates an unlimited-term labor contract. Such compensation is also required when the employer refuses to renew a labor contract that
has expired, unless it is the employee who refuses to extend the expired contract. In addition, under the Labor Contract Law, if we decide
to lay off a large number of employees or otherwise change our employment or labor practices, the Labor Contract Law may also limit
our ability to effect these changes in a manner that we believe to be cost-effective or desirable, which could adversely affect our business
and results of operations.
We cannot assure you that our employment practices do not or will not violate these labor-related laws and regulations. If we are
deemed to have been non-compliant with any such laws and regulations or to have failed to make adequate contributions to any social
insurance schemes, we may be subject to penalties and negative publicity, and our business, results of operations and prospects may be
materially adversely affected.
Risks Related to Our Business
The investment products that we distribute or manage involve various risks and any failure to identify or fully appreciate such risks
may negatively affect our reputation, client relationships, operations and prospects.
We distribute and manage a variety of investment products, including onshore and offshore private equity and venture capital
products, public securities products, and other products. These products often have complex structures and involve default risks, interest
rate risks, liquidity risks, market risks, counterparty risks, fraud risks and other risks.
Our success in distributing, managing and offering our products and services depends, in part, on our ability to successfully
identify and fully appreciate the risks associated with such products and services. Not only must we be cautious about these risks in
designing and developing our products and services, we must also accurately describe and disclose the risks associated with our products
and services to, and evaluate them for, our clients. Our risk management policies and procedures may not be fully effective in mitigating
the risk exposure for all of our clients in all market environments or covering all types of risks.
If we fail to identify and fully appreciate the risks associated with the products and services we distribute, manage and offer, or
fail to disclose such risks to our clients, or if our clients suffer financial losses or other damages resulting from the investment products or
services we distribute, manage or offer, our reputation, client relationships, business, results of operations and prospects may be
materially and adversely affected.
In addition, we are subject to risks arising from any potential fraudulent activities or other misconduct or violation of laws by
the third-party product partners or investment partners we collaborate with. Any such misconduct or violation of laws may adversely
affect the performance of the relevant products we distribute and expose our clients to losses. Despite product risk warnings and platform
disclaimers, our clients may attempt to hold us responsible for their losses, which may subject us to civil or criminal liability, harm our
reputation and cause us to incur additional costs and expenses. Furthermore, in order to maintain social harmony and financial market
stability, we may also face pressure from regulatory authorities or expectation from the public to compensate or bail out our clients
whose investments are negatively impacted by misconduct or violation of laws of our product partners or investment partners, which
could have a material and adverse impact on our business, results of operations and financial condition.
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Our reputation and brand recognition are crucial to our business. Any harm to our reputation or failure to maintain, protect,
promote or enhance our brand recognition may materially and adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of
operations.
Our reputation and brand recognition, which depend on earning and maintaining the trust and confidence of our clients or
prospective clients, are critical to our business. Our reputation and brand recognition are vulnerable to threats that are difficult or
impossible to control, and costly or impossible to remediate. Regulatory inquiries or investigations, lawsuits initiated by clients or other
third parties, employee misconduct, perceptions of conflicts of interest and rumors, among others, could substantially damage our
reputation, even if they are baseless.
Moreover, any misconduct or allegations of misconduct by our product managers of third-party funds we distribute could result
in negative media publicity and adversely affect our reputation and the confidence of our clients. See “Item 8. Financial Information—A.
Consolidated Statements and Other Financial Information—Legal Proceedings.”
Furthermore, any negative media coverage about the financial service industry in general or product/service quality problems in
the industry, may also negatively impact our reputation and brand recognition. If we are unable to maintain a good reputation or further
enhance our brand recognition, our ability to attract and retain clients, product partners and key employees could be harmed and, as a
result, our business and revenues may be materially and adversely affected.
If we breach fiduciary duties or other contractual obligations as the general partner or fund managers of the funds, or if our third-
party product partners or investment partners engage in illegal activities or market misconduct, our results of operations will be
adversely impacted. In addition, misconduct of our relationship managers or other employees, including potential misuse of client
funds, could harm our reputation or lead to regulatory sanctions or litigation costs.
Because we serve as the general partner or manager for the funds under our asset management business, we have fiduciary duty
to the limited partners or the investors. If we are deemed to breach the fiduciary duty, such as failure to establish or implement
appropriate controls when handling and processing our clients’ cash investments, we may be exposed to risks and losses. We could also
experience losses on our principal in a fund in the form of limited liability partnership for which we act as the general partner, as the
general partner typically bears unlimited liabilities for the debts of a limited liability partnership. In addition, illegal activities or market
misconduct committed by the third-party product partners or investment partners we collaborate with may adversely impact our product
offerings and reputation, discourage clients from purchasing products distributed or provided by us, lead to regulatory actions and
penalties, and cause us to share any losses incurred by our clients. Furthermore, as the current regulatory regime for the legal segregation
of losses or liabilities incurred by contract-based private funds and assets of the fund manager in the PRC remains unclear, we cannot
assure you that whether our assets will be subject to third-party claims arising from losses or liabilities incurred by contract-based private
funds that we manage. If the assets managed by us are subject to such claims, our future growth may be materially and adversely
affected.
In addition, misconduct of our relationship managers or other employees could result in violations of law, regulatory sanctions,
litigation or serious reputational or financial harm, among other consequences. Misconduct may include but not limited to:
● engaging in misrepresentation, negligence or fraudulent activities when distributing investment products or providing asset
management or other services to clients;
● improperly using or disclosing confidential information of our clients, product partners or other parties;
● concealing unauthorized or unsuccessful activities, resulting in unknown and unmanaged risks or losses;
● accessing and misusing client funds, especially those maintained in segregated accounts for our contract-based private
funds; or
● other conducts not complying with laws and regulations or our internal policies or procedures.
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Our internal control system which supervises service quality and regulatory compliance may not always deter misconduct of our
relationship managers or other employees, and the precautions we take to prevent and detect misconduct may not be effective in all
cases. Any of the abovementioned misconduct could impair our ability to attract, serve and retain clients and may lead to significant legal
liability, reputational harm and material adverse effects on our business, results of operations or financial condition.
Our businesses may be adversely impacted by general economic and market conditions.
As a wealth management service provider, our businesses, financial condition and results of operations may be materially
affected by China’s and global economic and financial market conditions, as well as economic conditions specific to our business. We
serve HNW clients in China and globally through both our wealth management and asset management businesses. As a result, any
economic downturns or capital market volatilities may negatively affect the financial performance of the products distributed or managed
by us, reduce the revenue generated from our wealth management and asset management businesses, which in turn may materially and
adversely affect our overall financial performance and results of operations.
The performance of our investment portfolio may affect the AUM, revenue and profitability of our asset management business.
The allocation of our investment portfolio under asset management and investment amounts varies by investment type and is
based upon our periodic evaluation and assessment of inherent and known risks associated with the respective asset class. The revenue of
our asset management business include performance-based fees, which are typically based on the amount of returns on our managed
accounts which exceed a certain threshold of return for each investor. We will not earn performance-based fees if our management’s
judgment is incorrect and the investment portfolio does not generate cumulative performance that surpasses the relevant target thresholds
or if a fund experiences losses on a cumulative basis.
Less satisfactory portfolio performance, either as a result of macro-economic downturns in the market or economic conditions,
including but not limited to changes in interest rates, inflation, political uncertainty, our investment style and the particular investments
that we make, may result in a decline in our revenue and income by causing (i) the NAV of the assets under our management or advisory
to decrease, which would result in lower recurring service fees to us, (ii) lower investment returns, resulting in a reduction of
performance-based income to us, and (iii) increase in investor redemptions, which would in turn lead to fewer AUM and lower recurring
service fees for us. If our future investment performance is perceived to worsen, the revenue and profitability of our asset management
business will likely decline and our ability to grow existing funds and raise new funds in the future will likely be impaired.
We may not be able to continue to grow at our historical rate of growth, and if we fail to manage our growth effectively, our business
may be materially and adversely affected.
We commenced our business in 2005 as a consulting services provider focusing on wealth management and have gradually
transitioned to a comprehensive integrated financial services group with wealth management, asset management, and other businesses.
We have achieved significant growth in scale and profitability since our inception, and maintained robust growth during the past few
years. We cannot assure you that we will continue to grow at our historical rate of growth, or that we will be able to achieve expected
results, in future. It is difficult to predict whether the new investment products and services we continuously develop will be attractive to
our clients and prospective clients. In addition, our growth has placed, and will continue to place, a significant strain on our management,
personnel, systems and resources. We may not manage our growth effectively or accurately predict our future results of operations. As a
result, our historical growth rate may not be indicative of our future performance.
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Because a significant portion of the one-time commissions and recurring service fees we earn on the distribution of investment
products are based on commission and fee rates, any decrease in these commission and fee rates may have an adverse effect on our
revenues, cash flow and results of operations.
Substantially all of our recurring service fees and one-time commissions are paid by funds managed by our third-party product
partners and Gopher, our asset management arm, which are negotiated and vary from product to product. Recurring service fees and one-
time commission rates can fluctuate based on the prevailing political, economic, regulatory, taxation and competitive factors that affect
the product partners and Gopher. These factors, which are not within our control, include the capacity of product partners and Gopher to
place new business, profits of product partners, client demand and preference for investment products, the availability of comparable
products from other product partners at a lower cost, the availability of alternative investment products to clients and the tax deductibility
of commissions and fees. In addition, the historical volume of investment products that we distributed or managed may have a significant
impact on our bargaining power with product partners or clients in relation to the commission and fee rates for future products. Because
we can neither determine, nor predict, the timing or extent of commission and fee rate changes with respect to the investment products, it
is difficult for us to assess the effect of any of these changes on our operations. Therefore, any decrease in commission and fee rates may
adversely affect our revenues, cash flow and results of operations.
The investment products we distribute are supplied by a limited number of product partners; and the renegotiation or termination of
our relationships with such product partners could significantly impact our business.
The investment products we distribute are supplied by a selected number of investment product partners, including private
equity firms, real estate fund managers, securities investment fund managers, mutual fund management companies, and insurance
companies. Although our wealth management business has a broad coverage of most major fund managers and product partners in the
market, due to our stringent screening process and risk management standards, a significant portion of the products distributed by us are
sourced from a limited number of product partners. Our relationships with our product partners or funds managed by our product partners
are governed by distribution agreements. These agreements establish, among other things, the scope of our responsibility and our
commission rates with respect to the distribution of particular products. These agreements typically are entered into on a product by
product basis and expire at the expiration date of the relevant investment product. For any new investment products, new agreements
need to be negotiated and entered into. If product partners that in the aggregate account for a significant portion of our business decide
not to enter into contracts with us for their investment products, or the terms of our contracts with them become less beneficial to us, our
business and operating results may be materially and adversely affected.
Because the laws and regulations governing the industries of wealth management, asset management and other businesses in China
are developing and subject to further change, any failure to obtain or maintain requisite approvals, licenses or permits necessary to
conduct our operations or any failure to comply with laws and regulations applicable to our business and services could harm our
business.
The relevant regulatory authorities, including the CSRC and the AMAC, have released various laws and regulations governing
the industries of wealth management, asset management and other businesses in China, including regulations over private equity
products, privately-raised securities investment funds, asset management plans managed by securities companies or mutual fund
management companies, trust products and insurance products. However, these laws and regulations are evolving rapidly and subject to
further development, and the interpretations of these laws and regulations may contain inconsistencies among different governmental
authorities and enforcement of these laws and regulations involves uncertainties.
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As for our asset management business, the CSRC is in charge of the supervision and regulation of private funds, including,
without limitation, private equity funds, venture capital funds, privately-raised securities investment funds and other forms of private
funds. The AMAC has promulgated a series of rules and measures regulating the registration of private funds, qualified investor
standards, fund raising, investment advice service provided by third parties, structured asset management plan and private asset
management plans investing into real estate development enterprises or projects and etc. See “Item 4. Information on the Company—B.
Business Overview—Regulations in China—Regulations on Private Funds.” In addition, the CSRC and AMAC may adopt further
detailed regulations and implementing policies that govern private funds and private fund managers. These laws, rules and regulations
could be complex, continuously evolving and could be subject to varying and evolving interpretations, which may increase our
difficulties in strict compliance with all regulatory requirements. Since fund management business is a significant part of our asset
management business, our asset management business is subject to such regulations on private funds and related implementation rules
thereof.
As the regulators of the wealth management and asset management industries in China are enhancing their supervision over the
industries, applicable laws and regulations may be adopted to address new issues that arise from time to time or to require additional
licenses and permits. For example, on April 27, 2018, the PBOC, CBIRC, CSRC and SAFE jointly released the Guidance Opinions on
Regulating the Asset Management Business of Financial Institutions (the “Guidance Opinions”), which prohibits the issuance of private
credit products that contain maturity mismatch arrangements or any direct or indirect guarantee of return, and requires relevant
institutions to follow detailed guidance with regards to the maximum volume of private credit products issued and minimum liquidity
thresholds. The Guidance Opinions will apply to private funds in the absence of specific laws and regulations thereto. On July 20, 2018,
the PBOC issued the Circular on Further Clarifying Matters concerning the Guidance Opinions on Regulating the Asset Management
Business of Financial Institutions. On October 22, 2018, the CSRC issued the Administrative Measures on Private Asset Management
Business of Securities and Futures Institutions. Furthermore, according to the Instructions for the Filing of Privately-Raised Investment
Funds (2019 Version) (the “Filing Instructions”) issued by the AMAC on December 23, 2019, the AMAC does not accept the filing
application of private funds engaging in regular and operational private lending activities in form of entrustment loans, trust loans or
other means. In line with our understanding and anticipation of the changing regulatory and market environment given the publication of
the new rules including the Guidance Opinions and the Filing Instructions, we have strategically ceased offering substantially all of our
credit products from the third quarter of 2019, which had a negative impact on our results of operations.
Furthermore, on August 28, 2020, the CSRC issued the Supervision Measures on Distribution Institutions of Publicly-Raised
Securities Investment Fund (the “Supervision Measures”), which came into effect in October 2020. The Supervision Measures provides
that independent fund distribution institutions, like Noah Upright, shall specialize in the distribution of publicly-raised securities
investment funds and privately-raised securities investment funds, except as otherwise provided by the CSRC. Following the enactment
of the Supervision Measures, we ceased offering investment products that invest in private equity investments through Noah Upright, and
collaborate with our private equity product partners solely through our asset management business.
As we develop our business, the products we manage or distribute might be subject to detailed regulations and implementing
policies to be issued by the CSRC or AMAC in the future and we cannot assure you that our asset management or wealth management
business will not be materially and adversely affected if any supervisory authority enhances its regulation over asset management plans.
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Furthermore, the Notice on Regulation and Renovation of the “Cash Loan” Business promulgated on December 1, 2017 (the
“Circular 141”) requires microloan companies and other entities to charge synthetic fund costs, including the interest and fees paid by the
borrowers, in compliance with the rules provided by the Supreme People’s Court, and such costs shall be within the legally allowed
annualized interest rate for private lending. The Circular 141 and subsequent rules and regulations also provide that no institution or
third-party agency shall collect loans by actual or threatened violence, intimidation, insult, defamation, harassment, disseminating private
information, or other ways that cause harm. In addition, the Opinions on Several Issues Concerning Handling Illegal Lending Criminal
Cases, jointly promulgated by the Supreme People’s Court, the Supreme People’s Procuratorate, the Ministry of Public Security, and the
Ministry of Justice on July 23, 2019, provides rules on supervision of and punishment for illegal lending, such as debt-collection by
means of violence. Although we have decreased the scale of our lending businesses since the third quarter of 2019, we cannot assure you
whether the funding party, loan collection agencies or other service providers we cooperate with charge extra fees from the borrower or
conduct other behaviors in violation of the provisions of the relevant rules and regulations. The local authorities have discretion in
interpreting, implementing and enforcing the applicable laws, rules, regulations and governmental policies, such as capital reserve ratio,
the maximum amount of a single loan, limitation on operating territory, payment method of interest and fees, restrictions on financing
and methods of debt collection. As a result, there are uncertainties in the interpretation, implementation and enforcement of such laws,
rules, regulations and governmental policies, and occasionally, we may receive instructions issued by the local authorities on our
microloan business model from time to time, or have to depend on verbal clarifications from local authorities. Therefore, if the local
authorities make unfavorable interpretation, instruction or ruling against our microloan business model, or modify the local regulatory
policies on microloan business in the future, our lending business might be restricted and negatively impacted.
In accordance with the relevant laws and regulations in jurisdictions in which we operate, our subsidiaries and the Consolidated
Affiliated Entities are required to obtain and maintain various approvals, licenses and permits necessary to operate our business from the
central and/or local government, including but not limited to, business license, fund distribution license, certificate for privately-raised
investment fund manager, family trust license, insurance brokerage license, and trust business license. These approvals, licenses and
permits are obtained upon satisfactory compliance with, among other things, the applicable laws and regulations, which are developing
and might conflict with each other. If we fail to obtain or maintain the required licenses, permits and approvals, we may be subject to
fines, confiscation of the income derived from the related business, the suspension of operations and adverse publicity arising from such
non-compliance with government regulations. In addition, there can be no assurance that we will be able to obtain, maintain and renew
all of the approvals, licenses and permits required for our business operations upon their expiration in a timely manner or at all, which
may materially impact our business operations.
As of the date of this annual report, our significant subsidiaries and Consolidated Affiliated Entities had obtained all material
licenses, approvals and permits necessary from competent regulatory authorities for our business operations in the jurisdictions in which
we operate. We renew all such permits and licenses from time to time to comply with the relevant laws and regulations. As of the date of
this annual report, we were not aware of any facts that would prevent us from renewing permits or licenses material to our group.
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Some of our clients may redeem their investments from time to time, which could reduce our recurring service fees.
Certain of the agreements we entered into with investors in relation to investment products distributed to them permit investors
to redeem their investments with us at quarterly or annual intervals, after an initial “lock-up” period during which redemptions are
restricted or penalized. If the return on the assets under our management does not meet investors’ expectations, investors may elect to
redeem their investments and invest their assets elsewhere. As our recurring service fees correlate directly with the amount of our AUM,
redemptions may cause our expected recurring service fees to decrease. Similarly, the total balance of investment products offered or
distributed by us to our clients could decrease due to redemptions as well and impact our fees from investment products. Investors may
decide to reallocate their capital away from us for a number of reasons, including less satisfactory investment performance, changes in
prevailing interest rates which make other investment options more attractive, changes in investor perception regarding our focus or
alignment of interest, dissatisfaction with, changes in or a broadening of a fund’s investment strategy, changes in our reputation, and
departures of, or changes in responsibilities of, key investment professionals. For these and other reasons, the pace of investor
redemptions and the corresponding reduction in our AUM and total balance of investment products offered or distributed by us could
accelerate. In addition, investor sentiment in stock market may be adversely affected during periods when capital markets are volatile,
especially after our transformation to NAV-based products, which may result in decreases in the transaction value of mutual fund
products and private secondary products as well as increases in investor redemptions. This may also lead to a flight-to-safety and a
change in product mix, causing fluctuations in our fees from investment products. Furthermore, redemptions of the investment products
that we manage could ultimately require us to liquidate fund assets under unfavorable circumstances, which may further harm our
reputation and results of operations.
Our business is subject to risks related to complaints, claims, controversies, regulatory actions, arbitration and legal proceedings.
We are subject to lawsuits, regulatory actions and other claims in the ordinary course of our business from time to time. In
particular, we may face lawsuits, arbitrations or other claims brought by our clients who purchase investment products or services we
distribute, offer or provide which turn out to be unsuitable for any reason, such as misconduct by the managers of the third-party funds,
or providers of the products that we have recommended or made available to our clients, or illegal, non-compliance or unsatisfactory
actions taken by third parties such as suppliers, service providers and other business partners that are outside of our control, or change of
legal requirements or regulatory environment. For example, certain credit funds managed by Shanghai Gopher had invested in supply
chain account receivables with respect to the sale of computer, consumer electronics and communication products by affiliates of
Camsing International Holding Limited as underlying investable assets. Certain companies and individuals in connection with such
supply chain account receivables were later suspected to commit fraudulent activities. Shanghai Gopher, as the fund manager, has
received notices from court and arbitration tribunal concerning claims initiated by individual clients. See “Item 8. Financial Information-
A. Consolidated Statements and Other Financial Information-Legal Proceedings” for more information. We may also encounter claims
alleging misrepresentation by our relationship managers or other employees. Moreover, we may not be able to comply with any new
regulatory requirement in a timely manner or at all, and we may also be subject to regulatory actions and may encounter additional
lawsuits, arbitrations or other claims from our investors. These risks may be heightened during periods when credit, equity or other
financial markets are deteriorating in value or are volatile, or when clients or investors are experiencing losses.
Claims or actions brought against us may result in settlements, awards, injunctions, fines, claims and penalties or other results
adverse to us, including harm to our reputation. In the event that we become subject to claims caused by actions taken or unsatisfactory
performance by our suppliers, service providers or other business partners, we may attempt to seek compensation from the relevant
suppliers, service providers or other business partners. However, such compensation may be limited. If no claim can be asserted against a
supplier, service provider or business partner, or amounts that we claim cannot be fully recovered from the supplier, service provider or
business partner, we may be required to bear such losses and compensation at our own costs. Even if we are successful in defending
against these actions, we may incur significant expenses. Predicting the outcome of such matters is inherently difficult, particularly
where claimants seek substantial or unspecified damages, or when legal or other proceedings are at an early stage. A substantial
judgment, award, settlement, fine, or penalty may be materially adverse to our results of operations and financial condition.
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Our lending business is subject to credit risks, which could adversely affect our results of operations.
There are inherent risks associated with the lending business provided by us, including credit risk which is the risk that
borrowers may not repay the outstanding loans balances. These borrowers are primarily individuals and generally have fewer financial
resources in terms of capital or borrowing capacity than larger entities and may have fewer financial resources to weather an economic
downturn. Moreover, since the loans made by us are collateralized by real estate properties or investment products distributed by us, any
decrease in real estate prices or downturn in the investment performances could adversely affect the values of these collaterals, which
may in turn have a negative impact on the ability of borrowers to repay their loans and further adversely affect our operating results and
financial condition. Factors, such as inflation, employment levels, local policy changes and other factors beyond our control may
increase our credit risks, which may result in material adverse effects on our business and financial conditions.
Our business involves relatively new business models which may not be successful.
Our business comprises various business lines, some of which are relatively new, such as our mutual fund product offerings.
Although we intend to devote additional resources to expanding these businesses and develop and offer more innovative products and
services to our clients, we have limited experience with these businesses and cannot assure you of their future success. If we fail to
address the needs of our clients, adapt to rapidly-evolving market trends or continue to offer innovative products and services, we may
fail to capture market demand. In addition, our new business lines will continue to encounter risks and difficulties that early-stage
businesses frequently experience, including the potential failure to expand client base in a cost-efficient manner, adequately manage risks
and expenses, implement, adapt and modify our client development strategies as needed, develop and maintain our competitive
advantages and anticipate and adapt to changing economic, competitive and other market conditions in China’s financing industry. If we
are unable to successfully develop our new business lines into profitable businesses, our business and revenues may be materially and
adversely affected.
We face significant competition in our businesses. If we are unable to compete effectively with our existing and potential competitors,
we could lose our market share and our results of operations and financial condition may be materially and adversely affected.
The wealth management and asset management industries in China are all undergoing rapid changes and growth. We operate in
a competitive environment and compete for clients on the basis of product offering and performance, client services, reputation and
brand names. Our ability to compete in this environment is also affected by license requirements for the distribution of investment
products, the provision of asset management and certain other services imposed on businesses operating in such industries. Our future
success in each of these areas will depend in part on our ability to continue to maintain the relevant licenses and anticipate and meet
market needs on a timely and cost-effective basis.
In our wealth management business, we face competition primarily from other independent wealth management companies as
well as commercial banks and their wealth management subsidiaries, private banks and securities firms. In our asset management
business, we also face competition from other asset management service providers in the market, including managers of private equity
funds, real estate funds and public securities funds. In addition, our other businesses segment faces competition from a range of financial
service providers which offer similar services in China. As part of China’s reform and opening policy, the Chinese government has
further liberalized the financial sector in recent years, including lifting certain restrictions on the business scope of financial institutions
such as foreign banks, securities companies and fund management companies, reducing quantitative entry conditions for foreign
investors to invest in banking and insurance institutions and carry out these businesses, relaxing the limits on foreign ownership of joint
ventures in China’s financial sectors such as banking, securities investment fund management companies, securities and insurance
companies. If such liberalization continues, we may face additional competition in the industries in which we operate and our market
share might be threatened or taken by foreign competitors or their joint ventures operating in the Chinese financial market.
Many of our competitors have greater financial and marketing resources or larger customer base. For example, the PRC
commercial banks we compete with tend to enjoy significant competitive advantages due to their nationwide distribution networks,
longer operating histories, larger customer bases and settlement capabilities. Moreover, many product partners with whom we currently
have relationships, such as private equity investment firms, are also engaged in, or may in the future engage in, the distribution of third-
party investment products and may benefit from the integration of investment products with their other product offerings.
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Our failure to respond to rapid product innovation in the financial industry in a timely and cost-effective manner may have an
adverse effect on our business and operating results.
The financial industry is increasingly influenced by frequent new product and service introductions and evolving industry
standards. We believe that our future success will depend on our ability to continue to anticipate product and service innovations and to
offer additional products and services that meet evolving standards on a timely and cost-effective basis. There is a risk that we may not
successfully identify new product and service opportunities or develop and introduce these opportunities in a timely and cost-effective
manner. In addition, products and services that our competitors develop or introduce may render our products and services less
competitive. As a result, our failure to respond to product and service innovation that may affect our industry in the future may have a
material adverse effect on our business and results of operations.
If we fail to maintain an effective system of internal controls over financial reporting, we may be unable to accurately report our
results of operations or prevent fraud, and investor confidence and the market price of our ADSs may be materially and adversely
affected.
As a public company in the United States, we are subject to the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley
Act of 2002, or Section 404, requires that we include a report from management on the effectiveness of its internal control over financial
reporting in our annual report on Form 20-F. In addition, our independent registered public accounting firm must attest to and report on
the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting.
Our management has concluded that our internal control over financial reporting is effective as of December 31, 2023. Our
independent registered public accounting firm has issued an attestation report on our management’s assessment of our internal control
over financial report and has concluded that our internal control over financial reporting is effective in all material aspects.
However, if we fail to maintain the adequacy of our internal control over financial reporting, as these standards are modified,
supplemented or amended from time to time, we may not be able to conclude on an ongoing basis that we have effective internal control
over financial reporting in accordance with Section 404. If we fail to maintain an effective internal control system, our financial
statements could contain material misstatements and we could fail to meet our reporting obligations, which would likely cause investors
to lose confidence in our reported financial information. This could in turn limit our access to capital markets, harm our results of
operations, and lead to a decline in the trading price of our ADSs.
Adverse changes in China’s or global economic and political policies could materially and adversely affect our business, financial
condition and results of operations.
Any prolonged slowdown in the global or Chinese economy may have a negative impact on our business, results of operations
and financial condition, and continued turbulence in the international markets may adversely affect our ability to access the capital
markets to meet potential liquidity needs.
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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. Since we derive the majority of our revenues
from our operations in China, our business and prospects may be affected by economic, political and legal developments or changes in
the financial markets in China. Our revenues ultimately depend on the appetite of our clients to invest in the investment products we
distribute or manage, which in turn depend on their level of disposable income, perceived future earnings and willingness to invest. As
there are still substantial uncertainties in the current and future conditions in the global and China’s economies, our clients may reduce or
delay their investment in the financial markets in general, and defer or forgo the purchase of products we distribute or manage. We may
have difficulty expanding our client base fast enough, or at all, to offset the impact of decreased investment by our existing clients.
Additionally, our business and prospects are directly affected by the inherent risks associated with the capital markets in China, such as
market volatility, overall investment sentiments, fluctuations in capital raising and trading volumes and the creditworthiness of the
securities industry. Securities market volatility could discourage investor confidence and reduce securities trading and corporate finance
activities, which, in turn, may negatively affect the commission income, recurring service fees and performance-based income we earn
from our wealth management and asset management businesses due to reduced value of our wealth management and asset management
portfolio and increased client redemptions. Moreover, insolvencies associated with an economic downturn could adversely affect our
business through the loss of investment product providers or clients or by hampering our ability to place business. Any prolonged
slowdown in the global or China’s economy may lead to reduced investment in the products we distribute or manage, which could
materially and adversely affect our financial condition and results of operations.
In addition, our results of operations may also be affected by geopolitical events and other developments beyond our control,
which may in turn adversely affect the economic and market conditions in China and globally. There have been concerns over unrest and
terrorist threats in the Middle East, Europe and elsewhere, as well as over the conflicts involving Ukraine, Syria and North Korea. For
example, the conflict between Russia and Ukraine has resulted in an escalated regional instability, amplified the existing geopolitical
tension among Russia and other countries in the region and in the west, as well as adversely affected commodity and other financial
markets or economic conditions. The United States, European Union, the United Kingdom, Switzerland and other countries have
imposed, and may further impose, financial and economic sanctions and export controls targeting certain Russian entities and/or
individuals, which could adversely affect the global economy and financial markets, even though we do not have any direct exposure to
Russia or the adjoining geographic regions. The duration of such conflict and the related sanctions, as well as their impact on the global
financial markets, cannot be predicted. In addition, there is significant uncertainty about the future relationship between the United States
and China with respect to trade policies, treaties, government regulations and tariffs. Furthermore, there is considerable uncertainty over
the long-term effects of the monetary and fiscal policies adopted by central banks and financial authorities in some of the world’s leading
economies, including the United States and China.
Moreover, a slowdown in the global or Chinese economy or the recurrence of any financial disruptions may have a material and
adverse impact on financings available to us. The weakness in the economy could erode investors’ confidence, which constitutes the
basis of the equity markets. Any financial turmoil affecting the financial markets and banking system may significantly restrict our
ability to obtain financing in the capital markets or from financial institutions on commercially reasonable terms, or at all. Although we
are uncertain about the extent to which any global financial and economic crisis or slowdown of the China’s economy may impact our
business, there is a risk that our business, results of operations and prospects may be materially and adversely affected by any global
economic downturn or any prolonged slowdown of the China’s economy.
Our business is subject to the risks associated with international operations.
International expansion is an important component of our growth strategy, with revenues from countries and regions outside of
mainland China representing 43.3% of our total revenues in 2023. Expanding our business overseas exposes us to a number of risks,
including but not limited to:
● our ability to select the appropriate geographical regions for international expansion;
● difficulty in understanding local markets and culture and complying with unfamiliar laws and regulations;
● unexpected legal or regulatory changes in local markets;
● fluctuations in currency exchange rates;
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● difficulty in identifying appropriate partners and establishing and maintaining good cooperative relationships with them;
● difficulty in recruiting and retaining qualified personnel;
● potentially adverse tax consequences; and
● increased costs associated with doing business in foreign jurisdictions.
We may face risks related to natural disasters, health epidemics and other outbreaks, which could significantly disrupt our
operations.
Our business could be materially and adversely affected by natural disasters, health epidemics or other public safety concerns
affecting China or elsewhere in the world. Natural disasters may give rise to server interruptions, breakdowns, system failures,
technology platform failures or internet failures, which could cause the loss or corruption of data or malfunctions of software or hardware
as well as adversely affect our ability to provide services. There have been outbreaks of epidemics in China and globally, which could
disrupt our business operation. In addition, our results of operations could be adversely affected to the extent that any health epidemic
harms the Chinese economy in general and a prolonged outbreak of any of these illnesses or other adverse public health developments in
China or elsewhere. Such outbreaks could significantly impact our industry, and any failure to have our business insurance claims
covered could severely disrupt our operations and adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.
Our headquarters is located in Shanghai, where most of our management and employees currently reside. Our relationship
managers are based in 44 cities in mainland China, and various offices overseas. Consequently, if any natural disasters, health epidemics
or other public safety concerns were to affect Shanghai and other locations where our offices reside in, our operation may experience
material disruptions, which may materially and adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations. We are also
vulnerable to natural disasters and other calamities. Fire, floods, typhoons, earthquakes, power loss, telecommunications failures, break-
ins, war, riots, terrorist attacks or similar events may give rise to server or service interruptions, breakdowns, system failures, technology
platform failures or internet failures, which could cause the loss or corruption of data or malfunctions of software or hardware, as well as
adversely affect our ability to provide products and services. Our business operation could also be disrupted if any of our employees are
suspected of having contracted any contagious disease or condition, since it could require our employees to be quarantined or our offices
to be closed down and disinfected. All of these may have a material adverse effect on our results of operations and financial condition in
the near terms. Additionally, if the outbreak persists or escalates, we may be subject to further negative impact on our business operations
or financial condition.
In addition, our business, results of operations, financial conditions and prospects could also be adversely affected to the extent
that any natural disasters, health epidemics and other outbreaks harms the Chinese and global economies in general.
Certain of the investment products we distribute or manage have real estate or real estate-related businesses as underlying assets.
These products are subject to the risks inherent in the construction, development, ownership and operation of real estate, as well as
risks associated with regulatory and policy changes affecting the real estate industry in China.
Certain investment products that we distribute or manage have real estate or real estate-related business in China as their
underlying assets. In 2021, 2022 and 2023, the total value of investment products that we distributed with real estate or real estate-related
businesses as the underlying assets accounted for 0.9%, 1.9% and 0.2% of the total value of all the products we distributed, respectively.
Real estate investments as a percentage of our total AUM were 4.3%, 4.3% and 4.0% in 2021, 2022 and 2023, respectively. Our real
estate investments primarily include one property in Shanghai and seven properties in the United States.
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Although we are not exposed to risks related to high yield bonds issued by Chinese residential real estate developers, such
products are still subject to the risks inherent in the ownership and operation of real estate and real estate-related businesses and assets.
These risks include those associated with the burdens of ownership of real property, general and local economic conditions, changes in
supply of and demand for competing properties in an area, natural disasters, changes in government regulations, changes in real property
tax rates, changes in interest rates, the reduced availability of mortgage funds, which may render the sale or refinancing of properties
difficult or impracticable, and other factors that are beyond our control.
In particular, the real estate industry in China is subject to governmental regulation and policy changes. The PRC government
exerts considerable direct and indirect influence on the development of the real estate sector by imposing various industry policies and
other economic measures. Specifically, in the past few years, PRC governments at both national and local levels have adopted numerous
policies to slow down the surge of real estate prices and to curb speculative buying through more stringent implementation of residential
price control measures, some of which were subsequently cancelled when the market turned softer. Such measures may adversely impact
the real estate market, dissuade potential purchasers from making purchases, reduce transaction volume, cause a decline in selling prices,
and prevent developers from raising capitals they need and increase developers’ costs to start new projects. In addition, we cannot assure
you that the PRC government will not adopt new measures in the future that may result in lower growth rates in the real estate industry.
Frequent changes in government policies may also create uncertainty that could discourage investment in the real estate sector.
Any failure to ensure cybersecurity or protection of our clients’ personal data or privacy could lead to legal liabilities, adversely affect
our reputation and have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition or results of operations.
Our services involve the exchange of information, including personal and financial information related to our clients in a variety
of electronic and non-electronic means.
We face risks inherent in handling large volumes of data and protecting such data, particularly concerning transactions and other
activities that take place on our platform, including but not limited to:
● protecting the data on our system, including against attacks on our system by outside parties or fraudulent behaviors by our
employees;
● addressing concerns related to privacy and data-sharing, safety, security and other factors; and
● complying with applicable laws, rules and regulations relating to the collection, use, disclosure or security of personal
information, including any requests from regulatory and government authorities relating to such data.
There have been many media reports about different financial services companies, consumer-based companies, governmental
agencies and other organizations involving unauthorized disclosure of confidential information related to their clients or users in recent
years, as well as cyber-attacks involving the dissemination, theft and destruction of corporate information or other assets, which resulted
in third-party claims or actions against these companies. There have also been incidents where hackers have requested “ransom”
payments in exchange for not disclosing client information or for restoring access to information or systems.
We are occasionally the target of attempted cyber-attacks, including denial-of-service attacks, and we continuously monitor and
develop our systems to protect our technology infrastructure and data from misappropriation or corruption. We may face an increasing
number of attempted cyber-attacks as we expand our mobile- and other Internet-based products and services, as well as our usage of
mobile technologies and as we provide more of these services to a greater number of individual clients. In addition, in collaboration with
third-party vendors and their respective service providers, agents, exchanges, clearing houses and other financial institutions, we could be
adversely impacted if any of them is subject to a successful cyber-attack or other information security event. These effects could include
the loss of access to information or services from the third party subject to the cyber-attack or other security breach, which could, in turn,
interrupt certain of our businesses.
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Our efforts in enhancing the security of our systems and information may not be successful in anticipating, detecting or
implementing effective preventive measures against all cyber threats, especially because the techniques used are increasingly
sophisticated, change frequently and are often not recognized until attacks are launched. Cyber-attacks can originate from a variety of
sources. Any system failure or security breach or lapse that results in the leakage of user data could harm our reputation and brand and,
consequently, our business, in addition to exposing us to potential legal liability. We rely on a complex network of process and software
controls to protect the confidentiality of data provided to us or stored on our systems. If we do not maintain adequate internal controls or
fail to implement new or improved controls as necessary, we may experience data misappropriation or breach of confidentiality. We
could be subject to liability if we inappropriately disclose any client’s personal information, or if third parties are able to penetrate our
network security or otherwise gain access to any client’s name, address, portfolio holdings, or other personal information stored by us.
Any such event could subject us to claims for identity theft or other similar fraud claims or claims for other misuses of personal
information, such as unauthorized marketing or unauthorized access to personal information. In addition, such events would cause our
clients to lose their trust and confidence in us, which may result in a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations and
financial condition.
In addition, as we provide investment product distribution services for product partners, we may have to share certain personal
information of our investors with contracted product partners, such as names, addresses, phone numbers and transaction accounts. We
have limited control or influence over the security policies or measures adopted by such product partners. Any compromise or failure of
the information security measures of these product partners could also have a material and adverse effect on our reputation, business,
prospects, financial condition and results of operations.
The proper functioning of our technology platforms is essential to our business. Any significant failure in our information
technology systems could have a material adverse effect on our business and profitability.
Our business is highly dependent on the ability of our information technology systems to timely process a large amount of
information relating to the investment products and services we provide to our clients. The proper functioning of our financial control,
accounting, product database, client database, client service and other data processing systems, together with the communication systems
between our various service centers and our headquarters in Shanghai, is critical to our business and to our ability to compete effectively.
In particular, we rely on our online service platforms, including our website www.noah-fund.com and our mobile applications, such as
WeNoah, Fund Smile and iNoah, to provide our clients with updated information about the products they purchased. Maintaining and
improving our technology infrastructure requires a significant level of investment. Any failure to maintain satisfactory performance,
reliability, security and availability of our network infrastructure could result in the unavailability or slowdown of our website or reduced
order fulfillment performance and cause significant harm to our reputation and our ability to attract and maintain users. Server
interruptions, breakdowns or system failures in the cities where we maintain our servers and system hardware, including failures that
may be attributable to sustained power shutdowns, or other events within or outside our control, could reduce the volume of products
sold and the attractiveness of product offerings on our platform. We maintain our backup system hardware and operate our back-end
infrastructure, but such backup may not be effective in addressing any of the foregoing problems. Our network systems are also
vulnerable to damage from computer viruses, fire, flood, earthquake, power loss, telecommunications failures, computer hacking and
similar events. Although we have not experienced any major system failures, any such future occurrences could reduce client
satisfaction, damage our reputation and may materially and adversely affect our financial condition, results of operations and business
prospects.
We may not be able to prevent unauthorized use of our intellectual property, which could reduce demands for our products and
services, adversely affect our revenues and harm our competitive position.
We rely primarily on a combination of copyrights, trade secret, trademarks, competition laws and contractual arrangements to
protect our intellectual property rights. We cannot assure you that the steps we have taken or will take in the future to protect our
intellectual property rights will be sufficient. The implementation, enforcement and scope of protection of intellectual property-related
laws in China is evolving and may be subject to uncertainties. Current or potential competitors may use our intellectual property without
authorization to develop products and services that are substantially equivalent or superior to ours, which could reduce demands for our
solutions and services, adversely affect our operational results and harm our competitive position. Even if we are able to discover
evidence of infringement or misappropriation, our recourse against such competitors may be limited or we may have to pursue litigation,
which could involve substantial costs and diversion of our management’s attention from the operation of our business.
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We may face intellectual property infringement claims against us, which could be time-consuming and costly to defend and may
result in the loss of significant rights by us.
Intellectual property litigation is expensive and time-consuming and could divert resources and management attention from the
operation of our business even if the claim is without merit. Although we have not been subject to any litigation, pending or threatened,
alleging infringement of third parties’ intellectual property rights, we cannot assure you that such infringement claims will not be
asserted against us in the future. If there is a successful claim of infringement, we may be required to alter our services, cease certain
activities, pay substantial royalties and damages to, and obtain one or more licenses from, third parties. We may not be able to obtain
those licenses on commercially acceptable terms, or at all. Any of those consequences could reduce our revenues, impair our client
relationships and harm our reputation.
Confidentiality agreements with employees, product partners and others may not adequately prevent disclosure of our trade secrets
and other proprietary information.
We require our employees, product partners and others to enter into confidentiality agreements in order to protect our trade
secrets, other proprietary information and, most importantly, our client information. These agreements might not effectively prevent
disclosure of our trade secrets, know-how or other proprietary information and might not provide an adequate remedy in the event of
unauthorized disclosure of such confidential information. In addition, others may independently discover trade secrets and proprietary
information, and in such cases we could not assert any trade secret rights against such parties. We may be subject to costly and time-
consuming litigations to protect or defend ourselves in these incidents, which may materially and adversely affect our business and
financial condition.
Our future success depends to a certain extent on our continuing efforts to retain our existing management team and other key
employees as well as to attract, integrate and retain highly skilled and qualified personnel, and our business may be disrupted if our
efforts are unsuccessful.
Our future success depends to a certain extent on the continued services of our current executive officers and senior
management team. We also rely on the skills, experience and efforts of other key employees, including management, marketing, support,
research and development, technical and services personnel. Qualified employees are in high demand across the financial service
industries in China, and our future success depends on our ability to attract, train, motivate and retain highly skilled employees and the
ability of our executive officers and other members of our senior management to work effectively as a team.
If one or more of our executive officers or other key employees are unable or unwilling to continue in their present positions, we
may not be able to find replacements easily, which may disrupt our business operations. We do not have key personnel insurance in
place. If any of our executive officers or other key employees joins a competitor or forms a competing company, we may lose clients,
know-how, key professionals and staff members. Each of our executive officers has entered into an employment agreement with us,
which contains confidentiality and non-competition provisions. However, if any dispute arises between our executive officers and us, we
cannot assure you of the extent to which any of these agreements could be enforced in China.
If we fail to attract and retain qualified relationship managers, our business could suffer.
We rely on our relationship managers to develop and maintain relationships with our clients for our wealth management
business. Our relationship managers serve as our day-to-day contacts with our clients and carry out a substantial portion of the client
services we deliver. Their professional competence and approachability are essential to establishing and maintaining our brand image.
We rely on our relationship managers to distribute investment products, from which we derive substantially all of our revenues. As we
further grow our business and expand into new cities and regions, we have an increasing demand for professional relationship managers.
We have been actively recruiting and will continue to recruit qualified relationship managers to join our coverage network. However,
there is no assurance that we can recruit and retain sufficient relationship managers to support our further growth. In some of the regions
where we have recently established or plan to establish service centers, the talent pool from which we can recruit relationship managers
is smaller than in national economic centers such as Shanghai and Beijing. Even if we could recruit sufficient relationship managers, we
may have to incur disproportional training and administrative expenses in order to prepare our local recruits for their job. If we are
unable to attract, train and retain highly productive relationship managers, our business could be materially and adversely affected.
Competition for relationship managers may also force us to increase the compensation of our relationship managers, which would
increase operating cost and reduce our profitability.
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We may be subject to domestic and overseas anti-corruption, anti-money laundering, counter-terrorist financing and sanctions
related laws and regulations and any failure by us to comply with such laws and regulations could damage our reputation, expose us
to significant penalties, and decrease our income and profitability.
We are subject to anti-corruption, anti-money laundering, counter-terrorist financing and sanctions related laws and regulations
in the PRC and other jurisdictions where we operate. These laws and regulations require wealth management providers to establish sound
internal control policies and procedures with respect to the relevant monitoring and reporting activities. Such policies and procedures
require us to, among other things, establish a customer identification system in accordance with relevant rules, record the details of
customer activities and report suspicious transactions to relevant authorities.
While we have adopted policies and procedures aimed at detecting and preventing the use of our services to facilitate money
laundering activities, terrorist acts or business of sanctioned persons, such policies and procedures may not completely eliminate
instances in which we may be used by other parties to engage in money laundering and other illegal or improper activities without our
knowledge. In addition, there is no assurance that our employees will always abide by our anti-corruption and integrity policies. In the
event that we fail to fully comply with applicable laws and regulations, the relevant government agencies may impose fines or other
penalties against us, and our reputation, financial condition and results of operations may be negatively affected.
We have limited insurance coverage.
Insurance companies in mainland China currently do not offer as extensive an array of insurance products as insurance
companies in more developed economies. For example, while we are able to obtain professional indemnity insurance in Hong Kong for
our operations located there, such insurance offerings are rare in mainland China. Other than casualty insurance on some of our assets,
and directors, supervisors and senior executives’ liability insurance, we do not have commercial insurance coverage on our other assets
and we do not have insurance to cover our business or interruption of our business, litigation or product liability. We have determined
that the costs of insuring for these risks and the difficulties associated with acquiring such insurance on commercially reasonable terms
make it impractical for us to have such insurance. Any uninsured occurrence of loss or damage to property, litigation or business
disruption may result in our incurring substantial costs and the diversion of resources, which could have an adverse effect on our results
of operations and financial condition.
A downgrade in our credit rating could restrict our access to, and negatively impact the terms of, current or future financings.
Standard & Poor’s Global Ratings (“S&P”) has given us an investment grade long-term credit rating. We cannot provide
assurance that our current rating will remain in effect for any given period of time or will not be lowered or withdrawn entirely by S&P
if, in its judgment, circumstances so warrant. Any decision by S&P to downgrade our rating in the future, or any rating by other rating
agencies below our current S&P rating, particularly below investment grade, could restrict our access to, and negatively impact the terms
and conditions of future financings. Specifically, if our rating is downgraded and we decide to conduct more financings, such as
obtaining bank loans, our borrowing costs would increase. In addition, we may not be able to obtain favorable credit terms or lenders
may require us to provide collateral, letters of credit, or other forms of security, which would increase our operating costs.
We have granted, and may continue to grant, share options and other forms of share-based incentive plans, which may result in
increased share-based compensation expenses.
We have adopted the Share Incentive Plans for the purposes of attracting and retaining the best available personnel by linking
the personal interests of our employees to our success and by providing such individuals with an incentive for outstanding performance
to generate superior returns for the Shareholders. As of December 31, 2023, there were 39,995 options to purchase ordinary shares
outstanding, and 90,350 restricted shares had been issued and were outstanding under the 2017 and 2022 Share Incentive Plan. In 2021,
2022 and 2023, we recorded share-based compensation expenses of RMB51.0 million, RMB42.3 million and RMB11.5 million (US$1.6
million), respectively.
We believe the granting of share-based compensation is of significant importance to our ability to attract and retain key
personnel and employees, and we will continue to grant share-based compensation to employees in the future. As a result, our expenses
associated with share-based compensation may increase, which may have an adverse effect on our results of operations.
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We are subject to credit risk.
We are subject to credit risk related to accounts receivable, amounts due from related parties and loans receivable, and any
significant default on our receivables could materially and adversely affect our liquidity, financial condition and results of operations. As
of December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023, our accounts receivables amounted to RMB808.0 million, RMB498.1 million and RMB504.0
million (US$71.0 million), respectively, our amounts due from related parties amounted to RMB451.4 million, RMB443.4 million and
RMB393.9 million (US$55.5 million), respectively, and our loans receivable amounted to RMB595.8 million, RMB465.8 million and
RMB286.9 million (US$40.4 million). We may not be able to collect all such receivables due to a variety of factors that are beyond our
control. For example, fund investors may not satisfy their contractual obligation to fund capital calls when requested by Gopher or other
fund managers of the funds. This may result in shortfalls in capital and may affect the ability of our funds to consummate investments
and adversely affect our ability to receive service fees and other income. If we are not able to effectively manage the credit risk
associated with our receivables, or if one or more counterparties run into financial difficulties, this could result in losses for us. The
performance of our funds may also be affected by credit risk, which could have an adverse effect on our income.
Fluctuation of fair value change of short-term and long-term investments that we made and valuation uncertainty of other long-term
investments measured at fair value due to the use of unobservable inputs may adversely affect our financial condition, results of
operations, and prospects.
From time to time, we purchase short-term investments, which mainly include held-to-maturity investments, available-for-sale
investments, trading debt securities and investments held by consolidated investment funds measured at fair value, and long-term
investments, which consist of investments in several private equity funds as a limited partner and equity investments of common shares
of several companies. The methodologies that we use to assess the fair value of the short-term and long-term investments involve a
significant degree of management judgment and are inherently uncertain. We are exposed to credit risks in relation to our short-term and
long-term investments, which may adversely affect the net changes in their fair value. As of December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023, we had
short-term investments of RMB92.8 million, RMB316.0 million and RMB379.5 million (US$53.4 million), and long term investments of
RMB668.6 million, RMB774.1 million and RMB810.5 million (US$114.2 million), respectively. In addition, certain of our other long-
term investments are measured at fair value with significant unobservable inputs used in the valuation techniques. Changes in any of
these unobservable inputs may result in changes of the valuation of our other long-term investments measured at fair value, which leads
to uncertainty in accounting estimation. We cannot assure you that market conditions will create gains on our short-term and long-term
investments or we will not incur any fair value losses or impairment losses on our short-term and long-term investments in the future. If
we incur such fair value losses or impairment losses, our financial condition, results of operations, and prospects may be adversely
affected.
We are subject to risk of recoverability of deferred tax assets.
We recorded deferred tax assets of RMB335.9 million, RMB436.4 million and RMB431.5 million (US$60.8 million),
respectively, as of December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023. We periodically assess the probability of the realization of deferred tax assets,
using significant judgments and estimates with respect to, among other things, the nature, frequency and severity of recent losses,
forecasts of future profitability, the duration of statutory carry forward periods, our experience with tax attributes expiring unused and tax
planning alternatives. Our ability to realize deferred tax assets depends on the ability to generate sufficient taxable income within the
carry forward periods provided for in the tax law. Any changes in management’s judgment as well as our future taxable profits and tax
planning strategies would affect the carrying amounts of deferred tax assets to be recognized and the recoverability of deferred tax assets
recognized in our consolidated financial statements, and therefore could materially and adversely affect our financial condition and
results of operation in future years.
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Our investments in affiliates may not be successful and we may incur significant losses or be subject to liquidity risk as a result.
Our investments in affiliates primarily consist of (i) investments in affiliated companies, over which we had significant
influence generally through an ownership interest of 20% or higher, but not considered as control, and (ii) investments in funds that we
served as general partner or fund manager, including Gopher Transform Private Fund, real estate funds and real estate funds of funds,
private equity funds of funds, and other public securities funds of funds. We may not be successful in achieving the strategic objective
upon which any given investment or joint venture is premised, and we could lose all or part of our investment. As of December 31, 2021,
2022 and 2023, we recorded investments in affiliates of RMB1,402.1 million, RMB1,491.8 million and RMB1,526.5 million (US$215.0
million), respectively. We recognized impairment losses on investments in affiliates of nil, RMB0.5 million and nil for the years ended
December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023, respectively, which were recorded as income from equity in affiliates in the consolidated statements
of operations. Therefore, any such losses may have a material adverse effect on our results of operations, and in particular, our net
income or loss.
In addition, our investments in affiliates are relatively illiquid as there is no cash flow until proceeds from the disposal of
investments and payments of dividends, among others, have been received. We cannot predict whether such entities will declare any
dividends or make any other distributions to us. Therefore, the illiquidity nature of our investments in affiliates may limit our ability to
respond to adverse changes in the performance of such investees and subject us to liquidity risk, which may in turn materially and
adversely affect our financial condition and result or operations.
The government subsidies received by us were nonrecurring in nature.
For the years ended December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023, certain government subsidies of RMB115.9 million, RMB129.5
million and RMB127.0 million (US$17.9 million), respectively, were granted to us as incentives for our investing and operating in
certain local districts in the PRC. These government subsidies are non-recurring in nature and the amounts of these subsidies were
subject to the discretion of local governments and there were no fulfilled conditions or contingencies. There is no assurance that we will
receive such government subsidies for future financial years.
Risks Related to Our ADSs and Ordinary Shares
The market price for our ADSs and/or ordinary hares may continue to be volatile.
The trading prices of our ADSs have been, and are likely to continue to be, volatile and could fluctuate widely due to factors
beyond our control. The trading prices of our ADSs in NYSE ranged from US$11.07 to US$21.27 per ADS in 2023. Moreover, as we
completed our global offerings and listing in Hong Kong in July 13, 2022, the trading price of our ordinary shares can be volatile for
similar or different reasons. In 2023, the trading prices of our ordinary shares in Hong Kong Stock Exchange ranged from HK$17.50 to
HK$32.58 per ordinary sharein 2023. In addition, securities markets may from time to time experience significant price and volume
fluctuations that may or may not relate to our operating performance, which may have a material and adverse effect on the market price
of our ADSs and/or ordinary shares. In particular, volatility in the PRC stock markets in the last few years has resulted in some volatility
in the trading prices of most China-based companies whose shares are traded in Hong Kong and/or the United States. The market price
for our ADSs and/or ordinary shares is likely to be highly volatile and subject to wide fluctuations in response to factors including the
following:
● variation in our revenues, earnings, cash flow and data related to our user base or user engagement;
● regulatory developments in our target markets affecting us, our clients or our competitors;
● announcements of studies and reports relating to the quality of our products and services or those of our competitors;
● changes in the performance or market valuations of other companies in the industries in which we operate;
● actual or anticipated fluctuations in our quarterly results of operations and changes or revisions of our expected results;
● changes in financial estimates by securities research analysts;
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● detrimental adverse publicity about us or our industry;
● conditions in the industries in which we operate;
● announcements by us or our competitors of new services, investments, acquisitions, strategic relationships, joint ventures
or capital commitments;
● addition or departure of key personnel;
● fluctuations of exchange rates between the Renminbi and the U.S. dollar;
● release or expiry of transfer restrictions on our outstanding ordinary shares or ADSs.
● sales or perceived potential sales of additional ordinary shares or ADSs; and
● potential litigation or regulatory investigations.
In addition, the market prices for China-based companies listed in the United States and/or Hong Kong have experienced
volatility that might have been unrelated to the operating performance of such companies. The substantial declines in the market prices of
the securities of China-based companies may affect the attitudes of investors toward Chinese companies listed in the United States and/or
Hong Kong in general, which consequently may impact the market price of our ADSs and/or ordinary shares, regardless of our actual
operating performance. In addition, any negative news or perceptions about inappropriate corporate governance practices or corporate
structure, fraudulent accounting or other matters of some China-based companies may also negatively affect the attitudes of investors
towards China-based companies in general, including us, regardless of whether we have engaged in any inappropriate activities.
The global financial crisis and the ensuing economic recessions in many countries have contributed and may continue to
contribute to extreme volatility in the global stock markets, such as the large declines in share prices in the United States, mainland
China, Hong Kong and other jurisdictions at various times since 2008. These broad market and industry fluctuations may adversely
affect the prices of our ADSs and/or ordinary shares, regardless of our operating performance. In the past, shareholders of a public
company have often instituted securities class action suits against us following periods of instability in the market price of that
company’s securities. If we were involved in a class action suit, it could divert a significant amount of our management’s attention and
other resources from our business and operations, which could harm our results of operations and require us to incur significant expenses
to defend the suit. Any such class action suit, whether or not successful, could harm our reputation and restrict our ability to raise capital
in the future. In addition, if a claim is successfully made against us, we may be required to pay significant damages, which could have a
material adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations.
The volatility resulting from any of the above factors may affect the price at which you could sell the ADSs and/or ordinary
shares.
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There is no assurance if and when we will pay dividends in the future. Therefore, you should not rely on an investment in our ADSs
and/or ordinary shares as a source of future dividend income.
Though our board of directors has approved and adopted a new dividend policy on August 10, 2022, as amended on November
30, 2023, and according to which, in normal circumstances, the annual dividends to be declared and distributed in each calendar year
shall be, in principle, no less than 35% of the Group’s non-GAAP net income attributable to the Shareholders of the preceding financial
year as reported in the Company’s audited annual results announcement, subject to various factors, the dividend policy shall in no way
constitute a legally binding commitment by us in respect of our future dividend and/or in no way obligate us to declare a dividend at any
time or from time to time. There can be no assurance that dividends will be paid in any particular amount for any given year. In addition,
our shareholders by ordinary resolution may declare a dividend, but no dividend may exceed the amount recommended by our board of
directors. Under Cayman Islands law, a Cayman Islands company may pay a dividend on its shares out of either profit or share premium
amount, 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
will depend upon our future operations and earnings, capital requirements and surplus, general financial condition, contractual
restrictions and other factors that the board of directors may deem relevant. We may not declare any dividend in the future, and even if
we do so, any future dividend may be less than those historically declared. Therefore, you should not rely on an investment in our ADSs
and/or ordinary shares as a source of future dividend income. Accordingly, the return on your investment in our ADSs and/or ordinary
shares will likely depend entirely upon any future price appreciation of our ADSs and/or ordinary shares. There is no guarantee that our
ADSs and/or ordinary shares will appreciate in value or even maintain their current price.
Substantial future sales or perceived potential sales of our ADSs and/or ordinary shares in the public market could cause the price of
our ADSs and/or ordinary shares to decline.
Additional sales of our ADSs and/or ordinary shares in the public market, or the perception that these sales could occur, could
cause the market price of our ADSs and/or ordinary shares 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 ADSs and/or ordinary shares, the prevailing market price for our ADSs and/or ordinary shares 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 ADSs
and/or ordinary shares.
Techniques employed by short sellers may drive down the trading price of our ADSs and/or ordinary shares.
Short selling is the practice of selling securities that the 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. The short seller hopes 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 the short seller expects
to pay less in that purchase than it received in the sale. As it is in the short seller’s interest for the price of the security to decline, many
short sellers publish, or arrange for the publication of, negative opinions 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 a 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 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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It is not clear what effect such negative publicity could have on us. If we were to become the subject of any unfavorable
allegations, whether such allegations are proven to be true or untrue, we could have to expend a significant amount of resources to
investigate such allegations and/or defend ourselves. While 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 seller 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 distract our management
from growing our business. Even if such allegations are ultimately proven to be groundless, allegations against us could severely impact
our business operations and shareholder’s equity, and any investment in our ADSs and/or ordinary shares could be greatly reduced or
rendered worthless.
If securities or industry analysts do not publish research or reports about our business, or if they adversely change their
recommendations regarding our ADSs and/or ordinary shares, the market price for our ADSs and/or ordinary shares and trading
volume could decline.
The trading market for our ADSs and/or ordinary shares will be influenced by research or reports that industry or securities
analysts publish about our business. If one or more analysts who cover us downgrade our ADSs and/or ordinary shares, the market price
for our ADSs and/or ordinary shares would likely decline. If one or more of these analysts cease to cover us or fail to regularly publish
reports on us, we could lose visibility in the financial markets, which in turn could cause the market price or trading volume for our
ADSs and/or ordinary shares to decline.
Our memorandum and articles of association contain provisions that could discourage a third party from seeking to obtain control of
our company, which could adversely affect the interests of holders of our ordinary shares and ADSs by limiting their opportunities to
sell them at a premium.
Our sixth amended memorandum and articles of association contain certain provisions that could limit the ability of others to
acquire control of our company, including provisions that, subject to the requirements under the Hong Kong Listing Rule, grant to our
board of directors the authority to issue shares, grant rights over existing shares or issue other securities in one or more series as they
deem necessary and appropriate and determine designations, powers, preferences, privileges and other righsts, including dividend rights,
conversion rights, terms of redemption and liquidation preferences, any or all of which may be greater than the powers and rights
associated with Shares held by existing Members, at such time and on such other term as they think proper. The provisions could have
the effect of depriving holders of our ordinary shares or ADSs of the opportunity to sell their 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.
The voting rights of holders of our ADSs are limited by the terms of the deposit agreement, and holders of our ADSs may not be able
to exercise their right to direct the voting of the underlying shares represented by their ADSs.
Holders of our ADSs may not have the same voting rights as the holders of our ordinary shares. Except as described in this
annual report and in the deposit agreement for the ADSs, holders of our ADSs will not be able to exercise voting rights attaching to the
shares represented 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 attaching 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 holders of our ADSs, or persons who hold their ADSs through
brokers, dealers or other third parties, will not have the opportunity to exercise a right to vote.
Under the deposit agreement, if holders of our ADSs do not give voting instructions to the depositary as to how to vote the
underlying shares represented by their ADSs, the depositary will give a discretionary proxy to a person designated by us to vote the
shares represented by their ADSs at shareholders’ meetings unless:
● we have failed to timely provide the depositary with notice of meeting and related voting materials;
● we have instructed the depositary that we do not wish a discretionary proxy to be given;
● we have informed the depositary that there is substantial opposition as to a matter to be voted on at the meeting;
● a matter to be voted on at the meeting would have a material adverse impact on shareholders; or
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● the voting at the meeting is to be made by show of hands.
The effect of this discretionary proxy is that if holders of our ADSs fail to give voting instructions to the depositary as to how to
vote the underlying shares represented by their ADSs at any particular shareholders’ meeting, they cannot prevent such shares
represented by their ADSs from being voted at that meeting, except under the circumstances described above. This may make it more
difficult for shareholders to influence the management of our company. Holders of our ordinary shares are not subject to this
discretionary proxy.
Holders of our ADSs may not be able to participate in any future rights offerings, which may cause dilution to their holdings and
holders of our ADSs may not receive cash dividends if it is impractical to make them available to ADS holders.
We may from time to time distribute rights to our shareholders and other parties, including rights to acquire our securities. For
instance, in connection with the settlement of the Camsing Incident, we voluntarily made an ex gratia settlement offer to affected clients.
An affected client accepting the offer shall receive restricted share units, which upon vesting will become ordinary shares of our
company. The maximum number of ordinary shares to be issued by our company to these settled clients would account for approximately
9.3% of the total issued shares of our company as of December 31, 2023. Such settlement plan will, and any future settlement plan may
dilute the holdings of ADS holders in our company.
However, we cannot make rights available to ADS holders in the United States unless we register both the rights and the
securities to which the rights relate under the U.S. Securities Act or an exemption from the registration requirements is available. Under
the deposit agreement, the depositary will not make rights available to ADS holders unless both the rights and the underlying securities
to be distributed to ADS holders are either registered under the U.S. Securities Act or exempt from registration under the U.S. Securities
Act. We are under no obligation to file a registration statement with respect to any such rights or securities or to endeavor to cause such a
registration statement to be declared effective and we may not be able to establish a necessary exemption from registration under the U.S.
Securities Act. Accordingly, ADS holders may be unable to participate in our rights offerings and may experience dilution in their
holdings.
The depositary of our ADSs has agreed to pay to holders of our ADSs the cash dividends or other distributions it or the
custodian receives on our ordinary shares or other deposited securities after deducting its fees and expenses. Holders of our ADSs will
receive these distributions in proportion to the number of ordinary shares their ADSs represent. However, the depositary may, at its
discretion, decide that it is inequitable or impractical to make a distribution available to any holders of ADSs. For example, the
depositary may determine that it is not practicable to distribute certain property through the mail, or that the value of certain distributions
may be less than the cost of mailing them. 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 their ADSs.
Our 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.
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We incur increased costs as a result of being a public company.
As a public company listed in the United States and Hong Kong, we incur significant legal, accounting and other expenses that
we did not incur as a private company. The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, rules subsequently implemented by the SEC and the NYSE and
the Hong Kong Listing Rules, impose various requirements on the corporate governance practices of public companies. We expect these
rules and regulations to increase our legal and financial compliance costs and to make some corporate activities more time-consuming
and costlier. As we are no longer an “emerging growth company,” we expect to incur significant expenses and devote substantial
management effort toward ensuring compliance with the requirements of Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 and the other
rules and regulations of the SEC. For example, as a result of becoming a public company, we need to increase the number of independent
directors and adopt policies regarding internal controls and disclosure controls and procedures. Operating as a public company will make
it more difficult and more expensive for us to obtain director and officer liability insurance, and we may be required to accept reduced
policy limits and coverage or incur substantially higher costs to obtain the same or similar coverage. In addition, we incur additional
costs associated with our public company reporting requirements in the United States and Hong Kong. It may also be more difficult for
us to find qualified persons to serve on our board of directors or as executive officers.
We may be involved in class action lawsuits in the United States and Hong Kong in the future. Companies that have
experienced volatility in the volume and market prices of their shares have been subject to an increased incidence of securities class
action litigation. We may be the target of this type of litigation in the future. Securities litigation against us could result in substantial
costs and divert our management’s attention from other business concerns, and, if adversely determined, could have a material adverse
effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
Holders of our ordinary shares and/or ADSs may have difficulty effecting service of process and enforcing judgments obtained
against us, our directors and our management, and the ability of U.S. or Hong Kong authorities to bring and enforce actions in the
PRC may also be limited.
We are an exempted company incorporated under the laws of the Cayman Islands. We conduct a substantial portion of our
operations in the PRC and substantially all of our assets are located outside the United States and Hong Kong. In addition, a majority of
our directors and officers are nationals or residents of jurisdictions other than the United States and Hong Kong and a substantial portion
of their assets are located outside the United States and Hong Kong. As a result, it may be difficult or impossible for our shareholders to
effect service of process or bring an action against us or against them in the United States or in Hong Kong in the event that our
shareholders believe that their rights have been infringed under the securities laws of the United States, Hong Kong or otherwise. Even if
our shareholders are successful in bringing an action of this kind, the laws of the Cayman Islands, the PRC or other relevant jurisdiction
may render our shareholders unable to enforce a judgment against our assets or the assets of our directors and officers. In addition, the
U.S. or Hong Kong authorities may also have difficulties in bringing and enforcing actions against us or our directors or officers in the
Cayman Islands or the PRC.
We have been advised by Maples and Calder (Hong Kong) LLP, our counsel as to Cayman Islands law, that in those
circumstances, although there is no statutory enforcement in the Cayman Islands of judgments obtained in the United States or Hong
Kong, the courts of the Cayman Islands will recognize and enforce a foreign money judgment of a foreign court of competent
jurisdiction without retrial on the merits 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 judgment has been given, provided certain conditions are met. For a foreign
money judgment to be enforced in the Cayman Islands, such judgment must be final and conclusive and for a liquidated sum, and must
not be (i) in respect of taxes or a fine or penalty, (ii) inconsistent with a Cayman Islands judgment in respect of the same matter, (iii)
impeachable on the grounds of fraud or (iv) obtained in a manner, nor be of a kind the enforcement of which is, contrary to natural justice
or the public policy of the Cayman Islands (awards of punitive or multiple damages may well be held to be contrary to public policy). A
Cayman Islands court may stay enforcement proceedings if concurrent proceedings are being brought elsewhere.
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Our corporate affairs are governed by our memorandum and articles of association, as amended and restated from time to time,
and by the Companies Act and the common law of the Cayman Islands. The rights of shareholders to take legal action against us and our
directors, actions by minority shareholders and the fiduciary duties of our directors 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 provides 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 Cayman Islands law are not as clearly established
as they would be under statutes or judicial precedents in the United States or Hong Kong. In particular, the Cayman Islands has a less
developed body of securities laws than the United States or Hong Kong and provides significantly less protection to investors. In
addition, Cayman Islands companies may not have standing to initiate a shareholder derivative action in U.S. federal courts or Hong
Kong courts.
We have been advised by Zhong Lun Law Firm that the recognition and enforcement of foreign judgments are provided for
under PRC Civil Procedures Law. PRC courts may recognize and enforce foreign judgments in accordance with the requirements of PRC
Civil Procedures Law based either on treaties between China and the country where the judgment is made or on reciprocity between
jurisdictions. China does not have any treaties or other form of reciprocity with the United States or the Cayman Islands that provide for
the reciprocal recognition and enforcement of foreign civil judgments. In addition, some of our directors and senior executive officers
reside within China for a significant portion of the time and are PRC nationals. According to the PRC Civil Procedures Law, courts in the
PRC will not enforce a foreign judgment against us or our directors and officers if they decide that the judgment violates the basic
principles of PRC law or national sovereignty, security or public interest. As a result, it may be difficult or impossible for our
shareholders to effect service of process upon us or these persons inside China, and it is uncertain whether and on what basis a PRC court
would enforce a judgment rendered by a court in the United States or in the Cayman Islands. Furthermore, shareholder claims that are
common in the United States, including securities law class actions and fraud claims, may be difficult to pursue as a matter of law or
practicality in the PRC. Under the PRC Civil Procedures Law, foreign shareholders may originate actions based on PRC law against a
company in the PRC for disputes if they can establish sufficient nexus to the PRC for a PRC court to have jurisdiction, and meet other
procedural requirements, including, among others, that the plaintiff must have a direct interest in the case, and that there must be a
concrete claim, a factual basis and a cause for the suit. It will be, however, difficult for U.S. and other shareholders to originate actions
against us in the PRC in accordance with PRC laws because we are incorporated under the laws of the Cayman Islands and it will be
difficult for U.S. and other shareholders, only by virtue of holding our ADSs, to establish a connection to the PRC for a PRC court to
have jurisdiction as required under the PRC Civil Procedures Law.
As a result, our public shareholders and holders of our ADSs may have more difficulty in protecting their interests through
actions against us, our management, our directors or our major shareholders and limited remedies than shareholders of a corporation
incorporated in a jurisdiction in the United States or Hong Kong would have.
It may be difficult for overseas regulators to conduct investigations or collect evidence within 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 China. For example, in China, there are certain obstacles to providing information needed for regulatory
investigations or litigation initiated outside China. Although the authorities in 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 Unities States may not be efficient in the absence of mutual and practical
cooperation mechanisms. Furthermore, according to Article 177 of the PRC Securities Law, or Article 177, which became effective in
March 2020, no overseas securities regulator is allowed to directly conduct investigation or evidence collection activities within the
territory of the PRC. While detailed interpretations of or implementation rules under Article 177 have yet to be promulgated, the inability
for an overseas securities regulator to directly conduct investigation or evidence collection activities within China may further increase
difficulties you may face in protecting your interests.
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The different characteristics of the capital markets in Hong Kong and the U.S. may negatively affect the trading prices of our
ordinary shares and/or ADSs.
Currently we are subject to both the United States and Hong Kong listing and regulatory requirements concurrently. The Hong
Kong Stock Exchange and the NYSE 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 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 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 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 ordinary
shares.
Exchange between our ordinary shares and our ADSs may adversely affect the liquidity and/or trading price of each other.
Our ordinary shares are currently traded on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange, and our ADSs are currently traded on the NYSE.
Subject to U.S. securities law and the terms of the Deposit Agreement, holders of our ordinary shares may deposit ordinary shares with
the depositary in exchange for the issuance of our ADSs. Any holder of ADSs may also withdraw the underlying ordinary shares
represented by the ADSs pursuant to the terms of the Deposit Agreement for trading on the Hong Kong Stock Exchang. In the event that
a substantial number of ordinary shares are deposited with the depositary in exchange for ADSs or vice versa, the liquidity and trading
price of our ordinary shares on the Hong Kong Stock Exchang and our ADSs on the NYSE may be adversely affected.
The time required for the exchange between 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 ordinary shares into ADSs involves costs.
There is no direct trading or settlement between the NYSE and the Hong Kong Stock Exchange on which our ADSs and the
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 ordinary shares in exchange of ADSs or the withdrawal of ordinary shares
underlying 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 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 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 ordinary shares into ADSs, and vice versa, may not achieve the level of economic return the
shareholders may anticipate.
If a United States person is treated as owning at least 10% of our ADSs or ordinary shares, such person may be subject to adverse
United States federal income tax consequences.
If a United States person is treated as owning (directly, indirectly or constructively) at least 10% of the value or voting power of
our ADSs or ordinary shares, such person may be treated as a “United States shareholder” with respect to each “controlled foreign
corporation,” or CFC, in our group. Because our group includes one or more United States subsidiaries that are classified as corporations
for United States federal income tax purposes, in certain circumstances we could be treated as a CFC and certain of our non-United
States subsidiary corporations could be treated as CFCs (regardless of whether or not we are treated as a CFC).
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A United States shareholder of a CFC may be required to annually report and include in its United States taxable income its pro
rata share of “Subpart F income,” “global intangible low-taxed income” and investments in United States property by CFCs, whether or
not we make any distributions. An individual who is a United States shareholder with respect to a CFC generally would not be allowed
certain tax deductions or foreign tax credits that would be allowed to a corporation that is a United States shareholder. A failure to
comply with these reporting obligations may subject a United States shareholder to significant monetary penalties and may prevent
starting of the statute of limitations with respect to such shareholder’s United States federal income tax return for the year for which
reporting was due. We cannot provide any assurance that we will monitor whether we are or any of our non-United States subsidiaries is
treated as a CFC or whether any investor is treated as a United States shareholder with respect to us or any of our CFC subsidiaries, or
that we will furnish to any United States shareholders information that may be necessary to comply with the aforementioned reporting
and tax paying obligations. A United States investor should consult its tax advisor regarding the potential application of these rules in its
particular circumstances.
There can be no assurance that we will not be a passive foreign investment company for U.S. federal income tax purposes, which
could result in adverse U.S. federal income tax consequences to U.S. Holders of our ADSs or ordinary shares.
We will be a passive foreign investment company, or PFIC, for U.S. federal income tax purposes for any taxable year if,
applying the applicable look-through rules, either: (1) at least 75% of our gross income for such year is passive income or (2) at least
50% of the value of our assets (generally determined based on an average of the quarterly values of the assets) during such year is
attributable to assets that produce passive income or are held for the production of passive income.
Based on the market price of our ADSs, the value of our assets and the nature and composition of our income and assets, we
believe that we were a PFIC for our taxable year ended December 31, 2023. We believe we were also a PFIC for our taxable year ended
December 31, 2022, but we do not believe we were a PFIC for our taxable year ended December 31, 2021.
PFIC status for a taxable year is based on an annual determination that cannot be made until the close of such taxable year and
involves extensive factual investigation, including ascertaining the fair market value of all of our assets on a quarterly basis and the
character of each item of income that we earn during the relevant taxable year, and is subject to uncertainty in several respects (including
with respect to our treatment of the Consolidated Affiliated Entities as being owned by us for United States federal income tax purposes).
The determination of whether we will be a PFIC for any taxable year may also depend in part upon the value of our goodwill and other
unbooked intangibles not reflected on our balance sheet (which may depend upon the market price of our ADSs or ordinary shares from
time to time, which may fluctuate significantly) and also may be affected by how, and how quickly, we spend our liquid assets and the
cash we generate from our operations and raise in any offering. Accordingly, there can be no assurance that we will not be a PFIC for our
current or any future taxable year. The U.S. Internal Revenue Service, or the IRS, does not issue rulings with respect to PFIC status, and
we cannot assure you that the IRS, or a court, will agree with any determination we make.
Because we believe that we were a PFIC for our taxable year ended December 31, 2023, a U.S. Holder (as defined in “Item 10.
Additional Information—E. Taxation—U.S. Federal Income Tax Considerations”) could be subject to certain adverse U.S. federal
income tax consequences and related reporting requirements. See “Item 10. Additional Information—E. Taxation—U.S. Federal Income
Tax Considerations—Passive Foreign Investment Company.”
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The Common Reporting Standard could subject us to certain new information reporting and withholding requirements.
The Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development has developed a Common Reporting Standard (the “CRS”) and
model competent authority agreement to enable the multilateral and automatic exchange of financial account information, which were
adopted by many jurisdictions. Effective on January 1, 2017, CRS and its implementing legislations in mainland China and Hong Kong
require financial institutions to identify and report the tax residency and account details of non-resident customers to the relevant
authorities in jurisdictions adhering to CRS. On September 6, 2018, the arrangements for the multilateral and automatic exchange of
financial account information between mainland China and Hong Kong officially came into effect. Hong Kong and mainland China
conducted the first automatic exchange of financial account information in September 2018, and many jurisdictions (including Hong
Kong) have promised to implement the multilateral and automatic exchange of financial account information. While CRS was modeled
on the U.S. Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act (the “FATCA”), the scope, coverage and volume under CRS are significantly greater
than that under FATCA, which requires non-U.S. institutions to report to the IRS if U.S. tax payers have an account with the non-U.S.
financial institution and have met the standard of the overseas financial assets. As the reporting requirement under CRS is burdensome,
we cannot assure you that we will not be adversely affected by the information reporting and withholding requirements imposed by CRS
and its implementing legislations in mainland China, Hong Kong and other jurisdictions subject to CRS in which we conduct or may
conduct business in the future.
We could be adversely affected by violations of the U.S. Foreign Corrupt Practices Act and anti-corruption laws in other applicable
jurisdictions.
As an NYSE listed company with operations in various countries, we are subject to the U.S. Foreign Corrupt Practices Act of
1977 (the “FCPA”) and other anti-corruption laws and regulations in applicable jurisdictions. The FCPA generally prohibits companies
and their intermediaries from making improper payments to government officials for the purpose of obtaining or retaining business.
Companies subject to the FCPA may be held liable for actions taken by partners or representatives. We may be subject to these and
similar anti-corruption laws in other applicable jurisdictions. Failure to comply with legal requirements could expose us to civil and/or
criminal penalties, including fines, prosecution and significant reputational damage, all of which could materially and adversely affect
our business, results of operations, including our relationships with our clients, and our financial results. Compliance with the FCPA and
other applicable anti-corruption laws and related regulations and policies imposes potentially significant costs and operational burdens on
us. Moreover, the compliance and monitoring mechanisms that we have in place, including our Code of Ethics and our anti-bribery and
anti-corruption policy, may not adequately prevent or detect all possible violations under applicable anti-bribery and anti-corruption
legislation.
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 United States domestic public companies.
Because we are 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 of quarterly reports on Form 10-Q or current reports on Form 8-
K with the SEC;
● 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;
● 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.
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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 through press releases, distributed pursuant to the rules and regulations of the NYSE. 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, holders of our ADSs may not be afforded the same protections or information, which would be made
available to ADS holders, were they investing in a U.S. domestic issuer.
As a company incorporated in the Cayman Islands, we are permitted to adopt certain home country practices in relation to corporate
governance matters that differ significantly from NYSE corporate governance listing standards; these practices may afford less
protection to shareholders than they would enjoy if we complied fully with NYSE corporate governance listing standards.
As a Cayman Islands company listed on the NYSE, we are subject to NYSE corporate governance listing standards. However,
the NYSE 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 the NYSE corporate governance
listing standards. Shareholders of Cayman Islands exempted companies like us have no general rights under Cayman Islands law to
inspect corporate records or to obtain copies of lists of shareholders of these companies. Our directors have discretion under our
memorandum and articles of association to determine whether or not, and under what conditions, our corporate records may be inspected
by our shareholders, but are not obliged to make them available to our shareholders. This may make it more difficult for you to obtain the
information needed to establish any facts necessary for a shareholder motion or to solicit proxies from other shareholders in connection
with a proxy contest. Currently, we elect to rely on home country practices to be exempted from the corporate governance requirements
to have a corporate governance and nominating committee composed entirely of independent directors. Our shareholders may be
afforded less protection than they otherwise would under rules and regulations applicable to U.S. domestic issuers.
There is uncertainty as to whether Hong Kong stamp duty will apply to the trading or conversion of our ADSs.
In connection with our public offering of ordinary shares in Hong Kong in July 2022, or the Hong Kong IPO, we established a
branch register of members in Hong Kong, or the Hong Kong share register. Our ordinary shares that are traded on the Hong Kong Stock
Exchange, including those issued in the Hong Kong IPO and those that may be converted from ADSs, are registered on the Hong Kong
share register, and the trading of these ordinary shares on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange are subject to the Hong Kong stamp duty. To
facilitate ADS-ordinary share conversion and trading between the NYSE and the Hong Kong Stock Exchange, we have moved a portion
of our issued ordinary shares from our Cayman Islands share register to our Hong Kong share register.
Under the Hong Kong Stamp Duty Ordinance, any person who effects any sale or purchase of Hong Kong stock, defined as
stock the transfer of which is required to be registered in Hong Kong, is required to pay Hong Kong stamp duty. The stamp duty is
currently set at a total rate of 0.2% of the greater of the consideration for, or the value of, shares transferred, with 0.1% payable by each
of the buyer and the seller.
To the best of our knowledge, Hong Kong stamp duty has not been levied in practice on the trading or conversion of ADSs of
companies that are listed in both the United States and Hong Kong and that have maintained all or a portion of their ordinary shares,
including ordinary shares underlying ADSs, in their Hong Kong share registers. However, it is unclear whether, as a matter of Hong
Kong law, the trading or conversion of ADSs of these dual-listed companies constitutes a sale or purchase of the underlying Hong Kong-
registered ordinary shares that is subject to Hong Kong stamp duty. We advise investors to consult their own tax advisors on this matter.
If Hong Kong stamp duty is determined by the competent authority to apply to the trading or conversion of our ADSs, the trading price
and the value of your investment in our ADSs and/or ordinary shares may be affected.
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Item 4. Information on the Company
A.
History and Development of the Company
Founded in August 2005, we are a leading HNW wealth management service provider with global asset management
capabilities. We aim to deliver exceptional asset allocation and comprehensive services to Mandarin - speaking HNW individuals and
institutions by connecting leading asset managers around the world.
We are an exempted company incorporated with limited liability under the laws of the Cayman Islands with subsidiaries and
affiliated entities primarily in China. In August 2005, our founders started our business when Noah Investment was incorporated. We
exercise effective control over Noah Investment and its subsidiaries through Contractual Arrangements. In 2007, Hongshan Capital, a
well - known venture capital firm based in China, invested in our business. In November 2010, we were listed on the New York Stock
Exchange as the first independent wealth management company from China. In July 2022, we were listed on the Hong Kong Stock
Echange as the first independent wealth management company listed on both NYSE and Hong Kong Stock Exchange from China.
We commenced our asset management business in 2010 when Gopher Asset Management Co., Ltd. and its subsidiaries
(collectively, “Gopher Asset Management” or “Gopher”) were established. The business scope of Gopher covers private equity and
venture capital investment, real estate investment, public securities investment, and multi-strategy investment. In 2012, Noah Upright
(formerly known as Noah Upright (Shanghai) Fund Investment Consulting Co. Ltd.), a wholly owned subsidiary of Noah, obtained the
“No. 001” fund distribution license issued by the China Securities Regulatory Commission (the “CSRC”) in China.
We officially launched our overseas business expansion in early 2012. We first established Noah HK and obtained Type 1
(Dealing in Securities), Type 4 (Advising on Securities), and Type 9 (Asset Management) licenses from the Hong Kong Securities and
Futures Commission, Hong Kong SFC or the SFC, as well as an insurance broker license in Hong Kong (China). Subsequently, we
further expanded our overseas presence by launching offices in Taiwan (China), Silicon Valley, New York and Singapore. We have
obtained and maintained family trust licenses in Hong Kong and Jersey Island, investment advisor license and insurance brokerage
license in the United States, as well as capital market services license, family trust license and exempt financial advisor license in
Singapore.
In July 2022, our ordinary shares commenced trading on the Main Board of the Hong Kong Stock Exchange under the stock
code “6686”. We raised from our global offering in connection with the listing in Hong Kong approximately HK$315.6 million
(US$40.2 million) in net proceeds after deducting underwriters’ commissions and offering expenses. Upon our listing on the Hong Kong
Stock Exchange, all the Class B ordinary shares were converted into Class A ordinary shares on a one-for-one basis. Subsequently, no
Class B ordinary shares will be issued or outstanding and we will cease to have a dual-class voting structure. On December 23, 2022, we
adopted the sixth amended and restated memorandum and articles of association to reflect the removal of the dual-class voting structure,
among other things.
Our principal executive offices are located at No.1226, South Shenbin Road, Minhang District, Shanghai, People’s Republic of
China. Our telephone number is (86) 21 8035 - 8292. Our registered office in the Cayman Islands is located at the offices of Maples
Corporate Services Limited, PO Box 309, Ugland House, Grand Cayman, KY1 - 1104, Cayman Islands.
B.
Business Overview
We are a leading and pioneer wealth management service provider offering comprehensive one-stop advisory services on global
investment and asset allocation primarily for mandarin - speaking HNW investors. Substantially all our RMB-denominated investment
products are managed and distributed in China, and most of our foreign currency denominated products are managed and distributed
through our Hong Kong subsidiary, Noah HK, which serves as our offshore booking center.
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With over 19 years of operating experience, we continue to distribute and manage investment products and provide
comprehensive financial services to our HNW clients globally, while at the same time constantly optimizing and improving our risk and
asset management procedures to strengthen our core competitiveness.
Our Business Model
We provide comprehensive financial services through our subsidiaries and Consolidated Affiliated Entities, comprising our
wealth management business, asset management business and other businesses, to our clients. In 2023, our wealth management business,
asset management business, and other businesses contributed to 75.6%, 23.3% and 1.1% of our total net revenues, respectively.
● Wealth management business. Through the licensed distribution channels operated by our subsidiaries, we offer various
investment products, including primarily domestic and overseas mutual fund products, private secondary products and
other products, on behalf of our third-party product partners and Gopher, our asset management arm. We also provide
customized value-added financial services to our clients, including investor education and trust services.
● Asset management business. Through Gopher, our asset management arm, we manage our clients’ investments in private
equity, real estate, public securities, multi-strategy and other investment products. We conduct our domestic asset
management business through the Consolidated Affiliated Entities, and overseas asset management business through our
subsidiaries Noah HK and Gopher GP.
● Other businesses. This segment mainly includes lending services whereby we make secured loans to creditworthy clients
through our subsidiaries. Since the third quarter of 2019, we have decreased lending and other businesses as we
strategically shifted focus to our core wealth management and asset management businesses.
Historically, we also offered private equity products through our wealth management business. Following the enactment of the
Supervision Measures on Distribution Institutions of Publicly-Raised Securities Investment Fund, or the Supervision Measures in
October 2020, which provides that independent fund distribution institutions shall specialize in the distribution of funds that invest in
public securities, our wealth management business ceased offering private equity products, and now primarily focuses on distributing
mutual fund products and private secondary products. We now provide domestic private equity products only through our asset
management arm, Gopher, which forms funds and raises capital directly from our clients.
We operate our business to cater to the needs of our clients by leveraging (i) our unique ecosystem with leading product
partners, including fund managers and top PE/VC general partners, (ii) a diversified product mix that contributes to a favorable revenue
structure with competitive profit margins and delivers successful investment results, and (iii) significant synergies and high operating
efficiency. We are a pioneer in China’s HNW wealth management services industry with various market-first achievements, and are the
first wealth manager to have built an ecosystem with leading private secondary funds and PE/VC firms in China. Leveraging our early-
mover advantage, deep understanding of the industry, strong execution capabilities and rigorous risk management, we have developed a
comprehensive set of product offerings in collaboration with our product partners.
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Set forth below is a diagram illustrating our unique ecosystem:
1 Others include insurance products, multi-strategies products and others.
Our Clients
We primarily serve Chinese HNW clients who reside in mainland China or overseas with total investable assets exceeding
RMB6.0 million. In addition to individual clients, we also strategically provide services to certain institutional clients, including entities
affiliated with such individuals, such as their family offices, as well as other institutional investors. In 2021, we started to provide mutual
funds and related wealth management services to satisfy our corporate and institutional clients’ money market and liquidity management
demands through our mutual fund SaaS platform, “Smile Treasury”, operated by our PRC subsidiary Noah Upright. We have attracted a
loyal and high quality client base, with approximately 22,453 active clients (including mutual fund-only clients) as of December 31,
2023.
The table below sets forth certain information regarding our clients as of or for the periods indicated.
Number of active clients (excluding mutual fund-only clients)
Number of active clients (including mutual fund-only clients)
Year Ended December 31,
2022
6,520
35,877
2021
12,831
42,764
2023
5,731
22,453
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In order to provide targeted and personalized services to our clients, we classify our clients into five categories based on their
AUA with us, namely ivory, gold, platinum, diamond, and black card clients, with the black card clients being the highest level. The
number of our black card clients and diamond card clients reached 2,289 and 7,369 as of December 31, 2023, with an AUA per client of
RMB66.9 million (US$9.4 million) and RMB14.4 million (US$2.0 million), respectively.The table below sets forth the number of our
core clients as of the periods indicated.
Number of black card clients(1)
Number of diamond card clients(2)
2021(3)
As of December 31,
2022
2,104
7,585
1,722
6,475
2023
2,289
7,369
(1) Black card clients refer to clients with an AUA of over RMB50 million (approximately US$7 million).
(2) Diamond card clients refer to clients with an AUA of over RMB10 million (approximately US$1.5 million) but less than RMB50
million (approximately US$7 million).
(3) Starting from the second quarter of 2021, in order to more accurately identify our core client group, we have made certain
adjustments to our client membership AUA calculation mechanism to align with the AUA basis for charging recurring service fees.
Specifically, private equity products are calculated based on subscription amount while public securities products are calculated
based on NAV under the new mechanism. We have also retrospectively adjusted the calculation for the prior periods to conform to
the current mechanism.
Client Onboard Process and Key Contractual Terms
We have implemented comprehensive know-your-client (“KYC”) and anti-money laundering (“AML”) procedures and policies
in compliance with applicable laws and regulations in the PRC and other jurisdictions where we operate, as well as our internal control
policies. When a client opens an account with us, we require the client to complete our KYC and AML review process. In terms of our
KYC process, we collect documentations including, among others, proof of client’s identity and source of funds for investments and
verify such information against reliable supporting documents and official database, as well as conduct risk tolerance assessment to
better understand clients’ risk appetite. We also perform due diligence procedures on clients that specifically focus on and attest to their
qualification to invest in accordance with relevant laws and regulations in different jurisdictions. For example, for clients who intend to
purchase private fund products in the PRC, we require them to provide proof that their financial conditions and risk tolerance have met
the thresholds of qualified investors under relevant PRC regulations, and conduct ongoing due diligence on such clients to verify their
qualification. In addition, our relationship managers follow up with our clients on a regular basis to maintain up-to-date client risk profile
and investment preferences. In terms of our AML process, we have established rigorous AML internal control policies, including a real-
name policy in the process of business operations and a record keeping policy on client information covering their identification,
transaction records as well as source of funds. We have an AML information reporting system aimed at detecting, reporting on and
preventing money laundering activities. We also provide trainings to our employees to enhance their AML awareness. Moreover, we
enter into a set of standard client service agreements with our clients at account opening. Such client service agreements set forth rights
and obligations of our clients when using service provided by us and authorizes us to collect and use certain personal information of our
clients. Clients will also receive an investor right notification form setting forth their interest and risks in purchasing a specific product.
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Our Key Products and Services
Our Wealth Management Business
We provide diversified investment products, customized asset allocation and value - added services to our clients inside and
outside of China for our wealth management business through our subsidiaries. Our dedicated relationship managers work with clients to
build an asset allocation objective and a dynamic investment portfolio for each of them with the diversified investment products we offer,
aiming to meet our clients’ wealth management needs, minimizing their risks while generating attractive returns. Our clients benefit from
our comprehensive services, expertise and capacities, including, among others, investor education services and trust services. In 2021,
2022 and 2023, net revenues contributed by our wealth management business were RMB3,194.9 million, RMB2,200.0 million and
RMB2,491.2 million (US$350.9 million), representing 74.2%, 71.0% and 75.6% of our total net revenues, respectively.
Revenue Model
For our wealth management business, we generate revenue primarily from the offering of investment products and services to
our clients through our subsidiaries in four ways: (i) one-time commissions paid by funds managed by our product partners, (ii) recurring
service fees paid by our product partners or funds managed by them over the duration of the investment product, (iii) sharing of a portion
of the performance-based income earned by product partners who manage the products, and (iv) revenue from comprehensive services
we provide, especially the revenue from our investor education business. We also earn one-time commissions from insurance companies
by referring clients to purchase insurance products from them, and recognize revenue when the underlying insurance contracts become
effective. We do not bear any loss from our clients’ investments nor do we provide guarantees of return with respect to the products we
distribute, in accordance with the investment agreements with our clients.
Set forth below is a diagram illustrating the business and revenue model of our wealth management business:
Investment Product Offerings
We have a proven track record of consistently pioneering a broad array of innovative and high-quality investment products and
service offerings which provide comprehensive and tailored investment opportunities to meet the specific wealth management
requirements of our clients. During the three years ended December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023, the domestic and overseas investment
products provided by our product partners and Gopher primarily consist of:
● mutual fund products, which are publicly-raised, public securities investment funds;
● private secondary products, which are privately-raised investment funds with underlying assets consisting of publicly listed
securities and bonds in the secondary market;
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● private equity products, including investments in (i) various PE/VC funds sponsored by third party domestic and
international asset management firms, (ii) real estate equity funds, and (iii) PE/VC funds managed by Gopher, including
FoFs, feeder funds, S funds and direct and co-investment funds. Following the enactment of the Supervision Measures in
October 2020, we ceased offering domestic private equity products through our wealth management business, and we now
provide domestic private equity products only through our asset management arm, Gopher, which forms funds and raises
capital directly from our clients;
● other products we distribute or provide or manage but cannot be classified into any of the above product categories, such as
insurance and multi-strategy products.
The table below sets out the aggregate transaction value of the different types of investment products that we distributed during
the periods indicated:
Year Ended December 31,
2021
2022
RMB %
RMB %
(in millions, except for percentages)
2023
RMB US$
%
Product type
Mutual fund products
Private secondary products
Private equity products
Other products
All products
Overseas Wealth Management
37,169
37,776
18,069 (1)
4,189
97,203
38.2
38.9
18.6
4.3
100.0
44,726
11,516
11,037
3,001
70,280
63.6
16.4
15.7
4.3
100.0
47,837
18,403
3,330
4,486
74,056
6,738
2,592
469
632
10,431
64.6
24.8
4.5
6.1
100.0
In addition to our well-established domestic and RMB-denominated product offerings, we also offer a variety of overseas
products denominated in a variety of currencies to our clients. The diversification of our investment product offerings distinguishes us
from many of our competitors in China, who typically only have domestic and RMB-denominated product offerings. In 2023, revenue
from our overseas products accounted for 43.2% of our total revenues.
Comprehensive Services
In addition to the investment products we provide to our clients, we develop and provide customized value-added financial and
related services to our clients to better serve their needs.
● Investor Education: We primarily provide our investor education services under the brand name “Enoch Education”,
organizing various types of online and offline training programs to our individual clients and their families. These
programs include wealth planning, market insights and entrepreneurship camps. We charge attendees fees for these events
primarily based on the duration (which typically last up to one year) and location of each program.
Since the launch of our investor education services, we have organized more than 440 training sessions, which have
attracted more than 23,000 investors. We believe that Enoch Education is an important tool for building our business as it
raises the financial sophistication of our clients, enables us to deepen our relationships with them, and broadens the clients’
investment knowledge, all of which are believed to further enhance their loyalty and willingness to invest with us,
especially for long-duration products.
● Trust Services: We currently offer international trust services in Hong Kong, Jersey Island and Singapore through Ark
Trust (Hong Kong) Limited (“Ark Trust”), Ark Trust (Jersey) Limited and Ark Trust (Singapore) Ltd., respectively. Ark
Trust was founded in 2014 and is one of the first family trust service companies registered outside of mainland China
among the independent wealth management companies in China. Ark Trust provides a full range of services to our clients,
including family trust and fiduciary services, employee stock ownership plans, charitable trust services and wealth planning
services.
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Our Asset Management Business
To further address the asset allocation needs of our clients, we started our asset management business in 2010 under the brand name
Gopher. We manage investments with underlying assets in mainland China through the Consolidated Affiliated Entities and outside of
mainland China through our subsidiaries Noah HK and Gopher GP, denominated in Renminbi or other currencies. Our AUM were
RMB156.0 billion, RMB157.1 billion and RMB154.6 billion (US$21.8 billion), respectively, as of December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023.
Revenue Model
We generate revenue from our asset management business through the Consolidated Affiliated Entities and certain overseas
subsidiaries primarily in the form of (i) one-time commissions from funds managed by Gopher when the investment product was
distributed directly by Gopher, (ii) recurring service fees paid by funds managed by Gopher over the duration of the investment products
and (iii) performance-based income from funds for which we serve as the fund managers.
Gopher, as a proprietary product provider, enters into agreements on an arm’s length basis with our wealth management branch
for product distribution, and in accordance with such agreements, shares a portion of recurring service fees and performance-based
income with the wealth management branch in certain cases. To the extent that recurring service fees and performance-based income are
shared with the wealth management branch, such intragroup revenue are deducted from our consolidated statements of operations.
Set forth below is a diagram illustrating the business and revenue model of our asset management business:
Given that over 80% of Gopher’s AUM as of December 31, 2023 consisted of private equity investments which generally have
a long duration with no contractual redemption rights or high redemption costs as provided under the relevant subscription agreements,
we believe that the recurring service fees we earn are relatively predictable and sustainable.
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Investment Structure
Gopher establishes fund vehicles (the “Gopher Funds”) as investment vehicles to raise capital from clients and manage the
investments. The investment portfolio of Gopher Funds includes primarily (i) private equity investments, including equity investments
into private companies and commitments in private equity funds; (ii) public securities investments, including direct investments in public
securities and commitments in money market funds, mutual funds and private secondary funds. In particular, Gopher launched its target-
strategy products in 2021, a series of NAV-based products utilizing different investment strategies aiming to deliver stable investment
returns with relatively low volatilities, to meet clients’ investment targets; (iii) real estate investments, typically in the form of equity of
private companies holding such investments; and (iv) multi-strategy and other investments, primarily consisting of multi-asset portfolios.
We act as the fund manager and/or general partner for the Gopher Funds and collect management fees and performance-based
income. We also invest in certain Gopher Funds as general partners, and our equity interests in each individual fund are normally less
than 3%. The following table sets forth the typical structure of a Gopher Fund:
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Product Offerings
As a multi-asset management service provider, Gopher invests in different categories of assets, including:
● private equity investments, including investments in the leading domestic and overseas private equity funds through FoFs,
feeder funds and S funds, as well as direct and co - investments in sectors such as TMT, financial services and
healthcare.As of December 31, 2023, the AUM of Gopher’s private equity investments was RMB132.2 billion (US$18.6
billion), covering over 130 Gopher PE/VC FoFs, and directly or indirectly through these funds, invested in more than 8,000
companies.
FoFs. In 2010, we established the first market-oriented FoF by private capital in China. Our asset management business has
historically focused primarily on investments in FoFs, whereby the Gopher Funds invest in one or more third-party
managed funds, which directly or indirectly invest in portfolio companies or other investment portfolios. The graph below
illustrates the portfolio structure of a simple FoF. Major Gopher PE/VC FoFs typically involve several layers of FoFs
and/or feeder funds structure. Under such structure, multiple Gopher Funds are set up as intermediate investment vehicles,
which are managed by Gopher for the purpose of asset and ownership segregation.
Feeder funds. We also manage feeder funds that invest in certain single third-party managed funds. Such third-party
managed funds usually have multiple feeder funds as capital sources. Following the enactment of the Supervision
Measures, we leverage primarily feeder funds to raise capital for our PE/VC investment partners. The graph below
illustrates the investment structure of our feeder funds that invest in single third-party managed funds.
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S funds. In May 2013, we introduced the first S fund to HNW investors in China. The S funds explore investment
opportunities by investing in pre-existing limited partner commitments in the private equity market, which allows private
equity investors to sell their investments in private equity funds. S funds typically invest in more diversified investment
portfolios than primary PE funds, and typically deploy capital faster and have a shorter investment term than other private
equity investments ranging from 2 years to 3 years. The graph below illustrates the portfolio structure of our S funds.
● Public securities investments, mainly including Target Strategy, namely a series of NAV-based products utilizing multiple
investment strategies to manage underlying assets consisting of publicly listed securities, FoF and MoM investments, as
well as direct investments in listed companies. Gopher has a dedicated investment team managing Target Strategy products,
which consist of active, balanced and conservative types of funds, utilizing diverse strategies with an aim to create long-
term and stable investment returns with relatively low volatility. For the MoM approach, we as the fund manager choose
third-party fund managers for certain investment programs of the Gopher Funds and monitor their performances. The third-
party fund managers specialize in utilizing different investment strategies to diversify risks and achieve different investing
goals amid market volatilities. These third-party fund managers receive an incentive service fee.
● Real estate investments, including funds investing in residential as well as commercial real estate properties such as office
buildings and shopping malls, in the form of both credit and equity investments. As of December 31, 2023, our real estate
investments primarily included one office building in Shanghai through a FoF investment, namely Gopher Aroma Plaza.
Our real estate investments as of December 31, 2023 also included seven rental apartment projects in the United States.
● Multi-strategy and other investments. Our multi-strategy investments primarily include multi-asset portfolios and family
office accounts. We use asset allocation principles to build multi-asset portfolios and multi- or single-family office
accounts. Starting from the third quarter in 2019, we stopped investing in private credit products and started to redeem all
outstanding private credit products. By the end of the second quarter in 2021, Gopher had successfully exited
approximately RMB30 billion of private credit product investments, marking an important milestone of transformation to
NAV-based products.
For a discussion of the change of our asset management product mix during the three years ended December 31, 2021, 2022 and
2023, see “Item 5. Operating and Financial Review and Prospects—A. Operating Results—Factors Affecting Our Results of Operations
—Key Performance Indicators—AUM.”
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Overseas Asset Management
In response to our clients’ increasing demands for overseas investment opportunities, we have cooperated with more overseas
partners and increased the number of non - RMB - denominated funds of funds offered. We have built a global Gopher platform to
identify and source non - RMB - denominated investment products for offshore individuals, with our Hong Kong office focusing on
global investments, Silicon Valley office focusing on technology - related venture capital funds and direct investment opportunities, and
New York office focusing on U.S. real estate investments. As of December 31, 2023, the overseas AUM of Gopher reached RMB36.0
billion (US$5.1 billion), representing 23.3% of the total AUM for our asset management business.
Our Portfolio Companies
Our Gopher Funds strive to invest into companies with great growth potential through private equity investments to generate
attractive investment returns. Over the years, our Gopher Funds have invested in many portfolio companies that have achieved
outstanding performance and hence generating more performance - based income, which demonstrates our strong asset management
capabilities. As of December 31, 2023, Gopher’s AUM included over 130 Gopher PE/VC FoFs, which in aggregate invested in more
than 200 funds managed by third parties, and directly or indirectly through these funds, invested in more than 8,000 companies, many of
which had achieved substantial growth. As of December 31, 2023, more than 640 companies Gopher invested in had successfully
become listed companies and more than 200 companies had grown into unicorn companies with a valuation over US$1.0 billion.
Our Product Partners and Investment Partners
We have established extensive business relationships with reputable product partners and investment partners both in China and
globally, in connection with our distribution of investment products. Our product partners and investment partners are typically the
issuers or managers of investment products. The product partners and investment partners with which we collaborate encompass a
variety of institutions and companies, mainly including PE/VC general partners, mutual fund managers and private secondary fund
managers. We distribute investment products provided by these product partners directly, and for our asset management business, our
Gopher Funds invest into the investment products provided by our investment partners, whereby we offer limited partnership
commitments to our Gopher Funds as asset management products to our clients. In certain occasions, our Gopher Funds also co-invest
with our investment partners into portfolio companies directly. During the three years ended December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023, we
collaborated with over 100 product partners and investment partners in aggregate. A certain partner can either act as a product partner for
our wealth management business or an investment partner for our asset management business.
We have a strong presence in private equity investment industry both domestically and overseas. We have built collaborative
relationships with 15 out of the top 20 VC fund managers as named in the “2021 Annual List of Chinese Venture Capital Investment
Institutions” in December 2021 by CV Info, one of China’s leading third - party private equity information providers, and nine of the top
25 international PE firms as named in “Private Equity International’s PEI 300 list” for 2022.
In addition to leading PE/VC firms, we also collaborate with other financial institutions to provide a variety of investment
products. Specifically, we currently collaborate with leading domestic private secondary fund managers, such as Perseverance Asset
Management and Greenwoods, as one of their exclusive distribution channels for public securities. And we have intensifed screening and
coverage of top hedge fund managers worldwide. Ten of the top 50 global hedge fund managers as named in “With intelligence Global
Billion Dollar Club 2022’ have been onboarded.
Key Contractual Terms with Product Partners for Our Wealth Management Business
We enter into service agreements with the product partners for the majority of the products we distribute through our wealth
management business. These service agreements usually expire upon the redemption of the underlying investment products. Under these
agreements, we typically undertake to provide the counterparty with services relating to our clients’ purchases of the relevant products.
Such services generally include providing our clients with information on the relevant products, evaluating the financial condition and
risk profiles of those clients who desire to purchase the relevant products, educating them on the transaction documentation as well as
furnishing other assistance to facilitate their communications with the product partners.
Under our service agreements with respect to our fund products distributed through our wealth management business, we also
undertake to assist the product partners to maintain investor relationships by providing our clients who have purchased the relevant
products with various post-investment services, including investor communications assistance and periodic portfolio management
reports.
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Key Contractual Terms with Investment Partners for Our Asset Management Business
As for the investment partners we collaborate within our asset management business through FoF investments, our Gopher Fund
invest in the funds set up and managed by the investment partners. Our investment partner set up fund vehicles to raise capital, which
subsequently invest into asset portfolios. In connection with such investment, Gopher Fund enters into a limited partnership agreement as
a limited partner of the fund and the investment partner as the general partner of the fund. In accordance with the limited partnership
agreements, our investment partner actively manages the investment on behalf of Gopher Fund and other limited partners. Gopher Fund
is obligated to provide capital to the fund in due course. The limited partnership agreements set forth the duration and redemption terms
of the fund.
In case of co-investment with our investment partners, Gopher Fund and the fund managed by our investment partners both
invest in the investment portfolio directly. For such investments, we generally enter into a set of agreements in connection with such
investments including share purchase agreement and shareholders’ agreements to protect the interest of our clients and us.
Product Development and Selection
We have a rigorous product development and selection process is key to our business. In light of the tightened regulatory
environment in China in recent years, we have been further enhancing our comprehensive risk management system.
Product Development and Selection Philosophy
Our product development team focuses on meeting the evolving demands of clients by balancing the investment return,
investment risk, and liquidity of the products we offer. For our wealth management business, our team is primarily responsible for
selection of wealth management products to be distributed by our wealth management segment, whereby for our asset management
business, our team strives to develop and structure the investment products offered by Gopher. Our product selection efforts are guided
by our comprehensive research, which provides a top-down review on our overall tactical asset allocation strategy at least quarterly,
based on which our product team develops strategies in each asset class.
We strive to provide a variety of investment products to our clients. Based on our research, we strategically select products that
captures current investment opportunities, as well as products of stable long-term performance. We believe such product mix allows our
investors to customize their investment portfolio based on their risk appetite and return expectations.
As for our asset management business, Gopher’s investment philosophy focuses on identifying and capturing opportunities from
emerging trends in the market, evaluating a wide range of assets and investment opportunities from numerous investment partners, and
constructing investment portfolios through vigorous due diligence process. Moreover, we seek to minimize volatility of the performance
of our investments by investing in a wide range of asset classes and investment structures, which enhances the sustainability of our
revenue streams under various economic circumstances.
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Product Development and Selection Process
Each product offered to our clients, including the investment products we distribute and asset management products we offer,
must go through a strictly implemented product screening procedure as indicated in the diagram below:
Our product development and selection process involves three key stages: project screening, project evaluation and risk control.
In-house experts and professionals, including high-level management team members from our legal department, risk management
department, compliance department and product department will gather periodically to carefully screen and evaluate each product we
offer and distribute.
● In the project screening stage, our professionals select the potential product or the proposed investment portfolio from a
broad range of investment products and review our internal due diligence findings to determine whether the product may
be suitable for investment and/or distribution to our clients. A prospective product or investment needs to be approved by
at least a majority of the members participating in the project screening meeting before the product or investment moves
onto the next stage.
o
o
For investment products, we have adopted an effective screening mechanism that analyzes and evaluates the proposed
investment product or portfolio both qualitatively and quantitatively. To facilitate the screening of the fund products,
we maintain a whitelist of fund product providers that we update on real-time basis. Our wealth management arm
conducts independent assessment of investment products developed by Gopher.
For each proposed investment under our asset management business, in particular private equity direct or co-
investments, we designate a dedicated project team to conduct preliminary due diligence on the potential investment
target. After conducting the preliminary review, the project team submits an investment analysis and due diligence
memorandum on the investment targets, focusing on investment overview and recommendation, market opportunities,
investment strategies, investment return analysis, eligible investors, key risks and risk control solutions, among other
considerations. If necessary, we will also engage qualified third-party services providers such as independent auditors
and law firms to conduct independent research and analysis on our proposed investment portfolio.
● In the project evaluation stage, our professionals analyze the legal structure, financial statistics and other aspects of the
product and evaluate the potential returns to our clients and the risks of the investment.
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● In the risk control stage, our core management team meets to fully evaluate the risk of the product and determine whether
appropriate risk management is in place for the investment in the portfolio and/or distribution of the product. After
approved by the risk control meeting, the product will be reviewed by our in-house risk analysts before it is officially
launched.
We have also established a complete risk management system for our daily operations. On the product provider side, we have
policies and procedures regarding, among other things, periodically reviewed product ratings, anti-bribery control, as well as post
investment portfolio monitor and alert system. See “—Risk Management and Internal Control.”
In particular, we rigorously monitor the performance of our asset management products offered by Gopher on a real-time basis.
We have established a systematic post-investment monitoring mechanism to track the performance of funds we manage and to establish a
long-term relationship with the fund managers whose funds we invested in. We have built a proprietary system, the GIMSP, which tracks
the profiles and performance of all invested funds and underlying projects and consolidates such information in our internal database.
This enables us to understand investment trends and develop the corresponding strategies in an innovative way. See “—Our
Technologies.”
Product Distribution
We have established a dedicated client services team for our wealth management business and asset management business.
Through the licensed distribution channels of our wealth management business, we offer various investment products such as public
securities investments and private secondary products on behalf of third-party product partners and Gopher. In addition, Gopher’s direct
sales team raises capital for the private equity products directly.
Our integrated client service team adopts the “Noah Triangle” solution to provide efficient professional services to our clients.
Based on our clients’ specific needs, a typical Noah Triangle consists of: (i) one account representative who is a client relationship
manager primarily for originating and maintaining client relationships, as well as providing asset allocation advisory services, (ii) one or
more solution representatives, each with certain specialized knowledge to provide detailed and more technical advice regarding our
domestic and overseas investment products, such as primary and secondary market products as well as comprehensive services including
family trust, respectively; and (iii) one fulfillment representative who primarily serves investment execution, administration and other
back-office functions.
Our clients enjoy the flexibility to either choose the products provided by third-party product partners or select the products
offered by Gopher based on their specific investment needs. We strive to provide unbiased product recommendations as well as
trustworthy advice to our clients and facilitate the most suitable products available tailored to their individual investment preferences and
risk appetites, regardless of whether the recommended products are provided by third-party product partners or by Gopher under wealth
management business or asset management business.
The “Noah Triangle” solution is a three-dimensional service team in which members support each other by timely responding to
the needs of our clients. A typical service process we provide to a client under the “Noah Triangle” service model is as follows:
● Onboarding. An account representative will be assigned to a client seeking to openaccount with us and assist the client
in completing KYC and AML procedures, including but not limited to identification and source of funds verification,
risk tolerance assessment as well as attestation to his or her qualification to invest.
● Understanding investment needs. After the client passes KYC and AML procedures, our account representative will
work closely with the client to understand his or her asset allocation needs, investment preferences and risk appetite.
Before the client indicates any specific investment needs or preferences or forms any preliminary investment plan, we
typically only offer him or her investor education and other client event opportunities to familiarize him or her with the
latest market trends and our product offerings, which in turn could facilitate the client’s understanding of his or her
investment needs.
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● Product recommendation and risk matching. When the client has developed an investment need, our account
representative will work with one or more solution representatives with certain specialized knowledge of a product or
service depending on the client’s specific need and preference, to collectively provide investment solutions. Our
solution representatives offer customized investment strategies by taking into account, among others, the client’s
preferences for primary or secondary market products, preferred product providers and/or fund managers, available
funds for investment, return expectations as well as risk tolerance, and recommend to the client a broad selection of
investment products from both third-party product providers and Gopher that meet the client’s requirements. In
addition, building upon our proprietary risk rating model to assign risk scores to both clients and investment products,
we are able to ensure that appropriate products with matching risk profiles are recommended to suitable clients.
● Decision making and more. With our accurate recommendation of products based on the client’s investment preference
and risk appetite, the client will exercise his or her own independent judgment to make the final investment decision as
to whether to purchase any product recommended or which product, from third-party product providers or Gopher, he
or she desires to purchase. Our fulfillment representative will then assist the client with the procedures and
documentation of the investment process, and later on delivers portfolio management reports to the client after the
investment.
We believe this “Noah Triangle” solution enables us to provide in-depth services to our clients more efficiently and
professionally.
Our sales and marketing efforts are designed to attract and retain clients and build brand awareness and reputation. We focus on
maintaining long-term relationships with our clients through regular, personalized interaction to build trust with our clients, as well as
enhancing and sustaining their loyalty. We also believe that the various other value-added services we offer to our clients, such as
investor education services and trust planning, further enhance the loyalty of our clients.
Wealth Management
Noah Upright, our primary distribution channel, is among the first batch of independent financial service companies in mainland
China which has obtained the fund distribution license from the CSRC. Furthermore, we have established offices in Hong Kong (China),
Taiwan (China), Silicon Valley, New York, and Singapore to offer our clients global investment opportunities.
We distribute investment products on behalf of third-party product partners and Gopher, primarily through our network of
relationship managers, and we use an array of marketing channels to attract potential clients. Furthermore, we also enjoy continued
organic growth in clients from word-of-mouth referrals.
Our dedicated relationship managers strive to provide tailored investment services to our clients based on a deep understanding
of each client’s financial position and objectives, utilizing our specialty in asset allocation and manager selection and the wide range of
multi - asset class investments that we offer. In 2021, we made strategic investments in our talents to capture market opportunities and
seek for long - term growth potential. As a result, the total number of relationship managers decreased to 1,276 as of December 31, 2022
from 1,316 as of December 31, 2021. In 2022, in order to mitigate the risk of the macro environment volatility, we further condensed our
sales force and the total number of relationship managers decreased to 1,276 as of December 31, 2022. As of December 31, 2023, we had
a total of 1,252 relationship managers. Meanwhile, in 2022, we also started to establish our offshore “Noah Triangle” team who resides
in Hong Kong and Singapore to provide more dedicated and globalized services to our offshore HNW investors. As of December 31,
2023, we have 89 overseas relationship managers.
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Asset Management
Historically, the majority of the funds managed by Gopher were distributed through Noah Upright, the distribution network of
our wealth management business. Following the enactment of the Supervision Measures in October 2020, which provides that
independent fund distribution institutions shall specialize in the distribution of funds that invest in public securities, only mutual fund
products and private secondary products are distributed through Noah Upright. Gopher has built its direct sales team to raise capital for
Gopher Funds it establishes that invest in domestic private equity investments. When a client of the wealth management business shows
interest in asset management products Gopher offers, a relationship manager of Gopher, typically a PE solution representative, will
introduce the product to the client and handle the investment process. Gopher’s direct sales team also targets institutional investors and
family offices.
The following table sets forth a selection of licenses that are material to our business operations held by us as of December 31,
2023.
Location
Mainland China
Licenses
Expiration Date
Certificate for privately-raised investment fund manager
Fund distribution license
Hong Kong
Type 1 (Dealing in securities)
Type 4 (Advising on securities)
Type 9 (Asset management)
Insurance brokerage license
July 14, 2024
TCSP (trust or company service provider) license
November 4, 2026
Money lenders license
September 1, 2024
Jersey Islands
Family trust license
United States
Investment advisor license
N/A
N/A
Insurance brokerage license
May 31, 2025
Singapore
Capital market service license
Family trust license
Exempt financial advisor license
Integrated Client Service Team
N/A
N/A
N/A
Our relationship managers are all full-time employees who typically receive a base salary as well as performance-based
quarterly and annual bonuses. We focus on recruiting, training and motivating our relationship managers, with the goal of enabling our
relationship managers to deliver thoughtful advice and investment solutions tailored for each client.
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N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
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We provide a comprehensive training system for relationship managers in different career stages, helping them understand the
asset allocation theory promoted by Noah and investment philosophy within different asset categories. Upon recruitment, our relationship
managers will receive required training before interacting with clients. We also provide routine training to our relationship managers
from time to time. These specialized training opportunities enhance the skills of our top relationship managers and also serve as an
important motivational tool for all of our relationship managers as they compete to attend these events.
We also provide training to our account representatives, solution representatives and fulfillment representatives to familiarize
them with relevant regulations, industry practices, product strategies, and client services, and require them to pass internal exams before
they can be assigned to the client service team. For example, fulfillment representatives are required to be proficient in various fields,
including but not limited to fund operations, online account opening process for different markets, fund transactions, redemptions,
distributions, portfolio management reports and investor communications.
Client Service Centers
We believe our high-quality client service enhances our client loyalty and brand image. We serve our clients primarily through
our network of relationship managers. Headquartered in Shanghai, our client service network covered 44 cities in mainland China as of
December 31, 2023, multiple developed regions where the country’s HNW population is concentrated, including the Yangtze River
Delta, the Pearl River Delta, the Bohai Rim and other regions. Our strategy is to open offices at locations with concentrated HNW
population and strong regional economies. We have opened offices in tier-one and tier-two cities and key provincial capitals in mainland
China. We also have offices in Hong Kong (China), Taiwan (China), Silicon Valley, New York and Singapore.
We also operate a call center network providing real-time assistance to our clients. Our call center representatives work with our
clients to record their requests and complaints, and we have also integrated AI-based client service robots into our mobile applications.
We provide regular trainings to our representatives and periodically review callers’ level of satisfaction with the service they received
from us. At the end of each call, each caller is asked to grade the quality of our client service, and a designated call-back team follows up
on all incidences of dissatisfaction. We have also invested in ChatBot, a software tool that enhances verbal and textual conversations with
our clients and our call center representatives, for our call center to provide better services for our clients.
Our Online Transaction and Service Platforms
Investments in substantially all of our wealth management and asset management products can be facilitated online. We have
developed a comprehensive wealth management product mobile application “WeNoah” as a one-stop and integrated client service portal.
In addition to WeNoah, we also developed “Fund Smile” and “iNoah”, mobile applications specifically for investing in domestic and
overseas mutual funds, respectively. WeNoah automatically directs clients who intend to execute mutual fund transactions to our mutual
fund transaction systems Fund Smile, which are incorporated into WeNoah. Furthermore, WeNoah is also connected with our investment
platforms for private secondary funds and private equity investments, and facilitate a transaction process that could be completed wholly
online. In 2021, we started to provide mutual funds and related wealth management services to satisfy our corporate and institutional
clients’ money market and liquidity management demands through our mutual fund SaaS platform, “Smile Treasury”. We also provide
services on web-based client service channels. Utilizing these online platforms, our relationship managers are able to provide real-time
online assistance and personalized investment experience to a broader client base.
Other Businesses
In addition to our wealth management business and asset management business, we also provide other services through our
subsidiaries. These services serve as value - added services that we provide to our clients to broaden and deepen client relationships. In
2021, 2022 and 2023, other businesses represented 1.3%, 2.1% and 1.1% of our net revenues, respectively.
Marketing and Brand Promotion
Our relationship managers target potential HNW clients and adopts effective marketing based on thorough data analytics. Our
client engagement and branding initiatives primarily include the following:
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Offline and Online Investor Seminars and Wealth Management Forums
In order to attract new clients and develop client loyalty, we organize targeted client events on a regular basis, such as high -
profile investor seminars and workshops, industry conferences and other investor education and social events, where we present our
market outlook and highlight our product selections. We invite experts or authorities in the industry to share the latest market trends,
newly promulgated laws and regulations, and other updates with our clients. We organize these events offline as well as online. In 2023,
we organized over 4,000 investor seminars, wealth management forums and other value - added service activities, which were attended
by an aggregate of over 60,000 clients onlince and offline.
Online Client Service Channels
To improve the efficiency of our sales team and better serve our expanding client base, we connect with our client community
through WeNoah, as well as online social media networks such as WeChat’s enterprise version, WeCom.
WeNoah allows us to keep close relationships with our clients and provide a convenient and efficient platform for these clients
to access the products and services offered by us. We maintain proprietary databases on a broad range of investment products and client
online behavior, and leverage them to provide personalized services and initiate targeted marketing initiatives.
Strategic Client Management
In 2021, we established a Strategic Client Center at group level to systematically go through Gopher’s portfolio companies,
leading unlisted firms, listed companies and trust clients, provide business-to-business treasury management services, and work under the
“Noah Triangle” service model for new client acquisition and existing client conversion.
Word-of-Mouth Referral
Word-of-mouth is one of the most effective marketing tools for our business. Although we employ a variety of methods to
promote our brand, we believe the reputation and high level of awareness of our brand in China and, increasingly, abroad and references
from clients is our best and most cost-efficient marketing channel. We believe once clients are satisfied with their experiences, they will
continue investing in investment products we distribute, or referring their friends and colleagues to our products and services.
Risk Management and Internal Control
We have adopted risk management and internal control policies and procedures designed to provide reasonable assurance for
achieving our business objectives, including efficient operations, reliable financial reporting and compliance with applicable laws and
regulations. Highlights of our risk management and internal control system include the following:
● Board of Directors, Audit Committee and Internal Audit. Our board of directors and audit committee are responsible for
our overall risk management and internal controls. We also maintain an internal control and internal audit department,
which is responsible for reviewing the effectiveness of our internal controls and submitting internal audit reports to our
audit committee quarterly. Our internal audit department, with the help of our business division managers, prepares and
updates questionnaires for our various business departments to conduct self-assessment of internal control and risk
management each year, and our internal audit department will follow up with the business personnel to timely rectify any
deficiencies so identified.
● Regulatory compliance. We have adopted and implemented various internal control and risk management policies,
including insider trading, whistleblowing, related party transaction, anti-corruption, anti-money laundering and sanctions
related policies, as well as code of business conduct and ethics. We provide regular training to our employees on these
policies. We also engage outside counsel to provide training to our legal department and other senior personnel from time
to time to keep them abreast of recent regulatory developments.
● Treasury management. We have established and implemented treasury management policies and procedures in managing
our investments, including:
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● budget plans: we require our subsidiaries and Consolidated Affiliated Entities to prepare budget plans on a periodic
basis to optimize our Group’s use of funds, according to which we could allocate proper amount of funds to be used in
investment projects.
● approval process: we have adopted approval processes related to investments, including (i) preliminary review and
analysis of the proposed investment project (including but not limited to, background search, due diligence and
compliance analysis), and (ii) the final review and approval by our treasury management committee.
● monitoring: our treasury department and treasury management committee will continuously monitor the approved
investment projects.
● Licenses and approvals. We maintain policies to ensure that we have required licenses and approvals in place. Our
compliance department reviews the licenses obtained before we adopt new business initiatives, and our internal control
department conducts annual reviews to monitor the status and effectiveness of those licenses and approvals. We also
regularly review and update all policies and measures related to licenses and approvals.
● Data security. We have adopted measures to protect our client data and other confidential information. We also have a
dedicated information security team of IT professionals to carry out our data and system related risk management. See “—
Privacy and Data Security.”
● Know-your-client. As part of our risk management and compliance practice, we operate a strict client due diligence
process, including:
● At account opening: we require individuals seeking to open account with us to complete standard know-your-client
and anti-money laundering procedures, including documents for proof of their identity, automatic real-person
biometric recognition for our individual clients and declaring source of funds for investment.
● Before product purchase: we require our clients to complete a more comprehensive know-your-client questionnaire
specifically designed for the proposed investment product in accordance with laws and regulations of the competent
jurisdiction in which we distribute the product. Such questionnaires are designed to collect a wide array of personal
and financial information, including the individuals’ professional background, investment experience, level of
investable assets and risk tolerance. We also require our clients to provide supporting documents, such as trading
statements and proof of assets.
● Regular updates: our relationship managers follow up with a registered client to complete questionnaires in order to
update the client’s risk profile and investment preferences on a regular basis.
● Client suitability assessment and recordkeeping. We have adopted various measures to ensure that the client’s risk profile
matches the risk profile of investment products recommended to them. We have designed a risk scoring model for our
clients, which accounts for information on clients’ risk tolerance we obtained in the know-your-client process. Similarly,
we also assign a risk rating score for each product we distribute, considering factors such as industry risk, concentration
risk, level of leverage and risks related to the investment portfolio. Both scores are reviewed by our specialists in
accordance with relevant guidelines, and may be adjusted if inconsistent with supporting documents and due diligence
results. We provide investor right and risk disclosure statement to our clients, and recommend to them only investment
products with matching risk scores or lower. For each newly launched product, we provide training to our relationship
managers with a focus on the risk profile of such products.
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● Anti-money laundering. In addition to our know-your-client measures, we have also implemented anti-money laundering
policies, including (i) a real-name policy in the process of business operations, (ii) requirement of complete client
information, (iii) requirement of trackable transaction records and (iv) requiring and source of fund information. We have
further established an anti-money laundering information reporting system, as part of the policies and procedures aimed at
preventing money laundering activities. Our employees collect, analyze, monitor and preserve client information and
transaction records, and are required to report any suspicious transactions detected to our anti-money laundering
committee. We deal with any suspicious activities on a timely basis to mitigate the risk of money laundering. We also
actively carry out training on anti-money laundering to enhance the awareness of anti-money laundering among our
employees.
We continually review the implementation of our risk management and internal control policies and procedures to enhance their
effectiveness and sufficiency.
Our Technologies
Our technology infrastructure is integrated and readily scalable to support the growth of all of our business segments and
digitalization across front-end, middle-end and back-end operations. Each aspect of our business operations is supported by its innovative
technology infrastructure, and the success of our business is dependent on our strong technological capabilities that support us in
delivering superior user experience, increasing operational efficiency and providing future growth opportunities. Principal components of
our technology system primarily include:
● Convenient online transaction platforms.Our online platforms WeNoah, Fund Smile and iNoah facilitate investments in
substantially all of our wealth management and asset management products online, providing a smooth investment
experience. These convenient online transaction platforms allow us to serve a broader client base and increase our
transaction value, in particular in mutual fund products. We have launched our domestic and overseas mutual fund
platforms Fund Smile and iNoah in July 2019 and June 2020, respectively. Investments of RMB39.6 billion and
US$1,184.5 million, respectively, were completed through Fund Smile and iNoah for the year ended December 31, 2023.
Furthermore, leveraging our extensive coverage of mutual funds in the industry as well as our comprehensive fund
screening process, our self - developed treasury management interface, Smile Treasury, is able to fulfil our institutional
clients’ diversified money market and liquidity management needs by providing them with customized plans. Through a
fully automated online account opening option, Smile Treasury helps small and dedium - size enterprises to optimize cash
returns while maintaining liquidity of working capital. In addition, our online transaction capabilities allow us to serve our
clients and facilitate transactions in a more convenient and cost - effective manner, in particular during the COVID - 19
pandemic when face - to - face meetings were limited due to quarantine measures and travel bans.
● 24/7 digitalized client service experience. Our client service platforms enable our relationship managers to provide 24/7
real time client services to our clients, including providing professional investment advices, guiding our clients through the
investment process and providing various post-investment services. In addition, we also organize various investor
education sessions and product roadshows through our online platforms, which enhances the client stickiness.
● Automated investment management system. We developed and launched GIMSP, an automated investment management
system that digitalizes almost all aspects of Gopher’s asset management business. GIMSP functions as a digitalized and
structured database designed for private equity investments, which includes information on more than 8,000 potential
portfolio companies. GIMSP visualizes data in a clear and systematic fashion using techniques such as knowledge
mapping, allowing specialists to extract and analyze information easily amidst large volumes of documents, which is
particularly helpful for private equity investments and portfolio management. Leveraging proprietary technology, GIMSP
incorporates work flow engines that automate various tasks during the lifespan of investment funds, saving substantial
amounts of tedious manual labor that would have otherwise been done by personnel. GIMSP is able to swiftly update its
data based on information uploaded and retrieved, and shortens the lead time for commitment share mapping for targeted
portfolios after capital calls, from traditional “T+N” to “T+1”, with T being the wire date, “T+1” being the date after wire
date and “T+N” being a few business days after wire date. GIMSP is the first and only investment management system in
the HNW wealth management services industry in China to have achieved this function.
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● Intelligent investment advisory tools for relationship managers. Our upgraded CRM (client relationship management)
platform is an intelligent online wealth management system that significantly improves the work efficiency and
productivity of our relationship managers. In particular, our Mutual Fund Work Station, one of the key modules in our
CRM platform, provides our relationship managers with in-depth and up-to-date market data, including real-time trading
updates of different mutual fund products, to help them update their clients from time to time. Furthermore, leveraging big
data technology and its extensive database of investment products, Mutual Fund Work Station also enables our relationship
managers to quantitatively analyze expected return and risk of investment products, automatically alert risk events and
generate investment recommendations based on clients’ investment preferences, expected returns and risk appetite, among
others.
● Open service platform. Starting from the fourth quarter of 2020, we have been integrating our internal resources to launch
“Noah Digital International”, a new consolidated division to facilitate our offering of comprehensive services such as
investor education and family trust.
● Digitalized KYC/KYA/KYP management. We have adopted a digitalized approach to manage our operations, especially our
“know-your-client,” “know-your-agent” and “know-your products” practices. Based on our extensive industry knowledge
and experience, we label our clients, relationship managers and products based on different segmentations, and utilize such
segmentation to optimize our resource allocation. For instance, leveraging our digitalized KYC/KYA/KYP management,
we are able to accurately match our products with a suitable client base, and therefore enhance our operating efficiency.
Research and Development
Our business innovations and developments are empowered by our innovative technology infrastructure and strong research and
development capabilities in creating and identifying suitable investment products.
We had a dedicated research and development team of 317 employees out of the total 2,583 employees as of December 31,
2023, representing approximately 12.3% of our total workforce. Our research and development team is led by a team of visionary and
experienced industry experts. It is an industry veteran team with extensive experience in software platform research and development and
structuring. Core members of the team have previously worked in managerial positions at leading technology or finance companies
including Tencent, Alibaba, eBay, Vipshop, China Mobile, Lufax, Goldman Sachs and Morgan Stanley.
We devote significant resources to our research and development efforts, focusing on developing our technology infrastructure
and proprietary systems, expanding our technological footprint and leading the digitalization of our business operations.
Certain of our subsidiaries have been recognized as high-tech enterprises in China. In addition, Noah Upright, our distribution
channel, has received many awards and recognitions due to its development and ownership of many software copyrights and patents,
including Model Enterprise with Four New Technologies in Hongkou District and the Center of Technology for Enterprises in Hongkou
District.
Privacy and Data Security
We place a strong emphasis on our clients’ privacy and data security. To achieve the objective, we have an information security
team comprised of experts who specialize in different areas, including network security, data security, compliance, and risk management.
Our information security team is deeply involved in the key aspects of our business operations, providing professional advisory services
to other departments.
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We have made great efforts to improve our client privacy and data security systems and processes. We have built a secure
Software Development Lifecycle (SDLC) to ensure the security of all the software systems we develop before launch. We have also
established a security management framework and obtained ISO 27001 (information security management) and ISO 29151 (personally
identifiable information protection) certifications issued by DNV. To ensure our compliance with applicable laws and regulations, we
have also implemented a series of internal policies on cybersecurity and data protection. We collect clients’ personal information legally
required for our business operations only, including account opening procedures, know-your-client and anti-money laundering review
processes, as well as for their investments with us. For our daily operations, we collect and store personal identity information (PII),
including sensitive information such as client ID numbers, bank accounts information, proof of income and assets, in an encrypted form,
to preserve the confidentiality of all clients’ information. We have formulated our own privacy policies that are embedded with our
mobile applications and websites to inform our clients of the purposes and methods of processing personal information, the type of
personal information to be processed and its retention period, as well as the procedures for the clients to exercise their rights under the
Personal Information Protection Law. Before any personal information can be provided to any third parties or transferred abroad, we will
inform our clients of the name and contact information of the receiving parties, the type of personal information involved, and the
purposes and methods of providing such information, as well as how they can exercise their rights under applicable laws and regulations.
If any sensitive personal information is to be processed, we will also inform the relevant individuals of the necessity of processing such
information and the potential impact on their rights and interests.
We use personal information of our clients only for limited purposes as authorized by the individuals or required by laws and
regulations. If the use of such personal information is beyond the original scope authorized, a separate authorization is required. In
addition, we will conduct Personal Information Protection Assessment according to Noah Personal Information Protection Impact
Assessment Policy on our personal information processing activities that involve greater risks, such as processing sensitive personal
information, providing personal information to other third parties, as well as transferring personal information abroad. From an internal
policy perspective, we have set up access control mechanisms to ensure that our employees are granted access to data to the minimum
extent that is necessary to fulfill their job responsibilities and on a “need-to-know” basis.
Personal information of our clients will only be preserved in our server for a minimum period of time, unless otherwise required
by applicable laws and regulations. We also implement multiple layers of security protections to insulate our database from unauthorized
access, and use secure protocols (HTTPS) for data transmission. Where the purpose of processing personal information has been
achieved or is unable to be achieved, or the personal information is no longer necessary for achieving such purpose, we will delete
relevant personal information in a timely manner. At the same time, we have specified the requirements for deleting and destroying data
in our Noah Data Security Management Measures.
To reduce the risk of cyber-attacks and protect our network and computer systems, we deploy a variety of cyber security
techniques, including but not limited to Network Firewall, Web Application Firewall (WAF), Anti-Virus, Host-based Intrusion Detection
System (HIDS) and Data loss prevention (DLP). We also develop and maintain a Cyber Security Operation Center (SOC) platform to
monitor and respond to all types of cyber-attacks effectively on a real-time basis. Our SOC system is designed to automatically detect
suspicious activities and an alert will be instantly sent to our information security team for analysis and solutions.
To keep improving our staff’s information security awareness and reduce human factors, we have organized various internal
training sessions and prepared quizzes on information security. In 2023, we conducted over 1,300 hours of information security - related
trainings for our employees.
Intellectual Property
We believe that the protection of our brand, trade names, domain names, trademarks, trade secrets, patents, and other intellectual
property rights is critical to our business. Such intellectual properties distinguish the products we distribute and the services we provide
from those of our competitors and contribute to our competitive advantage in both wealth management and asset management industries.
We rely on a combination of copyright, trade secret, trademark, competition laws and contractual arrangements to protect our intellectual
property rights. We enter into confidentiality agreements and non-compete covenants with all of our employees and our third-party
product partners.
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As of December 31, 2023, we had 718 registered trademarks (578 registered trademarks in mainland China and 140 registered
trademarks in Hong Kong (China), Taiwan (China), the U.S., Europe, Singapore, Canada, India, Australia and several other countries and
regions), 101 software copyrights, 235 registered domain names, and three issued invention patents in mainland China. Specifically, the
Trademark
owned by Gopher has also been recognized as a “Well-known Trademark” in mainland China.
owned by Noah Investment has been recognized as a “Well-known Trademark” in China. The trademark
Our intellectual property is subject to risks of theft and other unauthorized use, and our ability to protect our intellectual
property from unauthorized use is limited. In addition, we may be subject to claims that we have infringed the intellectual property rights
of others. See “Item 3. Key Information—D. Risk Factors—Risks Related to Our Business—We may not be able to prevent unauthorized
use of our intellectual property, which could reduce demands for our products and services, adversely affect our revenues and harm our
competitive position” and “Item 3. Key Information—D. Risk Factors—Risks Related to Our Business—We may face intellectual
property infringement claims against us, which could be time-consuming and costly to defend and may result in the loss of significant
rights by us.”
Competition
The independent HNW wealth management services industry in China is concentrated. We primarily compete with other
independent HNW wealth management service providers in China, which are providers primarily engaged in providing diversified
investment products and comprehensive services to HNW clients and are not associated with any financial institutions. We believe that
our sophisticated and loyal client base, ecosystem with product and investment partners, unique investment opportunities we provide,
domestic and overseas capabilities and leading technology infrastructure provide us a competitive advantage. We also compete with
private banking arms of financial institutions, typically the private banking departments of commercial banks in China.
Insurance
We participate in government sponsored social security plans including endowment insurance, unemployment insurance,
maternity insurance, employment injury insurance, medical insurance and housing provident funds. We also maintain a director and
officer liability insurance policy for our board directors, executives and employees. In Hong Kong, we maintain investment structure
insurance as required by the SFC. We do not maintain business interruption insurance or key-man life insurance. We consider our
insurance coverage to be adequate for our existing operations and in line with that of other wealth management companies of similar size
in China.
Occupational Health and Safety
Our operations are subject to regulation and periodic monitoring by local work safety authorities. If we fail to comply with
present or future laws and regulations, we would be subject to fines, suspension of business or cessation of operations. As such, we
emphasize occupational health and safety and have established work safety policies and procedures to ensure that our operations are in
compliance with applicable safety laws and regulations. During the three years ended December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023 and up to the
date of this annual report, none of our employees had been involved in any major workplace accident in the course of their employment,
and we had not been subject to any material disciplinary actions with respect to labor protection issues.
Environment, Social and Corporate Governance
We pay close attention to environmental, social and corporate governance (“ESG”) matters and take actions in our day - to - day
operations and investment services. Since 2014, we have been voluntarily releasing a Corporate Social Responsibility (“CSR”) Report on
an annual basis, which are well recognized both domestically and internationally. In 2023, we were awarded 2023 China’s Top
Innovative Employer from Forbes, 2023 ESG Pioneers from Cailian Press, and 2023 Model Enterprise for CSR and ESG Responsibility
from China Business Journal.
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We actively work to promote our growth and operations in a sustainable and responsible manner and aim to become a company
built on sustainable development and responsible strategies, aligned with our core corporate values—client-centricity, integrity,
professionalism, embracing changes, self-improvement, and passion. We updated our corporate mission in 2018 as “enriching life with
wealth and wisdom” and envision ourselves to become a trustworthy partner by developing a deep understanding of clients through the
pursuit of professionalism and excellence. We have been continuously investing in training and education programs for employees and
clients.
We believe that our operations do not produce material industrial waste and have a relatively limited impact on the environment
compared to companies that directly engage in production. During the three years ended December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023 and up to
the date of this annual report, we were not subject to any administrative penalty for violating the applicable PRC or other environmental
laws and regulations that are material to our group.
Our 2023 Noah Holdings Limited Sustainability Report will be released in April 2024, prepared in accordance with the
Appendix C2 “Environmental, Social, and Governance Reporting Guide” of the Rules Governing the Listing of Securities on The Stock
Exchange of Hong Kong Limited. The report will also draw reference from the Global Reporting Initiative Standards issued by the
Global Sustainability Standards Board, the International Financial Reporting Standards S2 - Climate - related disclosures issued by the
International Sustainability Standards Board, and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. .The report will highlight our
efforts in ESG matters during the period, including corporate governance, employee compensation, anti - bribery and anti - corruption,
sustainable management, human capital management, client - oriented innovation and investor education, digitalization, charity as well
as other ESG matters. We hope our efforts will help create a healthy ecosystem in our business operations and promote sustainable
development in the industry.
In March 2021, Ms. Jingbo Wang, our founder and chairwomen, signed the Statement of Support for Women’s Empowerment
Principles at UN Women. As of December 31, 2023, female employees accounted for 62% of our total employees and 44% of our senior
management team. The average training hours of our employees are approximately 81.84 hours in the year. We endeavor to include ESG
- related topics into the decision - making process of risk management, product and service development and provision, as well as
marketing activities.
In October 2021, we were recognized by the international certification agency SGS and obtained ISO 14064 - 1:2018
(qualification and reporting of greenhouse gas emission and removal, becoming the first company in China to meet the standard. The
new office premises we purchased in Hongqiao Transporation Hub consists of four office buildings, one of which was certified as LEED
platinum level with the other three as LEED gold level by LEED certification, a globally recognized symbol of sustainability
achievement and leaderships.
Since 2021, Noah’s domestic and overseas mutual fund platform, “Smile Fund” and “iNoah” have both launched special ESG
zone, with a professional team that regularly updates long - term tracking to screen high - quality ESG funds for customers and create
more social value while protecting their assets. As of December 31, 2023, the Smile Fund in ESG Zone had launched a total of 11
publicly offered fund products, with a cumulative fundraising amount exceeding RMB157 million.
In 2022, Rayliant and our company jointly established an ESG committee and set up ESG fundamental quantitative products,
aiming to bring long - term relatively stable returns to investors through ESG strategies. As of December 31, 2023, we, our employees
and clients had donated more than 387,000 saxaul trees that have been planted in Tengger Desert in China, covering more than 8,287
acres of land and helping to stabilize 3.8 square kilometers of sand. Noah also supports the “Noah Ark - Biodiversity Conservation”
program in the South West China to help protect animals such as green peafowls and Asian elephants. In February 2022, the program has
entered into an agreement for renting 235.6 acres of forest in Yuxi, Yunnan province, which will be used in protecting Green Peafowl and
the ecological restoration of their habitat for next 20 years.
From 2015 to 2023, we organized 220 series of Noah Care courses in more than 40 cities in China, covering topics of happiness,
well - being, and psychological health, which have been attended by or benefited more than 23,000 people. A social program we
launched has helped thousands of beneficiaries including children in underdeveloped villages in China to receive education and
community non - resident children to receive healthcare, as well as providing training sessions for children with infantile autism.
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In April 2022, in order to help combat the serious COVID - 19 pandemic in Shanghai, we have donated a total of more than
RMB2.5 million in materials, helping our employees, clients and the front - line epidemic protection institutions to overcome the hard
time.
Our ESG efforts are recognized by various organizations, demonstrated by the awards we received, including the Outstanding
Contributors to ESG Investment Services from The 6th Global CSR Summit, 2022 CWGM Awards and Transcendence Awards issued by
Cailian Press.
We have launched a dedicated Noah ESG website in 2020 to promote ESG awareness and efforts in the industry. More
information and the CSR reports are available at esg.noahgroup.com.
Regulations in China
Regulation on Foreign Investment
Investment activities in the PRC by foreign investors were principally governed by the Catalogue for the Guidance of Foreign
Investment Industry, or the Guidance Catalogue, which was promulgated and is amended from time to time by the MOFCOM and the
NDRC, the Wholly Foreign-Owned Enterprise Law of the PRC, the Sino-Foreign Equity Joint Venture Enterprise Law of the PRC, the
Law of the PRC on Chinese-Foreign Contractual Joint Ventures, or collectively the Old FIE Laws, and their respective implementation
rules and ancillary regulations. The Guidance Catalogue laid out the basic framework for foreign investment in China, classifying
businesses into three categories with regard to foreign investment: “encouraged,” “restricted” and “prohibited”. Industries not listed in
the Guidance Catalogue are generally deemed as falling into a fourth category “permitted” unless specifically restricted by other PRC
laws. Under the Guidance Catalogue, certain ownership requirements, requirements for senior executives and other special management
measures shall apply to foreign investors with regard to the access of foreign investments in certain restricted categories, and foreign
investors shall not engage in any business that falls into the prohibited categories.
On June 30, 2019, the MOFCOM and the NDRC released the Catalogue of Industries for Encouraging Foreign Investment
(2019 Version), or the 2019 Encouraging Catalogue and the Special Management Measures (Negative List) for the Access of Foreign
Investment (2019), or the 2019 Negative List, which became effective on July 30, 2019, to amend and supplement the Guidance
Catalogue and replace the previous negative list thereunder. Under the 2019 Negative List, foreign investment in companies providing
value-added telecommunications services, excluding e-commerce, domestic multi-party communications, data collection and
transmission services and call centers, should not exceed 50% of the total equity interests.
On December 27, 2020, the MOFCOM and the NDRC released the Catalogue of Industries for Encouraging Foreign Investment
(2020 Version), which became effective on January 27, 2021, to replace the 2019 Encouraging Catalogue. On December 27, 2021, the
MOFCOM and the NDRC released the Special Management Measures (Negative List) for the Access of Foreign Investment (2021
Version), or the 2021 Negative List, which became effective on January 1, 2022, to further reduce restrictions on the foreign investment
and replace the previous negative list. On October 26, 2022, the MOFCOM and the NDRC released the Catalogue of Industries for
Encouraging Foreign Investment (2022 Version), which became effective on January 1, 2023, to replace the 2021 Encouraging
Catalogue.
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On March 15, 2019, the National People’s Congress promulgated the Foreign Investment Law of the PRC, or the Foreign
Investment Law, which came into effect on January 1, 2020 and replaced the Old FIE Laws. The Foreign Investment Law, by means of
legislation, establishes the basic framework for the access, promotion, protection and administration of foreign investment in view of
investment protection and fair competition. According to the Foreign Investment Law, a foreign invested entity shall be treated no
different than a domestic company, except for those foreign invested entities that operate in industries deemed to be either “restricted” or
“prohibited” in the “negative list”. The Foreign Investment Law provides that foreign invested entities operating in the “restricted”
industries will be required to conform to relevant investment conditions before they can operate in such industries and foreign invested
entities shall not invest in any “prohibited” industry. The Foreign Investment Law also provides several protective rules and principles
for foreign investors and their investments in the PRC, including, among others, that foreign investors’ funds can be freely transferred
out and into the territory of PRC, which run through the entire life cycle from the entry to the exit of foreign investment, and that a
comprehensive system to guarantee fair competition among foreign-invested enterprises and domestic enterprises is to be established. If
these protective rules and principles are so implemented via specific rules and regulations, it could mean that the restrictions on the
injection of our company’s funds into our PRC subsidiary and the distribution of the PRC subsidiary’s profits and dividends to our
company may further loosen. In addition, foreign investors and foreign-invested enterprises are subject to legal liabilities for failing to
report their investment information in accordance with the requirements of the information reporting system to be further established.
Furthermore, the Foreign Investment Law provides that foreign invested enterprises established according to the existing laws regulating
foreign investment may maintain their structure and corporate governance within five years after the implementation of the Foreign
Investment Law, which means that after the five-year grace period, foreign invested enterprises may be required to adjust their structure
and corporate governance in accordance with the then current PRC Company Law and other laws and regulations governing the
corporate governance.
On December 26, 2019, the State Council promulgated the Implementation Rules to the Foreign Investment Law of the PRC,
which became effective on January 1, 2020. The implementation rules further clarified that the state encourages and promotes foreign
investment, protects the lawful rights and interests of foreign investors, regulates foreign investment administration, continues to
optimize foreign investment environment, and advances a higher-level opening.
On December 30, 2019, the MOFCOM and the State Administration for Market Regulation, or the SAMR, jointly promulgated
the Measures for Information Reporting on Foreign Investment, which became effective on January 1, 2020. Pursuant to the Measures
for Information Reporting on Foreign Investment, where a foreign investor carries out investment activities in China directly or
indirectly, the foreign investor or the foreign-invested enterprise shall submit the investment information to the competent commerce
department.
On December 19, 2020, the MOFCOM and the NDRC, jointly promulgated the Measures for the Security Review of Foreign
Investments, or the Security Review Measures, which took effect on January 18, 2021. Pursuant to the Security Review Measures, for
foreign investments which affect or may affect national security, security review shall be conducted in accordance with the provisions of
the Security Review Measures. The State establishes a working mechanism for the security review of foreign investments, the “Working
Mechanism”, and be responsible for organizing, coordinating and guiding the security review of foreign investments. For foreign
investments related to important financial services, important information technology and internet products and services, etc., the foreign
investors who obtains the actual controlling stake in the investee enterprise or relevant parties in the PRC shall proactively declare to the
office of the Working Mechanism prior to implementation of the investments.
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Regulations on Private Funds
On August 21, 2014, the CSRC promulgated Interim Measures for the Supervision and Administration of Private Investment
Funds, or the Interim Measures, which became effective on the same date. According to the Interim Measures, private funds refer to the
investment funds established by way of raising capitals from qualified investors in a non-public manner within the territory of the PRC.
The qualified investors shall be (i) institutional investors with net assets of not less than RMB10 million, (ii) individual investors with
financial assets of not less than RMB3 million or the average annual income of not less than RMB500,000 for the past three years, and
(iii) other types of investors that have been prescribed in the Interim Measures. The Interim Measures mainly cover the following five
aspects: specifying the registration of fund manager and record-filing of private funds of all types, setting up a qualified investor system,
specifying the fund raising regulations of private funds, presenting the investment operations and introducing industry self-regulation and
supervision and administration measures for private funds. Apart from the Interim Measures, other laws or regulations applying to
private funds shall still apply, including the Company Law of the PRC, or the PRC Company Law, which applies to fund managers or
private funds taking the form of limited liability company or company limited by shares and the Partnership Law of the PRC, which
applies to fund managers or private funds taking the form of limited liability partnership or general partnership. Unlike general
partnerships, limited partnerships allow investors to join as partners with their liability for the partnership’s debts limited by the amount
of their capital commitment. A limited partnership must consist of no more than 49 limited partners and at least one general partner, who
will be responsible for the operation of the partnership and bear unlimited liability for the partnership’s debts.
According to the Interim Measures, the establishment of management institutions of private funds and the formation of private
funds are not subject to administrative examination or approvals. All types of fund managers are allowed to set up private funds to a
cumulative number of investors not exceeding the number specified by laws. Managers of private funds of all types are, however,
required to register with the AMAC and apply with the AMAC for record filing after the fund raising of a private fund of any type is
completed. Accordingly, the AMAC formulated the Measures for the Registration of Private Investment Fund Managers and Filling of
Private Investment Funds (for Trial Implementation) on January 17, 2014, and issued the Measures for Registration and Filing of Private
Investment Fund, or the New Registration and Filing Measures, on February 24, 2023 to replace the former, the Registration and Filing
Measures took effect on May 1, 2023, setting forth the procedures and requirements for the registration of private fund managers and
record filing of private funds to perform self - regulatory administration of private funds.
Since late 2015, the AMAC promulgated a series of detailed measures and guidance to enhance the supervision in the private
fund industry, including the Administration of Information Disclosure of Private Investment Funds, the Notice to Further Regulate
Several Issues on the Registration of Private Funds Managers, Rules on the Management of Private Asset Management Plan Filing by
Securities and Futures Institutions No. 1 to 3 and Rules on the Management of Private Asset Management Plan Filing by Securities and
Futures Institutions No. 4 which has been amended on July 14, 2023. These regulations have the effect of (i) expanding the self -
discipline rules regarding the private fund industry, (ii) intensifying the registration of private fund manager and record - filing of private
funds, (iii) establishing the qualification censorship of fund manager by attorney and (iv) strengthening the practice qualifications of
management.
On November 9, 2017, the State Council promulgated the Notice of Implementation Measures to Transfer a Portion of State -
owned Capital to Social Security Fund, or the State - owned Capital Transfer Notice, which amended the previous mechanism of state -
owned capital transfer. In the past, if the portion of state - owned capital of an entity is more than 50% or otherwise considered as
significant by competent authorities (State - owned Assets Supervision and Administration Committee, Ministry of Finance or CSRC in
different occasions), the entity shall voluntarily transfer a portion of shares to the Social Security Fund in its initial public offering. In
practice, before the State - owned Capital Transfer Notice, the limited partners with state - owned capital had the liberty to determine the
portion and status of state - owned capital in its own shareholding/equity structure, which will eventually impact the state - owned capital
percentage of the private fund the limited partner invested in. In addition, before the State - owned Capital Transfer Notice, when a
private fund, or its invested enterprise, is considered to be in fact controlled by state - owned capital, the invested enterprise will likely
have to transfer the relevant shares in its first public offering. Pursuant to the State - owned Capital Transfer Notice, only the prescribed
type of entities shall transfer the shares to Social Security Fund and unless otherwise clarified by the State Council, a private fund is not a
prescribed type entity.
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On April 27, 2018, the PBOC, China Banking and Insurance Regulatory Commission, or the CBIRC, CSRC and State
Administration of Foreign Exchange, or the SAFE, jointly released the Guidance Opinions on Regulating the Asset Management
Business of Financial Institutions, or the Guidance Opinions, which provides that specific laws and regulations relating to private
investment funds will be applied to private investment funds. However, if there are no such laws and regulations addressing particular
topics, then the Guidance Opinions applies. On July 20, 2018, PBOC issued the Circular on Further Clarifying Matters concerning the
Guidance Opinions on Regulating the Asset Management Business of Financial Institutions. On October 22, 2018, CSRC issued the
Administrative Measures on Private Asset Management Business of Securities and Futures Institutions and the Administrative Measures
on the Opration of Private Asset Management Business of Securities and Futures Institutions, both of which have been amended on
January 12, 2023. CBIRC has also issued specific implementation rules in the industries subject to its regulation. On October 19, 2019,
NDRC, PBOC, the Ministry of Finance, CBIRC, CSRC and SAFE jointly released the Notice on Further Clarifying the Matters
Concerning Regulating Asset Management Products for Financial Institutions to Invest in Venture Capital Funds and Government -
funded Industry Investment Funds, specifying how Guidance Opinions applies to venture capital funds and government - funded industry
investment funds. On September 28, 2023, the AMAC issued the Instructions for the Filing of Private Investment Funds No.1 to 3 to
replace the Instructions for the Filing of Privately - Raised Investment Funds (2019 Version) issued on December 23, 2019, which
reflects certain provisions set forth in the Guidance Opinions.
On February 14, 2020, the CSRC released the Decision on the Revision to the Administrative Measures for the Offering of
Securities by Listed Companies, the Decision on the Revision to the Implementing Rules for Private Placement of Shares by Listed
Companies and the Supervision Q&A for Offering - Supervision Requirements for Guiding and Regulating Financing Acts of List
Companies (the abovementioned rules, collectively, the “Refinancing Rules (2020)”), relaxing the supervision requirements for
refinancing by PRC listed companies and participation in private placement by investors. According to the Refinancing Rules (2020), the
CSRC (i) shortens the lock period for transfer of the newly subscribed shares held by the subscribers; and (ii) increases the offering price
discount and the maximum amount of shares for private placement etc. On February 17, 2023, the CSRC issued the Measures for the
Administration of Registration of Securities Offering by Listed Companies, or the New Refinacing Measures, which took effect on the
same day and replaced the Refinancing Rules (2020), the New Refinancing Measures further regulated the lock-up period for the newly
subscribed shares, the maximum price and amount of shares for private placement.
On December 30, 2020, the CSRC promulgated the Several Provisions on Strengthening the Regulation of Private Investment
Funds, or the Private Investment Funds Regulation Provisions, putting forward a series of prohibitive requirements for private fund
managers and their practitioners. The Private Investment Funds Regulation Provisions mainly covers the following six aspects: (i)
regulating the name and business scope of private fund managers; (ii) optimizing the regulation of group private fund managers; (iii)
restating that private funds shall be offered to qualified investors in a non-public manner; (iv) clarifying the property investment
requirements for private equity funds; (v) strengthening the normative requirements for private equity fund managers, practitioners and
other subjects, and standardizing related-party transactions; (vi) clarifying legal liability and grace period arrangements.
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On February 24, 2023, the AMAC issued the New Registration and Filing Measures and the Instructions for the Filing of
Private Investment Fund Managers No.1 to 3, which took effect on May 1, 2023 and replaced the Measures for the Registration of
Private Investment Fund Managers and Filling of Private Investment Funds (for Trial Implementation), the Notice for Private Fund
Manager Registration and Answers to questions related to the registration and filing of private equity funds (IV), (XIII) and (XIIII),
(collectively, the Replaced Measures). The New Registration and Filing Measures further standardized and clarified the relevant issues
and requirements relating to registration and filing of private fund managers and private funds, and the submission of private fund
operation information, besides, it also further improved the standards for the requirement in regards to the registration and filing of
private fund managers and private funds, as well as the operation requirements of private fund managers. Compared with the Replaced
Measures, the New Registration and Filing Measures required that private fund managers must meet the paid-in monetary capital of not
less than 10 million yuan and have not less than 5 full-time employees when registering.
On July 3, 2023, the State Council promulgated the Regulations on the Supervision and Administration of Private Investment
Funds, or the Private Funds Regulations, which became effective on September 1, 2023. The Private Funds Regulations aims to promote
the standardized operation of private funds from the following six aspects: (i) strengthening the supervision of private fund managers,
clarifying their legal duties and prohibited behaviors, private fund managers need to apply for registration with AMAC, and ensure that
they meet the continuous operation requirements and have the corresponding ability to engage in private fund management; senior
executives shall also meet the the professional requirements and receive compliance and professional ability training in accordance with
relevant regulations; (ii) standardizing the requirements for fundraising and filing, firmly adhering to the bottom line of non-public and
qualified investors in fundraising business activities, implementing see-through way of supervision, and strengthening the investor
suitability management; (iii) clarifying the scope of private fund investment and negative list, making institutional arrangements for
professional management and related transaction management to safeguard the legitimate rights and interests of investors; (iv) clarifying
the market-based exit mechanism; (v) enriching the means of supervision during and after the incident, and increase punishment for
violations of laws and regulations. The Private Funds Regulations makes clear that the CSRC can take measures including on-site
inspection, investigation and collection of evidence, account inquiry, access, copy and seal the information involved. If a private fund
manager is found to violate relevant laws and regulations, measures such as ordering business suspension, replacing personnel,
compulsory audit and takeover can be taken by the CSRC.
Regulations on Fund Distribution
According to the Administrative Measures on Securities Investment Fund Distribution, or the Fund Distribution Administrative
Measures, issued by the CSRC on March 15, 2013, fund distribution institutions refer to the fund managers and other institutions
registered with the CSRC or its branches. Other institutions, including commercial banks, securities companies, futures companies,
insurance institutions, securities investment consulting institutions and independent institutions, are required to register with the local
CSRC branch and obtain the relevant fund distribution license, in order to carry out fund distribution service. Distribution services
regulated under the Fund Distribution Administrative Measures refer to marketing and promotion, sales and distribution, subscription
and redemption services of mutual funds in particular.
The AMAC issued the Measures for the Administration of the Fund Raising Conducts of the Private Investment Funds, or the
Fund Raising Measures, on April 15, 2016 and the Implementation Guidance of the Management of Investor Suitability for Fund Raising
Institutions (Trial), or the Investor Suitability Management Guidance, on June 28, 2017 in consistence with the Administrative Measures
of the Securities and Futures Investor Suitability issued by the CSRC on December 12, 2016 and took effect on July 1, 2017 (last
amended on August 12, 2022), which both made significant changes to the fund raising procedures and fund distribution institutions.
According to the Fund Raising Measures, only two kinds of institutions are qualified to conduct the fund raising of private investment
funds: (a) private fund managers which have registered with the AMAC (only applicable when raising fund for the funds established and
managed by themselves); and (b) the fund distributors which have obtained the fund distribution license and also become members of the
AMAC. In addition, the Fund Raising Measures set forth detailed procedures for conducting fund raising business and introduced new
processes such as the “cooling-off period” and the “re-visit.”
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The Investor Suitability Management Guidance categorized fund investors into two types: common investors and sophisticated
investors. Sophisticated investors include (i) financial institutions approved by relevant financial bureaus and the products they
distribute, (ii) entities with net asset of no less than RMB20 million as of the end of the previous year and financial asset of no less than
RMB10 million as of the end of the previous year, and with at least two years of relevant investment experience, and (iii) individuals
with financial asset of no less than RMB5 million or average annual income of no less than RMB500,000 for the past three years, and
with at least two years of relevant investment experience or work experience or relevant qualification,etc. The investors other than the
sophisticated investors are common investors (including investors with the lowest risk tolerance), who are further divided into 5
categories according to their risk tolerance level. The Investor Suitability Management Guidance listed the requirements and steps for
identifying the risk tolerance and category of each investor, which shall be the first step to take in a fund-raising process when
determining the product with corresponding risk level that such investor can subscribe to.
On November 8, 2019, the Supreme People’s Court of the PRC issued the Notice by the Supreme People’s Court of Issuing the
Minutes of the National Courts’ Civil and Commercial Trial Work Conference, or the Conference Minutes, which identifies the liability
of sellers of financial products in respect of the trial of cases relating to disputes over protection of the rights and interests of financial
consumers. According to the Conference Minutes, where an issuer or seller of a financial product fails to perform its suitability
obligations, causing damages to any financial consumer in the course of purchasing the financial product, the financial consumer is
entitled to compensations from either the issuer or the seller of the financial product, or, in accordance with Article 167 of the General
Provisions of the Civil Law (the predecessor of the General Provisions of Civil Code of the PRC), from both the issuer and the seller.
Further, the Conference Minutes also clearly states that if a financial service provider fails to follow the suitability principle, that is, to
sell suitable products to suitable customers, causing damages to any financial consumer participating in high-risk investment activities
after providing its financial services, the financial consumer may request the financial service provider to assume its liability for
compensations.
On August 28, 2020, the CSRC issued the Supervision Measures on Distribution Institutions of Publicly-Raised Securities
Investment Fund, or the Supervision Measures, which came into effect on October 1, 2020 and replaced the Fund Distribution
Administrative Measures. The Supervision Measures set out various requirements on fund distribution institutions distributing publicly-
raised securities investment funds as well as privately-raised securities investment funds, including registration, operational standards,
internal control and risk management. Fund distribution institutions distributing publicly-raised securities investment funds are required
to obtain a fund distribution license. The Supervision Measures provide that independent fund distribution institutions shall specialize in
the distribution of publicly-raised securities investment funds and privately-raised securities investment funds, and no other business
shall be engaged, except as otherwise prescribed by the CSRC. In addition, pursuant to the Provisions on the Implementation of the
Supervision Measures on Distribution Institutions of Publicly-Raised Securities Investment Fund issued by the CSRC on August 28,
2020 and effective from October 1, 2020, an independent fund distribution institution engaging in the distribution of products other than
publicly-raised securities investment funds and privately-raised securities investment funds shall, within two years from the
implementation date of the Supervision Measures, complete the rectification, and during the rectification period, cut the scale of holdings
of relevant products under distribution in an orderly manner and after the expiration of the rectification period, only provide services for
existing shares held by relevant stock product investors.
Regulations on Microloan Business
The Guidance on the Pilot Establishment of Microloan Companies, jointly promulgated by the China Banking Regulatory
Commission, or the CBRC, and the PBOC on May 4, 2008, allows provincial governments to approve the establishment of microloan
companies on a trial basis. This guidance set the basic principles and requirements to set up microloan company, which requires that the
registered capital shall be fully paid in and that the capital from one individual, entity or other association (including the capital from
affiliates) shall not exceed 10% of the total registered capital.
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On October 10, 2008, the People’s Government of Anhui Province promulgated the Pilot Administrative Measures (for Trial
implementation) on Microloan Company in Anhui, and on May 18, 2009, the Anhui Government promulgated the Interim Regulations
on the Supervision and Administration of Microloan Business of Anhui Province. According to such measures and regulations, a
microloan company is not allowed to accept public deposits. The major sources of funds of a microloan company shall be the capital paid
in by shareholders, donated capital and the capital borrowed from a maximum of two banking financial institutions. The balance of the
capital borrowed from banking financial institutions shall not exceed 50% of the net capital. When applying for the establishment of a
microloan company, the shareholding percentage of the founding shareholder shall not exceed 20% in principle, and the capital
contribution from one individual, entity or other association (including the capital from affiliates) to a company in this business may not
exceed 10% of the company’s total registered capital. In addition, the total amount of loans of the same borrower shall not exceed 5% of
the registered capital of the microloan company. On October 24, 2011, the government of Anhui Province published the Opinions of
Finance Office of Anhui Province on Promoting the Standardized Development of Microloan Companies across Anhui Province, or the
Anhui Microloan Company Development Notice, which explicitly states that microloan companies cannot raise money through
authorized loans, and cannot receive public deposits. The Anhui Microloan Company Development Notice relaxes the restrictions on the
equity proportion of microloan companies, according to which, when applying for the establishment of a microloan company, the
shareholding percentage of the founding shareholder shall not exceed 35% in principle, the shareholding percentage of the founding
shareholder and its affiliated shareholder shall not exceed 50% and the capital contribution from the other affiliated shareholders of the
company may not exceed 30% of the company’s total registered capital.
The Notice on Regulation and Renovation of the Cash Loan Business promulgated on December 1, 2017 and the
Implementation Plan for Renovation of the Risk of Online Microloan Business for Microloan Company issued on December 8, 2017
(collectively, the “Microloan Renovation Plan”) set forth the requirements for cash loan or online loan making. The previous practice
such as loan without prescribed usage, extensive borrowing from third parties or public deposits to carry out lending business, transfer or
sell of the credit assets through online platform or local exchange is expressly prohibited. In addition, the Notice on Regulation and
Renovation of the Cash Loan Business prescribed that engaging credit asset transfer or ABS business through Internet finance is
prohibited. Further, it provides that the capital from credit asset transfer or ABS business shall be counted together with capital from
other financing methods of microloan company, and the total amount of capital shall not exceed the prescribed percentage of a microloan
company’s net asset in the Microloan Renovation Plan. On July 23, 2019, the Opinions on Illegal Lending, jointly promulgated by the
Supreme People’s Court, the Supreme People’s Procuratorate, the Ministry of Public Security, and the Ministry of Justice and became
effective on October 21, 2019, provides rules on the supervision of and punishment for illegal lending, including (i) regularly granting
loans to the public for profits in violation of the provisions issued by the state, without the approval of the regulatory authorities, or
beyond the scope of business, (ii) granting illegal loans as stipulated in (i) under circumstances where the annual interest rate of the loan
exceeds 36%; and (iii) debt-collection by means of violence.
On September 7, 2020, the CBIRC issued the Notice of the General Office of the CBIRC on Strengthening Regulation on
Microloan Companies, or the Microloan Companies Notice. The Microloan Companies Notice requires microloan companies to
primarily engage in loan business and limits the amount of debt they can borrow. Specifically, the balance of funds borrowed from banks,
shareholders and through other non-standard financings should not exceed microloan companies’ net assets and the balance of debt
raised via issuance of bonds, asset-backed securities and other standard debt instruments should not exceed four times the microloan
companies’ net assets. The Microloan Companies Notice also sets out requirements on various aspects of microloan companies’ business
operations, including credit concentration, use of loan proceeds, territorial scope, interests rate and prohibited activities. In particular,
microloan companies should strengthen funds management and improve credit process, including pre-loan approval check, loan approval
review and post-loan monitoring, separation of loan application investigation and approval, and loan classification. Additionally,
microloan companies are required to improve various practices, such as loan collection process, information disclosure, and customer
data safekeeping and cooperate in regulatory reviews.
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Regulations on Internet Financial Services
Due to the relatively short history of the Internet financial service industry in China, the PRC government has not adopted a
clear regulatory framework governing the industry. There are ad hoc laws and regulations applicable to elements of Internet financial
service-related businesses, such as laws and regulations governing value-added telecommunication services.
On July 14, 2015, the PBOC together with nine other PRC regulatory agencies jointly issued a series of policy measures
applicable to Internet financial services titled the Guidelines on Promoting the Healthy Development of Internet Finance, or the
Guidelines. On April 12, 2016, the General Office of the PRC State Council issued the Implementation Plan for Special Rectification of
Internet Financial Risks, or the Rectification Implementation Plan. The Guidelines introduced formally for the first time the regulatory
framework and basic principles for Internet financial services industry in China as “law-abiding regulation, appropriate regulation,
classified regulation, collaborative regulation and innovative regulation.” The Guidelines further stated the definitions and basic
principles for Internet financial services in the areas of Internet payment, Internet fund distribution and others.
The Guidelines also specified several basic rules for Internet financial services industry administration, such as: (i) any
organization or individual that intends to set up a website to provide Internet financial services shall, in addition to going through
relevant financial regulatory procedures as required, also undergo website record-filing procedures with telecommunications authorities
pursuant to the law; (ii) unless otherwise specified, an industry player shall select qualified banking financial institutions as fund
depository institutions to manage and oversee client funds, and manage client funds and its proprietary funds under separate accounts;
and (iii) such industry player shall comply with basic rules of information disclosure, risk reminder and qualified investors, information
security and anti-money laundering. The Rectification Implementation Plan further provides that: (i) the regulators will adopt the see-
through way of supervision; and (ii) the non-financial institutions, or the enterprises which do not carry out financial business, shall not
use the wordings, such as “exchange,” “finance,” “asset management,” “wealth management,” “fund,” “fund management,” “investment
management,” “equity investment fund,” “online lending,” “peer-to-peer,” “equity crowd-funding,” “Internet insurance,” “payment” or
the like, as their enterprise name or registered business. If the enterprise chooses to use the aforementioned word/words, the
Administration of Industry and Commerce will inform the financial regulators.
Regulations Relating to Cyber Security
On November 7, 2016, the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress, or the SCNPC, promulgated the Cyber
Security Law of the People’s Republic of China, or the Cyber Security Law, effective on June 1, 2017, to protect cyberspace security and
order. Pursuant to the Cyber Security Law, any individual or organization using the network must comply with the PRC constitution and
the applicable laws, follow the public order, respect social ethics, and must not endanger cyber security, or engage in activities by making
use of the network that endanger the national security, honor or interests, or infringe on the fame, privacy, intellectual property or other
legitimate rights and interests of others. The Cyber Security Law sets forth various security protection obligations for network operators,
which are defined as “owners and administrators of networks and network service providers,” including, among other obligations,
complying with a series of requirements of tiered cyber protection systems, verifying users’ real identities, localizing the personal
information and important data gathered and produced by key information infrastructure operators during operations within the PRC and
providing assistance and support to government authorities where necessary for protecting national security and investigating crimes.
On September 14, 2022, the CAC published a draft amendment to the Cyber Security Law for public comment (the “Draft
Amendment”) which was formulated to align the Cyber Security Law with several new laws that were released after the Cyber Security
Law came into effect in June 2017, including the Administrative Punishment Law, the Data Security Law, and the Personal Information
Protection Law, all of which were adopted or amended in 2021. The Draft Amendment mainly proposes revisions on legal responsibility
to adjust the types and ranges of administrative penalties for violating the Cyber Security Law and to align them with other laws.
Generally, the fines and penalties to be imposed by Chinese cyberspace regulators have been significantly increased and expanded.
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On December 28, 2021, the CAC, together with certain other PRC governmental authorities, jointly released the Revised
Cybersecurity Review Measures, which took effect on February 15, 2022. Pursuant to the Revised Cybersecurity Review Measures,
operators of critical information infrastructure that intend to purchase network products and services, or online platform operators that
conduct data processing activities, that affect or may affect national security must apply for a cybersecurity review. In addition, any
online platform operator holding over one million users’ individual information must apply for a cybersecurity review before listing
abroad. The cybersecurity review will evaluate, among others, the risk of critical information infrastructure, core data, important data, or
the risk of a large amount of personal information being influenced, controlled or maliciously used by foreign governments after going
public, and cyber information security risk. The Revised Cybersecurity Review Measures set out certain general factors which would be
the focus in assessing the national security risk during a cybersecurity review. However, the scope of network product or service or data
processing activities that will or may affect national security is still unclear, and the PRC government authorities may have wide
discretion in the interpretation and enforcement of these laws, rules and regulations.
Furthermore, on 14 November 2021, the CAC publicly solicited opinions on the Regulations on the Administration of Cyber
Data Security (Draft for Comments), or the Draft Data Security Regulations. According to the Draft Data Security Regulations, data
processors shall, in accordance with relevant state provisions, apply for cyber security review when carrying out the following activities:
(i) the merger, reorganization or separation of Internet platform operators that have acquired a large number of data resources related to
national security, economic development or public interests, which affects or may affect national security; (ii) data processors that handle
the personal information of more than one million people intends to be listed abroad; (iii) the data processor intends to be listed in Hong
Kong, which affects or may affect national security; (iv) other data processing activities that affect or may affect national security.
However, substantial uncertainties exist with respect to its enactment timetable, interpretation and implementation of the Draft Data
Security Regulations.
On February 27, 2023, CSRC promulgated the Measures for the Administration of Cybersecurity and Information Security in
the Securities and Futures Industries, or the Securities and Futures Cybersecurity Measures, which became effective on May 1, 2023. The
Securities and Futures Cybersecurity Measures shall apply to the construction, operation, maintenance and use of Internet and
information systems by securities companies, futures companies, fund management companies and other securities and futures operating
institutions in PRC, putting forward detailed requirements regarding investors’ personal information protection and operation, promotion,
development and emergency response of Internet and information security.
Regulations Relating to Internet Privacy
In recent years, PRC government authorities have enacted laws and regulations on Internet use to protect personal information
from any unauthorized disclosure. The Administrative Measures on Internet Information Services prohibit ICP service operators from
insulting or slandering a third party or infringing upon the lawful rights and interests of a third party. Under the Several Provisions on
Regulating the Market Order of Internet Information Services, issued by the MIIT on December 29, 2011, an ICP service operator may
not collect any user’s personal information or provide any such information to third parties without the consent of the user. An ICP
service operator must expressly inform the users of the method, content and purpose of the collection and processing of such user’s
personal information and may only collect such information necessary for the provision of its services. An ICP service operator is also
required to properly keep the user personal information, and in the case of any leak or potential leak of the user’s personal information,
the ICP service operator must take immediate remedial measures and, in severe circumstances, to make an immediate report to the
telecommunications regulatory authority. In addition, pursuant to the Decision on Strengthening the Protection of Online Information
issued by the SCNPC on December 28, 2012 and the Order for the Protection of Telecommunication and Internet User’s Personal
Information issued by the MIIT in July 2013, any collection and use of user’s personal information must be subject to the consent of the
users, abide by the principles of legality, rationality and necessity and be within the specified purposes, methods and scopes. An ICP
service operator must also keep such information strictly confidential, and is further prohibited from divulging, tampering or destroying
any such information, or selling or providing such information to other parties. Any violation of the above decision or order may subject
the ICP service operator to warnings, fines, confiscation of illegal gains, revocation of licenses, cancelation of filings, closedown of
websites or even criminal liabilities.
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Furthermore, in June 2016, the CAC issued the Administrative Provisions on Mobile Internet Applications Information
Services, which became effective on August 1, 2016, and was further amended and took effect on August 1, 2022, to further strengthen
the regulation of the mobile application information services. Pursuant to these provisions, owners or operators of mobile Internet
applications that provide information services are required to be responsible for information security management, establish and improve
the protective mechanism for user information, observe the principles of legality, rightfulness, necessity and integrity, and expressly state
the purpose, method and scope of, and obtain user consent to, the collection and use of users’ personal information. In addition, the new
Cyber Security Law also requires network operators to strictly keep users’ personal information that they have collected confidential and
to establish and improve their user information protective mechanisms.
On November 28, 2019, the Secretary Bureau of the Cyberspace Administration of China, the General Office of the MIIT, the
General Office of the Ministry of Public Security and the General Office of the SAMR promulgated the Identification Method of Illegal
Collection and Use of Personal Information Through App, which provides guidance for the regulatory authorities to identify the illegal
collection and use of personal information through mobile apps, and for the app operators to conduct self-examination and self-correction
and for other participants to voluntarily monitor compliance. On February 13, 2020, the PBOC issued Personal Financial Information
Protection Technical Specification, which sets forth the security protection requirements, including the security technology requirements
and security management requirements, for the collection, transmission, storage, use, deletion, destroying and other aspects of the
personal financial information. On July 22, 2020, the MIIT issued the Notice on Carrying out Special Rectification Actions in Depth
against the Infringement upon Users’ Rights and Interests by Apps, the tasks of which includes rectification of (i) illegally collection and
use of personal information of users by the APP and the SDK; (ii) conduct of setting up obstacles and frequently harassing users; (iii)
cheating and misleading users; (iv) inadequate fulfillment of application distribution platforms’ responsibilities. In addition, the SAMR
and Standardization Administration issued the Standard of Information Security Technology-Personal Information Security Specification
(2020 edition), which took effect on October 1, 2020. Pursuant to the standard, any entity or person who has the authority or right to
determine the purposes for and methods of using or processing personal information are seen as a personal information controller. Such
personal information controller is required to collect information in accordance with applicable laws, and except in certain specific
events that are expressly exempted in the standard, to obtain the information provider’s consent prior to collection of such data.
Pursuant to the Civil Code of the PRC which came into effect on January 1, 2021, the personal information of a natural person
shall be protected by the law. Any organization or individual that needs to obtain personal information of others shall obtain such
information legally and ensure the safety of such information, and shall not illegally collect, use, process or transmit personal
information of others, or illegally purchase or sell, provide or make public personal information of others.
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On August 20, 2021, the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress promulgated the PRC Personal Information
Protection Law, or the PIPL, which became effective on November 1, 2021. Pursuant to the PIPL, personal information refers to the
information related to an identified or identifiable individual recorded electronically or by other means, excluding the anonymized
information, and processing of personal information includes among others, the collection, storage, use, handling, transmission,
provision, disclosure, deletion of personal information. The PIPL explicitly sets forth the circumstances where it is allowed to process
personal information, including (i) the consent from the individual has been obtained; (ii) it is necessary for the conclusion and
performance of a contract under which an individual is a party, or it is necessary for human resource management in accordance with the
labor related rules and regulations and the collective contracts formulated or concluded in accordance with laws; (iii) it is necessary to
perform statutory duties or statutory obligations; (iv) it is necessary to respond to public health emergencies, or to protect the life, health
and property safety of individuals in emergencies; (v) carrying out news reports, public opinion supervision and other acts for the public
interest, and processing personal information within a reasonable scope; (vi) processing personal information disclosed by individuals or
other legally disclosed personal information within a reasonable scope in accordance with this law; or (vii) other circumstances stipulated
by laws and administrative regulations. In addition, this law emphasizes that individuals have the right to withdraw their consent to
process their personal information, and the processors must not refuse to provide products or services on the grounds that the individuals
do not agree to the processing of their personal information or withdraw their consent, unless processing of personal information is
necessary for the provision of products or services. Before processing the personal information, the processors should truthfully,
accurately and completely inform individuals of the following matters in a conspicuous manner and in clear and easy-to-understand
language: (i) the name and contact information of the personal information processor; (ii) the purpose of processing personal
information, processing method, type of personal information processed, and the retention period; (iii) methods and procedures for
individuals to exercise their rights under this law; (iv) other matters that should be notified according to laws and administrative
regulations. Furthermore, the law provides that personal information processors who use personal information to make automated
decisions should ensure the transparency of decision-making and the fairness and impartiality of the results, and must not impose
unreasonable differential treatment on individuals in terms of transaction prices and other transaction conditions.
In addition to the aforementioned general rules, the PIPL also introduces the rules for processing sensitive personal information,
which refers to the personal information that, once leaked or illegally used, can easily lead to the infringement of the personal dignity of
natural persons or harm personal and property safety, including biometrics, religious beliefs, specific identities, medical health, financial
accounts, whereabouts and other information, as well as personal information of minors under the age of fourteen. Personal information
processors can process sensitive personal information only if they have a specific purpose and sufficient necessity, and take strict
protective measures. In addition, the law provides rules for cross-border provision of personal information. In particular, it is provided
that the operators of critical information infrastructures and the personal information processors that process personal information up to
the number prescribed by the national cyberspace administration shall store personal information collected and generated within the
PRC. If it is really necessary to provide such personal information overseas, they shall pass the security assessment organized by the
national cyberspace administration, except as otherwise stipulated by laws, administrative regulations and the national cyberspace
administration. Any processor in violation of this law may be subject to administrative penalties including rectifications, warnings, fines,
confiscation of illegal gains, suspension of the apps illegally processing personal information or suspension of the relevant business,
revocation of business operation permits or business licenses, civil liabilities or even criminal liabilities. The directly responsible
personnel in charge and other directly responsible personnel may be imposed with fines and prohibited from serving as directors,
supervisors, senior management personnel and personal information protection officers of related companies within a certain period of
time.
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Regulations Relating to Data Cross-border Transfer
On July 7, 2022, the CAC promulgated the Measures for the Security Assessment of Data Cross-border Transfer, or the Security
Assessment Measures, which took effect on September 1, 2022 and requires that any data processor providing important data collected
and generated during operations within the territory of the PRC or personal information that should be subject to security assessment
according to law to an overseas recipient shall conduct security assessment. The Security Assessment Measures provides four
circumstances, under any of which data processors shall, through the local cyberspace administration at the provincial level, apply to the
national cyberspace administration for security assessment of data cross-border transfer. These circumstances include: (i) where the data
to be transferred to an overseas recipient contain important data collected and generated by data processors; (ii) where the data to be
transferred to an overseas recipient are personal information collected and generated by operators of critical information infrastructure or
data processors processing over one million users’ individual information; (iii) where the personal information of more than 100,000
people or sensitive personal information of more than 10,000 people are transferred overseas accumulatively since January 1 of the
previous year; or (iv) other circumstances under which security assessment of data cross-border transfer is required as prescribed by the
national cyberspace administration.
On August 31, 2022, the CAC promulgated the first edition of the Guide to Applications for Security Assessment of Outbound
Data Transfers, or the Security Assessment Guide. The Security Assessment Guide provides practical guidance to the implementation of
the Security Assessment Measures. The Security Assessment Guide also reaffirms CAC’s position that a cross-border data transfer out of
mainland China includes where a data processor stores data collected or generated in its operations in mainland China to an overseas
recipient, and where a data processor allows an overseas entity, organization, or individual to access, retrieve, download, or export data
the data processor collects or generates and stores in mainland China.
On February 22, 2023, the CAC promulgated the Measures for Standard Contract for Outbound Data Transfer of Personal
Information, or the Measures, which will come into effect on June 1, 2023. The Measures provide a transitional period of six months
from the effective date for companies to take necessary measures to comply with the requirements. According to the Measures, in the
cases where the personal information processor provides personal information abroad by concluding a standard contract, the contract
shall be concluded in strict compliance with the form Standard Contract that is attached as an annex to the Measures. The Measures
further provide that personal information processors may agree on other terms with overseas recipients, but they shall not conflict with
the Standard Contract. According to the Measures, the personal information processor shall, within ten working days from the effective
date of the standard contract, file with the local provincial cyberspace administration and submit the standard contract and personal
information protection impact assessment report for record.
On September 28, 2023, the CAC published a draft of the Provisions on Regulating and Promoting Data Cross-border Transfer
for public comment (the “Draft Provisions”). The Draft Provisions makes substantial adjustment to the current data cross-border transfer
compliance system, some of the daily oprating activities of financial institutions such as cross-border remittances and human resources
management can be exempted from the application of security assessment, standard contract and personal information protection
certification through mutual agreement. The Draft Provisions also simplifies the application of the supervision mechanism in other
cases.However, substantial uncertainties exist with respect to its enactment timetable, interpretation and implementation of the Draft
Provisions.
Regulations on Labor Protection
On June 29, 2007, the SCNPC promulgated the Labor Contract Law of the PRC, as amended on December 28, 2012, which
formalizes employees’ rights concerning employment contracts, overtime hours, layoffs and the role of trade unions and provides for
specific standards and procedure for the termination of an employment contract. In addition, the Labor Contract Law requires the
payment of a statutory severance pay upon the termination of an employment contract in most cases, including in cases of the expiration
of a fixed-term employment contract. In addition, under the Regulations on Paid Annual Leave for Employees and its implementation
rules, which became effective on January 1, 2008 and on September 18, 2008 respectively, employees are entitled to a paid vacation
ranging from 5 to 15 days, depending on their length of service and to enjoy compensation of three times their regular salaries for each
such vacation day in case such employees are deprived of such vacation time by employers, unless the employees waive such
vacation days in writing.
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Enterprises in China are required by PRC laws and regulations to participate in certain employee benefit plans, including social
insurance funds, namely a pension plan, a medical insurance plan, an unemployment insurance plan, a work-related injury insurance plan
and a maternity insurance plan, and a housing provident fund, and contribute to the plans or funds in amounts equal to
certain percentages of salaries, including bonuses and allowances, of the employees as specified by the local government from time to
time at locations where they operate their businesses or where they are located. According to the Social Insurance Law of the PRC, an
employer that fails to make social insurance contributions may be ordered to pay the required contributions within a stipulated deadline
and be subject to a late fee of 0.05% of the amount overdue per day from the original due date by the relevant authority. If the employer
still fails to rectify the failure to make social insurance contributions by such stipulated deadline, it may be subject to a fine ranging from
one to three times the amount overdue. According to the Regulations on Management of Housing Fund issued by the State Council on
March 24, 2002 and last amended on March 24, 2019, an enterprise that fails to make housing fund contributions may be ordered to
rectify the noncompliance and pay the required contributions within a stipulated deadline; otherwise, an application may be made to a
local court for compulsory enforcement.
Regulations on Tax
PRC Enterprise Income Tax
The PRC enterprise income tax is calculated based on the taxable income determined under the PRC laws and accounting
standards. On March 16, 2007, the National People’s Congress of China enacted Law of the PRC on Enterprise Income Tax, or the EIT
Law, which became effective on January 1, 2008 and was revised on February 24, 2017 and December 29, 2018. On December 6, 2007,
the State Council promulgated Implementing Regulations of the Enterprise Income Tax Law of the PRC, or the EIT Implementation
Rules, which also became effective on January 1, 2008 and was further amended on April 23, 2019. The EIT Law imposes a uniform
enterprise income tax rate of 25% on all domestic enterprises, including Foreign Investment Enterprises, or FIEs, unless they qualify for
certain exceptions, and terminates most of the tax exemptions, reductions and preferential treatments available under previous tax laws
and regulations.
Moreover, under the EIT Law, enterprises organized under the laws of jurisdictions outside China with their “de facto
management bodies” located within China may be considered PRC resident enterprises and therefore subject to PRC enterprise income
tax at the rate of 25% of their worldwide income. The EIT Implementation Rules define the term “de facto management body” as the
management body that exercises full and substantial control and overall management over the business, productions, personnel, accounts
and properties of an enterprise. In addition, the Circular Related to Relevant Issues on the Identification of a Chinese-Holding Enterprise
Incorporated Overseas as a Resident Enterprise in accordance with the Actual Standards of Organizational Management issued by the
State Administration of Taxation, or the SAT, on April 22, 2009 and amended on January 29, 2014, provides that a foreign enterprise
controlled by a PRC enterprise or a PRC enterprise group will be classified as a “resident enterprise” with its “de facto management
bodies” located within China if the following requirements are satisfied: (i) the senior management and core management departments in
charge of its daily operations function mainly in the PRC; (ii) its financial and human resources decisions are subject to determination or
approval by persons or bodies in the PRC; (iii) its major assets, accounting books, company seals and minutes and files of its board and
shareholders’ meetings are located or kept in the PRC; and (iv) not less than half of the enterprise’s directors or senior management with
voting rights reside in the PRC. Although the circular only applies to offshore enterprises controlled by PRC enterprises and not those
controlled by PRC individuals or foreigners, the determining criteria set forth in the circular may reflect the SAT’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 PRC enterprises, individuals or foreigners.
Value-added Tax
On March 23, 2016, the Ministry of Finance and the SAT jointly issued the Circular on the Pilot Program for Overall
Implementation of the Collection of Value Added Tax Instead of Business Tax, or Circular 36, which took effect on May 1, 2016.
Pursuant to the Circular 36, all companies operating in construction industry, real estate industry, finance industry, modern service
industry or other industries which were required to pay business tax are required to pay value-added tax, or VAT, in lieu of business tax.
The applicable VAT tax rates are 3%, 6%, 11%, and 17%, according to the Circular 36.
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On December 21, 2016, the Notice on Clarification of Value-Added Tax Policies for Finance, Real Estate Development,
Education Support Services, or Notice No. 140, was issued to explain the application of the Circular 36. According to Notice No. 140,
for activities subject to value-added tax occurring in the course of asset management services, the manager of the asset management
investment shall be the taxpayer. On December 30, 2016, the Tax Policy Division of the Ministry of Finance and the Goods and Services
Tax Division of the SAT further explain several provisions in the Notice No. 140, stating that the asset management investments refer to
the fund products, trust plans, and financial products managed by asset management service provider.
On June 30, 2017, the Ministry of Finance and the SAT jointly issued the Notice on Relevant Issues Regarding the Value Added
Tax of the Asset Management Products, or Notice No.56, which clarifies the rate that shall apply to the asset management product.
Notice No.56 further states that the tax for the taxable act before January 1, 2018 shall not be required to be paid and the notice itself has
become effective since January 1, 2018. The Circular 36, Notice No.140 and Notice No.56 will influence the investment return of the
investors of the asset management products. But the regulator has not clarified the detailed operation for the structured products and the
influence on these products is hard to value at current stage.
In addition, on November 19, 2017, the State Council promulgated the Decisions on Abolishing the Provisional Regulations of
the PRC on Business Tax and Amending the Provisional Regulations of the PRC on Value-added Tax, or the Order 691. According to the
Provisional Regulations of the PRC on Value-added Tax and the Order 691, all enterprises and individuals engaged in the sale of goods,
the provision of processing, repair and replacement services, sales of services, intangible assets, real property and the importation of
goods within the territory of the PRC are the taxpayers of VAT. The VAT tax rates generally applicable are simplified as 17%, 11%, 6%
and 0%, and the VAT tax rate applicable to the small-scale taxpayers is 3%. On April 4, 2018, the Ministry of Finance and the SAT
jointly issued the Notice of the Ministry of Finance and the State Administration of Taxation on the Adjustment to VAT Rates and the
Circular on Unifying the Criteria for Small-scale Value-added Tax Payers, which became effective on May 1, 2018. Pursuant to these
circulars, the deduction rates of 17% and 11% applicable to the taxpayers who have VAT taxable sales activities or imported goods were
adjusted to 16% and 10%, respectively. In addition, the small-scale VAT taxpayer are now defined as those whose annual sales are no
more than RMB5 million.
On November 7, 2018, the Ministry of Finance and the SAT jointly issued the Circular on Policies on Enterprise Income Tax
and Value-added Tax for Overseas Institutions Investing in the Domestic Bond Market, or Circular 108. Pursuant to the Circular 108,
effective from November 7, 2018 to November 6, 2021, enterprise income tax and VAT shall be temporarily exempted on income from
bond interests derived by overseas institutions from investments in domestic bond market. The scope of the aforesaid temporary
exemption of enterprise income tax shall exclude bond interests derived by the institutions or establishments that are set up within China
by overseas institutions if such income has an actual connection with the institutions or establishments. On November 22, 2021, the
Ministry of Finance and the SAT jointly issued the Notice on Continuing the Policies on Enterprise Income Tax and Value - added Tax
for Overseas Institutions Investing in the Domestic Bond Market, which extends the effective period of aforesaid temporary exemption
of enterprise income tax to December 31, 2025. On March 20, 2019, the Ministry of Finance, SAT and General Administration of
Customs issued the Announcement on Relevant Policies for Deepening Value-Added Tax Reform, or Circular 39, which became
effective on April 1, 2019. Under the Circular 39, among others, (i) the applicable VAT rate of 16% for taxable sales or imported goods
of a VAT general taxpayer, is adjusted to 13%, and the applicable VAT rate of 10% is adjusted to 9%; and (ii) the range for VAT input
deduction is expanded by adding the domestic transport services, the applicable deduction rate for airline and railway tickets is 9% of
ticket value, and 3% for the waterway and highway tickets; (iii) taxpayers of manufacturing and living service industries shall be allowed
to add an extra 10% based on the offsetable input VAT for the current period for deduction of the tax payable from April 1, 2019 to
December 31, 2021.
Dividend Withholding Tax
Pursuant to the EIT Law and the EIT Implementation Rules, dividends generated after January 1, 2008 and payable by a
foreign-invested enterprise in China to its foreign investors are subject to a 10% withholding tax, unless any such foreign investor’s
jurisdiction of incorporation has a tax treaty with China that provides for a different withholding arrangement. We are a Cayman Islands
holding company and the majority of our income may come from dividends we receive from our PRC subsidiaries directly or indirectly.
Since there is no such tax treaty between China and the Cayman Islands, dividends we receive from our PRC subsidiaries will generally
be subject to a 10% withholding tax.
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Pursuant to the Arrangement between the Mainland China and the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region for the Avoidance
of Double Taxation and Tax Evasion on Income, or the Tax Arrangement, where a Hong Kong resident enterprise which is
considered a non-PRC tax resident enterprise directly holds at least 25% equity interests in a PRC enterprise, the withholding tax rate in
respect of the payment of dividends by such PRC enterprise to such Hong Kong resident enterprise is reduced to 5% from a standard rate
of 10%, subject to approval of the PRC local tax authority. Pursuant to the Notice of the SAT on the Issues concerning the Application of
the Dividend Clauses of Tax Agreements, or SAT Circular 81, issued on February 20, 2009, a resident enterprise of the counter-party to
such Tax Arrangement should meet the following conditions, among others, in order to enjoy the reduced withholding tax under the Tax
Arrangement: (i) it must directly own the required percentage of equity interests and voting rights in such PRC resident enterprise; and
(ii) it should directly own such percentage in the PRC resident enterprise anytime in the 12 months prior to receiving the dividends.
There are also other conditions for enjoying such reduced withholding tax rate according to other relevant tax rules and regulations.
Pursuant to the Administrative Measures for Non-Resident Taxpayer to Enjoy Treatments under Tax Treaties issued by the SAT, or SAT
Circular 60, on August 27, 2015, which became effective on November 1, 2015, any non-resident taxpayer may be entitled to such
reduced withholding tax rate automatically if such non-resident taxpayer satisfies the conditions prescribed in the relevant tax rules and
regulations, and obtains the approvals required under the administrative measures described in the preceding sentence. The SAT issued
the Announcement of State Taxation Administration on Promulgation of the Administrative Measures on Non-resident Taxpayers
Enjoying Treaty Benefits, or SAT Circular 35, on October 14, 2019, which became effective on January 1, 2020. The SAT Circular 35
further simplified the procedures for enjoying treaty benefits and replaced the SAT Circular 60. According to the SAT Circular 35, no
approvals from the tax authorities are required for a non-resident taxpayer to enjoy treaty benefits. Where a non-resident taxpayer self-
assesses and concludes that it satisfies the criteria for claiming treaty benefits, it may enjoy treaty benefits at the time of tax declaration
or at the time of withholding through the withholding agent, but it shall gather and retain the relevant materials as required for future
inspection, and accept follow-up administration by the tax authorities. However, according to the SAT Circular 81, if the relevant tax
authorities consider the transactions or arrangements we have are for the primary purpose of enjoying a favorable tax treatment, the
relevant tax authorities may adjust the favorable withholding tax in the future.
On February 3, 2018, the SAT issued the Announcement of the SAT on Issues concerning the “Beneficial Owner” in Tax
Treaties, which clarifies the interpretation of the beneficial ownership requirement in the dividends, interest and royalty articles of
Chinese double tax agreements and provides a more flexible guidance to determine whether the applicant engages in substantive business
activities.
On September 29, 2018, the Ministry of Finance, SAT, NDRC and MOFCOM jointly released the Notice on Expanding the
Application Scope of Withholding Tax Deferral Treatment on Direct Reinvestments Made by Foreign Investors, or Circular 102, to
further encourage foreign investments in China. According to the Circular 102, when certain conditions are met, increase of paid-
in capital/capital reserve in the existing investee company by its foreign investor using its attributable/distributable profits is considered a
direct equity investment and withholding tax deferral treatment may apply.
U.S. Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act
Under Sections 1471 through 1474 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, commonly referred to as the Foreign
Account Tax Compliance Act (“FATCA”), withholding at a rate of 30% will generally be required on certain U.S.-source payments made
to certain non-U.S. entities (including investment funds and non-U.S. entities acting as intermediaries). In general, the 30% withholding
tax applies to certain payments made to a non-U.S. entity unless (i) the non-U.S. entity is a “foreign financial institution” and the non-
U.S. entity undertakes certain due diligence, reporting, withholding, and certification obligations, (ii) the non-U.S. entity is a “non-
financial foreign entity” and the non-U.S. entity identifies certain of its U.S. investors or provides certification that it does not have any
such investors, or (iii) the non-U.S. entity is otherwise exempt from FATCA. An intergovernmental agreement between the United States
and another country may also modify these requirements. The Cayman Islands has entered into a Model 1 intergovernmental agreement
with the United States, which gives effect to the automatic tax information exchange requirements of FATCA, and a similar
intergovernmental agreement with the United Kingdom. We will be required to comply with the Cayman Islands Tax Information
Authority Law (2014 Revision) (as amended) together with regulations and guidance notes made pursuant to such law that give effect to
the intergovernmental agreements with the United States and the United Kingdom. We do not believe FATCA will have a material impact
on its business or operations, but because FATCA is particularly complex and the intergovernmental agreement with the PRC, though
agreed to in substance, has not been published, and PRC regulations or guidance notes have not been published, we cannot assure you
that it will not be adversely affected by this legislation in the future.
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Common Reporting Standard
Similarly, the OECD has developed the CRS and modeled competent authority agreement to enable the multilateral and
automatic exchange of financial account information, which has been adopted by many jurisdictions. CRS and its implementing
legislations in China and Hong Kong require financial institutions to identify and report the tax residency and account details of non-
resident customers to the relevant authorities in jurisdictions adhering to CRS.
On May 9, 2017, the SAT, Ministry of Finance, PBOC, CBRC, CSRC, and CIRC promulgated the Administrative Measures on
Due Diligence Checks on Tax-related Information of Non-residents’ Financial Accounts, or the CRS Due Diligence Measures, which
requires that financial institutions shall register with the SAT official website and report the information in a timely manner. As the CRS
Due Diligence Measures requires, the private fund in the form of limited partnership or limited liability company and its fund manager
are defined as qualified financial institution; the foregoing private funds and fund managers and other qualified financial institutions
prescribed in the CRS Due Diligence Measures shall comply with their obligations thereunder. Several subsidiaries of our company, as
well as the private funds under our management, have complied with the CRS Due Diligence Measures and reported to the SAT as
required. On September 6, 2018, the arrangements for the multilateral and automatic exchange of financial account information between
China and Hong Kong became effective. Hong Kong and China conducted the first automatic exchange of financial account information
in September 2018, and many jurisdictions (including Hong Kong) have promised to implement the multilateral and automatic exchange
of financial account information.
Regulations on Foreign Exchange
Foreign exchange regulations in China are primarily governed by the following rules:
●
Foreign Exchange Administration Rules (1996), most recently amended on August 5, 2008, or the Exchange Rules; and
● Administration Rules of the Settlement, Sale and Payment of Foreign Exchange (1996), or the Administration Rules.
Under the Exchange Rules, the Renminbi is convertible for current account items, including the distribution of dividends,
interest and royalty payments, trade and service-related foreign exchange transactions. Conversion of Renminbi for capital account items,
such as direct investment, loan, securities investment and repatriation of investment, however, is still subject to the approval of the
SAFE.
Under the Administration Rules, FIEs may only buy, sell and/or remit foreign currencies at banks authorized to conduct foreign
exchange business after providing valid commercial documents required and, in the case of capital account item transactions, obtaining
approval from SAFE. Capital investments by FIEs outside of China are also subject to limitations, including approval by regulatory
government bodies like the MOFCOM, SAFE and the NDRC or their local counterparts.
On May 11, 2013, 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, which specifies that the
administration by SAFE or its local branches over direct investment by foreign investors in the PRC shall be conducted by way of
registration. Institutions and individuals shall register with SAFE and/or its branches for their direct investment in the PRC. Banks shall
process foreign exchange business relating to the direct investment in the PRC based on the registration information provided by SAFE
and its branches.
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On March 30, 2015, the SAFE issued the Circular of the State Administration of Foreign Exchange on Reforming the
Management Approach regarding the Settlement of Foreign Exchange Capital of Foreign-invested Enterprises, or the SAFE Circular 19,
which took effect and replaced previous regulations from June 1, 2015, and last amended on March 23, 2023. Pursuant to SAFE Circular
19, up to 100% of foreign currency capital of a foreign-invested enterprise may be converted into RMB capital according to the actual
operation of the enterprise within the business scope at its will and the RMB capital converted from foreign currency registered capital of
a foreign-invested enterprise may be used for equity investments within the PRC provided that such usage shall fall into the business
scope of the foreign-invested enterprise, which will be regarded as the reinvestment of foreign-invested enterprise. Although the SAFE
Circular 19 allows for the use of RMB converted from the foreign currency-denominated capital for equity investments in the PRC, the
restrictions continue to apply as to foreign- invested enterprises’ use of the converted RMB for purposes beyond the business scope, for
entrusted loans or for inter-company RMB loans. If the Consolidated Affiliated Entities require financial support from us or our wholly
owned subsidiary in the future and we find it necessary to use foreign currency-denominated capital to provide such financial support,
our ability to fund the Consolidated Affiliated Entities’ operations will be subject to statutory limits and restrictions, including those
described above. On June 9, 2016, the SAFE promulgated the Notice of the State Administration of Foreign Exchange on Reforming and
Standardizing the Foreign Exchange Settlement Management Policy of Capital Account, or the SAFE Circular 16, last amended on
December 4, 2023, which reiterates some of the rules set forth in Circular 19, but changes the prohibition against using RMB capital
converted from foreign currency-denominated registered capital of a foreign-invested company to issue RMB entrusted loans to a
prohibition against using such capital to issue loans to non-affiliated enterprises. In addition, the SAFE promulgated the Circular
Regarding Further Promotion of the Facilitation of Cross-Border Trade and Investment on October 23, 2019, or the SAFE Circular 28,
pursuant to which all foreign-invested enterprises can make equity investments in the PRC with their capital funds in accordance with
laws and regulations. On April 10, 2020, the SAFE promulgated Notice of the SAFE on Optimizing Foreign Exchange Administration to
Support the Development of Foreign-related Business, or the SAFE Circular 8, which took effect on the same date. According to the
SAFE Circular 8, under the prerequisite of ensuring true and compliant use of funds and compliance with the prevailing administrative
provisions on use of income under the capital account, enterprises which satisfy the criteria are allowed to use income under the capital
account, such as capital funds, foreign debt and overseas listing, etc. for domestic payment, without prior provision of proof materials for
veracity to the bank for each transaction.
On February 13, 2015, the SAFE promulgated the Notice of the State Administration of Foreign Exchange on Further
Simplifying and Improving the Foreign Exchange Administration Policies on Direct Investments, or the SAFE Circular 13, which took
effect on June 1, 2015 and was amended in December 2019. The SAFE Circular 13 specifies that the administrative examination and
approval procedures with the SAFE or its local branches relating to the foreign exchange registration approval for domestic direct
investments as well as overseas direct investments have been canceled, and qualified banks are delegated the power to directly conduct
such foreign exchange registrations under the supervision of the SAFE or its local branches.
Regulations on Dividend Distribution
As the Foreign Investment Law came into effect on January 1, 2020 and replaced the Old FIE Laws, the principal regulations
governing dividend distributions of wholly foreign-owned companies include the PRC Company Law, the EIT Law, and its
implementation rules.
Under the current regulatory regime in the PRC, foreign-invested enterprises in the PRC may pay dividends only out of their
retained earnings, if any, determined in accordance with PRC accounting standards and regulations. A PRC company is required to set
aside as statutory reserve funds at least 10% of its after-tax profit, until the cumulative amount of such reserve funds reaches 50% of its
registered capital. A PRC company shall not distribute any profits until any losses from prior fiscal years have been offset. Profits
retained from prior fiscal years may be distributed together with distributable profits from the current fiscal year.
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Regulations on Offshore Investment by PRC Residents
On July 4, 2014, the SAFE promulgated the Circular on Relevant Issues Concerning Foreign Exchange Administration on
Domestic Residents’ Offshore Investment, Financing and Round-Trip Investment via Special Purpose Vehicles, or the SAFE Circular 37,
which terminated the Circular on Relevant Issues Concerning Foreign Exchange Administration on PRC Residents’ Financing and
Round-Trip Investment via Offshore Special Purpose Vehicles, or the SAFE Circular 75, and became effective on the same date. The
SAFE Circular 37 and its detailed guidelines require PRC residents to register with the local branch of the SAFE before contributing
their legally owned onshore or offshore assets or equity interests into any special purpose vehicle directly established, or indirectly
controlled, by them for the purpose of investment or financing; and when there is (a) any change to the basic information of the SPV,
such as any change relating to its individual PRC resident shareholders, name or operation period or (b) any material change, such as
increase or decrease in the share capital held by its individual PRC resident shareholders, a share transfer or exchange of the shares in the
SPV, or a merger or split of the SPV, the PRC resident must register such changes with the local branch of SAFE on a timely basis.
On February 13, 2015, the SAFE further enacted the SAFE Circular 13 which took effect on June 1, 2015 and was further
amended on December 30, 2019. The SAFE Circular 13 has delegated to the qualified banks the authority to register all PRC residents or
entities’ investment and financing in special purpose vehicles pursuant to the SAFE Circular 37, except that those PRC residents who
have failed to comply with SAFE Circular 37 will remain to fall into the jurisdiction of the local SAFE branch and must make their
supplementary registration application with the local SAFE branch. In the event that a PRC shareholder holding interests in a special
purpose vehicle fails to fulfill the required SAFE registration, the PRC subsidiaries of that special purpose vehicle may be prohibited
from distributing profits to the offshore parent and from carrying out subsequent cross-border foreign exchange activities. In addition, the
special purpose vehicle may be restricted in its ability to contribute additional capital into its PRC subsidiary. Moreover, failure to
comply with various SAFE registration requirements described above would result in liability for foreign exchange evasion under PRC
laws.
Regulations on Stock Incentive Plans
On December 25, 2006, the PBOC promulgated the Administrative Measures of Foreign Exchange Matters for Individuals,
setting forth the respective requirements for foreign exchange transactions by individuals (both PRC or non-PRC citizens) under either
the current account or the capital account. On January 5, 2007, the SAFE issued the Implementing Rules of the Administrative Measures
for Personal Foreign Exchange (last amended on March 23, 2023), which, among other things, specified approval requirements for
certain capital account transactions such as a PRC citizen’s participation in the employee stock ownership plans or stock option plans of
an overseas publicly-listed company. On February 15, 2012, the SAFE issued the Circular of the State Administration of Foreign
Exchange on Issues Related to Foreign Exchange Administration in Domestic Individuals’ Participation in Equity Incentive Plans of
Companies Listed Abroad, or the Stock Incentive Plan Rules, which terminated the Operation Rules on the Foreign Exchange
Administration of the Participation of Domestic Individuals in Overseas Listed Companies’ Employee Stock Ownership Plans and Share
Option Schemes issued by the SAFE on March 28, 2007. The purpose of the Stock Incentive Plan Rules is to regulate foreign exchange
administration of PRC domestic individuals who participate in employee stock holding plans or stock option plans of overseas listed
companies.
According to the Stock Incentive Plan Rules, if PRC “domestic individuals” (both PRC residents and non-PRC residents who
reside in the PRC for a continuous period of not less than one year, excluding the foreign diplomatic personnel and representatives of
international organizations) participate in any stock incentive plan of an overseas listed company, a PRC domestic qualified agent, which
could be the PRC subsidiary of such overseas listed company, shall, among others things, file, on behalf of such individual, an
application with the SAFE to conduct the SAFE registration with respect to such stock incentive plan, and obtain approval for an annual
allowance with respect to the purchase of foreign exchange in connection with stock holding or stock option exercises. With the SAFE
registration certificate for stock incentive plan, the PRC domestic qualified agent shall open a special foreign exchange account at a PRC
domestic bank to hold the funds required in connection with the stock purchase or option exercise, any returned principal or profits upon
sales of stock, any dividends issued upon the stock and any other income or expenditures approved by SAFE. Such PRC individuals’
foreign exchange income received from the sale of stock and dividends distributed by the overseas listed company and any other income
shall be fully remitted into a special foreign currency account opened and managed by the PRC domestic qualified agent before
distribution to such individuals.
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Regulations on Securities Offering and Listing Outside of the PRC
On February 17, 2023, the CSRC promulgated a new set of regulations consists of the Trial Administrative Measures of
Overseas Securities Offering and Listing by Domestic Companies, or the Trial Measures, and five supporting guidelines (collectively, the
“Filing Measures”), which came into effect on March 31, 2023 to regulate overseas securities offering and listing activities by domestic
companies either in direct or indirect form.
The Filing Measures apply to overseas securities offering or listing activities by domestic companies, the term “securities”
under the Filing Measures refers to equity shares, depository receipts, corporate bonds convertible to equity shares and other equity
securities. Both direct and indirect overseas securities offering or listing by domestic companies will be regulated, of which the former
refers to securities offering or listing in an overseas market made by a joint-stock company incorporated domestically, and the latter
refers to overseas offering or listing by a company in the name of an overseas incorporated entity, whereas the company’s major business
operations are located domestically and such offering and listing is based on the underlying equity, assets, earnings or other similar rights
of a domestic company. According to the Filing Measures, any overseas offering or listing made by an issuer that meets both the
following conditions will be determined as indirect: (i) 50% or more of the issuer’s operating revenue, total profit, total assets or net
assets as documented in its audited consolidated financial statements for the most recent accounting year is accounted for by domestic
companies; and; (ii) the main parts of the issuer’s business activities are conducted in the Chinese Mainland, or its main places of
business are located in the Chinese Mainland, or the senior managers in charge of its business operation and management are mostly
Chinese citizens or domiciled in the Chinese Mainland. The determination as to whether or not an overseas offering and listing by
domestic companies is indirect, shall be made on a substance-over-form basis.
Under the Filing Measures, a filing-based regulatory system would be implemented covering both direct and indirect overseas
offering or listing. For an issuer applying to or having completed indirect overseas offering or listing, it shall designate a major domestic
operating entity as the domestic responsible entity to submit the filing documents to the CSRC within 3 working days (i) after the
application for overseas initial offering or listing is submitted; (ii) after the subsequent securities offerings in the same overseas market;
and (iii) after the application for offering or listing in other overseas markets. The CSRC would, within 20 working days if filing
documents are complete and in compliance with the stipulated requirements, complete the filing and publish the filing information on the
CSRC’s official website. While for confidential filings of overseas offering and listing application documents, the designated filing entity
may apply for an extension of the publication of such filing. The issuer shall report to the CSRC within 3 working days after the overseas
offering and listing application documents become public. In addition, subsequent securities offerings of an issuer in the same overseas
market where it has previously offered or listed securities shall be filed with the CSRC within 3 working days after the offering is
completed.
Meanwhile, no overseas offering and listing shall be made under any of the following circumstances:(i) where such securities
offering and listing is explicitly prohibited by provisions in laws, administrative regulations and relevant state rules; (ii) where the
intended securities offering and listing may endanger national security as reviewed and determined by competent authorities under the
State Council in accordance with law; (iii) where the domestic company intending to make the securities offering and listing, or its
controlling shareholders and the actual controller, have committed crimes such as corruption, bribery, embezzlement, misappropriation of
property or undermining the order of the socialist market economy during the latest three years;. (iv) where the domestic company
intending to make the securities offering and listing is suspected of committing crimes or major violations of laws and regulations, and is
under investigation according to law, and no conclusion has yet been made thereof; (v) where there are material ownership disputes over
equity held by the domestic company’s controlling shareholder or by other shareholders that are controlled by the controlling shareholder
and/or actual controller. If a domestic company falls into the above circumstances, the domestic company shall postpone or terminate the
intended overseas offering and listing, and report to the CSRC and competent authorities under the State Council in a timely manner.
If domestic companies fail to fulfill the above-mentioned filing procedures or offer and list in an overseas market against the
prohibited circumstances, they would be warned and fined up to RMB10 million. The controlling shareholders and actual controllers of
such domestic companies that organize or instruct the aforementioned violations would be fined up to RMB10 million and directly liable
persons-in-charge and other directly liable persons would be each fined up to RMB 5 million.
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On February 24, 2023, the CSRC, the National Administration of State Secrets Protection, the National Archives
Administration of China and the MOF jointly promulgated the Provisions on Strengthening the Confidentiality and Archives
Administration Related to Overseas Issuance and Listing of Securities by Domestic Enterprises, which came into effect on March 31,
2023, together with the Filing Measures, and replaced the Provisions on Strengthening Confidentiality and Archives Administration in
Overseas Issuance and Listing of Securities issued in 2009. The provisions aim to develop a gatekeeping mechanism in provision of
information by domestic enterprises to the relevant securities companies, securities service institutions, overseas regulatory authorities or
other entity or individual, so as to prevent sensitive information from leakage and prescribe protective protocols for any residual sensitive
information that still has to be provided. The provisions apply to both domestic issuer applying to or having completed direct overseas
offering or listing and domestic operating entity of the issuer applying to or having completed indirect overseas offering or listing.
U.S. Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act
Under Sections 1471 through 1474 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, commonly referred to as the Foreign
Account Tax Compliance Act, or FATCA, withholding at a rate of 30% will generally be required on certain non-U.S. entities (including
investment funds and non-U.S. entities acting as intermediaries). In general, the 30% withholding tax applies to certain payments made
to a non-U.S. entity unless (i) the non-U.S. entity is a “foreign financial institution” and the non-U.S. entity undertakes certain due
diligence, reporting, withholding, and certification obligations, (ii) the non-U.S. entity is a “nonfinancial foreign entity” and the non-U.S.
entity identifies certain of its U.S. investors or provides certification that it does not have any such investors, or (iii) the non-U.S. entity is
otherwise exempt from FATCA. An intergovernmental agreement between the United States and another country may also modify these
requirements. The Cayman Islands has entered into a Model 1 intergovernmental agreement with the United States, which gives effect to
the automatic tax information exchange requirements of FATCA, and a similar intergovernmental agreement with the United Kingdom.
We will be required to comply with the Cayman Islands Tax Information Authority Act (As Revised) together with regulations and
guidance notes made pursuant to such law that give effect to the intergovernmental agreements with the United States and the United
Kingdom.
Regulations in Hong Kong
Securities and Futures Ordinance (Cap. 571 of the Laws of Hong Kong), or SFO
Licensed entities that conduct regulated activities within the meaning of the SFO in Hong Kong are regulated by the Hong Kong
Securities Futures Commission (“SFC”), a statutory body independent from the government of Hong Kong to regulate Hong Kong’s
securities and futures markets. It is funded mainly by transaction levies and licensing fees.
Under the SFO, any corporation carrying on one or more regulated activities must apply to the SFC for a license in respect of
the regulated activities that they plan to carry on, and any individual who carries on one or more regulated activities on behalf of a
licensed corporation is also required to apply for approval as a “licensed representative” accredited to that corporation.
Noah HK, our wholly owned subsidiary, was licensed with the SFC on January 4, 2012 to carry out Type 1 regulated activity
(dealing in securities), Type 4 regulated activity (advising on securities) and Type 9 regulated activity (asset management). Noah HK
serves as an offshore product and service center which offers wealth management and asset management services to professional
investors as defined in the SFO. With the aforementioned licenses in place, Noah HK is able to provide investment advisory services and
distribute, offer and manage investment products for our clients in Hong Kong.
Licensed entities are required to comply with the SFO, its sub-legislations and other relevant codes and guidelines including the
(i) Code of Conduct for Persons Licensed by or Registered with the SFC (“Code of Conduct”), (ii) Guideline on Anti-Money Laundering
and Counter-Financing of Terrorism (“Guideline on AML”), (iii) Management, Supervision and Internal Control Guidelines for Persons
Licensed by or Registered with the SFC (“Internal Control Guideline”), (iv) Suggested Control Techniques and Procedures for
Enhancing a Firm’s Ability to Comply with the Securities and Futures (Client Securities) Rules and the Securities and Futures (Client
Money) Rules (“Client Securities/Money Rules”), (v) the Fund Manager Code of Conduct (“FM Code of Conduct”), and (vi) suitability
circulars/FAQs and other relevant regulatory requirements.
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The Client Securities/Money Rules provide guidelines on the treatment of client assets and how they should be properly
safeguarded. The Code of Conduct sets out the general conduct requirements for licensed persons and other regulatory expectations on
topics such as know you client (KYC), diligence, responsibility of senior management and conflicts of interest. The Guideline on AML
set outs the requirements and the standards on the subjects of anti-money laundering and counter-terrorist financing (AML/CTF) and
practical guidance to assist licensed persons and their senior management in designing and implementing policies, procedures and
controls in the relevant operational areas, taking into consideration their special circumstances so as to meet the relevant AML/CTF
statutory and regulatory requirements.
The suitability circulars/FAQs outlines the general requirements and factors to be considered when providing investment
advices to client.
The FM Code of Conduct sets out conduct requirements for licensed persons whose business involves the discretionary
management of collective investment schemes and/or discretionary accounts.
Insurance Ordinance (Cap. 41 of the Laws of Hong Kong)
Noah Insurance was validly registered with The Hong Kong Confederation of Insurance Brokers (a former self-regulatory
organization for insurance brokers approved by the Office of the Commissioner of Insurance) as an authorized insurance broker from
2014 until the commencement of the new regulatory regime for insurance intermediaries on 23 September 2019 on which date the
Insurance Authority (IA) took over from relevant self-regulatory organizations all aspects of the regulation of insurance intermediaries in
Hong Kong pursuant to the Insurance Ordinance (Cap. 41). Under the new regulatory regime, Noah Insurance is deemed to be a licensed
insurance intermediary as a licensed insurance broker company for a period of 3 years from the commencement of the new regime unless
the licence is revoked in accordance with the Insurance Ordinance. Noah Insurance is permitted to carry on the Long Term Business
(excluding linked long term) within the meaning of the Insurance Ordinance. As an insurance broker, Noah Insurance must comply with
the minimum requirements specified in the guideline issued pursuant to the Insurance Ordinance by IA.
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Trustee Ordinance (Cap. 29 of the Laws of Hong Kong)
ARK Trust (Hong Kong) Limited has complied with the requirements of section 77 of the Trustee Ordinance and has been
registered as a trust company under section 78(1) of the Trustee Ordinance since 2014. Accordingly, ARK Trust (Hong Kong) Limited
may act as trustee in accordance with the Trustee Ordinance.83
C.
Organizational Structure
We are an exempted company incorporated with limited liability under the laws of the Cayman Islands with major subsidiaries
and Consolidated Affiliated Entities in mainland China, Hong Kong, the United States and other jurisdictions. We mainly operate our
business through the following significant subsidiaries and Consolidated Affiliated Entities, as of December 31, 2023:
Noah Upright Fund Distribution Co., Ltd.
Shanghai Noah Investment (Group) Co., Ltd.
Noah Insurance (Hong Kong) Limited
Noah Holdings (Hong Kong) Limited
Gopher Capital GP Limited
Wuhu Fangtiao Technology Co., Ltd.
Shanghai Nuohong Real Estate Co., Ltd.
Noah International (Hong Kong) Limited
Shanghai Noah Investment Management Co., Ltd.
Gopher Asset Management Co., Ltd.
Shanghai Gopher Asset Management Co., Ltd.
Shanghai Gopher Massa Asset Management Co., Ltd.
Date of Incorporation
November 18, 2003
August 24, 2007
January 3, 2011
September 1, 2011
Place of
Incorporation
PRC
PRC
Hong Kong
Hong Kong
May 11, 2012 Cayman Islands
November 28, 2019
May 30, 2013
January 7, 2015
PRC
PRC
Hong Kong
August 26, 2005
February 9, 2012
December 14, 2012
June 29, 2015
PRC
PRC
PRC
PRC
Percentage
of
Ownership
100 %
100 %
100 %
100 %
100 %
100 %
100 %
100 %
Controlled under the
Contractual Arrangement
Controlled under the
Contractual Arrangement
Controlled under the
Contractual Arrangement
Controlled under the
Contractual Arrangement
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Our corporate structure, for the purpose of reflecting Noah Holdings Limited and its relationship with its significant
subsidiaries, as that term is defined under Section 1-02 of Regulation S-X under the Securities Act, as well as the Consolidated Affiliated
Entities, is as follows:
Note:
(1) The registered shareholders of Noah Investment consisted of (i) Ms. Jingbo Wang, (ii) Mr. Zhe Yin, (iii) Mr. Boquan He, (iv) Ms. Xinjun Zhang,
(v) Ms. Yan Wei, and (vi) Ms. Qianghua Yan.
(2) Our company indirectly held all the equity interests in Shanghai Nuohong through certain insignificant subsidiaries.
(3) Wuhu Fangtiao Technology Co., Ltd. was indirectly held as to 100% by Noah Upright.
(4) Shanghai Gopher was directly held as to 80% by Gopher Asset Management Co., Ltd. and indirectly held as to 20% by Noah
Investment.
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Contractual Arrangements
Exclusive Option Agreement. Pursuant to an exclusive option agreement entered into by the Registered Shareholders and
Noah Group in September 2007, or the Exclusive Option Agreement, the Registered Shareholders granted Noah Group or its third-party
designee an irrevocable and exclusive option to purchase all or part of their equity interests in Noah Investment when and to the extent
permitted by PRC law. The purchase price shall be the higher of the minimum amount required by PRC law or an amount determined by
Noah Group. Noah Group may exercise such option at any time and from time to time until it has acquired all equity interests of Noah
Investment. During the term of this agreement, the shareholders of Noah Investment are prohibited from transferring their equity
interests in Noah Investment to any third party, and Noah Investment is prohibited from declaring and paying any dividend without Noah
Group’s prior consent. The term of this exclusive option agreement is ten years and will be automatically renewed upon expiration of
each ten-year period if there has been no objection by the parties thereunder. In June 2022, the Registered Shareholders have amended
the Exclusive Option Agreement, removing the above ten year team and the automatic renewal arrangement, upon which the Exclusive
Option Agreement will remain effective without subject to the consent of the parties thereunder until all of the equity interests held by
the Registered Shareholders in Noah Investment have been transferred to Noah Group or its designee according to the terms and
conditions thereunder.
Exclusive Support Service Agreement. Pursuant to an the exclusive support service agreement entered into by Noah
Investment and Noah Group in September 2007, or the Exclusive Support Service Agreement, Noah Investment engages Noah Group as
its exclusive technical and operational consultant to support Noah Investment’s operational activities. Noah Group has agreed to provide
certain support services to Noah Investment, including client management, technical and operational support and other services, for
which Noah Investment has agreed to pay to Noah Group service fees determined based on actual services provided, which shall be the
income of Noah Investment, less (i) expenses and costs, and (ii) the License Fee (as defined below). Noah Group is also obligated to
grant Noah Investment licenses to use certain intellectual property rights, for which Noah Investment has agreed to pay license fees, or
the License Fee, at the rates set by the board of Noah Group. The term of the Exclusive Support Service Agreement is ten years and will
be automatically renewed upon expiration of each ten-year period if no objection by each party thereunder. In June 2022, Noah
Investment and the Registered Shareholders have amended the Exclusive Support Service Agreement, removing the above ten year team
and the automatic renewal arrangement, upon which the Exclusive Support Service Agreement will remain effective without subject to
the consent of the parties thereunder until all of the equity interests held by the Registered Shareholders in Noah Investment have been
transferred to Noah Group or its designee according to the Exclusive Option Agreement.
Share Pledge Agreement. Pursuant to the a share pledge agreement entered into by each of the Registered Shareholders and
Noah Group in September 2007, or the Share Pledge Agreement, the Registered Shareholders pledged all of their equity interests in
Noah Investment, or the Pledge Equity Interests, to Noah Group as collateral to secure their obligations under the Exclusive Option
Agreement. and Noah Investment’s obligations under the Exclusive Support Service Agreement. In the case that Noah Investment
increases its registered capital upon prior written consent of Noah Group, the Pledge Equity Interests shall include all the additional
equity interests subscribed by the Registered Shareholders in such capital increase. If Noah Investment or the Registered Shareholders
breach any of their respective obligations under the Exclusive Support Service Agreement or the Exclusive Option Agreement, Noah
Group, as the pledgee, will be entitled to certain rights, including being repaid in priority by the proceeds from auction or sale of the
Pledge Equity Interests. The term of the share pledge is same as that of Exclusive Option Agreement. The share pledges under the Share
Pledge Agreement have been registered with competent branches of the SAMR.
Powers of Attorney. Each of the Registered Shareholders of Noah Investment has executed a power of attorney in September
2007, or the Power of Attorney, respectively, to grant Noah Group or its designee the power of attorney to act on his or her behalf on
all matters pertaining to Noah Investment and to exercise all of his or her rights as a shareholder of Noah Investment, including the right
to attend shareholders meetings, appoint board members and senior management members, other voting rights and the right to transfer all
or a part of his or her equity interests in Noah Investment. The Powers of Attorney shall remain irrevocable and effective during the
period that the Registered Shareholders are shareholders of Noah Investment.
In the opinion of Zhong Lun Law Firm, our PRC legal counsel:
● the ownership structure of Noah Investment and Noah Group does not result in a violation of any applicable PRC laws
and regulations currently in effect; and
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● the Contractual Arrangements among Noah Group, Noah Investment, and the Registered Shareholders governed by PRC
laws are valid, legal and binding, and do not result in a violation of any applicable PRC laws or regulations currently in
effect.
We have been advised by our PRC legal counsel that there are substantial uncertainties regarding the interpretation and
application of current and future PRC laws and regulations, and accordingly, the PRC regulatory authorities or courts may take a view
that is contrary to the above opinion of our PRC legal counsel. It is uncertain whether any other new PRC laws or regulations relating to
contractual arrangements will be adopted or if adopted, what they would provide. If our corporate structure and the Contractual
Arrangements are deemed by relevant regulatory authority or court to be illegal or invalid, either in whole or in part, we may lose control
of the Consolidated Affiliated Entities and have to modify such structure to comply with regulatory requirements. However, there can be
no assurance that we can achieve this without material disruption to our business. Further, if our corporate structure and the Contractual
Arrangements are found to be in violation of any existing or future PRC laws or regulations, the relevant regulatory authority would have
broad discretion to take action in dealing with the violation or failure, in which case, we could be subject to severe penalties, including
being prohibited from continuing our operations or unwinding the Contractual Arrangements. See “Item 3. Key Information—D. Risk
Factors—Risks Related to Corporate Structure—We are a Cayman Islands holding company primarily operating in China through our
subsidiaries and Consolidated Affiliated Entities, including Noah Investment with which we have maintained Contractual Arrangements
and its subsidiaries in the PRC. Investors thus are not purchasing, and may never directly hold, equity interests in the Consolidated
Affiliated Entities. There are substantial uncertainties regarding the interpretation and application of current and future PRC laws,
regulations, and rules relating to such agreements that establish the Contractual Arrangements for a portion of our China operations,
including potential future actions by the PRC government, which could affect the enforceability of the Contractual Arrangements with
Noah Investment and its subsidiaries and, consequently, significantly affect the financial condition and results of operations of our
company. If the PRC government finds that such agreements do not comply with PRC laws, regulations, and rules, or if these laws,
regulations, and rules or the interpretation thereof change in the future, we could be subject to severe penalties or be forced to relinquish
our interests in Noah Investment and its subsidiaries or forfeit its rights under the Contractual Arrangements.”
D.
Property, Plants and Equipment
Our principal executive offices are located in our owned office premise with a gross floor area of approximately 72,000 square
meters at No.218, Shaohong Road, No.1226 and No.1256, South Shenbin Road, Minhang District, Shanghai, People’s Republic of
China. As of December 31, 2023, we owned a total of two properties, with one property for office premises in Suzhou and one property
used as our headquarter purchased in May 2021. As of December 31, 2023, we also leased offices in Hong Kong (China), Taiwan
(China), Silicon Valley, New York and Singapore, as well as leased offices for our service centers and headquarters across China. We
consider these facilities to be suitable and adequate for current and anticipated management and operations of our business.
Item 4A. Unresolved Staff Comments
Not applicable.
Item 5. Operating and Financial Review and Prospects
You should read the following discussion and analysis of our financial condition and results of operations in conjunction with
our consolidated financial statements and the related notes included elsewhere in this annual report on Form 20-F. This discussion may
contain forward-looking statements based upon current expectations that involve risks and uncertainties. Our actual results may differ
materially from those anticipated in these forward-looking statements as a result of various factors, including those set forth under
“Item 3. Key Information—D. Risk Factors” or in other parts of this annual report on Form 20-F.
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A.
Operating Results
Factors Affecting Our Results of Operations
Our business is affected by factors relating to general economic conditions and the HNW wealth management services industry
in China and other jurisdictions in which we operate, including:
● Levels of individual investable financial assets and HNW population in China. We have benefited from the overall
economic growth of China and the corresponding increased levels of individual investable financial assets and growing
HNW population. The growth of HNW wealth management services industry depends on the continuation of these trends.
● Client awareness of HNW wealth management services. As Chinese HNW individuals become more sophisticated with
respect to their investment strategies and utilizing the value-added services provided by wealth management providers, an
increasing number of qualified and experienced wealth management service providers have focused on the development
and innovation of investment products, which will further boost the development of the industry.
● Development of capital markets in China. Recent reforms in Chinese capital markets, including establishment of the
Shanghai Stock Exchange Science and Technology Innovation Board, the Beijing Stock Exchange and registration-based
IPO regime, provide greater exit opportunities for private equity investments. The opening-up to foreign investments also
facilitates globalization of China’s capital market and encourages more trading and investment activities. These
developments have in turn driven an expansion in the supply of investment products, both of which has furthered the
growth of the HNW wealth management services industry.
● Macroeconomics and secondary market. Changes in investment demand or investment preferences brought about by
factors such as perceived or actual general economic conditions in China and globally, including but not limited to changes
in interest rates, inflation and political uncertainty, or performance of the secondary market could affect demand of our
clients for our investment products and our operating results. Furthermore, as a portion of our revenues come from
performance-based fees earned by investment product partners, our performance is particularly sensitive to cycles in the
secondary market as our investment products primarily consist of mutual fund products and private secondary products. An
active and booming secondary market generally provides more exit opportunities for our investments, better investment
returns for our clients and more performance-based fees for us.
● Regulatory and policy changes. The wealth management and asset management markets are subject to extensive
governmental regulation and policy changes, which may have a material impact on our performance. In particular, in recent
years, PRC regulatory authorities published a series of new rules that restrict the issuance of non-standardized credit
products, which had a material impact on our product mix, and accordingly affected our revenue structure and operating
performance. See “Item 3. Key Information—D. Risk Factors—Risks Related to Our Business—Because the laws and
regulations governing the industries of wealth management, asset management and other businesses in China are
developing and subject to further change, any failure to obtain or maintain requisite approvals, licenses or permits
necessary to conduct our operations or any failure to comply with laws and regulations applicable to our business and
services could harm our business.”
While our business is influenced by general factors affecting our industry, our operating results are more directly affected by the
following Company-specific factors:
● Our ability to expand our client base and enhance client loyalty. Our revenue growth has been driven primarily by the
increasing number of clients we serve, especially core clients including diamond and black card clients, and the investment
products we offer or distribute to these clients. We maintain and expand our client base primarily through our dedicated
team of relationship managers and strategic client center. We strive to enhance our client loyalty by offering attractive
investment products, smooth and convenient investment process, various online and offline investor education and other
client events.
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● Our ability to increase transaction value, AUM and service fee rates. We generate revenues from the transaction value of
investment products we distribute and the AUM we manage. Our ability to maintain and increase our transaction value,
AUM and service fee rates in turn depends on the following factors:
● Our ability to enhance cooperation with product partners and investment partners. We rely on cooperation with our
product partners and investment partners to provide investment products to our clients, and we generate a majority of
our revenues from services fees paid by our product partners and investment partners. Our ability to collaborate with
leading product partners and investment partners affects our ability to offer attractive products to our clients, maintain
and increase our client base, grow our transaction value and AUM and obtain a resilient and favorable revenue
structure. In addition, our continued success also depends on our ability to negotiate favorable service fee rates with
our product partners and investment partners.
● Our ability to grow our AUM and enhance the performance of investments managed by Gopher. We generate a
substantial portion of revenue from our asset management business, which correspond directly to our domestic and
overseas AUM, respectively. Our ability to grow our AUM depends on Gopher’s investment performance. To the
extent that Gopher’s historical investment performance is not satisfactory, or that Gopher’s future investment
performance is perceived to worsen in either relative or absolute terms, the revenue and profitability of our asset
management business will likely decline and our ability to grow existing funds and raise new funds in the future will
likely be impaired.
● Our ability to optimize our product mix. As a multi-asset allocator, our ability to adjust and transform our product mix
due to evolving economic conditions, risk appetite of our clients and regulatory environment is vital to our business
growth. We typically charge different fee rates for different kinds of products we distribute or manage, and our
profitability could vary depending on the mix our product offerings.
● Our ability to innovate and effectively invest in technology. Our ability to innovate our products and value-added services
and continue investing effectively in technology is key to improving our client experience and enhance client intention and
loyalty. By investing in our technology platforms and fulfillment infrastructure cost-efficiently, we also strive to increase
our operating efficiency, which also affects our results of operations.
● Our ability to manage risks. Our business operation exposes us to a number of risks, including economic fluctuations,
unexpected legal or regulatory changes as well as risks related to our product partners and investment, investment
portfolios of the products we distribute or offer, and other business counterparties. Our performance depends on our ability
to foresee, identify and effectively manage these risks. In the event of any default or unsatisfactory performance of the
investment products we distribute or offer, our performance may be negatively affected even if we do not guarantee the
return of the investment products. We have developed various risk management and internal control policies and
procedures tailored to the characteristics of our business operations. To manage our investments, we have also established
and implemented treasury management policies and procedures. For details of our risk management and internal control
policies, see “Item 4 Information on the Company- B Business Overview- Risk Management and Internal Control”.
● Our ability to enhance efficiency and productivity. The growth of our business will result in substantial demands on our
management, operational, technological, financial and other resources. Our ability to control cost and manage working
capital is key to our success. Our ability to streamline our operational human resources and improve efficiency of our
relationship managers is key to our success.
● Our ability to recruit and retain our relationship managers in our “Noah Triangles” solution service team. We rely on our
relationship managers in our “Noah Triangles” solution service team to distribute investment products and provide asset
allocation and comprehensive services to our clients, from which we derive substantially all of our revenues. Our ability to
recruit and retain sufficient high quality relationship managers in our “Noah Triangles” solution service team in a cost-
effective manner is crucial to our results of operation.
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Key Performance Indicators
We utilize a set of non-financial and financial key performance indicators which our senior management reviews frequently. The
review of these indicators facilitates timely evaluation of the performance of our business and effective communication of results and key
decisions, allowing our business to react promptly to changing client demands and market conditions.
Number of Clients
Our revenue growth has been driven primarily by (i) the increasing number of clients we serve, and (ii) the increasing number of
our core clients including diamond and black card clients. For our wealth management business, we closely monitor the numbers of both
our core clients and active clients as key operating metrics. For our asset management business, the majority of the AUM is sourced from
our clients’ investments, so the number of clients will also have an influence on this segment.
We assign each of our registered clients a relationship manager, and the number of new clients we may acquire is affected by the
breadth of our coverage network. Leveraging our broad coverage network and efficient “Noah Triangle” solution service team, we expect
to increase our capability to cultivate and serve new clients, which may result in an increase in the number of new registered and active
clients. For details on the number of our clients, see “Item 4. Information on the Company—B. Business Overview—Our Clients.”
Transaction Value
Transaction value is an operating metric specifically related to our wealth management business. It refers to the aggregate value
of the investment products we distribute in a given period, which in turn affects the amount of our revenue, primarily one-time
commissions and recurring service fees. We provide to our clients four types of investment products that are originated and distributed in
and outside of the PRC, (i) mutual fund products, (ii) private secondary products, (iii) private equity products, and (iv) other products we
distribute, provide or manage but cannot be classified into any of the above product categories. The product type determines whether we
can receive one-time commissions, recurring service fees and/or performance-based income. For most investment products, we are
entitled to one-time commissions and recurring service fees shared by fund managers over the duration of the investment in the products,
and, in some cases, performance-based income shared by fund managers when determined.
The table below sets out the aggregate transaction value of the different types of investment products that we distributed during
the periods indicated:
Product type
Mutual fund products
Private secondary products
Private equity products
Other products
All products
2021
RMB
%
Year Ended December 31,
2022
RMB
%
(in millions, except for percentages)
2023
RMB US$
%
37,169
37,776
18,069
4,189
97,203
38.2
38.9
18.6
4.3
100.0
44,726
11,516
11,037
3,001
70,280
63.6
16.4
15.7
4.3
100.0
47,837
18,403
3,330
4,486
74,056
6,738
2,592
469
632
10,431
64.6
24.8
4.5
6.1
100.0
Over the last three years, our product mix has evolved due to the economic and market cycles in China and the changing
regulatory environment. From the third quarter of 2019, we ceased the offering of private credit products (classified in “other products”
in the table above) and transitioned to offer more standardized public securities products. This decision was based on a combination of (i)
our understanding and anticipation of the changing regulatory and market environment, and (ii) our commercial evaluation of the risks
related to private credit products. Our transaction value decreasd by 27.7% from RMB97.2 billion in 2021 to RMB70.3 billion in 2022,
primarily due to the volatility of macro environment and global secondary market in 2022. Our transaction value increased to RMB74.1
billion in 2023, primarily due to an increase in the distribution of private secondary and mutual fund products.
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AUM
We measure the performance of our asset management business primarily through AUM. AUM determines the recurring service
fees and performance-based income that we are able to collect over the life cycle of the investment products managed by us. Gopher’s
AUM were RMB156.0 billion, RMB157.1 billion and RMB154.6 billion (US$21.8 billion) as of December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023,
respectively. Gopher’s AUM increased from RMB156.0 billion as of December 31, 2021 to RMB157.1 billion as of December 31, 2022,
primarily due to continued increase in our management of private equity assets. Gopher’s AUM decreased from RMB157.1 billion as of
December 31, 2022 to RMB154.6 billion (US$21.8 billion) as of December 31, 2023, primarily due to decrease in our management of
private equity assets.
For our asset management business, Gopher develops and manages alternative investments with underlying assets in China and
overseas, denominated in Renminbi and foreign currencies, respectively. Historically, it developed and managed principally FoFs which
invest in third-party managed funds, but it is also increasingly making direct investments in portfolio companies and co-investments with
fund managers. Gopher also manages feeder funds that invest in certain single third-party managed master funds. Gopher focuses on the
following categories of investments across different types of asset classes:
●
●
●
private equity investments, including investments in the leading domestic and overseas private equity and venture capital
funds through FoFs, feeder funds and S funds, as well as direct and co-investments in companies and projects with
investment partners;
public securities investments, mainly including target strategy funds, secondary market equity and bond FoF and MoM
investments which are sub-advised by outside fund managers, direct investments in listed companies as well as U.S. Dollar
cash management products managed by Gopher;
real estate investments, including funds primarily investing in commercial real estate properties such as office buildings in
China, as well as rental residential developments in the U.S., in the form of equity investments;
● multi-strategy investments that invest in different types of assets, such as stocks, bonds, real estate or cash to create a
nimbler and broadly diversified portfolio. We use asset allocation principles to build multi-asset portfolios and multi or
single family office accounts; and
●
other investments, including funds investing in private credit related underlying products. We have substantially ceased
these investments since the third quarter in 2019.
The table below summarizes our AUM and typical management fee rates chargeable by asset management services provided by
Gopher for the last three years:
Product type
Private equity investments
Public securities investments
Real estate investments
Multi-strategies investments
Other investments1
All products
2021
As of December 31,
2022
Typical
management
fee rates
RMB %
Typical
management
fee rates
RMB %
(in billions, except for percentages)
2023
Typical
management
fee rates
RMB %
0.5%-2.1%
0.4%-1.7%
0.5%-2.3%
0.6%-1.1%
—
130.9
11.2
6.6
5.9
1.4
156.0
83.9 0.5%-2.1%
7.2 0.2%-1.8%
4.3 0.5%-3.0%
3.8 0.5%-1.2%
0.8
—
100.0
133.1
11.0
6.8
4.8
1.4
157.1
84.7 0.5%-2.1%
7.0 0.1%-2.1%
4.3 0.5%-3.0%
3.1 0.5%-1.0%
0.9
—
100.0
132.2
11.5
6.2
4.2
0.5
154.6
85.5
7.4
4.0
2.8
0.3
100.0
1
Since the first quarter of 2021, we reclassified all remaining mezzanine financing products linked to corporate merger and
acquisitions and buy outs from credit to private equity in the amount of RMB4.7 billion, considering its nature is more akin to equity
than credit. We have also revised the comparative period presentation to conform to current period presentation
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Except for public securities investments, all AUMs are booked at cost basis, and reflect no mark-to-market effect during the
periods indicated.
Long-duration private equity investments represent an increasing portion of the total AUM, which we expect to help us receive
more consistent revenue from recurring service fees. Private equity investments as a percentage of total AUM grew from 83.9% as of
December 31, 2021 to 84.7% as of December 31, 2022, and further grew to 85.5% as of December 31, 2023, primarily due to the
accumulation effect for the strategy of fund investments with a long duration. Gopher has also been focusing on developing our co-
investment and direct investment capabilities in recent years and expect such investments to increase in the future, further increasing the
fee rate we could charge from clients.
From the third quarter of 2019, Gopher ceased the offering of private credit products and transitioned to offer more standardized
public securities products. As a result, the private credit products (classified in “other investments” in the table above) accounted for only
an insignificant portion in Gopher’s total AUM, representing 0.8%, 0.9% and 0.3% as of December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023,
respectively. The percentage of public securities products in Gopher’s total AUM remained relatively stable at 7.2%, 7.0% and 7.4% as
of December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023, respectively.
For domestic real estate investments, Gopher has been strategically changed the investment strategy over the past few years,
gradually shifting from residential real estate to commercial real estate domestically, due to the evolving risks and reward profile of these
investments. Meanwhile, Gopher expanded its offshore real estate investments in the United States over the past few years, focusing on
multi-family real estate investments.
In addition, over 75.0% of Gopher’s AUM as of December 31, 2023 can generate performance-based income if the investment
returns exceed certain thresholds, which are typically recorded when underlying investments are exited and monetized.
Furthermore, in response to client demands for more overseas investment opportunities, we are cooperating with more overseas
partners in various asset classes and increased the amount of overseas investment. Our overseas AUM managed by Gopher GP were
RMB28.4 billion, RMB31.5 billion and RMB36.0 billion (US$5.1 billion), respectively, representing 16.5%, 20.2% and 23.3% of our
total AUM for asset management business as of December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023, respectively.
Components of Results of Operations
Revenues
We derive revenues from three business segments: wealth management, asset management and other services. We generate
revenues primarily from:
Revenue from the Wealth Management Business
When a client purchases an investment product recommended by the wealth management branch, the client typically subscribes
for a fund managed by the relevant product provider. In connection with the purchase, our wealth management branch is entitled to
receive fees from the fund or product provider for services provided and derive revenue accordingly, which include:
a.
b.
c.
from the fund, one-time commissions for fund-raising services that the wealth management branch provides to the fund at
the establishment of the fund;
from the fund, recurring service fees for continuous portfolio management services provided to the fund over the duration
of the fund, which is paid to us on a regular basis (typically quarterly, semi-annually or annually);
in certain cases when we do not receive the recurring service fee from the fund in clause b., from the product provider, a
portion of the recurring service fees received by the product provider from the fund for continuous portfolio management
services provided, in connection with the product distribution agreement with the relevant product provider, which is paid
to us over the duration of the fund on a regular basis (typically quarterly, semi-annually or annually); and
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d.
in certain cases, from the product provider, a portion of the performance-based income received by the product provider for continuous
portfolio management services provided from the fund, in connection with the product distribution agreement with the relevant product
provider, which is based on the extent to which the fund’s investment performance exceeds a certain threshold, which is also known as
“carry”.
We also earn one-time commissions from insurance companies by referring clients to purchase insurance products from them.
Revenue from the Asset Management Business
When the investment product that the client purchases is offered by Gopher, Gopher is entitled to receive fees as the fund
manager, and derive revenue accordingly, which include:
a.
from the fund, one-time commissions, when the investment product was primarily distributed directly by Gopher, instead of
the wealth management branch, for fund-raising services provided to the fund. Most of Gopher products were distributed
by the wealth management branch during the three years ended December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023. Since the fourth
quarter of 2020, as Gopher has been selling all of our domestic PE/VC investment products directly to comply with a new
regulation1, one-time commissions in relation to such products are recognized as revenue from the asset management
segment.
b.
from the fund, recurring service fees for fund management services provided to the fund;
c.
from the fund, carry (as performance-based income) for fund management services provided to the fund and as an
incentive for fund manager to achieve excess return, which is based on the extent to which the fund’s investment
performance exceeds a certain threshold; and
Gopher, as a proprietary product provider, enters into agreements on an arm’s length basis with our wealth management branch
for product distribution, and in accordance with such agreements, shares a portion of recurring service fees and performance-based
income with the wealth management branch in certain cases. To the extent of recurring service fees and performance-based income are
shared with the wealth management branch, such intra-group revenue are deducted from our consolidated statements of operations.
The above revenue model descriptions reflect the various contractual agreements for fee sharing among parties. The fees
received by us are ultimately born by our clients, as when the client subscribes to the fund, the client agrees that the fund pays Noah’s
wealth management branch and/or the relevant product provider, including Gopher, for services provided to the fund.
The following table summarizes our revenues from both business segments:
Wealth Management Segment
Asset management Segment
One-time commissions
Recurring service fees
Performance-based income
From the fund
–
For fund raising services of products
distributed by Noah Upright
For client referral services
From insurance companies
–
From the fund and/or product provider
For portfolio management services
–
provided
From the product provider
–
For portfolio management services
provided
113
From the fund
–
For fund raising services of products
directly placed by Gopher
From the fund
–
For fund management services and
portfolio management services
provided
From the fund
–
For fund management services and
portfolio management services
provided
Table of Contents
In addition, we also receive other service fees derived from (i) comprehensive financial services we provide in the wealth
management segment, and (ii) other services segment:
● for wealth management: revenue generated from our investor education business and other comprehensive financial
services we provide;
● for other services: service fees paid by clients for the lending business and other services we provide.
Operating Costs and Expenses
Our financial condition and operating results are directly affected by our operating cost and expenses, primarily consisting of
(i) compensation and benefits, including salaries and commissions for our relationship managers, share-based compensation expenses,
performance-based bonuses, and other employee salaries and bonuses, (ii) selling expenses, (iii) general and administrative expenses,
(iv) provision for credit losses, and (v) other operating expenses, which are partially offset by the receipt of government subsidies. Our
operating costs and expenses are primarily affected by several factors, including the number of our employees, rental expenses and
certain non-cash charges.
Compensation and Benefits
Compensation and benefits mainly include salaries and commissions for our relationship managers, salaries and bonuses for
investment professionals and other employees, share-based compensation expenses for our employees and directors, and bonuses related
to performance-based income. The number of our employees was 3,148, 2,884 and 2,583 as of December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023,
respectively. Considering the macro volatility, we implemented more strict cost control and improve opearating effeiciency, our
headcount was decreased by 17.9% from 2021. We anticipate to continue our investments in talent but will still closely monitor our
headcount to maintain high operating efficiency.
In 2021, 2022 and 2023, we incurred relationship managers compensation of RMB920.9 million, RMB497.1 million and
RMB655.5 million (US$92.3 million), respectively, representing 21.5%, 16.0% and 19.9% of our net revenues in the same periods,
respectively. As of December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023, we had 1,316, 1,276 and 1,252 relationship managers, whose compensation
typically comprises base salaries, quarterly bonuses, and year-end performance-based bonuses. We anticipate that the compensation and
benefits of our relationship managers will continue to be a significant portion of our costs and expenses as we continue to rely on our
relationship managers to distribute more investment products.
Share-based compensation expenses include grants and vesting of stock options and restricted shares to our employees and
directors. We adopted two share incentive plans in 2008 and 2010, and replaced both with a new share incentive plan in 2017, which was
terminated when our 2022 Share Incentive Plan was approved and adopted in December 2022. In December 2023, we made additional
modifications to our share incentive plans. For more information, see “Item 6. Directors, Senior Management and Employees – B.
Compensation – Share Incentive Plans.” We expect to incur additional share-based compensation expenses relating to share options or
restricted shares in the future as we plan to continue to grant share options or restricted shares to our employees and directors.
Share-based compensation expenses were included in compensation and benefits in 2021, 2022 and 2023. The following table
sets forth our share-based compensation expenses both in absolute amounts and as a percentage of net revenues for the periods indicated:
Years Ended December 31,
2023
RMB % RMB % RMB US$
2021
2022
Share options
Restricted shares
Total share-based compensation
18,081
32,956
51,037
0.4
0.8
1.2
(in thousands, except for percentages)
1,883
24,195
9,647
18,105
11,530
42,300
0.8
0.6
1.4
265
1,359
1,624
114
%
0.1
0.3
0.3
Table of Contents
Selling Expenses
Our selling expenses primarily include (i) expenses associated with the operations of service centers, such as rental expenses,
and (ii) expenses for online and offline marketing activities. We operated service centers in 84,75 and 44 cities in China as of December
31, 2021, 2022 and 2023, respectively.
General and Administrative Expenses
Our general and administrative expenses primarily include rental and related expenses of our leased office spaces and
professional service fees. The main items include rental expenses for our group and regional headquarters and offices, depreciation
expenses and consulting expenses, among others.
Provision for Credit Losses
Provision for credit losses represent net changes of the allowance for loan losses as well as other financial assets. Our provision
for credit losses were recorded primarily in connection with the Camsing Incident and loan receivables.
Other Operating Expenses
Our other operating expenses mainly include various expenses incurred directly in relation to our other service fees.
Government Subsidies
Government subsidies are cash subsidies received in the PRC from local governments as incentives for investing and operating
in certain local districts. Such subsidies are used by us for general corporate purposes and are reflected as an offset to our operating costs
and expenses.
Taxation
The Cayman Islands
We are an exempted company incorporated in the Cayman Islands. Under the current laws of the Cayman Islands, we are not
subject to income or capital gains tax. In addition, payments of capital or dividends in respect of our shares are not subject to withholding
tax in the Cayman Islands. Gains derived from the disposal of our shares are not subject to Cayman Islands income or corporation tax.
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, estate duty, or inheritance tax. There are no other taxes likely to be material to us 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. There are no exchange control regulations or currency restrictions in the Cayman Islands.
Hong Kong
Under the current Hong Kong Inland Revenue Ordinance, the first HK$2 million of profits earned by the qualifying group
entities incorporated in Hong Kong will be taxed at half the current tax rate (i.e. 8.25%) while the remaining profits will continue to be
taxed at the existing 16.5% tax rate. The profits of group entities incorporated in Hong Kong not qualifying for the two-tiered profits tax
rates regime will continue to be taxed at a flat rate of 16.5%. In addition, payments of dividends from Hong Kong subsidiaries to their
shareholders are not subject to any Hong Kong withholding tax.
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Table of Contents
PRC
On March 23, 2016, the Ministry of Finance and the State Administration of Taxation jointly issued the Circular on the Pilot
Program for Overall Implementation of the Collection of Value Added Tax Instead of Business Tax, or Circular 36, which took effect on
May 1, 2016. Pursuant to Circular 36, all companies operating in construction industry, real estate industry, finance industry, modern
service industry or other industries which were required to pay business tax are required to pay value-added tax (“VAT”), in lieu of
business tax.
Our PRC subsidiaries and the Consolidated Affiliated Entities are subject to VAT and related surcharges including urban
maintenance and construction tax (with 1%, 5%, or 7% of VAT based on different locations), education surtax (3% of VAT), local
education surtax (2% of VAT) and river-way management fee (1% of VAT) on the services provided in the PRC. As VAT liability is
excluded when calculating net revenues, our net revenues are total revenues, net only of VAT related surcharges, which range from 7% to
13% of VAT liabilities. The VAT and related surcharges in the amounts of RMB33.5 million, RMB28.5 million and RMB23.1 million
(US$3.3 million) were deducted from our total revenues in 2021, 2022 and 2023, respectively.
According to Circular 36, applicable VAT rates include 3%, 6%, 11%, and 17%, and the applicable value-added rate for our
PRC subsidiaries and the Consolidated Affiliated Entities is 6%. The VAT tax rates of 11% and 17% were reduced to 10% and 16%,
respectively, from May 1, 2018 and to 9% and 13% from April 1, 2019.
In addition, our PRC subsidiaries and the Consolidated Affiliated Entities are subject to PRC enterprise income tax on their
taxable income in accordance with the relevant PRC income tax laws with a uniform 25% enterprise income tax rate to both foreign-
invested enterprises and domestic enterprises since January 1, 2008, except where a special preferential rate applies.
Under the EIT Law, enterprises that are established under the laws of foreign countries or regions and whose “de facto
management bodies” are located within the PRC territory are considered PRC resident enterprises, and will be subject to the PRC
enterprise income tax at the rate of 25% on their worldwide income. Under the EIT Implementation Rules, “de facto management
bodies” are defined as the bodies that have full and substantial control and overall management over the manufacturing and business
operations, personnel and human resources, finances and treasury, and acquisition and disposition of properties and other assets of an
enterprise. See “Item 3. Key Information—D. Risk Factors—Risks Related to Doing Business in China—The dividends we receive from
our PRC subsidiaries may be subject to PRC tax under the PRC Enterprise Income Tax Law, which would have a material adverse effect
on our financial condition and results of operations. In addition, if we are classified as a PRC resident enterprise for PRC income tax
purposes, such classification could result in unfavorable tax consequences to us and our non-PRC shareholders or ADS holders.”
For more information on PRC tax regulations, see “Item 4. Information on the Company—B. Business Overview—Regulations
in China—Regulations on Tax.”
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Table of Contents
Financial Results
The following table sets forth a summary of our consolidated results of operations for the periods indicated. The information
should be read in conjunction with our consolidated financial statements and related notes included elsewhere in this annual report. The
operating results in any period are not necessarily indicative of results that may be expected for any future period.
Revenues
Revenues from others:
One-time commissions
Recurring service fees
Performance-based income
Other service fees
Total revenues from others
Revenues from funds Gopher manages:
One-time commissions
Recurring service fees
Performance-based income
Total revenues from funds Gopher manages
Total Revenues
Less: VAT related surcharges
Net Revenues
Operating costs and expenses:
Compensation and benefits
Selling expenses
General and administrative expenses
(Provision for)/ reversal of credit losses
Other operating expenses
Government subsidies
Total operating costs and expenses
Income from operations:
Other income (expense):
Interest income
Investment income (loss)
Settlement expenses
Contingent legal expense
Other (expense) income
Total other income
Income before taxes and income from equity in affiliates
Income tax expense
Income from equity in affiliates
Net income
Less: net loss attributable to non-controlling interests
Net income attributable to Noah’s shareholders
Years Ended December 31,
2021
RMB
2022
RMB
2023
RMB
US$
(in thousands)
1,130,894
913,700
391,903
161,982
2,598,479
617,636
768,980
184,048
223,441
1,794,105
1,072,838
707,580
16,344
270,579
2,067,341
151,106
99,661
2,302
38,110
291,179
140,522
1,195,309
392,290
1,728,121
4,326,600
(33,506)
4,293,094
63,809
1,145,435
125,528
1,334,772
3,128,877
(28,505)
3,100,372
16,365
1,112,850
121,265
1,250,480
3,317,821
(23,125)
3,294,696
2,305
156,742
17,080
176,127
467,306
(3,257)
464,049
(2,168,880)
(437,131)
(383,321)
(112,959)
(107,844)
115,939
(3,094,196)
1,198,898
(1,441,882)
(349,014)
(235,319)
424
(115,653)
129,521
(2,011,923)
1,088,449
(1,456,753)
(485,778)
(275,727)
7,028
(112,506)
126,955
(2,196,781)
1,097,915
(205,180)
(68,420)
(38,835)
990
(15,846)
17,881
(309,410)
154,639
71,866
65,426
(19,908)
—
(18,240)
99,144
1,298,042
(293,940)
301,979
1,306,081
(8,050)
1,314,131
61,416
85,554
—
(99,000)
13,130
61,100
1,149,549
(267,108)
89,148
971,589
(4,982)
976,571
161,926
(61,486)
—
—
10,892
111,332
1,209,247
(262,360)
54,128
1,001,015
(8,479)
1,009,494
22,807
(8,660)
—
—
1,534
15,681
170,320
(36,953)
7,624
140,991
(1,194)
142,185
Year Ended December 31, 2023 Compared to Year Ended December 31, 2022
Total Revenues. Our total revenue increased by 6.0% from RMB3,128.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2022 to
RMB3,317.8 million (US$467.3 million) for the year ended December 31, 2023. The increase in total revenues was primarily due to an
increase in one-time commissions from distribution of insurance products.
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Table of Contents
Operating Costs and Expenses. Our operating costs and expenses increased by 9.2% from RMB2,011.9 million in 2022 to
RMB2,196.8 million (US$309.4 million) in 2023. The increase in operating costs and expenses was primarily driven by growing number
of client events hosted and traveling expenses incurred in 2023 accompanied with our global expansion strategy, while our total operating
costs and expenses remained at low base due to various pandemic control measures implemented in 2022.
Other Income. Our total other income increased by 82.2% from RMB61.1 million in 2022 to RMB111.3 million (US$15.7
million) in 2023. The increase in other income was primarily attributable to increases in interest income.
Income Tax Expense. Income tax expense decreased slightly by 1.8% from RMB267.1 million in 2022 to RMB262.4 million
(US$37.0 million) in 2023, primarily due to a lower effective tax rate.
Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Noah’s Shareholders. Due to the foregoing, the net income attributable to Noah’s shareholders
increased by 3.4% from RMB976.6 million in 2022 to RMB1,009.5 million (US$142.2 million) in 2023.
Year Ended December 31, 2022 Compared to Year Ended December 31, 2021
Total Revenues. Our total revenues decreased by 27.7% from RMB4,326.6 million in 2021 to RMB3,128.9 million in 2022. The
decrease in total revenues was primarily due to decreases in one-time commissions, recurring service fees and performance-based
income.
Operating Costs and Expenses. Operating costs and expenses decreased by 35.0% from RMB3,094.2 million in 2021 to
RMB2,011.9 million in 2022. The decrease in operating costs and expenses was primarily driven by decreases in our relationship
managers compensation due to reduced transaction value, and our expenses control measures implemented in 2022.
Other Income. Other income decreased by 38.4% from RMB99.1 million in 2021 to RMB61.1 million in 2022. The decrease in
other income was primarily attributable to our accrual of contigent legal expenses relating to one adverse initial court ruling in the
amount of RMB99.0 million.
Income Tax Expense. Income tax expense decreased by 9.1% from RMB293.9 million in 2021 to RMB267.1 million in 2022,
primarily due to lower taxable income.
Net Income Attributable to Noah’s Shareholders. Net income attributable to Noah’s shareholders decreased by 25.7% from
RMB1,314.1 million in 2021 to RMB976.6 million in 2022, primarily due to 11.4% decreases in income before taxes and income from
equity in affiliates and 70.5% decreases in income from equity in affiliates.
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Table of Contents
Wealth Management
Revenues
Revenues from others:
One-time commissions
Recurring service fees
Performance-based income
Other service fees
Total revenues from others
Revenues from funds Gopher manages:
One-time commissions
Recurring service fees
Performance-based income
Total revenues from funds Gopher manages
Total Revenues
Less: VAT related surcharges
Net Revenues
Operating costs and expenses:
Compensation and benefits
Selling expenses
General and administrative expenses
(Provision for)/ reversal of credit losses
Other operating expenses
Government subsidies
Total operating costs and expenses
Income from operations:
Years Ended December 31,
2021
RMB
2022
RMB
2023
RMB
US$
(in thousands)
1,130,653
912,506
391,903
92,352
2,527,414
50,247
557,094
77,218
684,559
3,211,973
(17,076)
3,194,897
617,636
768,980
184,048
144,101
1,714,765
13,953
463,314
18,407
495,674
2,210,439
(10,462)
2,199,977
1,072,838
707,580
16,344
221,917
2,018,679
13,732
398,226
69,977
481,935
2,500,614
(9,365)
2,491,249
151,106
99,661
2,302
31,256
284,325
1,934
56,089
9,856
67,879
352,204
(1,319)
350,885
(1,654,289)
(354,128)
(270,253)
(6,490)
(53,616)
65,368
(2,273,408)
921,489
(1,079,634)
(299,769)
(153,643)
718
(15,412)
89,223
(1,458,517)
741,460
(1,175,886)
(370,861)
(193,248)
(910)
(44,042)
103,597
(1,681,350)
809,899
(165,620)
(52,235)
(27,218)
(128)
(6,203)
14,591
(236,813)
114,072
119
Table of Contents
Year Ended December 31, 2023 Compared to Year Ended December 31, 2022
Total Revenue. For the wealth management business, our total revenue increased by 13.1% from RMB2,210.4 million in 2022 to
RMB2,500.6 million (US$352.2 million) in 2023. Our transaction value increased by 5.4% from RMB70.3 billion in 2022 to RMB74.1
billion in 2023, primarily due to increase of RMB5.3 billion in private secondary products:
● Total revenue from one-time commissions increased by 72.0% from RMB631.6 million in 2022 to RMB1,086.6 million
(US$153.0 million) in 2023, primarily due to increases in distribution of insurance products.
● Total revenue from recurring service fees decreased by 10.3% from RMB1,232.3 million in 2022 to RMB1,105.8 million
(US$155.8 million) in 2023, primarily due to less service fees charged from fund managers or funds under our advisory.
● Total revenue from performance-based income decreased by 57.4% from RMB202.5 million in 2022 to RMB86.3 million
(US$12.2 million) in 2023, primarily due to less performance-based income generated from private secondary products.
● Total revenue from other service fees increased by 54.0% from RMB144.1 million in 2022 to RMB221.9 million (US$31.3
million) in 2023, primarily due to more value-added service we provided to our HNW investors in 2023.
Operating Costs and Expenses. For the wealth management business, our operating costs and expenses increased by 15.3%
from RMB1,458.5 million in 2022 to RMB1,681.4 million (US$236.8 million) in 2023, primarily due to growing number of client
events hosted and traveling expenses incurred in 2023.
● Compensation and benefits increased by 8.9% from RMB1,079.6 million in 2022 to RMB1,175.9 million (US$165.6
million) in 2023. In 2023, our relationship manager compensation increased by 37.1% from 2022, aligning with the
increases in one-time commissions. Our other compensation decreased by 12.0% from 2022, primarily due to our cost
control strategy on employee compensation.
● Selling expenses increased by 23.7% from RMB299.8 million in 2022 to RMB370.9 million (US$52.2 million) in 2023,
primarily due to growing number of client events hosted.
● General and administrative expenses increased by 25.8% from RMB153.6 million in 2022 to RMB193.2 million (US$27.2
million) in 2023, primarily due to increasing traveling expenses and oneoff disposal loss on leasehold improvements for
our previous headquarter that we ceased to lease in May 2023.
● Provision for credit losses in 2023 was RMB0.9 million (US$0.1 million), while reversal of credit losses was RMB0.7
million in 2022, primarily due to accrual of allowance for accounts receivable relating to certain funds.
● Other operating expenses increased by 185.8% from RMB15.4 million in 2022 to RMB44.0 million (US$6.2 million) in
2023, primarily due to a one-off reversal of processing expenses related to our mutual fund business in 2022, which set a
relatively low baseline for comparison.
● Government subsidies increased by 16.1% from RMB89.2 million in 2022 to RMB103.6 million (US$14.6 million) in
2023, primarily due to an increase in government subsidies received from local governments in 2023.
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Table of Contents
Year Ended December 31, 2022 Compared to Year Ended December 31, 2021
Total Revenue. For the wealth management business, our total revenue decreased by 31.2% from RMB3,212.0 million in 2021
to RMB2,210.4 million in 2022. Our transaction value decreased by 27.7% from RMB97.2 billion in 2021 to RMB70.3 billion in 2022,
primarily due to decrease of RMB24.7 billion transaction value in private secondary products.
● Total revenue from one-time commissions decreased by 46.5% from RMB1,180.9 million in 2021 to RMB631.6 million in
2022, primarily due to less private secondary funds distributed in 2022 as a result of the volatile of the stock market
throughout the year.
● Total revenue from recurring service fees decreased by 16.1% from RMB1,469.6 million in 2021 to RMB1,232.3 million
in 2022. The decrease was primarily due to the service fees recognized upon liquidation of certain credit products with
higher fee rates for the 2021.
● Total revenue from performance-based income decreased by 56.8% from RMB469.1 million in 2021 to RMB202.5 million
in 2022, primarily due to less performance-based income from private secondary products that we received and shared by
product providers due to macro environment was volatile and more challenging in 2022.
● Total revenue from other service fees increased by 56.0% from RMB92.4 million in 2021 to RMB144.1 million in 2022,
primarily due to more value-added service we provided to our HNW investors in 2022.
Operating Costs and Expenses. For the wealth management business, our operating costs and expenses decreased by 35.8%
from RMB2,273.4 million in 2021 to RMB1,458.5 million in 2022, primarily due to decreased relationship managers compensation
relating to less investment prodcuts distributed and less general and administrative expenses due to our cost control measures
implemented in 2022.
● Compensation and benefits include compensation for relationship managers and other employees. Compensation and
benefits decreased by 34.7% from RMB1,654.3 million in 2021 to RMB1,079.6 million in 2022. In 2022, relationship
manager compensation decreased by 48.9% from 2021, align with our decreased in one-time commissions. Other
compensation decreased by 17.8% from 2021, primarily due to cost control measures implemented in 2022.
● Selling expenses decreased by 15.4% from RMB354.1 million in 2021 to RMB299.8 million in 2022, primarily due to less
client activities held as various lock-down were placed across China due to COVID-19 pendamic in 2022.
● General and administrative expenses decreased by 43.1% from RMB270.3 million in 2021 to RMB153.6 million in 2022,
primarily due to our cost control measures implemented in 2022.
● Reversal of credit losses in 2022 was RMB0.7 million, while provision for credit losses was RMB6.5 million in 2021,
primarily due to accrual of allowance for accounts receivables relating to certain funds.
● Other operating expenses decreased by 71.3% from RMB53.6 million in 2021 to RMB15.4 million in 2022, as we barely
provided lending services to our clients.
● Government subsidies were RMB65.4 million in 2021 and RMB89.2 million in 2022.
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Asset Management
Revenues
Revenues from others:
One-time commissions
Recurring service fees
Performance-based income
Other service fees
Total revenues from others
Revenues from funds Gopher manages:
One-time commissions
Recurring service fees
Performance-based income
Total revenues from funds Gopher manages
Total Revenues
Less: VAT related surcharges
Net Revenues
Operating costs and expenses:
Compensation and benefits
Selling expenses
General and administrative expenses
(Provision for)/ reversal of credit losses
Other operating expenses
Government subsidies
Total operating costs and expenses
Income from operations:
Years Ended December 31,
2021
RMB
2022
RMB
2023
RMB
US$
(in thousands)
241
1,194
—
1,390
2,825
90,275
638,215
315,072
1,043,562
1,046,387
(4,923)
1,041,464
(450,034)
(55,790)
(70,686)
(13,275)
(4,347)
37,905
(556,227)
485,237
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
49,856
682,121
107,121
839,098
839,098
(4,630)
834,468
(322,011)
(41,885)
(55,872)
386
(6,369)
39,120
(386,631)
447,837
2,633
714,624
51,288
768,545
768,545
(2,374)
766,171
(248,686)
(88,827)
(59,367)
(921)
(3,348)
21,638
(379,511)
386,660
—
—
—
—
—
371
100,653
7,224
108,248
108,248
(334)
107,914
(35,027)
(12,511)
(8,362)
(130)
(472)
3,048
(53,454)
54,460
Year Ended December 31, 2023 Compared to Year Ended December 31, 2022
Total Revenue. For the asset management business, our total revenue decreased by 8.4% from RMB839.1 million in 2022 to
RMB768.5 million (US$108.2 million) in 2023. Gopher’s AUM remained stable from RMB157.1 billion as of December 31, 2022 to
RMB154.6 billion as of December 31, 2023:
● Total revenue from one-time commissions decreased by 94.7% from RMB49.9 million in 2022 to RMB2.6 million
(US$0.4 million) in 2023, mainly due to a decrease of 69.8% in distribution of private equity products.
● Total revenue from recurring service fees increased by 4.8% from RMB682.1 million in 2022 to RMB714.6 million
(US$100.7 million) in 2023, which was due to an accumulated effect of private equity products previously distributed.
● Total revenue from performance-based income decreased by 52.1% from RMB107.1 million in 2022 to RMB51.3 million
(US$7.2 million) in 2023, primarily due to decreases generated from offshore private equity products.
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Operating Costs and Expenses. For the asset management business, our operating costs and expenses decreased by 1.8% from
RMB386.6 million in 2022 to RMB379.5 million (US$53.5 million) in 2023, primarily resulted from a decrease in performance-based
compensation aligning with a decrease in performance-based income.
● Compensation and benefits decreased by 22.8% from RMB322.0 million in 2022 to RMB248.7 million (US$35.0 million)
in 2023 due to our cost control strategy over employee headcounts.
● Selling expenses increased by 112.1% from RMB41.9 million in 2022 to RMB88.8 million (US$12.5 million) in 2023,
primarily due to higher traveling expenses, particularly those related to global business travel.
● General and administrative expenses increased by 6.3% from RMB55.9 million in 2022 to RMB59.4 million (US$8.4
million) in 2023, primarily due to low base due to various pandemic control measures implemented in 2022.
● Provision for credit losses in 2023 was RMB0.9 million (US$0.1 million), while reversal of credit losses was RMB0.4
million in 2022. The majority of such provision in 2023 were accrued for receivables accounts related to several private
equity products.
● Other operating expenses decreased by 47.4% from RMB6.4 million in 2022 to RMB3.3 million (US$0.5 million) in
2023, primarily due to a decrease in the consulting service fee paid to external fund managers.
● Government subsidies decreased by 44.7% from RMB39.1 million in 2022 to RMB21.6 million (US$3.0 million) in 2023,
primarily due to a reduction in government subsidies received from local governments in 2023.
Year Ended December 31, 2022 Compared to Year Ended December 31, 2021
Total Revenue. For the asset management business, our total revenue decreased by 19.8% from RMB1,046.4 million in 2021 to
RMB839.1 million in 2022. Gopher’s AUM remained stable from RMB156.0 billion as of December 31, 2022 to RMB157.1 billion as of
December 31, 2023.
● Total revenue from one-time commissions decreased by 44.9% from RMB90.5 million in 2021 to RMB49.9 million in
2022, mainly due to less domestic private equity funds newly established in 2022.
● Total revenue from recurring service fees increased by 6.7% from RMB639.4 million in 2021 to RMB682.1 million in
2022, mainly due to continuous increases in the AUM of private equity products.
● Total revenue from performance-based income decreased by 66.0% from RMB315.1 million in 2021 to RMB107.1 million
in 2022, primarily due to decreases in performance-based income from private equity products resulting from the
fluctuation of the capital market and fewer exit opportunities caused by the slowdown of the primary market as macro
environment was volatile and more challenging in 2022.
Operating Costs and Expenses. For the asset management business, our operating costs and expenses decreased by 30.5% from
RMB556.2 million in 2021 to RMB386.6 million in 2022, primarily due to less expenses incurred due to the COVID-19 pandemic and
cost control measures implemented in 2022.
● Compensation and benefits include compensation of investment professionals and other employees. Compensation and
benefits decreased by 28.4% from RMB450.0 million in 2021 to RMB322.0 million in 2022 due to a decrease in
performance-based compensation align with a decrease in performance based income.
● Selling expenses decreased by 24.9% from RMB55.8 million in 2021 to RMB41.9 million in 2022, primarily due to a
decrease in client service expense and marketing expense.
● General and administrative expenses decreased by 21.0% from RMB70.7 million in 2021 to RMB55.9 million in 2022,
primarily due to our cost control measures implemented in 2022.
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● Reversal of credit losses in 2022 was RMB0.4 million, while provision for credit losses was RMB13.3 million in 2021.
The majority of such provision in 2021 were accrued for receivables accounts related to several private equity products.
● Government subsidies were RMB37.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2021 and RMB39.1 million for 2022.
Other businesses
Revenues
Revenues from others:
Other service fees
Total revenues from others
Total Revenues
Less: VAT related surcharges
Net Revenues
Operating costs and expenses:
Compensation and benefits
Selling expenses
General and administrative expenses
(Provision for)/ reversal of credit losses
Other operating expenses
Government subsidies
Total operating costs and expenses
Loss from operations:
Years Ended December 31,
2021
RMB
2022
RMB
2023
RMB
US$
(in thousands)
68,240
68,240
68,240
(11,507)
56,733
(64,557)
(27,213)
(42,382)
(93,194)
(49,881)
12,666
(264,561)
(207,828)
79,340
79,340
79,340
(13,413)
65,927
(40,237)
(7,360)
(25,804)
(680)
(93,872)
1,178
(166,775)
(100,848)
48,662
48,662
48,662
(11,386)
37,276
(32,181)
(26,090)
(23,112)
8,859
(65,116)
1,720
(135,920)
(98,644)
6,854
6,854
6,854
(1,604)
5,250
(4,533)
(3,675)
(3,255)
1,248
(9,171)
242
(19,144)
(13,894)
Year Ended December 31, 2023 Compared to Year Ended December 31, 2022
Total Revenue. For other businesses, our total revenue was RMB48.7 million (US$6.9 million) in 2023, representing a 38.7%
decrease from RMB79.3 million in 2022, primarily due to our continuous wind-down of our lending business.
Operating Costs and Expenses. For other businesses, our operating costs and expenses in 2023 were RMB135.9 million
(US$19.1 million), representing a 18.5% decrease from RMB166.8 million in 2022, primarily due to our continuous winding-down of
our lending business.
Year Ended December 31, 2022 Compared to Year Ended December 31, 2021
Total Revenue. For other businesses, our total revenue were RMB79.3 million in 2022, representing a 16.3% increase from
RMB68.2 million in 2021.
Operating Costs and Expenses. For other businesses, our operating costs and expenses in 2022 were RMB166.8 million,
representing a 37.0% decrease from RMB264.6 million in 2021, primarily due to (i) less provision for credit losses as a result of our
periodic assessment on expected collection of our loan receivables and (ii) a decrease in selling and general and administrative expenses
as a result of cost control measures implemented in 2022.
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Non-Gaap Measures
Adjusted net income attributable to Noah’s shareholders is a non-GAAP financial measure that excludes the income statement
effects of all forms of share-based compensation expenses, non-cash settlement expenses and net of relevant tax impact. A reconciliation
of adjusted net income attributable to Noah’s shareholders from net income attributable to Noah’s shareholders, the most directly
comparable GAAP measure, can be obtained by subtracting expenses for share-based compensations and non-cash settlement expenses.
All tax expense impact of such adjustments would be also considered.
The non-GAAP financial measure disclosed by us should not be considered a substitute for financial measures prepared in
accordance with GAAP. The financial results reported in accordance with GAAP and reconciliation of GAAP to non-GAAP results
should be carefully evaluated. The non-GAAP financial measure used by us may be prepared differently from and, therefore, may not be
comparable to, similarly titled measures used by other companies.
When evaluating our operating performance in the periods presented, management reviewed non-GAAP net income results
reflecting adjustments to exclude the impact of share-based compensation, non-cash settlement expenses, and net of relevant tax impact.
As such, we believe that the presentation of the non-GAAP adjusted net income attributable to Noah’s shareholders provides important
supplemental information to investors regarding financial and business trends relating to our results of operations in a manner consistent
with that used by management. Pursuant to GAAP, we recognized significant amounts of expenses for all forms of share-based
compensation and settlement expenses (net of tax impact). To make our financial results comparable period by period, we utilize non-
GAAP adjusted net income to better understand our historical business operations.
The table below sets forth a reconciliation of our net income (loss) attributable to Noah’s shareholders and adjusted net income
attributable to Noah’s shareholders (non-GAAP) for the years indicated:
Net income attributable to Noah’s shareholders
Add: share-based compensation
Add: settlement expense(1)
Less: Tax effect of adjustments
Adjusted net income attributable to Noah’s shareholders (non-GAAP)
2021
RMB
Year Ended December 31,
2022
RMB
2023
RMB
(in thousands)
1,314,131
51,037
19,908
12,374
1,372,702
976,571
42,300
—
10,279
1,008,592
1,009,494
11,530
—
2,220
1,018,804
US$
142,185
1,624
—
313
143,496
(1) Please see “Item 8. Financial Information—A. Consolidated Statements and Other Financial Information—Legal Proceedings—The
Camsing Incident.”
B.
Liquidity and Capital Resources
We finance our operations primarily through cash generated from our operating activities. Our principal use of cash in 2021,
2022, and 2023 were for operating and investing activities. In addition, we used RMB372.4 million, nil and nil to repurchase our ADSs
in 2021, 2022 and 2023, respectively. In 2023, we paid a final dividend in the amount of RMB175.5 million which was declared in 2022.
As of December 31, 2023, we had RMB5,192.1 million (US$731.3 million) in cash and cash equivalents, consisting of cash on hand,
demand deposits, money market funds and mutual funds which are unrestricted as to withdrawal and use. As of December 31, 2023, cash
and cash equivalents of RMB9.7 million (US$1.4 million) was held by the consolidated funds, which although not legally restricted, is
not available to our general liquidity needs as the use of such funds is generally limited to the investment activities of the consolidated
funds. We believe that our current cash and anticipated cash flow from operations will be sufficient to meet our anticipated cash needs,
including our cash needs for at least the next 12 months. We may, however, need additional capital in the future due to unanticipated
business condition or other future development, including any investments or acquisitions we may pursue.
In July 2022, we completed our global initial public offerings in Hong Kong Stock Exchange with issuance of 1,152,160
ordinary shares with net proceeds of HK$315.6 million (US$40.2 million) after deducting underwriters’ commission and offering
expenses.
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The following table sets forth the movements of our cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash for the periods presented:
Net cash provided by operating activities
Net cash (used in) provided by investing activities
Net cash (used in) provided by financing activities
Effect of exchange rate changes
Net (decrease) increases in cash and cash equivalents
Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash at the beginning of the year
Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash at the end of the year
Operating Activities
2021
RMB
Years Ended December 31,
2022
RMB
2023
RMB
US$
(in thousands)
1,521,838
(2,572,094)
(513,121)
(46,714)
(1,610,091)
5,022,704
3,412,613
632,901
74,289
233,761
81,054
1,022,005
3,412,613
4,434,618
1,318,320
(247,141)
(199,835)
48,098
919,442
4,434,618
5,354,060
185,682
(34,807)
(28,147)
6,775
129,503
624,603
754,106
Net cash provided by operating activities in 2023 was RMB1,318.3 million (US$185.7 million), primarily as a result of net
income of RMB1,001.0 million (US$141.0 million), adjusted by (i) certain non-cash charges of RMB291.0 million (US$41.0 million),
which was primarily attributable to depreciation expenses of RMB158.1 million (US$22.3 million) and non-cash lease expenses of
RMB78.2 million (US$11.0 million), partially offset by income from equity in affiliates, net of dividends of RMB19.3 million (US$2.7
million), (ii) changes of operating assets and liabilities of RMB8.7 million (US$1.2 million) which was primarily attributable to a
decrease in accured payroll and welfare expenses of RMB104.9 million (US$14.8 million) and a decrease in lease assets and liabilities of
RMB78.2 million (US$11.0 million), partially offset by an increase in trading debt securities of RMB124.0 million (US$17.5 million),
and (iii) changes in deffered tax assets and liabilities of RMB17.6 million (US$2.5 million).
Net cash provided by operating activities in 2022 was RMB632.9 million, primarily as a res.ult of net income of RMB971.6
million, adjusted by (i) certain non-cash charges of RMB171.1 million, which was primarily attributable to depreciation and amortization
of RMB156.0 million and non-cash lease expenses of RMB95.3 million, partially offset by income from equity in affiliates, net of
dividends of RMB33.7 million, (ii) changes of operating assets and liabilities of RMB424.9 million, which was primarily attributable to a
decrease in accrued payroll and welfare of RMB277.6 million, a decrease in other current liabilities of RMB178.8 million and an
increase in trading securities of RMB192.9 million, partially offset by a decrease in accounts receivable of RMB304.7 million and (iii)
increase in deferred tax assets and liabilities of RMB84.9 million.
Net cash provided by operating activities in 2021 was RMB1,521.8 million, primarily as a result of net income of RMB1,306.1
million, adjusted by (i) certain non-cash charges of RMB143.9 million, which was primarily attributable to depreciation and amortization
of RMB146.6 million, provision for credit losses of RMB113.0 million and non-cash lease expenses of RMB85.7 million, partially offset
by income from equity in affiliates, net of dividends of RMB206.2 million, (ii) decrease in net working capital of RMB191.4 million,
which was primarily attributable to an increase in accrued payroll and welfare expenses of RMB240.9 million and an increase in other
current liabilities of RMB191.4 million, partially offset by an increase in accounts receivables of RMB363.0 million and (iii) offset by
changes in deferred tax assets and liabilities of RMB119.6 million.
Investing Activities
Net cash used in investing activities in 2023 was RMB247.1 million (US$34.8 million), primarily attributable to loans to related
parties of RMB84.3 million (US$11.9 million) and acquisitions, net of cash required of RMB55.4 million (US$7.8 million), which was
partially offset by principal collection of loans to related parties of RMB221.3 million (US$31.2 million).
Net cash provided by investing activities in 2022 was RMB74.3 million, primarily attributable to net cash inflow from
collection of loans originated to third parties of RMB148.3 million, which was partially offset by purchase of property and equipment of
RMB62.7 million.
Net cash used in investing activities in 2021 was RMB2,572.1 million, primarily attributable to purchase of property and
equipment of RMB2,271.2 million, which was principally for acquiring our new headquarter premises in Shanghai, net loan
disbursement of RMB331.9 million and purchase of long-term investment of RMB91.3 million, which was partially offset by proceeds
from redemption of held-to-maturity investments of RMB101.6 million.
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Financing Activities
Net cash used in financing activities was RMB199.8 million (US$28.1 million) in 2023 due to dividend paid of RMB177.5
million (US$25.0 million), partially offset by contribution from non-controlling interests of RMB13.9 million (US$2.0 million) and
distributions to non-controlling interests of RMB23.6 million (US$3.3 million).
Net cash provided by financing activities was RMB233.8 million in 2022 due to our global initial public offering and listing in
Hong Kong with net proceeds of RMB247.0 million, partially offset by divestment of non-controlling interests of RMB23.7 million.
Net cash used in financing activities was RMB513.1 million in 2021 due to repurchasing of our ordinary shares of RMB372.4
million and payment to acquire non-controlling interests in subsidiaries of RMB178.8 million, partially offset by contribution from non-
controlling interests of RMB43.4 million.
Material Cash Requirements
Our material cash requirements as of December 31, 2023 and any subsequent interim period primarily include our capital
expenditures, operating lease obligations, payment of employee’s payroll and welfare expenses, taxes and other various selling, general
and administrative expenses to support our daily business operations, and we intend to fund those requirements with our existing cash
balances.
Capital Expenditures
Our capital expenditures primarily consist of purchases of property and equipment, and renovation and upgrade of our newly
purchased office premises. Our capital expenditures were RMB2,271.2 million, RMB62.7 milliona and RMB157.9 million (US$22.2
million) in 2021, 2022 and 2023, respectively. We currently do not have any commitment for capital expenditures or other cash
requirements outside of our ordinary course of business. As of the date of this annual report, we expect that our capital expenditure in
2024 to be approximately RMB40.0 million (US$5.6 million) primarily on the renovation and upgrade of our newly purchased office
premises, and we intend to fund our planned capital expenditures with existing cash balance.
Operating Lease Obligations
Our operating lease assets primarily represents various facilities under non-cancelable operating leases expiring within one to
ten years. Our operating lease expenses were RMB102.3 million, RMB98.9 million and RMB85.7 million (US$12.1 million) in 2021,
2022 and 2023, respectively. The majority of our operating lease obligations are related to our office lease agreements in China.
The following table sets forth our contractual obligations as of December 31, 2023:
Operating Lease
Payment Due by Period
Total
RMB
Less than
1 year
RMB
150,175
68,308
1-2 years
RMB
(in thousands)
43,221
2-5 years
RMB
More
than 5
years
RMB
38,646
—
For details of our payment of employee’s payroll and welfare expenses, see “—Components of Results of Operations—
Operating Costs and Expenses Compensation and Benefits.”
For details of our taxes, see “Taxation.”
For details of other various selling, general and administrative expenses, see “—Components of Results of Operations—
Operating Costs and Expenses—Selling Expenses” and “—Components of Results of Operations—Operating Costs and Expenses—
General and Administrative Expenses.”
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Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements
We have not entered into any financial guarantees or other commitments to guarantee the payment obligations of any third
parties. In addition, we have not entered into any derivative contracts that are indexed to our own shares and classified as equity, or that
are not reflected in our consolidated financial statements. 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. Moreover, 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.
Property Interests
In May 2021, we purchased new office premises with a gross floor area of approximately 72,000 square meters in Shanghai, and
the carrying amount of its property interest (which all form party of non-property activities) is approximately RMB2,208.5 million
(US$311.1 million), accounting for 17.4% of our total assets as of December 31, 2023.
Holding Company Structure
We are a holding company, and we conduct businesses through our subsidiaries and the Consolidated Affiliated Entities. As a
result, we may rely significantly on dividends and other distributions by our PRC subsidiaries for our cash and financing requirements,
including the funds necessary to pay dividends and other cash distributions to our shareholders and pay any debt we may incur. If our
PRC subsidiaries incur debt on their own behalf in the future, the instruments governing the debt may restrict their ability to pay
dividends or make other distributions to us. In addition, the PRC tax authorities may require us to adjust our taxable income under the
Contractual Arrangements which would materially and adversely affect its ability to pay dividends and other distributions to us.
Our PRC subsidiaries are permitted to pay dividends to us only out of their retained earnings, if any, as determined in
accordance with PRC accounting standards and regulations. Under PRC laws, each of our PRC subsidiaries and the Consolidated
Affiliated Entities are required to set aside at least 10% of its after-tax profits each year, if any, to fund a statutory reserve until such
reserve reaches 50% of its registered capital. Although the statutory reserves can be used, among other ways, to increase the registered
capital and eliminate future losses in excess of retained earnings of the respective companies, the reserve funds are not distributable as
cash dividends except in the event of liquidation. As a result of these PRC laws and regulations, our PRC subsidiaries are restricted in
their ability to transfer a portion of their net assets, including general reserve and registered capital, either in the form of dividends, loans
or advances. Such restricted portion amounted to RMB2,950.5 million, RMB2,826.6 million and RMB2,872.8 million (US$404.6
million) as of December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023, respectively.
Furthermore, cash transfers from our PRC subsidiaries to our subsidiaries outside of China are subject to PRC government
control of currency conversion. Restrictions on the availability of foreign currency may affect the ability of our PRC subsidiaries and
Consolidated Affiliated Entities to remit sufficient foreign currency to pay dividends or other payments to us, or otherwise satisfy their
foreign currency denominated obligations. See “Item 3. Key Information—D. Risk Factors—Risks Related to Doing Business in China
—PRC foreign exchange regulations restricting the conversion of Renminbi into foreign currencies may limit our ability to utilize our
revenues effectively and affect the value of your investment.”
C. Research and Development, Intellectual Property
Research and Development
See “Item 4. Information on the Company—B. Business Overview—Our Technologies” and “Item 4. Information on the
Company—B. Business Overview— Research and Development.”
Intellectual Property
See “Item 4. Information on the Company—B. Business Overview—Intellectual Property.”
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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 2023 that are reasonably likely to have a material adverse effect on our net revenues, income, profitability, liquidity or
capital resources, or that are reasonably likely to cause the disclosed financial information to be not necessarily indicative of future
operating results or financial conditions.
E. Critical Accounting Estimates
We prepare financial statements in accordance with 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. We believe the following accounting policies involve the most significant judgments and estimates used in the
preparation of our financial statements.
Consolidation of investment funds
We consolidate entities based on either a variable interest model or voting interest model. U.S.GAAP provides guidance that
requires an analysis to determine (i) whether an entity in which we hold a variable interest is a variable interest entity, or the VIE, and
(ii) whether our involvement, through holding interests directly or indirectly in the entity or contractually through other variable interests,
would give it a controlling financial interest. We first consider whether an entity is considered a VIE and therefore whether to apply the
consolidation guidance under the VIE model. Entities that do not qualify as VIEs are assessed for consolidation as voting interest entities
under the voting interest model. As such, for (i) investment funds in the legal form of limited partnership we manages as general partner,
and (ii) contractual funds we manage as fund manager that are determined to be VIEs, we consolidate those entities when we are the
primary beneficiary where we have both the power to direct the activities that most significantly affects the economic performance of the
VIEs and receives the economic benefits of the VIEs that could be significant to the VIEs.
Significant judgements are involved to assess whether the funds should be consolidated, which include but not limited to,
● Making judgments as to whether a simple majority or lower threshold of limited partnership interests, excluding interests
held by the general partner, parties under common control of the general partner, or parties acting on behalf of the general
partner, have substantive rights to either dissolve the fund or remove the general partner or the fund manager—To make the
judgments, we evaluate whether barriers to exercise these rights exist.
● Determining whether our management fees and performance-based income represent variable interests—Judgments are
made as to whether the fees we earn are commensurate with the level of effort required for those fees and at market rates.
In making this judgment, we consider, among other things, the extent of third party investment in the entity and the terms
of any other interests we hold in the VIE.
● Concluding whether we have an obligation to absorb losses or the right to receive benefits that could potentially be
significant to the VIE—Quantitative and qualitative factors are evaluated to determine whether the threshold of “potentially
significant” is met.
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In our consolidated balance sheets, we present 100% of the assets and liabilities of consolidated VIEs along with a non-
controlling interest which represents the portion of the consolidated vehicle’s interests held by third party investors in the funds. We
recognize 100% of the consolidated fund’s investment income (loss) and allocate the portion of that income (loss) attributable to third
party ownership to non-controlling interests in arriving at our net income (loss). We determine whether we are the primary beneficiary of
a VIE when we initially involve with a VIE and reconsider that conclusion when facts and circumstances change. Our conclusion of
whether the funds deemed as VIEs shall be consolidated may have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements.
Allowance for loan losses
We maintain an allowance for credit losses in the loan portfolio, which represents management’s estimate of lifetime expected
losses based on all available relevant information, relevant available information, from internal and external sources, relating to past
events, current conditions and reasonable and supportable forecasts. In establishing the allowance for credit losses, statistical models are
applied to outstanding loans with different risk characteristics.
The expected losses of loans are estimated using a probability of default and loss given default assumption. For loans secured by
investment products we issue, the assumption is derived from a statistical model which incorporates the estimated value of collaterals,
term of the loan and historical loss information. For past due loans secured by real estate properties, the loss given default is derived
using discounted cash flow methodology. The projection of cash flows is determined by a combination of factors including the value of
collaterals, historical collection experience, industry recovery rates of loans with similar risk characteristics and other available relevant
information about the collectability of cash flows. Qualitative adjustments can be made for risk factors that are not considered within the
models, which are relevant in assessing the expected credit losses within the loan balances.
As of December 31, 2023, the allowance is estimated as RMB79.5 million (US$11.2 million) based on information known at the
time of the review, which represents management’s best estimate of losses inherent in the loan receivables. Our allowance for credit
losses is sensitive to certain inputs, most notably the reasonable and supportable forecasts that are incorporated in our estimate of credit
losses. Because future events affecting borrowers and collateral cannot be predicted with certainty, there can be no assurance that the
existing allowance for credit losses is adequate. Changes in factors underlying the assessment could have a material impact on the
amount of the allowance that is necessary and the amount of provision to be charged against earnings.
Item 6. Directors, Senior Management and Employees
A.
Directors and Senior Management
The following table sets forth information regarding our directors and executive officers as of the date of this annual report.
Directors and Executive Officers
Jingbo Wang
Zhe Yin
Chia-Yue Chang
Kai Wang
Boquan He
Zhiwu Chen
Cynthia Jinhong Meng
May Yihong Wu
Jinbo Yao
Qing Pan
Age
51
49
63
38
63
61
54
56
47
49
Position/Title
Co-founder, chairwoman of our board
Co-founder, director and chief executive officer of our group
Non-executive Director
Non-executive Director
Independent director
Independent director
Independent director
Independent director
Independent director
Chief financial officer
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Ms. Jingbo Wang is one of our Founders and has been our chairwoman since our inception in August 2005 and the chief
executive officer until December 29, 2023. Ms. Wang has over 22 years of experience in wealth management and asset management
industries. Prior to co-founding our company, from May 2000 to September 2005, Ms. Wang worked in several departments and affiliates
of Xiangcai Securities Co., Ltd. (“Xiangcai Securities”), a securities firm in China. Ms. Wang served as the general manager of private
banking department at Xiangcai Securities from August 2003 to September 2005, during which she established the securities firm’s
wealth management business. Prior to that, she served as a deputy general manager of ABN AMRO Xiangcai Fund Management Co.,
Ltd. (currently known as Manulife Teda Fund Management Co., Ltd.), an affiliate of Xiangcai Securities, from February 2002 to August
2003, and as the head of the asset management department at Xiangcai Securities from May 2000 to February 2002. Ms. Wang was
recognized as one of Top 30 Most Influential Business Woman in China in 2019 by China Entrepreneur. In 2017, she was listed on
Forbes’ China Top 100 Businesswomen in 2017. In the same year, she was also recognized as an Outstanding Leader of the Year by
Wealth APAC, and received International Women’s Entrepreneurial Challenge Award from the International Women’s Entrepreneurial
Challenge (IWEC) Foundation. Ms. Wang graduated from Global CEO Program of China Europe International Business School in
Shanghai, China, in September 2009. Ms. Wang received her master’s degree in management in December 1999 from Sichuan
University in Sichuan, China.
Mr. Zhe Yin is one of our founders and has been our director since June 2007. He was appointed as the ceief executive officer
on December 29, 2023. Mr. Yin is a highly accomplished senior executive in the wealth and asset management industry with over 22
years of professional experience and possesses an indepth understanding of our operations and culture. He has been serving as the
chairman of Gopher Asset Management since March 2021, and served as the chief executive officer of Gopher Asset Management from
April 2014 to March 2021 and as the chairman of asset sector of Gopher Asset Management from February 2010 to April 2014. Prior to
co-founding our company, Mr. Yin worked at Xiangcai Securities from November 2003 to September 2005 as a deputy general manager
of the private banking department. From July 1997 to October 2003, Mr. Yin served as various positions at Bank of Communications
Co., Ltd. Shanghai Branch, with his last position as the foreign exchange product manager of private finance division. From August 2021
to September 2022, Mr. Yin has served as a director of Dalian Zeus Entertainment Co., Ltd., the shares of which are listed on the
Shenzhen Stock Exchange (stock code: 002354). From November 2017 to June 2021, Mr. Yin served as an independent director of
Guizhou Xinbang Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., the shares of which are listed on the Shenzhen Stock Exchange (stock code: 002390). Mr.
Yin served as a co-chairman of the Fund of Funds Professional Committee of Asset Management Associate of China from 2017 to
August 2021. He was named as one of the Top 20 China’s Best Private Equity Investors in 2017 and as one of the Top 50 China’s Best
Private Equity Investors in 2019, respectively, by ChinaVenture Investment Consulting., Ltd., a leading financial services technology
enterprise in China’s private equity investment industry. Mr. Yin received his MBA degree from China Europe International Business
School in Shanghai, China, in September 2010 and his bachelor’s degree in economics from Shanghai University of Finance and
Economics in Shanghai, China, in July 1997.
Ms. Chia-Yue Chang has been our director since August 2007 until her re-designation from a Director to a non-executive
Director on August 29, 2023. She currently holds certain non-executive positions within the Group, including, among others, the vice
chairman of the board of Noah Upright and a non-executive director of Noah Investment. She served as the chief marketing officer from
January 2017 to February 2021, and served as the general manager of Noah Upright from July 2011 to March 2018 and from March 2019
to December 2020. She now has been serving as the vice director of Noah Upright since July 2021. From March 2021, she has also been
serving as the director of the ethics compliance committee (including discipline supervision and compliance), the ESG committee and the
fairness committee, respectively, of our company. Ms. Chang received her master’s degree in library science from University of
California, Los Angeles in California, the U.S., in March 1987, and her bachelor’s degree in library science from National Taiwan
University in Taiwan, in June 1983.
Mr. Kai Wang, aged 38, a non-executive Director since August 29, 2023, has extensive experience in venture capital and private
equity investment. In July 2010, Mr. Wang joined Hongshan Capital and has since held various roles within the firm. His responsibilities
have encompassed investment sourcing, investment recommendations, and post-investment management. Currently, Mr. Wang is serving
as a managing director of Hongshan Capital. He has also been serving as a director of Shanghai Noah Yijie Financial Technology Co.,
Ltd., a subsidiary of the Company, since November 2019, mainly responsible for overseeing its management and development and
providing strategic guidance. From August 2007 to June 2010, Mr. Wang served as an assistant manager at KPMG Advisory (China) Co.,
Ltd., primarily responsible for transaction advisory. Mr. Wang received his bachelor’s degree in international economics and trade from
University of International Business and Economics in Beijing, China, in July 2007.
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Mr. Boquan He has been our director since August 2007 and has served as our independent director since October 2011 under
applicable U.S. regulations, and, for purposes of the Hong Kong Listing Rules, a non-executive director. Mr. He is the founder and has
been serving as the chairman of the board of directors of Guangdong Nowaday Investment Co., Ltd. since August 2000, a private
investment company specializing in greenfield investments in retail and service industries in China. In 1989, he founded and, until 2000,
served as the chief executive officer of Guangdong Robust Group, a then renowned food and beverage company which was acquired by
Danone Group in 2000. He also serves as the chairman or vice chairman of the board of directors of several privately owned companies
in China. Mr. He served as a director of iKang Healthcare Group Inc., the shares of which were previously listed on the Nasdaq Stock
Market (ticker symbol: KANG) till its delisting in January 2019, from July 2007 to January 2019. Mr. He received his two-year college
graduation certificate from Guangdong Television Public University (currently known as Guangdong Open University) in Guangdong,
China, in July 1986.
Dr. Zhiwu Chen has served as our independent director since January 2014. Dr. Chen has been a faculty member at the
University of Hong Kong since July 2016, and is currently serving as a director of the Hong Kong Institute for Humanities and Social
Sciences (HKIHSS) and the Centre for Quantitative History (CQH), the chair professor of Finance and Cheng Yu-Tung Professor in
Finance at the University of Hong Kong. Dr. Chen is a former professor of finance at Yale University from 1999 to 2017. He was also a
special-term visiting professor at School of Economics of Peking University and at School of Social Science and School of Economics
and Management of Tsinghua University. In 2001, Dr. Chen also co-founded Zebra Capital Management, L.L.C. and remained with the
company with the position as chief investment manager until March 2011. Dr. Chen received research awards including the Graham and
Dodd Award in 2013 by Financial Analysts Journal, the Pacesetter Research Award in 1999 by Genetic Metabolic Dietitians
International, and the Chicago Board Options Exchange Competitive Research Award in 1994 by Pacific-Basin Finance Journal. Dr.
Chen was listed as one of the top ten political influencers in China by Burson-Marsteller’s 2012 “G20 Influencers” report. Dr. Chen was
also one of members of the International Advisory Board of the CSRC from August 2012 to November 2019. Since March 2021, Dr.
Chen has been serving as an independent non-executive director at Bairong Inc., the shares of which are listed on the Hong Kong Stock
Exchange (stock code: 06608). Since August 2022, Dr. Chen has been serving as an independent non-executive director at GigaCloud
Technology Inc., the shares of which are listed on NASDAQ (ticker symbol: GCT).From July 2015 to October 2018, he served as an
independent non-executive Director of IDG Energy Investment Limited (previously known as Shun Cheong Holdings Limited), the
shares of which are listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange (stock code: 00650). From May 2011 to June 2017, he served as an
independent non-executive director at PetroChina Company Limited, the shares of which are listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange
(stock code: 00857), the Shanghai Stock Exchange (stock code: 601857) and the New York Stock Exchange (ticker symbol: PTR). From
November 2010 to August 2018, he served as an independent non-executive Director of Bank of Communications Co., Ltd., the shares of
which are listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange (stock code: 03328) and the Shanghai Stock Exchange (stock code: 601328). Dr.
Chen received his Ph.D. in financial economics from Yale University in December 1990, his master’s degree in systems engineering
from Changsha Institute of Technology (currently known as National University of Defense Technology) in Hunan, China, in January
1986 and his bachelor’s degree in computer science from Central South University in Hunan, China, in July 1983.
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Ms. Cynthia Jinhong Meng has been an independent Director since August 29, 2023. She has extensive experience in corporate
advisory, strategy development, stakeholder engagement and integrating ESG/sustainability. In June 2016, Ms. Meng established
Credence Investment Holding Limited (“Credence”), and has since been serving as a managing partner of Credence, primarily
responsible for business development, general management and advising entrepreneur founders and management team on critical
business strategies, fund raising and investor engagement issues. From September 2018 to February 2023, Ms. Meng served as a partner
at Brunswick Group Ltd., a London-based global critical issues advisory firm, primarily responsible for advisory, business development
and stakeholder engagement, with a focus on crisis management, risk mitigation, integrating ESG/sustainability strategies, and support
for corporate clients on strategic communications with investors and capital market stakeholders. Prior to founding Credence, Ms. Meng
had over ten years of experience in investment banking as a recognized equity research analyst. From January 2011 to June 2016, she
served as a managing director and the head of Greater China technology, media, and telecom (“TMT”) equity research at Jefferies Hong
Kong Limited. From September 2007 to October 2010, she served as a vice president, senior publishing equity research analyst and the
head of China telecom services and equipment research team at Merrill Lynch (Asia Pacific) Limited. From August 2006 to August
2007, she served as a vice president and publishing equity research analyst at China International Capital Corporation Hong Kong
Securities Limited. From October 2005 to July 2006, she served as a vice president and a regional telecoms services team support of J.P.
Morgan Securities (Asia Pacific) Limited. From April 2005 to October 2005, she served as an associate and research team support for
global technology hardware and telecom equipment sector at Thomas Weisel Partners, a New York-based investment bank. Prior to that,
Ms. Meng also served as (i) a management consultant at Adventis Corporation, a Boston-based global TMT strategy consultancy, from
July 1999 to March 2005; (ii) a management consultant at Arthur D. Little, a management consultancy headquartered in Boston, from
July 1998 to July 1999; and (iii) a marketing executive at Mobile Oil Asia Pacific pte Ltd. from October 1994 to August 1996. Ms. Meng
obtained her master’s degree in business administration from the Kellogg School of Management, Northwestern University in Illinois,
the U.S. in June 1998 and her bachelor’s degree in English literature from Ningbo University in Zhejiang, China, in June 1992. In
addition, Ms. Meng has obtained the qualification as Securities and Futures Intermediaries issued by the Hong Kong Securities Institute
and also received completion certificates for educational and professional programs at numerous prestigious universities and institutions
worldwide over the past decade, including, among others, Harvard Law School and Stanford Graduate School of Business.
Ms. May Yihong Wu, formerly named as Ning Wu, has been serving as an independent Director since November 2010. Ms. Wu
has been serving as an independent non-executive director and chairwoman of the audit committee of Alibaba Health Information
Technology Limited, the shares of which are listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange (stock code: 00241) since August 2023 and an
independent nonexecutive director, and chairwoman of the audit committee of Swire Properties Limited, a leading real estate developer
and manager based in Hong Kong, the shares of which are listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange (stock code: 01972) since May
2017. During July 2019 to May 2023, she also served as the board adviser of Homeinns Hotel Group, a leading economy hotel chain
company in China, the shares of which were listed on the Nasdaq Stock Market (ticker symbol: HMIN) from October 2006 to April
2016, where she also served as the chief strategy officer from May 2010 to June 2019 and chief financial officer from July 2006 to April
2010. Ms. Wu obtained her MBA degree from the J.L. Kellogg Graduate School of Management (currently known as Kellogg School of
Management) at Northwestern University in Illinois, the U.S., in June 1998, her master’s degree of arts in economics from Brooklyn
College of the City University of New York in New York, the U.S., in June 1993 and her bachelor’s degree in biochemistry from Fudan
University in Shanghai, China in July 1989.
Mr. Jinbo Yao has been our independent director since November 2014. Mr. Yao is a pioneer in China’s internet industry. He is
the founder and has been serving as the chairman of the board of directors and chief executive officer of 58.com Inc., the shares of which
were listed on the New York Stock Exchange (ticker symbol: WUBA) until September 2020, since 2013. Prior to founding 58.com Inc.,
in 2000, Mr. Yao founded domain.cn, a domain name transaction and value-added service website in China. After domain.cn was
acquired by net.cn in September 2000, Mr. Yao served in various managerial roles at net.cn with his last position as a vice president of
sales until May 2001. In September 2001, Mr. Yao co-founded the education company Xueda Education Group, the shares of which were
listed on the New York Stock Exchange (ticker symbol: XUE) in November 2010 until its delisting in September 2016. Mr. Yao received
his bachelor’s degrees in marine chemistry and computer application from Ocean University of Qingdao (currently known as Ocean
University of China) in Shangdong, China in July 1999.
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Mr. Qing Pan has been our chief financial officer since November 2019, and, for purposes of the Hong Kong Listing Rules, a
joint company secretary. Prior to taking this role, he served as the chief operating officer of Gopher Asset Management from April 2017
to November 2019, primarily responsible for overseeing fund operations, and leading several specialized teams including finance, due
diligence, credit rating and valuation. As a veteran in the investment and finance community, prior to joining our group, Mr. Pan worked
at Deloitte for 17 years, including at its Boston office from September 1999 to May 2007, its U.S. headquarter from June 2007 to
September 2009, and at its Shanghai office from October 2009 to July 2016 with his last position as an audit partner. During his
employment at Deloitte, Mr. Pan was a former member of the accounting research division at U.S. headquarters, and led projects in
relation to several Chinese companies’ U.S. listings across various industries. Mr. Pan is a certified public accountant in the U.S.,
mainland China, and Hong Kong. From August 2017 to February 2023, Mr. Pan has served as an independent director of JCET Co., Ltd.,
the shares of which are listed on the Shanghai Stock Exchange (stock code: 600584). Mr. Pan obtained his master degree of
science/MBA in professional accounting from Northeastern University in Massachusetts, the U.S., in September 1999 and his bachelor’s
degree in teaching Chinese as a foreign language from Beijing Foreign Studies University in Beijing, China, in July 1997.
Employment Agreements
We have entered into employment agreements with each of our executive officers. We may terminate an executive officer’s
employment for cause at any time without remuneration for certain acts of the officer, such as a crime resulting in a criminal conviction,
willful misconduct or gross negligence to our detriment, a material breach of the employment agreement or of our corporate and business
policies and procedures, or providing services for other entities without our consent. We may also terminate an executive officer’s
employment by giving one month’s notice or by paying a one-time compensation fee equal to one month’s salary in lieu of such notice
under certain circumstances, such as a failure by such officer to perform agreed-upon duties or the impracticability of the performance
caused by a material change of circumstances. An executive officer may terminate his or her employment at any time by giving
one month’s notice or immediately if we delay in the payment of remuneration, fail to pay social security fees, or fail to provide the
necessary working conditions for such officer.
Each executive officer, under his or her employment agreement with us, has agreed to hold any trade secrets, proprietary
information, inventions or technical secrets of our company in strict confidence during and after his or her employment. Each officer also
agrees that we shall own all the intellectual property developed by such officer during his or her employment. If an officer breaches the
above contractual obligations in relation with confidentiality and intellectual property, we are entitled to collect damages from such
officer equal to two months’ salary for such officer as well as to seek compensation of our actual losses.
Each officer also agrees to refrain from competing with us, directly or indirectly, for two years after his or her termination of
employment.
B.
Compensation
For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023, we paid an aggregate of approximately RMB40.2 million,
RMB23.2 million and RMB18.5 million (US$2.6 million), respectively, in cash to our directors and executive officers. We have not set
aside or accrued any amount to provide pension, retirement or other similar benefits to our executive officers and directors. Our PRC
subsidiaries and Consolidated Affiliated 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, unemployment insurance and other statutory benefits and a
housing provident fund.
Share Incentive Plans
We currently grant share incentive awards pursuant to our 2022 Share Incentive Plan, or the 2022 Plan. We previously granted
awards under our 2008 Share Incentive Plan, or the 2008 Plan, and 2010 Share Incentive Plan, or the 2010 Plan, until those plans were
terminated upon the adoption of the 2017 Plan. On December 16, 2022, our shareholders approved a new Share Incentive Plan, or the
2022 Plan, and effective on December 23, 2022 (“Effective Date”). The 2022 Plan replaces our 2017 Plan, and the 2017 Plan shall
continue to govern adwards granted prior to Effective Date, but no new awards shall be granted under the 2017 Plan following the
Effective Date.
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Our board of directors announced that, on December 29, 2023, it had resolved to (i) cancel 669,898 outstanding options (the
“Previously Granted Options”) involving an aggregate of 6,698,975 Shares (represented by 1,339,795 ADSs) previously granted to
employees pursuant to the terms of the then effective share incentive plans, and (ii) in replacement of the Previously Granted Options,
grant 223,297 RSUs (the “Replacement RSUs”) involving an aggregate of 2,232,965 Shares (represented by 446,593 ADSs) to such
employees, representing approximately 0.70% of the total ordinary shares of the Company in issue as of the date of grant. All such
223,297 RSUs were granted to the employees in consideration of the cancellation of the options previously granted to them respectively.
Upon the cancellation of 669,898 options and subject to the acceptance by the employees, 223,297 RSUs were granted. We determined
that the cancellation of options accompanied by the concurrent grant of the Replacement RSUs should be accounted for as a modification
of the terms of the cancelled options. Incremental compensation cost was measured as the excess of the fair value of the Replacement
RSUs over the fair value of the cancelled Options at the cancellation date, December 29, 2023.
The purpose of our share incentive plans is to attract and retain the best available personnel by linking the personal interests of
the members of the board, employees and service providers to the success of our business and by providing such individuals with an
incentive for outstanding performance to generate superior returns for our 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 service providers upon
whose judgment, interest, and special effort the successful conduct of the Company’s operation is largely dependent.
The 2022 Plan
Under the 2022 Plan, the maximum number of shares in respect of which options, restricted shares, or restricted share units and
other forms of share awards may be granted is 3,000,000 ordinary shares (the “Scheme Mandate Limite”). Within the Scheme Mandate
Limite, the maximum aggregate number of Shares which may be issued pursuant to all Awards to be granted to service providers under
the Plan initially as of the date of approval of the Plan shall be 60,000. As of December 31, 2023, there were no options to purchase
ordinary shares outstanding, and 89,723 restricted shares had been issued and were outstanding under the 2022 Plan.
Types of Awards. The following briefly describes the principal features of the various awards that may be granted under the
2022 Plan.
● Options. Options provide for the right to purchase a specified number of our ordinary shares at a specified price and usually
will become exercisable at the discretion of our plan administrator in installments after the grant date. The option exercise
price shall be paid in cash. The vesting period of an award of option shall not be less than 12 months from the date of such
award.
● Restricted Shares. A restricted share award is the grant of our ordinary shares which are subject to certain restrictions and
may be subject to risk of forfeiture. Unless otherwise determined by our Committee, a restricted share is nontransferable
and may be forfeited or repurchased by us upon termination of employment or service during a restricted period. Our
Committee may also impose other restrictions on the restricted shares, such as limitations on the right to vote or the right to
receive dividends.
● Restricted Share Units. A restricted share unit is a grant valued in terms of our ordinary shares, but shares are not issued at
the time of the grant. After the recipient of a unit satisfies the vesting requirement, we will distribute shares or the cash
equivalent of the number of shares used to value the unit, depending on the terms of the award. Vesting requirements are
determined by our Committee, but shall not less than 12 months from the date of grant of such Award.
● Share Appreciation Right. A share appreciation right is a right granted to receive a payment equal to the excess of the fair
market value of a specified number of ordinary shares on the date the award is exercised over the fair market value on the
date the award was granted as set forth in the applicable award agreement. Vesting requirements are determined by our
Committee, but shall not less than 12 months from the date of grant of such Award.
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Plan Administration. The Plan shall be administered by a committee of one or more members of the Board (the “Committee”)
to whom the Board shall delegate the authority to grant or amend Awards to Participants other than any of the Committee members. Any
grant or amendment of Awards to any Committee member shall then require an affirmative vote of a majority of the Board members who
are not on the Committee.
Award Agreement. 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.
Option Exercise Price. The exercise price per Share or ADS subject to an option shall be determined by the Committee at the
time the option is granted and set forth in the Award Agreement which may be a price related to the Fair Market Value of the NYSE-
traded ADSs (two NYSE-traded ADSs representing one Shares), applicable; provided, however, that the exercise price shall not be less
than the higher of (i) the Fair Market Value of an NYSE-traded ADS (two NYSE-traded ADSs representing one Share) on the date of
grant (which must be a trading day for the NYSE) and (ii) the average Fair Market Value of an NYSE-traded ADS (two NYSE-traded
ADSs representing one Share) for the five trading days for the NYSE immediately preceding the date of grant (or, if greater, the par
value of a Share on such date(s)).
Eligibility. Persons eligible to participate in this Plan include employee participants, related entity participants, and service
providers, as determined by the Committee.
Service Provider. Includs but not limited to any consultant, independent contractor or agent who (i) provides advisory services,
consultancy services, sales and marketing services, technology services, administrative services to the Company as consultants,
independent contractors or agents where the continuity and frequency of their services are akin to those of employees, (ii) provides
services in the wealth and asset management industry related projects of the Group, or (iii) provides advisory services and consultancy
services after stepping down from an employment or director position with the Group, but excluding placing agents or financial advisers
providing advisory services for fundraising, mergers or acquisitions and professional service providers, such as auditors or valuers who
provide assurance or are required to perform their services with impartiality and objectivity.
Term of the Awards. The term of each grant of option or restricted shares shall be determined by the Committee.
Vesting Schedule. In general, the Committee determines the vesting schedule, which is set forth in the Award Agreement, and
shall not less than 12 months from the date of grant of such Award.
Transfer Restrictions. 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 delivery
of such Shares to the Participant. The Committee, in its discretion, may impose restrictions on Shares acquired pursuant to the exercise of
an Option as it determines to be desirable, including, without limitation, restrictions relating to disposition of the shares, forfeiture
restrictions and such other factors as the Committee determines to be appropriate.
Termination. The Plan will expire on, and no Award may be granted pursuant to the Plan after, the tenth 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.
The following table summarizes, as of December 31, 2023, the outstanding restricted shares issued to our executive officers,
directors, and other individuals as a group under the 2022 plan.
Name
Jingbo Wang
Zhe Yin
Qing Pan
Other Individuals as a Group
Other Individuals as a Group
Notes:
*
Less than 1% of our total outstanding share capital.
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Restricted Shares
Date of Issuance
* December 29, 2023
* December 29, 2023
* December 29, 2023
* December 29, 2023
September 20, 2023
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The 2017 Plan
Under the 2017 Plan, the maximum number of shares in respect of which options, restricted shares, or restricted share units and
other forms of share awards may be granted is 2,800,000 ordinary shares. As of December 31, 2023, there were 28,463 options to
purchase ordinary shares outstanding, and 627 restricted shares had been issued and were outstanding under the 2017 Plan.
Types of Awards. The following briefly describes the principal features of the various awards that may be granted under the
2017 Plan.
● Options. Options provide for the right to purchase a specified number of our ordinary shares at a specified price and usually
will become exercisable at the discretion of our plan administrator in installments after the grant date. The option exercise
price shall be paid in cash.
● Restricted Shares. A restricted share award is the grant of our ordinary shares which are subject to certain restrictions and
may be subject to risk of forfeiture. Unless otherwise determined by our plan administrator, a restricted share is
nontransferable and may be forfeited or repurchased by us upon termination of employment or service during a restricted
period. Our plan administrator may also impose other restrictions on the restricted shares, such as limitations on the right to
vote or the right to receive dividends.
● Restricted Share Units. A restricted share unit is a grant valued in terms of our ordinary shares, but shares are not issued at
the time of the grant. After the recipient of a unit satisfies the vesting requirement, we will distribute shares or the cash
equivalent of the number of shares used to value the unit, depending on the terms of the award. Vesting requirements are
determined by our plan administrator.
● Share Appreciation Right. A share appreciation right is a right granted to receive a payment equal to the excess of the fair
market value of a specified number of ordinary shares on the date the award is exercised over the fair market value on the
date the award was granted as set forth in the applicable award agreement. Vesting requirements are determined by our plan
administrator.
Plan Administration. The plan administrator is our board of directors, or a committee designated by our board of directors. The
plan administrator will determine the provisions and terms and conditions of each grant.
Offer Letter. Options or restricted shares granted under the plan are evidenced by an offer letter that sets forth the terms,
conditions, and limitations for each grant.
Option Exercise Price. The exercise price subject to an option shall be determined by the plan administrator and set forth in the
offer letter.
Eligibility. We may grant awards to our directors, officers, employees, consultants and advisers.
Term of the Awards. The term of each grant of option or restricted shares shall be determined by the plan administrator.
Vesting Schedule. In general, the plan administrator determines the vesting schedule, which is set forth in the offer letter.
Transfer Restrictions. Awards for options may not be transferred to any third party in any manner by the award holders and
may be exercised only by such holders.
Termination. Unless terminated earlier, the 2017 Plan will terminate automatically on December 29, 2027. Our board of
directors has the authority to amend or terminate the plan. However, no such action may adversely affect in any material way any awards
previously granted unless agreed by the recipient.
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The following table summarizes, as of December 31, 2023, the outstanding options granted to our executive officers, directors,
and other individuals as a group under the 2017 plan.
Class A
Ordinary
Shares
Underlying
Options
Awarded
*
*
*
Name
Other Individuals as a Group
Other Individuals as a Group
Other Individuals as a Group
Notes:
*
Less than 1% of our total outstanding share capital.
Exercise
Price -
(US$/
ADS)
Date of Grant
Date of Expiration
37.63
September 1, 2018 September 1, 2028
23.68 December 1, 2020 December 1, 2034
14.53
July 13, 2032
July 13, 2022
The following table summarizes, as of December 31, 2023, the outstanding restricted shares issued to our executive officers,
directors, and other individuals as a group under the 2017 plan.
Name
Other Individuals as a Group
Notes:
*
Less than 1% of our total outstanding share capital.
The 2010 Plan
Restricted Shares
Date of Issuance
December 1, 2020
*
Although the 2010 Plan has been terminated, the outstanding awards previously granted under that plan remain effective and
will continue to be governed by the terms and conditions of the 2010 Plan. As of December 31, 2023, options to purchase an aggregate of
279,650 ordinary shares have been granted and were outstanding and no restricted shares had been issued and were outstanding under the
2010 Plan.
The following table summarizes, as of December 31, 2023, the outstanding options granted to our executive officers, directors,
and other individuals as a group under the 2010 plan.
Name
Class A
Ordinary
Shares
Underlying
Options
Awarded
Exercise
Price
(US$/
ADS)
Other Individuals as a Group
*
17.35~22.92
Notes:
*
Less than 1% of our total outstanding share capital.
Date of Grant
May 5, 2015 to
July 1, 2017
Date of Expiration
May 5, 2025 to
July 1, 2027
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C.
Board Practices
Board of Directors
Our board of directors consists of nine directors. A director is not required to hold any shares in our company to qualify to serve
as a director. A director who is in any way, whether directly or indirectly, interested in a contract or proposed contract with our company
is required to declare the nature of his interest at a meeting of our directors and may vote with respect to any contract, proposed contract
or arrangement notwithstanding that he is interested therein, and if he does so his vote shall be counted and he may be counted in the
quorum at any meeting of our directors at which such contract or proposed contract or arrangement is considered. Our board of directors
may exercise all the powers of our company to borrow money and to mortgage or charge its undertaking, property and uncalled capital or
any part thereof, and to issue debentures, debenture stock and other securities whenever money is borrowed or as security for any debt,
liability or obligation of our 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 established an audit committee, a compensation committee and a corporate governance and nominating committee under the
board of directors in November 2010. We adopted a charter for each of the three committees. Each committee’s members and functions
are described below.
Audit Committee. Our audit committee consists of Dr. Zhiwu Chen, Ms. Cynthia Jinhong Meng and Ms. May Yihong Wu, and
is chaired by Dr. Zhiwu Chen. Each member of our audit committee satisfies the “independence” requirements of Section 303A of the
Corporate Governance Rules of the NYSE and meet the independence standards under Rule 10A-3 under the Exchange Act. We have
determined that each member of our audit committee qualifies as an “audit committee financial expert.” The audit committee oversees
our accounting and financial reporting processes and the audits of the financial statements of our company. The audit committee is
responsible for, among other things:
● selecting the independent registered public accounting firm and pre-approving all auditing and non-auditing services
permitted to be performed by the independent registered public accounting firm;
● reviewing with the independent registered public accounting firm any audit problems or difficulties and management’s
response;
● discussing the annual audited financial statements with management and the independent registered public accounting firm;
● reviewing major issues as to the adequacy of our internal controls and any special audit steps adopted in light of material
control deficiencies;
● annually reviewing and reassessing the adequacy of our audit committee charter;
● meeting separately and periodically with management and the independent registered public accounting firm;
● reporting regularly to the board; and
● reviewing and approving certain proposed related party transactions, as defined in Item 404 of Regulation S-K under the
Securities Act.
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Compensation Committee. Our compensation committee consists of Ms. May Yihong Wu, Mr. Boquan He and Ms. Cynthia
Jinhong Meng, and is chaired by Ms. May Yihong Wu. Each member of our compensation committee satisfies the “independence”
requirements of Section 303A of the Corporate Governance Rules of the NYSE. The compensation committee assists the board in
reviewing and approving the 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 during which her compensation is deliberated upon.
The compensation committee is responsible for, among other things:
● reviewing the total compensation package for our most senior executives and making recommendations to the board with
respect to it;
● approving and overseeing the total compensation package for our executives other than the three most senior executives;
● reviewing the compensation of our directors and making recommendations to the board with respect to it; and
● periodically reviewing and approving any long-term incentive compensation or equity plans, programs or similar
arrangements, annual bonuses, and employee pension and welfare benefit plans.
Corporate Governance and Nominating Committee. Our corporate governance and nominating committee consists of Ms.
Jingbo Wang, Dr. Zhiwu Chen and Ms. May Yihong Wu, and is chaired by Ms. Jingbo Wang. Each of Dr. Zhiwu Chen and Ms. May
Yihong Wu satisfies the “independence” requirements of Section 303A of the Corporate Governance Rules of the NYSE. The corporate
governance and nominating committee assists the board of directors in identifying 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:
● identifying and recommending to the board nominees for election or re-election to the board, or for appointment to fill any
vacancy;
● reviewing annually with the board the current composition of the board in light of the characteristics of independence, age,
skills, experience and availability of service to us;
● identifying and recommending to the board the directors to serve as members of the board’s committees;
● advising the board periodically with respect to significant developments in the law and practice of corporate governance as
well as our compliance with applicable laws and regulations, and making recommendations to the board on all matters of
corporate governance and on any corrective action to be taken; and
● monitoring compliance with our code of business conduct and ethics, including reviewing the adequacy and effectiveness
of our procedures to ensure proper compliance.
Duties of Directors
Under Cayman Islands law, our directors owe to us fiduciary duties, including a duty of loyalty, a duty to act honestly and a duty
to act in what they consider in good faith to be in our best interests. Our directors must also exercise their powers only for a proper
purpose. Our directors also have a duty to exercise the skill they actually possess and such care and diligence that a reasonably prudent
person would exercise in comparable circumstances. It was previously considered that a director need not exhibit in the performance of
his duties a greater degree of skill than what may reasonably be expected from a person of his 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. In fulfilling their duty of care to us, our directors must ensure compliance
with our memorandum and articles of association. Our company has the right to seek damages if a duty owed by our directors, or any of
them, is breached.
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Terms of Directors and Officers
Our officers are appointed by and serve at the discretion of the board of directors. Each directors shall hold office until the
expiration of his term and until his successor shall have been elected and qualified. Our directors, including those appointed for a specific
term, are subject to retirement by rotation at least once every three years. A director may be removed from office at any time by an
ordinary resolution of our shareholders before the expiration of his term. A director’s office will be vacated if such director (i) dies,
becomes bankrupt or makes any arrangement or composition with his creditors; (ii) is found to be or becomes of unsound mind; (iii)
resigns his office by notice in writing to our company; or (iv) is removed from office pursuant to our memorandum and articles of
association or the laws of Cayman Islands.
We have no service contracts with any of our directors that provide benefits to them upon termination.
D.
Employees
We had 3,148, 2,884 and 2,583 employees as of December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023, respectively, including 1,316, 1,276 and
1,252 relationship managers during the same periods, respectively. The following table sets forth the breakdown of our full-time
employees by function as of December 31, 2023:
Business Segments
Wealth management
Relationship managers
Asset management
Overseas
Research and development
Risk management and compliance
Administrative support
Total
Number of
Employees % of Total
13.6
48.5
4.8
7.7
12.3
2.5
10.7
100.0 %
350
1,252
123
199
317
65
277
2,583
We believe we offer our employees competitive compensation packages and a dynamic work environment that encourages
initiative and is based on merit. As a result, we have generally been able to attract and retain qualified personnel and maintain a stable
core management team.
As required by regulations in China, we participate in various employee social security plans that are organized by municipal
and provincial governments, including endowment insurance, unemployment insurance, maternity insurance, employment injury
insurance, medical insurance and housing provident fund. We are required under Chinese law to make contributions to employee benefit
plans at specified percentages of the salaries, bonuses and certain allowances of our employees, up to a maximum amount specified by
the local government from time to time.
We believe that we maintain a good working relationship with our employees and we have not experienced any significant labor
disputes.
E.
Share Ownership
The following table sets forth information with respect to the beneficial ownership of our ordinary shares as of December 31,
2023, by:
● each of our directors and executive officers; and
● each person known to us to own beneficially more than 5.0% of our ordinary shares.
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As of December 31, 2023, we had 328,034,660 ordinary shares outstanding. 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 of that person, we have included shares that the person has the right to acquire within 60 days of the date of this annual report,
including through the exercise of any option, warrant or other right or the conversion of any other security. These shares, however, are
not included in the computation of the percentage ownership of any other person.
Directors and Executive Officers:
Jingbo Wang(2)
Zhe Yin(3)
Boquan He(4)
Chia-Yue Chang(5)
May Yihong Wu
Jinbo Yao
Zhiwu Chen
Qing Pan
All Directors and Officers as a Group
Principal Shareholders:
Jing Investors Co., Ltd.(6)
Yiheng Capital Partners, L.P. (7)
FIL Limited(8)
Jia Investment Co., Ltd.(9)
Yin Investment Co., Ltd.(10)
Investment funds affiliated with Hongshan Capital(11)
Quan Investment Co., Ltd.(12)
Notes:
*
Less than 1% of our total outstanding ordinary shares.
Ordinary Shares Beneficailly Owned
Number(1)
%
68,211,755
16,680,335
16,398,720
20,388,835
*
*
*
*
121,679,645
67,886,755
33,598,610
31,872,415
20,388,835
16,680,335
16,500,000
16,398,720
20.8
5.1
5.0
6.2
*
*
*
*
37.1
20.7
10.3
9.7
6.2
5.1
5.1
5.0
(1) The numbers of ordinary shares in this column have taken the the share subdivision of the Company effective on October 30, 2023,
pursuant to which the ordinary share of a par value of US$0.0005 each in the share capital of the Company were subdivided into ten
(10) ordinary shares of a par value of US$0.00005 each in the share capital of the Company.
(2) Represents 67,864,530 ordinary shares and options to acquire ordinary shares owned by Jing Investors Co., Ltd., a British Virgin
Islands company wholly owned and controlled by Ms. Jingbo Wang and 32,500 ordinary shares owned by Jingbo Wang.
(3) Represents 16,680,335 ordinary shares and options to acquire ordinary shares owned by Yin Investment Co., Ltd., a British Virgin
Islands company wholly owned and controlled by Mr. Zhe Yin.
(4) Represents 16,398,720 ordinary shares held by Quan Investment Co., Ltd., a British Virgin Islands company wholly owned and
controlled by Mr. Boquan He.
(5) Represents 20,388,835 ordinary shares and options to acquire ordinary shares owned by Jia Investment Co., Ltd., a British Virgin
Islands company wholly owned and controlled by Ms. Chia-Yue Chang
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(6) Jing Investors Co., Ltd., or Jing Investors, is a British Virgin Islands company wholly owned by Ark Trust (Hong Kong) Limited, or
Ark Trust, in its capacity as trustee of the Jing Family Trust, or the Trust, constituted under the laws of Hong Kong, with Ms. Wang
as the settlor and Ms. Wang and her family members as the beneficiaries. The Trust was established for the purposes of Ms. Wang’s
wealth management and family succession planning. Jing Investors is directly wholly owned by Magic Beams Enterprises Ltd., a
British Virgin Islands company, which is in turn wholly owned by Art Trust, a professional trustee company. Ark Trust as trustee of
the Trust has no power to dispose of the ordinary shares held by Jing Investors except upon written instruction by Ms. Wang, or to
avoid adverse impact on the reputation of Ark Trust or any of its associates. Jing Investors is the record owner of 67,886,755
ordinary shares. Ms. Wang is the sole director of Jing Investors and as such has power to vote and dispose of the ordinary shares
held by Jing Investors. Ms. Wang is the beneficial owner of all the ordinary shares held by Jing Investors. The registered address of
Jing Investors Co., Ltd. is Vistra Corporate Services Centre, Wickhams Cay II, Road Town, Tortola, VG1110, British Virgin Islands.
(7) Represents 33,598,610 ordinary shares beneficially owned by Yiheng Capital Partners, L.P. as of December 31, 2023, as reported in
a Schedule 13G jointly filed by Yiheng Capital Management, LP, Yiheng Capital, LLC and Yiheng Capital Partners, L.P., among
other reporting persons, with the SEC on February 14, 2023. Yiheng Capital Partners, L.P. is a Delaware limited partnership
managed by Yiheng Capital Management, LP, a Delaware limited partnership. Yuanshan Guo is the managing member of Yiheng
Capital Management, LP. The registered address of Yiheng Capital Partners, L.P. is 101 California Street, Suite 2880, San
Francisco, CA 94111.
(8) Represents 31,872,415 ordinary shares beneficially owned by FIL Limited, or FIL, and its direct and indirect subsidiaries as of
December 31, 2023, as reported in a Schedule 13G filed by FIL Limited with the SEC on February 9, 2023. FIL is a Bermuda
incorporated company and its registered address is Pembroke Hall, 42 Crow Lane, Hamilton, Bermuda, HM19.
(9) Jia Investment Co., Ltd. is a British Virgin Islands company wholly owned and controlled by Ms. Chia-Yue Chang. The registered
address of Jia Investment Co., Ltd. is Coastal Building, Wickhams Cay II, P.O. Box 2221, Road Town, Tortola, British Virgin
Islands.
(10) Yin Investment Co., Ltd., or Yin Investment, is a British Virgin Islands company wholly owned by ARK Trust (Hong Kong)
Limited in its capacity as trustee of the Safe Harbor Trust (the “Trust”) constituted under the laws of Hong Kong, with Mr. Zhe Yin
as the settlor and Mr. Zhe Yin and his family members as the beneficiaries. Yin Investment is directly wholly owned by Rhythm
Profit Investment Limited, a British Virgin Islands company, which is in turn wholly owned by ARK Trust (Hong Kong) Limited, a
professional trustee company. Therefore, ARK Trust (Hong Kong) Limited as trustee of the Trust may be considered to indirectly
hold the shares of Yin Investment. However, the Trustee disclaims beneficial ownership of all such shares. ARK Trust (Hong Kong)
Limited as trustee of the Trust has no power to dispose of the ordinary shares held by Yin Investment except upon written
instruction by Mr. Zhe Yin, or to avoid criminal sanction or civil liability to persons not connected with the Trust, or to avoid
adverse impact on the reputation of ARK Trust (Hong Kong) Limited or any of its associateswholly owned and controlled by Mr.
Zhe Yin. The registered address of Yin Investment Co., Ltd. is Vistra Corporate Services Centre, Wickhams Cay II, Road Town,
Tortola, VG1110, British Virgin Islands.
(11) Represents 16,500,000 ordinary shares in the form of ADSs held by (i) HongShan Capital I, L.P. (formerly known as Sequoia
Capital China I, L.P.), (ii) HongShan Capital Partners Fund I, L.P. (formerly known as Sequoia Capital China Partners Fund, L.P.),
and (iii) HongShan Capital Principals Fund I, L.P. (formerly known as Sequoia Capital China Principals Fund, L.P.) (each a
“HongShan Capital fund”) The general partner of each of the three HongShan Capital funds is HongShan Capital Management I,
L.P., whose general partner is HSG Holding Limited, a company incorporated in the Cayman Islands. HSG Holding Limited is
wholly owned by SNP China Enterprises Limited, a company wholly owned by Mr. Neil Nanpeng Shen. Mr. Shen is a managing
partner of HongShan Capital, an affiliate of the HongShan Capital funds.
(12) Quan Investment Co., Ltd. is a British Virgin Islands company wholly owned and controlled by Mr. Boquan He. The registered
address of Quan Investment Co., Ltd. is Drake Chambers, Tortola, British Virgin Islands.
To our knowledge, as of December 31, 2023, 17,773,145 of our ordinary shares were held by one record holder in the United
States, which is Citibank, N. A., the depositary of our ADS program. The number of beneficial owners of our ADSs in the United States
is much larger than the number of record holders of our ordinary shares in the United States.
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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. Directors, Senior Management and Employees—E. Share Ownership.”
B.
Related Party Transactions
Contractual Arrangements
As to the Contractual Arrangements with Noah Investment and its shareholders, please see “Item 4. Information on the
Company—C. Organizational Structure” for a description of the Contractual Arrangements.
Transactions with Shareholders and Affiliates
For the funds for which Gopher Asset Management and Gopher GP serve as general partners and/or fund managers, we are
entitled to receive recurring service fees and performance-based income. Gopher Asset Management is also entitled to receive one-time
commissions for fund raising services when distributing the relevant funds to HNW clients.
During the years ended December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023, related party transactions were as follows:
One-time commissions
Investee funds of Gopher Asset Management
Recurring service fees
Investee funds of Gopher Asset Management
Wanjia Win-Win Assets Management Co., Ltd (“Wanjia Win-Win”)
HongShan Capital Investment Management (Tianjin) Co., Ltd. (formerly known as
Sequoia Capital Investment Management (Tianjin) Co., Ltd.)
Investee funds of Gopher GP
Total recurring service fees
Performance-based income
Investee funds of Gopher Asset Management
Investee funds of Gopher GP
Total performance-based income
Other service fees
Investee funds of Gopher Assets
Investee funds of Gopher GP
Total other service fees
Total
Year Ended December 31
(Amount in Thousands)
2023
RMB
2022
RMB
2021
RMB
2023
US$
140,522
63,809
16,365
2,305
871,618
463
768,161
—
712,479
—
100,351
—
26,488
323,691
1,222,260
16,791
377,274
1,162,226
16,286
400,371
1,129,136
2,294
56,391
159,036
166,580
225,710
392,290
51,304
74,224
125,528
10,934
110,331
121,265
1,540
15,540
17,080
5,945
—
5,945
1,761,017
—
—
—
1,351,563
—
—
—
1,266,766
—
—
—
178,421
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As of December 31, 2022 and 2023, amounts due from related parties associated with the above transactions were comprised of
the following:
Investee funds of Gopher Assets
Investee funds of Gopher Capital GP Ltd.
Total in gross amounts
Less: allowance for credit losses
Total in net amounts
As of December 31,
(Amount in Thousands)
2023
RMB
2022
RMB
317,969
108,090
426,059
(11,872)
414,187
238,033
93,498
331,531
(9,194)
322,337
2023
US$
33,527
13,169
46,696
(1,295)
45,401
As of December 31, 2022 and 2023, amounts due from related parties associated with loan distributed were comprised of the
following:
Investee funds of Gopher Assets
Investee funds of Gopher Capital GP Ltd.
Total in gross amounts
Less: allowance for credit losses
Total in net amounts
As of December 31,
(Amount in Thousands)
2023
RMB
11,075
74,679
85,754
(14,200)
71,554
2022
RMB
13,940
29,091
43,031
(13,794)
29,237
2023
US$
1,560
10,517
12,077
(2,000)
10,077
The terms of the loans are due on demand and expected to be matured within one year, most of which are interest free.
As of December 31, 2022 and 2023, deferred revenues related to the recurring management fee received in advance from related
parties were comprised of the following:
Investee funds of Gopher Asset Management
Investee funds of Gopher GP
Total
As of December 31,
(Amount in Thousands)
2023
RMB
8,830
4,728
13,558
2022
RMB
10,325
611
10,936
2023
US$
1,244
666
1,910
During the years ended December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023, donation made to Shanghai Noah Charity Fund were RMB3.5
million, RMB3.2 million and RMB6.3 million (US$0.9 million), respectively.
During the years ended December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023 we paid RMB9.2 million, RMB5.5 million and nil as service fees to
Shanghai Dingnuo Technology Co., Ltd. (“Dingnuo”) for development of an online mutual fund work station for our relationship
managers and one-stop service platform for private equity fund managers, respectively. Dingnuo was no longer the affiliate of
shareholder of our Group after we acquired 100% of the issued shares in DD Finance Ltd. (the parent company of Dingnuo) on June 28,
2023.
Employment Agreements
See “Item 6. Directors, Senior Management and Employees—A. Directors and Senior Management—Employment
Agreements.”
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Share Incentives
See “Item 6. Directors, Senior Management and Employees—B. Compensation—Share Incentive Plans.”
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. See “Item 18. Financial Statements.”
Legal Proceedings
Camsing Incident
In early 2018, one of the Consolidated Affiliated Entities of our group, Shanghai Gopher,established credit funds (the “Camsing
Credit Funds”) to allow our clients to invest in account receivables (the “Camsing Accounts Receivables”) arising from the sale of
computer,consumer electronics and communication products by affiliates (the “Sellers”) of Camsing International Holding Limited
(“Camsing”) to a buyer (the “Buyer”). Under this supply chain factoring arrangement, the controlling shareholder and affiliates of
Camsing guaranteed to repurchase the Camsing Accounts Receivables from the Camsing Credit Funds if the Buyer failed to settle the
Camsing Accounts Receivables upon the relevant due dates.
In 2019, Shanghai Gopher came to suspect that certain Camsing Accounts Receivables did not arise from real commercial
transactions between the Sellers and the Buyer. Shanghai Gopher and its affiliate reported the suspected fraudulent activities to the
Shanghai Police and Shanghai Office of the CSRC, respectively and initiated legal proceedings to the Sellers, the Buyer and relevant
guarantors. These events are collectively referred to as the Camsing Incident (the “Camsing Incident”).
As of the date of this annual report, a total of 818 clients of Shanghai Gopher who invested in the Camsing Credit Funds were
affected, and the outstanding amount of the Camsing Accounts Receivables under the Camsing Credit Funds which are potentially
subject to repayment default amounted to RMB3.4 billion.
While we believe we have solid legal grounds to defend any legal claims from all 818 affected clients in the Camsing Incident
against us, as a gesture of goodwill and to avoid distractions to our management and to minimize the potential legal costs for handling
818 potential legal proceedings, we voluntarily made an ex gratia settlement offer (the “Offer”) to affected clients. An affected client who
accepted the offer shall receive restricted share units (“RSUs”) and become an ordinary shareholder of our Company upon vesting, and in
return (i) forego all outstanding legal rights associated with the investment in the Camsing Credit Funds, and (ii) irrevocably release our
Company and all our affiliated entities and individuals from any and all claims immediately, known or unknown, that relate to the
Camsing Credit Funds. Each RSU allows the grantees to receive one ordinary share (10 Shares after Share Subdivision). As of December
31, 2023, 1,462,340 RSUs have been vested by the affected clients who accepted the Offer.
As approved by our board of directors on August 24, 2020, a total number of new Class A ordinary shares (under current
circumstances, Shares) not exceeding 1.6% of the share capital of our Company has been authorized to be issued under the settlement
plan annually for ten consecutive years. The settlement plan was not required to be approved by our shareholders under the memorandum
of association and articles of association of the Company.
We recorded share-based settlement expenses of RMB1,290.8 million for the year ended December 31, 2020 based on the fair
value of the RSUs issued to affected clients under the Offer. As we do not preclude the possibility of reaching settlement with such
affected clients in the future on similar terms, RMB530.4 million was recorded as contingent liabilities as of December 31, 2020.
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Based on the difference between the fair value of the RSUs to be issued under the Offer in 2021 and the corresponding
contingent liabilities accrued as of December 31, 2020, we recorded share-based settlement expenses in the amount of RMB19.9 million
for the year ended December 31, 2021, and the contingent liabilities for unsettled affected clients was RMB433.3 million as of December
31, 2021. There was no new settlement in 2022 or 2023.
On November 1, 2022, the Shanghai No.2 Intermediate People’s Court issued an initial judgment on the criminal case of the
Camsing Incident, pursuant to which the controlling shareholder of the Camsing was convicted of contract fraud and other crimes and
sentenced to life imprisonment, the treasurer of the Camsing was convicted of contract fraud and other crimes and sentenced to 17 years
and six months imprisonment, and other defendants in the criminal proceeding were respectively convicted of contract fraud and
sentenced to imprisonment for a definite term.
On January 5, 2024, the Shanghai High People’s Court dismissed the appeals filed by the controlling shareholder of the
Camsing and other defendants in the criminal proceeding and upheld the judgment of the first instance, which ruling has become final.
We were not involved in any of the suspected fraudulent activities, and we believe that the results of the criminal proceeding
would not have any material adverse effect on our business, results of operations or reputation. The Company will continue to closely
monitor and evaluate any future development of the legal proceedings in connection with the Camsing Incident, to protect the best
interests of us and our shareholders. We believe that the Camsing Incident did not have a material adverse impact on our total transaction
value and we have recovered from the impact of the Camsing Incident to our reputation.
Other Incident
In December 2022, we received a civil judgment from the Bozhou Intermediate People’s Court of Anhui Province (the “First
Instance Court”). The judgement related to a civil lawsuit brought by an external institution (the “Plaintiff”) against Noah (Shanghai)
Financial Leasing Co., Ltd. (the “Defendant”, one subsidiary of the Company).
The First Instance Court first accepted the civil lawsuit filed by the Plaintiff against the Defendant in August 2019 respecting
the financial consultancy services provided by the Defendant to the Plaintiff on its investment process. The Defendant charged a fee of
RMB500,000 for providing such consultancy services to the Plaintiff. In December 2020, the First Instance Court dismissed the
Plaintiff’s case. In March 2021, the High People’s Court of Anhui Province (the “Appellate Court”) dismissed the Plaintiff’s appeal to
the ruling of the First Instance Court. No contingent liabilities with respect to the civil claim were recorded by us as both the First
Instance Court and the Appellate Court dismissed the Plaintiff’s case.
The Plaintiff subsequently, for the third time, applied for a retrial to the Supreme People’s Court. In February 2022, the Supreme
People’s Court issued an order revoking the aforementioned rulings and remanding the case to the First Instance Court for retrial. While
we held the same view as before that the claim of the Plaintiff is without merit and is unfounded, in December 2022, the First Instance
Court awarded the Plaintiff monetary damages of RMB99.0 million and corresponding interests (the “First-instance Ruling”). The first-
instance ruling was under appeal as of December 31, 2023.
In late March 2024, we received a judgment on appeal (the “Appellate Judgment”) from the High People’s Court of Anhui
Province, affirming the First-instance Ruling. The Appellate Judgment took immediate effect, pursuant to which the Defendant shall
make a payment to the Plaintiff within ten days from the date the Appellate Judgment became effective. As we had previously reserved a
contingent liability of RMB99.0 million in accordance with the First-instance Ruling prior to the issuance of the Appellate Judgment, the
ruling in the Appellate Judgment is not expected to materially affect our overall financial position in comparison to our financial position
prior to the issuance of the Appellate Judgment. Based on advice from our PRC counsel to this civil lawsuit, we held the same view as
before that the claim of the Plaintiff is without merit and is unfounded. We intend to apply for a retrial to the Supreme People’s Court of
the PRC with respect to the ruling in the Appellate Judgment, and to vigorously defend against the civil claim from the Plaintiff.
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Other than the matters mentioned above, we are currently not a party to, and we are not aware of any threat of, any judicial,
arbitration or administrative proceedings that, in the opinion of our management, are likely to have a material and adverse effect on our
business, financial condition or results of operations. We may from time to time be involved in litigation and claims incidental to the
conduct of our business. Our businesses are also subject to extensive regulations, which may result in regulatory proceedings against us,
See “Item 3. Key Information—D. Risk Factors” above. Litigation or any other legal or administrative proceedings, regardless of the
outcome, may result in substantial cost and diversion of our recourses, including our management’s time and attention.
Dividend Policy
Our board of directors has complete discretion as to whether to distribute dividends, subject to our articles of association and
Cayman Islands law. On August 10, 2022, our board of directors approved and adopted the following dividend policy (the “Dividend
Policy”), which aims to provide stable and sustainable returns to the Shareholders. The Dividend Policy has become effective from
August 10, 2022, and was amended on November 30, 2023. According to the amended Dividend Policy, in normal circumstances, the
annual dividends to be declared and distributed in each calendar year shall be, in principle, no less than 35% of the Group’s non-GAAP
net income attributable to the Shareholders of the preceding financial year as reported in the Company’s audited annual results
announcement, subject to various factors. The dividend under the Dividend Policy proposed and/or declared by the Board for a financial
year are deemed as final dividend. Any final dividend for a financial year will be subject to Shareholders’ approval. The Company may
declare and pay dividends by way of cash or by other means that the Board considers appropriate. Such dividend policy shall in no way
constitute a legally binding commitment by the Company in respect of its future dividend and/or in no way obligate the Company to
declare a dividend at any time or from time to time. There can be no assurance that dividends will be paid in any particular amount for
any given year. In addition, our shareholders by ordinary resolution may declare a dividend, but no dividend may exceed the amount
recommended by our Board. Under Cayman Islands law, a Cayman Islands company may pay a dividend on its shares out of either profit
or share premium amount, 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 decides to pay dividends, the form, frequency and
amount will depend upon our future operations and earnings, capital requirements and surplus, general financial condition, contractual
restrictions and other factors that the Board may deem relevant.
The Directors recommended (i) final dividend of RMB509.0 million (approximately US$71.7 million) in aggregate in respect of
the year ended December 31, 2023, which will be paid out of the corporate actions budget equivalent to 50% of the non-GAAP net
income attributable to Shareholders in 2023 in accordance with the capital management and shareholder return policy of the Company
adopted on November 29, 2023; and (ii) special dividend of RMB509.0 million (approximately US$71.7 million) in aggregate, which
will be paid out of the accumulated return surplus cash from the years prior to 2023, to Shareholders whose names appear on the register
of members of the Company as of the record date for dividend distribution.
Based on the number of issued Shares as of the date of this annual report, if declared and paid, (i) a final dividend of RMB1.55
(equivalent to approximately US$0.22) per share (tax inclusive) in respect of the year ended December 31, 2023, and (ii) a non-recurring
special dividend of RMB1.55 (equivalent to approximately US$0.22) per share (tax inclusive); will be paid out to Shareholders who are
entitled to dividends, both subject to adjustment to the number of Shares of the Company entitled to dividend distribution as of the record
date for dividend distribution, and the equivalent U.S. dollars amount is also subject to exchange rate adjustment. Recommendations on
the final dividend and special dividend are subject to respective approval by the Shareholders at the forthcoming annual general meeting
to be held on or around June 12, 2024. If the proposed final dividend and special dividend are approved by the Shareholders, the
Company expects to pay such dividend by August 2024.
For undistributed profits earned from our PRC subsidiaries, we have both the intent and ability to permanently reinvest these
undistributed profits.
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.
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Item 9. The Offer and Listing
A.
Offering and Listing Details
See “—C. Markets.”
B.
Plan of Distribution
Not applicable.
C.
Markets
Our ADSs have been listed on the New York Stock Exchange since November 10, 2010 under the symbol “NOAH.” Two ADSs
represent one of our ordinary shares.
Our ordinary shares have been listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange since July 13, 2022 under the stock code “6686”.
D.
Selling Shareholders
Not applicable.
E.
Dilution
Not applicable.
F.
Expenses of the Issue
Not applicable.
Item 10. Additional Information
A.
Share Capital
On October 26, 2023, the Company’s shareholders approved the resolution for share subdivision. On October 30, 2023, the
share subdivision became effective. Upon the effectiveness of the resolution, each of the issued and unissued ordinary shares of par value
of US$0.0005 each was hereby subdivided into ten (10) ordinary shares of par value of US$0.00005 each (“Subdivided Shares”), and
such Subdivided Shares shall rank pari passu in all respects with each other in accordance with the Company’s memorandum and articles
of association and have the same rights and privileges and be subject to the same restriction as the shares of the Company in issue prior
to the share subdivision.
B.
Memorandum and Articles of Association
The following are summaries of material provisions of our memorandum and articles of association, as well as the Companies
Act (As Revised) of the Cayman Islands, or the Companies Act, insofar as they relate to the material terms of our ordinary shares.
Registered Office and Objects
The registered office of our company is located at the offices of Maples Corporate Services Limited, PO Box 309, Ugland
House, Grand Cayman KY1-1104, Cayman Islands as of the date of this annual report, and may be relocated to 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 or any other law of the Cayman Islands.
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Board of Directors
See “Item 6. Directors, Senior Management and Employees—C. Board practices—Board of Directors.”
Ordinary Shares
General. All of our issued and outstanding ordinary shares are fully paid. Our ordinary shares are issued in registered form, and
are issued when registered in our register of shareholders. Our shareholders who are non-residents of the Cayman Islands may freely hold
and vote their ordinary shares.
Dividends. The holders of our ordinary shares are entitled to such dividends as may be declared by our board of directors,
subject to Cayman Islands law and our articles of association. 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 on its shares out of either profit or share premium amount, 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.
Voting Rights. Each ordinary share is entitled to one vote on all matters upon which the ordinary shares are entitled to vote.
Voting at any shareholders’ meeting is by show of hands unless a poll is demanded (before or on the declaration of the result of the show
of hands). A poll may be demanded by any one or more shareholders present in person or by proxy entitled to vote and who together
hold not less than 10% of the paid up voting share capital of our company. Shareholders may attend any shareholders’ meeting in person
or by proxy, or if a corporation or other non-natural person, by its duly authorized representative or proxy.
A quorum required for a meeting of shareholders consists of at least one shareholder present in person or by proxy or, if a
corporation or other non-natural person, by its duly authorized representative, who hold not less than an aggregate of one-tenth of our
voting share capital. Shareholders’ meetings may be held annually and may be convened by our board of directors. An annual general
meeting shall be called by not less than 21 days’ notice in writing and any extraordinary general meeting shall be called by not less than
14 days’ notice in writing.
An ordinary resolution to be passed by the shareholders requires the affirmative vote of a simple majority of the votes cast by
the shareholders entitled to vote, in person or by proxy, in a general meeting, while a special resolution requires the affirmative vote of no
less than three fourths of the votes cast by the shareholders entitled to vote, in person or by proxy, in a general meeting. A special
resolution is required for important matters such as a change of name or amendments to our memorandum or articles of association.
Holders of the ordinary shares may effect certain changes by ordinary resolution, including increasing the amount of our authorized share
capital, consolidating and dividing all or any of our share capital into shares of larger amounts than our existing shares, and canceling any
authorized but unissued shares.
Transfer of Shares. Our shareholders may transfer all or any of their ordinary shares by an instrument of transfer in writing and
executed by or on behalf of the transferor (and if our board of directors require, the transferee).
Our board of directors may decline to register any transfer of any ordinary share which is not fully paid up or on which we have
a lien. Our board may also decline to register any transfer of any ordinary share unless (a) the instrument of transfer is lodged with us,
accompanied by the certificate for the ordinary shares to which it relates and such other evidence as our board may reasonably require to
show the right of the transferor to make the transfer; (b) the instrument of transfer is in respect of only one class of shares, (c) the
instrument of transfer is properly stamped, if required, (d) in the case of a transfer to joint holders, the number of joint holders to whom
the share is to be transferred does not exceed four; (e) the shares conceded are free of any lien in favor of the Company, and (f) a fee of
such maximum sum as the NYSE may determine to be payable, or such lesser sum as our board may from time to time require, is paid to
us in respect thereof.
If our board of directors refuses to register a transfer it shall, within two months after the date on which the instrument of
transfer was lodged, send to each of the transferor and the transferee notice of such refusal. The registration of transfers may be
suspended on 14 days’ notice being given by advertisement in such one or more newspapers or by electronic means and the register
closed at such times and for such periods as our board may from time to time determine.
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Liquidation. On a return of capital on winding up or otherwise (other than on conversion, redemption or purchase of shares),
assets available for distribution shall be distributed among the holders of the ordinary shares on a pro rata basis, and the liquidator may
with the sanction of an ordinary resolution of the shareholders divide amongst the shareholders in specie or in kind the whole or any part
of the assets of our company, and may for such purpose set such value as he deems fair upon any property to be divided as aforesaid, and
may determine how such division shall be carried out as between our shareholders or different classes of shareholder.
Redemption, Repurchase and Surrender of Shares. 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 may, before the issue of such shares, be determined by our board of
directors. Our company may also repurchase any of our shares provided that our shareholders shall have approved the manner of
purchase by ordinary resolution or the manner of purchase is in accordance with the provisions of Articles 17 and 17A of our articles of
association. Under the Companies Act, the redemption or repurchase of any share may be paid out of our company’s profits or out of the
proceeds of a fresh issue of shares made for the purpose of such redemption or repurchase, or out of capital (including share premium
account and capital redemption reserve) if our company can, immediately following such payment, pay its debts as they fall due in the
ordinary course of business. In addition, under the Companies Act no such share may be redeemed or repurchased (a) unless it is fully
paid up, (b) if such redemption or repurchase would result in there being no shares outstanding, or (c) if the company has commenced
liquidation. In addition, our company may accept the surrender of any fully paid share for no consideration.
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 calendar days prior to the specified time of payment.
Shares that have been called upon and remain unpaid on the specified time are subject to forfeiture.
Variations of Rights of Shares. If at any time our share capital is divided into different classes or series of shares, all or any of
the special rights attached to any class or series of shares may be varied either with the written consent of the holders of not less than
three-fourths in the nominal value of the issued shares of that class or series or with the sanction passed at a general meeting of the
holders of the shares of that class or series by shareholders holding shares representing three-fourths in nominal value of the issue shares
of that class present in person or by proxy and voting at such general meeting.
Inspection of Books and Records. Holders of our ordinary shares have no general right under Cayman Islands law to inspect or
obtain copies of our list of shareholders or our corporate records, subject to certain limited exceptions (including the right to obtain our
memorandum and articles of association, our register of mortgages and charges and special resolutions of our shareholders). However,
we will provide our shareholders with annual audited financial statements. See “—H. Documents on Display.”
Anti-Takeover Provisions. Some provisions of our memorandum and articles of association have the potential to discourage,
delay or prevent a change of control of our company or management that shareholders may consider favorable, including provisions that:
● subject to the requirements under the Hong Kong Listing Rules, authorize our board of directors to issue Shares, grant
rights over existing shares or issue other securities in one or more series as they deem necessary and appropriate and
determine designations, powers, preferences, privileges and other rights, including dividend rights, conversion rights, terms
of redemption and liquidation preferences, any or all of which may be greater than the powers and rights associated with
the Shares held by existing Members, at such times and on such other terms as they think proper; and
● limit the ability of shareholders to call general meetings of shareholders.
However, under Cayman Islands law, our directors may only exercise the rights and powers granted to them under our
memorandum and articles of association for a proper purpose and for what they believe in good faith to be in the best interests of our
company.
General Meetings of Shareholders. Shareholders’ meetings may be convened by our board of directors. An annual general
meeting shall be called by not less than 21 days’ notice in writing and any extraordinary general meeting shall be called by not less than
14 days’ notice in writing. A quorum for a meeting of shareholders consists of members holding not less than an aggregate of one-tenth
of all voting share capital of our company present in person or by proxy.
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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 Regulations
See “Item 4. Information on the Company—B. Business Overview—Regulations in China—Regulations on Foreign
Exchange.”
E.
Taxation
The following summaries of certain material Cayman Islands, PRC and U.S. federal income tax consequences of an investment
in our ADSs or ordinary shares are based upon laws and relevant interpretations thereof in effect as of the date of this annual report, all of
which are subject to change. The below summaries are subject in all circumstances to the limitations set forth herein and below. In
addition, the below summaries do 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 or tax laws of jurisdictions other than the Cayman Islands, the PRC
and the United States.
Cayman Islands Taxation
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 and there are no other taxes likely to be material to us 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. Although it is unlikely that we will be subject to material taxes, there is no assurance that the Cayman
Islands government will not impose taxes in the future, which could be material to us. In addition, there may be tax consequences if we
are, for example, involved in any transfer or conveyance of immovable property in the Cayman Islands. The Cayman Islands is not party
to any double tax treaties that are applicable to any payments made to or by us and there are no exchange control regulations or currency
restrictions in the Cayman Islands.
People’s Republic of China Taxation
The PRC enterprise income tax is calculated based on the taxable income determined under the PRC laws and accounting
standards. Under the EIT Law and the EIT Implementation Rules, all domestic and foreign-invested companies in China are subject to a
uniform enterprise income tax at the rate of 25% and dividends from a PRC subsidiary to its foreign parent company are subject to a
withholding tax at the rate of 10%, unless such foreign parent company’s jurisdiction of incorporation has a tax treaty with China that
provides for a reduced rate of withholding tax, or the tax is otherwise exempted or reduced pursuant to the PRC tax laws. Zhong Lun
Law Firm advises us that since there is currently no such tax treaty between China and the Cayman Islands, dividends we receive from
our PRC subsidiaries will be subject to a 10% withholding tax; in addition, we may be able to enjoy the 5% preferential withholding tax
treatment for the dividends we receive from our PRC subsidiaries through Noah Insurance, according to Tax Arrangement between
mainland China and Hong Kong, if they satisfy the conditions prescribed under relevant tax rules and regulations, and obtain the
approvals as required under those rules and regulations. See “Item 4. Information on the Company—B. Business Overview—Regulations
in China—Regulations on Tax.”
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Under the EIT Law, enterprises organized under the laws of jurisdictions outside China with their “de facto management
bodies” located within China may be considered PRC resident enterprises and therefore subject to PRC enterprise income tax at the rate
of 25% on their worldwide income. The EIT Implementation Rules define the term “de facto management body” as the management
body that exercises full and substantial control and overall management over the business, productions, personnel, accounts and
properties of an enterprise. In addition, according to a circular issued by the SAT in April 2009, a foreign enterprise controlled by a PRC
company or a PRC company group will be classified as a “resident enterprise” with its “de facto management bodies” located within
China if the following requirements are satisfied: (i) the senior management and core management departments in charge of its daily
operations function mainly in the PRC; (ii) its financial and human resources decisions are subject to determination or approval by
persons or bodies in the PRC; (iii) its major assets, accounting books, company seals, and minutes and files of its board and shareholders’
meetings are located or kept in the PRC; and (iv) more than half of the enterprise’s directors or senior management with voting rights
reside in the PRC. We have evaluated whether we are a PRC resident enterprise and we believe that we are not a PRC resident enterprise
for the year ended December 31, 2023.
However, the tax resident status of an enterprise is subject to determination by the PRC tax authorities and uncertainties remain
with respect to the interpretation of the term “de facto management bodies”. If we are deemed to be a PRC resident enterprise, we will be
subject to PRC enterprise income tax at the rate of 25% on our global income. In that case, however, dividend income we receive from
our PRC subsidiaries may be exempt from PRC enterprise income tax because the EIT Law and the EIT Implementation Rules generally
provide that dividends received from a PRC resident enterprise from its directly invested entity that is also a PRC resident enterprise is
exempt from PRC enterprise income tax. However, as there is still uncertainty as to how the EIT Law and the EIT Implementation
Rules will be interpreted and implemented, we cannot assure investors in our ADSs or ordinary shares that we are eligible for such PRC
enterprise income tax exemptions or reductions for any subsequent taxable year.
Provided that our Cayman Islands holding company, Noah Holdings Limited, is not deemed to be a PRC resident enterprise,
holders of our ADSs and ordinary shares who are not PRC residents will not be subject to PRC income tax on dividends distributed by us
or gains realized from the sale or other disposition of our shares or ADSs. SAT Circular 7 further clarifies that, if a non-
resident enterprise derives income by acquiring and selling shares in an offshore listed enterprise in the public market, such income will
not be subject to PRC tax under SAT Circular 7. However, because there is uncertainty as to the application of SAT Circular 7, we and
our non-PRC resident investors may be at risk of being required to file a return and being taxed under SAT Circular 7 and we may be
required to expend valuable resources to comply with SAT Circular 7 or to establish that we should not be taxed under and SAT Circular
7. See “Item 3. Key Information—D. Risk Factors—Risks Related to Doing Business in China—We face uncertainties with respect to
the application of the Circular on Strengthening the Administration of Enterprise Income Tax for Share Transfers by Non-PRC Resident
Enterprises.”
U.S. Federal Income Tax Considerations
The following is a summary of certain material U.S. federal income tax consequences of an investment in our ADSs or ordinary
shares by a U.S. Holder (as defined below) that holds our ADSs or ordinary shares as “capital assets” (generally, property held for
investment) within the meaning of Section 1221 of the U.S. Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, or the Code.
This summary is based upon the federal income tax laws of the United States as of the date of this annual report, including the
Code, existing and proposed U.S. Treasury regulations promulgated thereunder, administrative pronouncements of the U.S. Internal
Revenue Service, or the IRS, and judicial decisions, all as in effect as of the date of this annual report, and all of which may be replaced,
revoked, or modified, possibly with retroactive effect, and which replacement, revocation, or modification could significantly affect the
tax consequences described below. We have not sought any ruling from the IRS with respect to the statements made and the conclusions
reached in the following discussion and there can be no assurance that the IRS or a court will agree with our statements and conclusions.
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This summary does not discuss all aspects of U.S. federal income taxation that may be relevant to particular investors in light of
their individual circumstances, including investors subject to special tax rules such as: banks and certain other financial institutions;
insurance companies; brokers or dealers in stocks, securities, commodities or currencies; persons that use or are required to use a mark-
to-market method of accounting; pension plans; regulated investment companies; real estate investment trusts; cooperatives; tax-exempt
entities (including private foundations); persons that own (directly, indirectly, or constructively) ADSs or ordinary shares representing
10% or more of our total voting power or value; investors that hold their ADSs or ordinary shares as part of a straddle, hedge,
conversion, constructive sale, or other integrated transaction for U.S. federal income tax purposes; U.S. expatriates; entities subject to the
U.S. anti-inversion rules; persons subject to the alternative minimum tax provisions of the Code; partnerships or other pass-through
entities, or persons holding ADSs or ordinary shares through such entities; persons who acquired ADSs or ordinary shares pursuant to the
exercise of an employee equity grant or otherwise as compensation; persons required to accelerate the recognition of any item of gross
income with respect to our ADSs or ordinary shares as a result of such income being recognized on an applicable financial statement; or
investors that have a functional currency other than the U.S. dollar, all of whom may be subject to tax rules that differ significantly from
those summarized below.
In addition, this summary does not address any U.S. federal estate, gift, Medicare, or alternative minimum tax considerations, or
any state, local or non-U.S. tax considerations, relating to the ownership or disposition of our ADSs or ordinary shares. Except as
specifically described below, this discussion does not address any tax consequences or reporting obligations that may be applicable to
persons holding ADSs or ordinary shares through a bank, financial institution or other entity, or a branch thereof, located, organized or
resident outside the United States, and does not describe any tax consequences arising in respect of the Foreign Account Tax Compliance
Act, or FATCA regime.
If a partnership (including any entity or arrangement treated as a partnership for U.S. federal income tax purposes) is a
beneficial owner of our ADSs or ordinary shares, the tax treatment of a partner in the partnership will depend upon the status of the
partner and the activities of the partnership. Partnerships or partners in a partnership holding our ADSs or ordinary shares are urged to
consult their tax advisors regarding the U.S. federal income tax consequences of acquiring, owning or disposing of our ADSs or ordinary
shares.
THE FOLLOWING DISCUSSION IS FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT A SUBSTITUTE
FOR CAREFUL TAX PLANNING AND ADVICE. HOLDERS SHOULD CONSULT THEIR TAX ADVISORS WITH
RESPECT TO THE APPLICATION OF THE U.S. FEDERAL INCOME TAX LAWS TO THEIR PARTICULAR
SITUATIONS, AS WELL AS ANY TAX CONSEQUENCES ARISING UNDER THE U.S. FEDERAL ESTATE OR GIFT TAX
LAWS OR THE LAWS OF ANY STATE, LOCAL OR NON-U.S. TAXING JURISDICTION OR UNDER ANY APPLICABLE
TAX TREATY.
General
For purposes of this summary, a “U.S. Holder” is a beneficial owner of our ADSs or ordinary shares that is, for U.S. federal
income tax purposes, (i) an individual who is a citizen or resident of the United States, (ii) a corporation created in, or organized under
the laws of, the United States or any state thereof or the District of Columbia, (iii) an estate the income of which is subject to U.S. federal
income taxation regardless of its source, or (iv) a trust (A) the administration of which is subject to the primary supervision of a U.S.
court and which has one or more U.S. persons (as defined in the Code) who have the authority to control all of its substantial decisions or
(B) that has otherwise elected to be treated as a U.S. person (as defined in the Code).
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 have been and will be complied with in accordance with their terms.
ADSs
For U.S. federal income tax purposes, a U.S. Holder of our ADSs should be treated as the beneficial owner of the underlying
shares represented by such ADSs. The remainder of this discussion assumes that a U.S. Holder of the ADSs will be treated in this
manner. Accordingly, deposits or withdrawal of shares for ADSs should not be subject to U.S. federal income tax.
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Passive Foreign Investment Company
Based on the market price of our ADSs, the value of our assets and the nature and composition of our income and assets, we
believe that we were a passive foreign investment company, or PFIC, for our taxable year ended December 31, 2023. We believe we
were also a PFIC for our taxable year ended December 31, 2022, but do not believe we were a PFIC for our taxable year ended
December 31, 2021. The IRS does not issue rulings with respect to PFIC status, and we cannot assure you that the IRS, or a court, will
agree with any determination we make.
We will be a PFIC for U.S. federal income tax purposes for any taxable year if, applying the applicable look-through rules,
either: (1) at least 75% of our gross income for such year is passive income or (2) at least 50% of the value of our assets (generally
determined based on an average of the quarterly values of the assets) during such year is attributable to assets that produce passive
income or are held for the production of passive income. For this purpose, passive income generally includes dividends, interest, certain
types of rents and royalties, annuities, net gains from the sale or exchange of property producing such income, net gains from commodity
transactions, net foreign currency gains and net income from notional principal contracts. In addition, cash, cash equivalents, securities
held for investment purposes, and certain other similar assets are generally categorized as passive assets.
We will be treated as owning a proportionate share of the assets and earning a proportionate share of the income of any other
corporation in which we own, directly or indirectly, at least 25% (by value) of the stock. Although the law in this regard is unclear, we
treat the Consolidated Affiliated Entities as being owned by us for U.S. federal income tax purposes because we control their
management decisions and because we are entitled to substantially all of the economic benefits associated with them, and, as a result, we
consolidate their operating results in our consolidated GAAP financial statements. If it were determined, however, that we are not the
owner of our Consolidated Affiliated Entities for U.S. federal income tax purposes, then the nature and composition of our income and
assets would change and we would likely be treated as a PFIC for one or more taxable years.
We must make a separate determination after the close of each taxable year as to whether we were a PFIC for that year.
Accordingly, we cannot assure you that we will not be a PFIC for our current or any future taxable year. The determination of whether
we will be a PFIC for any taxable year may depend in part upon the value of our goodwill and other unbooked intangibles not reflected
on our balance sheet (which may depend upon the market price of our ADSs or ordinary shares from time to time, which may fluctuate
significantly) and also may be affected by how, and how quickly, we spend our liquid assets and the cash we generate from our
operations and raise in any offering.
U.S. Federal Income Tax Treatment of a Shareholder of a PFIC
If we are a PFIC for any taxable year (as we believe we were for our taxable year ended December 31, 2023 and December 31,
2022 (but not our taxable year ended December 31, 2021)) during a U.S. Holder’s holding period for our ADSs or ordinary shares, then,
absent certain elections (including a mark-to-market election, a qualified electing fund election and a deemed sale election, each as
described below), such U.S. Holder will generally be subject to adverse tax rules, regardless of whether we remain a PFIC in subsequent
taxable years, on (i) any “excess distribution” that we make to the U.S. Holder (which generally means any distribution paid during a
taxable year to a U.S. Holder that is greater than 125% of the average annual distributions paid in the three preceding taxable years to the
U.S. Holder or, if shorter, the U.S. Holder’s holding period for our ADSs or ordinary shares), and (ii) any gain realized on the sale or
other disposition, including, under certain circumstances, a pledge, of ADSs or ordinary shares. Under the PFIC rules:
● the excess distribution and/or gain will be allocated ratably over the U.S. Holder’s holding period for our ADSs or ordinary
shares;
● the amount allocated to the current taxable year and any taxable years in the U.S. Holder’s holding period prior to the first
taxable year in which we are treated as a PFIC (each such year, a pre-PFIC year) will be taxable as ordinary income; and
● the amount allocated to each prior taxable year other than a pre-PFIC year will be subject to tax at the highest tax rate in
effect applicable to the U.S. Holder for that year, and will be increased by an additional tax equal to interest on the resulting
tax deemed deferred with respect to each such year.
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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) from a sale or other disposition 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 with respect to a U.S. Holder for any taxable year (as we believe we were for our taxable year ended December
31, 2023 and December 31, 2022 (but not our taxable year ended December 31, 2021)) during such U.S. Holder’s holding period for our
ADSs or ordinary shares and any of our non-U.S. subsidiaries that are corporations (or other corporations in which we directly or
indirectly own equity interests) is also a PFIC, such U.S. Holder would generally be treated as owning a proportionate amount (by value)
of the shares of each such non-U.S. entity that is a PFIC (each such corporation, a lower tier PFIC) for purposes of the application of
these rules. U.S. Holders are strongly encouraged to consult their tax advisors regarding the application of the PFIC rules to any of our
lower tier PFICs.
Mark-to-Market Election
If we are a PFIC with respect to a U.S. Holder for any taxable year (as we believe we were for our taxable year ended December
31, 2023 and December 31, 2022 (but not our taxable year ended December 31, 2021)) during such U.S. Holder’s holding period for our
ADSs or ordinary shares, then in lieu of being subject to the tax and interest charge rules discussed above, the U.S. Holder may make an
election to include gain on our ADSs or ordinary shares as ordinary income under a mark-to-market method, provided that our ADSs or
ordinary shares constitute “marketable stock.” Marketable stock is stock that is 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 New York Stock Exchange, which
is a qualified exchange or other market for these purposes. Consequently, so long as our ADSs remain listed on the New York Stock
Exchange and are regularly traded, we expect that a mark-to-market election would be available to a U.S. Holder of our ADSs for each
taxable year that we are a PFIC, but no assurances are given in this regard. If a U.S. Holder makes a valid mark-to-market election, the
U.S. Holder will generally (i) include in gross income as ordinary income for each taxable year that we are a PFIC the excess, if any, of
the fair market value of ADSs held at the end of the taxable year over the adjusted tax basis of such ADSs and (ii) deduct as an ordinary
loss the excess, if any, of the adjusted tax basis of such ADSs over the fair market value of such ADSs held at the end of the taxable year,
but only to the extent of the net amount previously included in income as a result of the mark-to-market election. The U.S. Holder’s
adjusted tax basis in such ADSs would be adjusted to reflect any income or loss resulting from the mark-to-market election. If a U.S.
Holder makes a valid mark-to-market election, any gain such U.S. Holder recognizes upon the sale or other disposition of our ADSs in a
taxable year for which we are a PFIC will be treated as ordinary income and any loss will be treated as ordinary loss, but only to the
extent of the net amount previously included in income as a result of the mark-to-market election. If a U.S. Holder makes a valid mark-
to-market election and we cease to be a PFIC, the U.S. Holder will not be required to take into account the mark-to-market gain or loss
described above during any period for which we are not a PFIC.
Because a mark-to-market election cannot be made for any lower-tier PFICs that we may own, if we were a PFIC for any
taxable year, a U.S. Holder that makes a mark-to-market election with respect to our ADSs may continue to be subject to the 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.
U.S. Holders are strongly urged to consult their tax advisors regarding the availability of, the procedure for, and the
effect of making, a mark-to-market election, as well as whether making the election would be advisable, including in light of their
particular circumstances.
Qualified Electing Fund Election
In certain circumstances, a shareholder in a PFIC may avoid some of the disadvantageous tax treatment described above by
making a “qualified electing fund” election to be taxed currently on its share of the PFIC’s undistributed income. However, if we were a
PFIC (as we believe we were for our taxable year ended December 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022 (but not our taxable year ended
December 31, 2021)), a U.S. Holder would be able to make a qualified electing fund election with respect to our ADSs or ordinary shares
only if we agreed to furnish the U.S. Holder annually with a PFIC annual information statement as specified in the applicable Treasury
regulations. We currently do not intend to prepare or provide the information necessary for U.S. Holders to make qualified electing fund
elections.
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Deemed Sale Election
If we are a PFIC for any taxable year (as we believe we were for our taxable year ended December 31, 2023 and December 31,
2022 (but not our taxable year ended December 31, 2021)) during a U.S. Holder’s holding period for our ADSs or ordinary shares, we
generally (unless such U.S. Holder makes a valid mark-to-market election with respect to its ADSs, as discussed above) will continue to
be treated as a PFIC with respect to such U.S. Holder for all succeeding years, unless we cease to be a PFIC and the U.S. Holder makes a
“deemed sale” election with respect to our ADSs or ordinary shares, as applicable. If a U.S. Holder makes such an election, such U.S.
Holder will be deemed to have sold its ADSs or ordinary shares at their fair market value, and any gain from such deemed sale would be
taxed as an “excess distribution” as described above. Any loss from the deemed sale is not recognized. After the deemed sale election,
the U.S. Holder’s ADSs or ordinary shares with respect to which such election was made will not be treated as shares in a PFIC unless
we subsequently become a PFIC.
U.S. Holders are strongly urged to consult their tax advisors as to the possibility and consequences of making a deemed
sale election.
Reporting Requirements
For any taxable year for which we are a PFIC with respect to a U.S. Holder, such U.S. Holder will generally be required to file
an annual information return on IRS Form 8621 regarding distributions received on our ADSs or ordinary shares and any gain realized
on the disposition of our ADSs or ordinary shares, and certain U.S. Holders will be required to file an annual information return (also on
IRS Form 8621) relating to their ownership of our ADSs or ordinary shares. Significant penalties are imposed for failure to file such
form. As previously noted, we believe that we were a PFIC for our taxable year ended December 31, 2023.
U.S. HOLDERS ARE STRONGLY URGED TO CONSULT THEIR TAX ADVISORS REGARDING THE IMPACT OF
OUR BEING A PFIC FOR THE TAXABLE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2023 ON THEIR INVESTMENT IN OUR ADSS
OR ORDINARY SHARES, AS WELL AS THE ASSOCIATED REPORTING REQUIREMENTS AND THE AVAILABILITY,
APPLICATION AND CONSEQUENCES OF THE ELECTIONS DISCUSSED ABOVE.
Dividends and Other Distributions on our ADSs or Ordinary Shares
Subject to the PFIC rules discussed above, the gross amount of any cash distributions (including the amount of any PRC or
other tax withheld) paid with respect to our ADSs or ordinary shares out of our current or accumulated earnings and profits, as
determined under U.S. federal income tax principles, will be includible in the gross income of a U.S. Holder as dividend income on the
day actually or constructively received by the U.S. Holder, in the case of our ordinary shares, or by the depositary, in the case of our
ADSs. However, because we do not intend to determine our earnings and profits on the basis of U.S. federal income tax principles, U.S.
Holders should assume that any distribution paid will generally constitute a “dividend” for U.S. federal income tax purposes. Such
dividends will not be eligible for the dividends-received deduction generally available to qualifying U.S. corporations under the Code.
A non-corporate U.S. Holder generally will be subject to tax on dividends received from a “qualified foreign corporation” at the
reduced U.S. federal tax rate applicable to “qualified dividend income,” rather than the marginal tax rates applicable to ordinary income,
provided that certain holding period and other requirements are met. If we are neither a PFIC nor treated as such with respect to U.S.
Holders (as discussed above) for the taxable year in which the dividend is paid or the preceding taxable year, we will be treated as a
qualified foreign corporation with respect to any dividends paid on our ADSs or ordinary shares, provided that (i) the ADSs or ordinary
shares are readily tradable on an established securities market in the United States, or (ii) we are eligible for the benefits of a
comprehensive tax treaty with the United States that the Secretary of Treasury of the United States determines is satisfactory for this
purpose and includes an exchange of information program. As discussed above under “––Passive Foreign Investment Company,” we
believe that we were a PFIC for our taxable year ended December 31, 2023.
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Our ADSs (but not our ordinary shares) are currently listed on the New York Stock Exchange. We believe, though no assurances
may be given in this regard, that our ADSs are readily tradable on an established securities market in the United States, and that, if we
are not a PFIC nor treated as such with respect to U.S. Holders (as discussed above) for the taxable year in which the dividend is paid or
the preceding taxable year, we would therefore be treated as a qualified foreign corporation with respect to any dividends paid on our
ADSs, but not with respect to dividends paid on our ordinary shares. In the event we are deemed to be a resident enterprise under the EIT
Law (see “—People’s Republic of China Taxation” above), we may be eligible for the benefits under the U.S.-PRC income tax treaty, or
the Treaty (which the U.S. Treasury Department has determined is satisfactory for this purpose). If we are eligible for such benefits, then
dividends that we pay on our ordinary shares, regardless of whether such shares are represented by ADSs, would be eligible for the
reduced rates of taxation, subject to applicable limitations (including ineligibility for reduced rates as a result of our being a PFIC for the
taxable year in which the dividend is paid or the preceding taxable year).
Even if dividends would be treated as paid by a qualified foreign corporation, a non-corporate U.S. Holder will not be eligible
for reduced rates of taxation if it does not hold our ADSs or ordinary shares for more than 60 days during the 121-day period beginning
60 days before the ex-dividend date (disregarding certain periods of ownership while the United States Holder’s risk of loss is
diminished) or if such U.S. Holder elects to treat the dividend income as “investment income” pursuant to Section 163(d)(4) of the Code.
In addition, the rate reduction will not apply to dividends of a qualified foreign corporation if the non-corporate U.S. Holder receiving
the dividend is obligated to make related payments with respect to positions in substantially similar or related property. U.S. Holders
should consult their tax advisors regarding the availability of the reduced tax rate on any dividends that we pay with respect to our ADSs
or ordinary shares in their particular circumstances.
The amount of any dividend income paid in foreign currency will be the U.S. dollar amount calculated by reference to the spot
rate in effect on the date of receipt, regardless of whether the payment is in fact converted into U.S. dollars on such date. If the dividend
is converted into U.S. dollars on the date of receipt, a U.S. Holder generally should not be required to recognize foreign currency gain or
loss in respect of the amount received. A U.S. Holder may have foreign currency gain or loss if the dividend is converted into U.S.
dollars after the date of receipt.
Dividends will be treated as foreign-source income, and generally will constitute passive income or in certain cases, general
category income, for foreign tax credit purposes. For U.S. federal income tax purposes, the amount of the dividend income will include
any amounts withheld in respect of PRC withholding tax, if applicable. See “—People’s Republic of China Taxation” above. Subject to
applicable limitations, which vary depending upon each U.S. Holder’s particular circumstances, if PRC taxes are withheld from dividend
payments (at a rate not exceeding the applicable rate provided in the Treaty in the case of a U.S. Holder that is eligible for Treaty
benefits), such withheld PRC taxes generally will be creditable against a U.S. Holder’s U.S. federal income tax liability. The rules
governing foreign tax credits are complex and recently issued Treasury Regulations have introduced additional requirements and
limitations to the foreign tax credit rules. U.S. Holders should consult their tax advisors regarding the creditability of foreign taxes in
their particular circumstances. In lieu of claiming a credit, a U.S. Holder may elect to deduct any such withheld PRC taxes in computing
its taxable income, subject to applicable limitations. An election to deduct foreign taxes instead of claiming foreign tax credits applies to
all foreign taxes paid or accrued in the relevant taxable year.
Sale, Exchange or Other Taxable Disposition of our ADSs or Ordinary Shares
A U.S. Holder will recognize gain or loss on a sale or exchange of our ADSs or ordinary shares in an amount equal to the
difference between the amount realized on the sale or exchange and the U.S. Holder’s tax basis in our ADSs or ordinary shares. Subject
to the discussion under “—Passive Foreign Investment Company” above, such gain or loss generally will be capital gain or loss. Capital
gains of a non-corporate U.S. Holder, including an individual, that has held our ADSs or ordinary shares for more than one year currently
are eligible for reduced tax rates. The deductibility of capital losses is subject to limitations.
Any gain or loss that a U.S. Holder recognizes on a disposition of our ADSs or ordinary shares generally will be treated as U.S.-
source income or loss for foreign tax credit limitation purposes, which could limit the availability of foreign tax credits. However, if we
are treated as a PRC resident enterprise for PRC tax purposes and PRC tax is imposed on gain from the disposition of our ADSs or
ordinary shares (see “—People’s Republic of China Taxation” above), then a U.S. Holder that is eligible for the benefits of the Treaty
may elect to treat the gain as PRC-source income for foreign tax credit purposes. If such an election is made, the gain so treated will be
treated as a separate class or “basket” of income for foreign tax credit purposes. U.S. Holders should consult their tax advisors regarding
the proper treatment of gain or loss, as well as the availability of a foreign tax credit, in their particular circumstances.
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Information Reporting and Backup Withholding
Dividend payments with respect to our ADSs or ordinary shares and proceeds from the sale or other disposition of our ADSs or
ordinary shares generally will be subject to information reporting to the IRS and U.S. backup withholding. Backup withholding generally
will not apply, however, to a U.S. Holder who furnishes a correct taxpayer identification number and makes any other required
certification, or who otherwise establishes an exemption from backup withholding. U.S. Holders should consult their tax advisors
regarding the application of the U.S. information reporting and backup withholding rules.
Backup withholding is not an additional tax. Amounts withheld as backup withholding may be credited against a U.S. Holder’s
U.S. federal income tax liability, and a U.S. Holder may be entitled to obtain a refund of any excess amounts withheld under the backup
withholding rules by filing the appropriate claim for refund with the IRS in a timely manner and furnishing any required information.
Specified Foreign Financial Assets
Individual U.S. Holders and certain domestic entities generally will be required to submit certain information to the IRS with
respect to their beneficial ownership of our ADSs or ordinary shares as is necessary to identify the class or issue of which our ADSs or
ordinary shares are a part. These requirements are subject to exceptions, including an exception for ADSs or ordinary shares held in
accounts maintained by certain financial institutions and an exception applicable if the aggregate value of all “specified foreign financial
assets” (as defined in the Code) does not exceed US$50,000. This law also imposes penalties if a U.S. Holder is required to submit such
information to the IRS and fails to do so. U.S. Holders are urged to consult their tax advisors regarding the potential reporting
requirements that may be imposed with respect to ownership of our ADSs or ordinary shares.
F.
Dividends and Paying Agents
Not applicable.
G.
Statement by Experts
Not applicable.
H.
Documents on Display
We are subject to the periodic reporting and other informational requirements of the Exchange Act. Under the Exchange Act, we
are required to file reports and other information with the SEC. Specifically, we are required to file annually a Form 20-F no later than
four months after the close 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.
Our Internet website is ir.noahgroup.com. We make available on our website our annual reports on Form 20-F and any
amendments to such reports as soon as reasonably practicable following the electronic filing of such report with the SEC, all free of
charge. In addition, we provide electronic or paper copies of our filings free of charge upon request. The information contained on our
website is not part of this or any other report filed with or furnished to the SEC.
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. Our financial statements have been prepared in accordance with
GAAP.
We will furnish our shareholders with annual reports, which will include a review of operations and annual audited consolidated
financial statements prepared in conformity with GAAP.
I.
Subsidiary Information
For a listing of our subsidiaries, see “Item 4. Information on the Company—C. Organizational Structure.”
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J.
Annual Report to Security Holders
Not applicable.
Item 11. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk
Foreign Exchange Risk
Our financial statements are expressed in Renminbi, which is our reporting currency. We earn the majority of our revenues and
incur the majority of our expenses in Renminbi, and the majority of our sales contracts are denominated in Renminbi. We do not believe
that we currently have any significant direct foreign exchange risk and have not used any derivative financial instruments to hedge our
exposure to such risk. Although in general, our exposure to foreign exchange risks should be limited, the value of your investment in our
ADSs will be affected by the exchange rate between the U.S. dollar and the Renminbi because the value of our business is effectively
denominated in Renminbi, while the ADSs will be traded in U.S. dollars.
The value of the 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. In July 2005, the PRC government changed its decades-
old policy of pegging the value of the Renminbi to the U.S. dollar, and the Renminbi appreciated more than 20% against the U.S. dollar
over the following three years. Between July 2008 and June 2010, this appreciation halted and the exchange rate between the Renminbi
and the U.S. dollar remained within a narrow band. After June 2010, the Renminbi began to appreciate against the U.S. dollar again,
although starting from June 2015, the trend of appreciation changed and the Renminbi started to depreciate against the U.S. dollar
gradually. It is difficult to predict how market forces or PRC or U.S. government policy may impact the exchange rate between the
Renminbi and the U.S. dollar in the future. There still remains significant international pressure on the Chinese government to adopt a
substantial liberalization of its currency policy, which could result in further appreciation in the value of the Renminbi against the U.S.
dollar.
To the extent that we need to convert U.S. dollars we received from overseas offering into Renminbi for our operations,
appreciation of the Renminbi against the U.S. dollar would have an adverse effect on the Renminbi amount we receive from the
conversion. As of December 31, 2023, we had an Renminbi or Hong Kong dollar or other non-U.S. dollar denominated cash balance of
US$386.6 million and a U.S. dollar denominated cash balance of US$344.7 million. Assuming we had converted the U.S. dollar
denominated cash balance of US$344.7 million as of December 31, 2023 into RMB at the exchange rate of US$1.00 for RMB7.0999 as
of December 29, 2023, this cash balance would have been RMB2,447.2 million. 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 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. We have not used any forward
contracts or currency borrowings to hedge our exposure to foreign currency exchange risk.
Interest Rate Risk
Our exposure to interest rate risk primarily relates to interest income generated by excess cash, which is mostly held in interest
bearing bank deposits.
As of December 31, 2023, we had RMB243.3 million (US$35.3 million) invested in debt products with a weighted average
duration of approximately 0.1 years.
We have not used derivative financial instruments in our investment portfolio. Interest earning instruments carry a degree of
interest rate risk. We have not been exposed to, nor do we anticipate being exposed to, material risks due to changes in market interest
rates. However, our future interest income may fall short of expectations due to changes in market interest rates.
Inflation
Inflation in China has not materially impacted our results of operations in recent years. According to the National Bureau of
Statistics of China, the year-over-year increase in the consumer price index for December 2021, 2022 and 2023 were increases of 1.5%,
1.8% and 0.2%, 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 inflation rates in China.
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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.
D.
American Depositary Shares
Fees and Charges Our ADS holders May Have to Pay
ADS holders will be required to pay the following service fees to the depository:
Service
· Issuance of ADSs
· Cancellation of ADSs
Up to US$0.05 per ADS issued
Fees
Up to US$0.05 per ADS canceled
· Distribution of cash dividends or other cash distributions
Up to US$0.05 per ADS held
· Distribution of ADSs pursuant to stock dividends, free stock
distributions or exercise of rights to purchase additional ADSs
Up to US$0.05 per ADS held
· Distribution of securities other than ADSs or rights to purchase
additional ADSs
· Depositary services
Up to US$0.05 per ADS held
Up to US$0.05 per ADS held on the applicable record date(s)
established by the depositary
As an ADS holder you will also be responsible to pay certain charges such as:
● taxes (including applicable interest and penalties) and other governmental charges;
● such registration fees as may from time to time be in effect for the registration of shares or other deposited securities on the
share register and applicable to transfers of shares or other deposited securities to or from the name of the custodian, the
depositary or any nominees upon the making of deposits and withdrawals, respectively;
● such cable, telex and facsimile transmission and delivery expenses as are expressly provided in the Deposit Agreement to
be at the expense of the person depositing or withdrawing shares or holders and beneficial owners of ADSs;
● the expenses and charges incurred by the depositary in the conversion of foreign currency;
● such fees and expenses as are incurred by the depositary in connection with compliance with exchange regulations and
other regulatory requirements applicable to shares, deposited securities, ADSs and ADRs; and
● the fees and expenses incurred by the depositary, the custodian, or any nominee in connection with the servicing or delivery
of deposited securities.
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Depositary fees payable upon (i) deposit of shares against issuance of ADSs and (ii) surrender of ADSs for cancellation and
withdrawal of deposited securities will be charged by the depositary to the person to whom the ADSs so issued are delivered (in the case
of ADS issuances) and to the person who delivers the ADSs for cancellation to the depositary (in the case of ADS cancellations). In the
case of ADSs issued by the depositary into DTC or presented to the depositary via DTC, the ADS issuance and cancellation fees will be
payable to the depositary by the DTC participant(s) receiving the ADSs from the depositary or the DTC participant(s) surrendering the
ADSs to the depositary for cancellation, as the case may be, on behalf of the beneficial owner(s) and will be charged by the DTC
participant(s) to the account(s) of the applicable beneficial owner(s) in accordance with the procedures and practices of the DTC
participant(s) as in effect at the time. Depositary fees in respect of distributions and the depositary services fee are payable to the
depositary by holders as of the applicable ADS Record Date established by the depositary. In the case of distributions of cash, the amount
of the applicable depositary fees is deducted by the depositary from the funds being distributed. In the case of distributions other than
cash and the depositary service fee, the depositary will invoice the applicable holders as of the ADS Record Date established by the
depositary. For ADSs held through DTC, the depositary fees for distributions other than cash and the depositary service fee are charged
by the depositary to the DTC participants in accordance with the procedures and practices prescribed by DTC from time to time and the
DTC participants in turn charge the amount of such fees to the beneficial owners for whom they hold ADSs.
In the event of refusal to pay the depositary fees, the depositary may, under the terms of the deposit agreement, refuse the
requested service until payment is received or may offset the amount of the depositary fees from any distribution to be made to the ADS
holder.
The fees and charges that ADS holders may be required to pay may vary over time and may be changed by us and by the
depositary.
The depositary may reimburse us for certain expenses incurred by us in respect of the ADS program established pursuant to the
deposit agreement, by making available a portion of the depositary fees charged in respect of the ADS program or otherwise, upon such
terms and conditions as we and the depositary may agree from time to time. As described in the deposit agreement, we or the depositary
may withhold or deduct from any distributions made in respect of ordinary shares and may sell for the account of a holder any or all of
the ordinary shares and apply such distributions and sale proceeds in payment of any taxes (including applicable interest and penalties) or
charges that are or may be payable by holders in respect of the ADSs.
Fees and Other Payments Made by the Depositary to Us
The depositary has agreed to reimburse us for certain expenses we incur that are related to establishment and maintenance of the
ADS program, including investor relations expenses and exchange application and listing fees. There are limits on the amount of
expenses for which the depositary will reimburse us, but the amount of reimbursement available to us is not related to the amounts of
fees the depositary collects from investors. Reimbursement paid by the depositary was RMB6.0 million (US$0.8 million) in 2023.
Conversion between ADSs and Shares Trading in Hong Kong
Dealings and Settlement of Shares in Hong Kong
Our Shares trade on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange in board lots of 20 Shares. Dealings in our Shares on the Hong Kong Stock
Exchange are conducted in Hong Kong dollars.
The transaction costs of dealings in our 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;
● SFC transaction levy of 0.0027% of the consideration of the transaction, charged to each of the buyer and seller;
● AFRC Transaction Levy of 0.00015%, charged per side of the consideration of a transaction, collected for the Accounting
and Financial Reporting Council (AFRC);
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● 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 0.2% of the consideration for, or (if greater) the value of, the Shares transferred,
with 0.1% payable by each of the buyer and 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 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 Shares in his or her stock account or in his or her designated Central Clearing
and Settlement System participant’s stock account maintained with the Central Clearing and Settlement System, or 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 broker or custodian before the settlement date.
Conversion between ADSs and Shares Trading in Hong Kong
In connection with the listing of our ordinary shares in Hong Kong, we have established a branch register of members in Hong
Kong (the “Hong Kong share register”), which will be maintained by its Hong Kong Share Registrar, Computershare Hong Kong
Investor Services Limited. Our principal register of members (the “Cayman share register”) will continue to be maintained by its
Principal Share Registrar, Maples Fund Services (Cayman) Limited.
All ordinary shares offered in our Hong Kong public offering 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 ordinary shares registered on the
Hong Kong share register will be able to convert these shares into ADSs, and vice versa.
In connection with the Hong Kong public offering, and to facilitate fungibility and conversion between ADSs and ordinary
shares and trading between the NYSE and the Hong Kong Stock Exchange, we moved a portion of our issued ordinary shares that are
represented by ADSs from our Cayman share register to our Hong Kong share register.
Our ADSs
Our ADSs are traded on the NYSE. Dealings in our ADSs on the NYSE are conducted in U.S. Dollars.
ADSs may be held either:
● directly, by having a certificated ADS, or an ADR, registered in the holder’s name, or by holding in the direct registration
system, pursuant to which the depositary may register the ownership of uncertificated ADSs, which ownership shall be
evidenced by periodic statements issued by the depositary to the ADS holders entitled thereto; or
● indirectly, through the holder’s broker or other financial institution.
The depositary for the Company’s ADSs is Citibank, N.A., whose office is located at 388 Greenwich Street, New York, New
York, 10013.
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Converting Ordinary Shares Trading in Hong Kong to ADSs
An investor who holds ordinary shares registered in Hong Kong and who intends to convert them to ADSs to trade on the
NYSE must deposit or have his or her broker deposit the ordinary shares with the depositary’s Hong Kong custodian, Citibank, N.A.,
Hong Kong, or the custodian, in exchange for ADSs.
A deposit of ordinary shares trading in Hong Kong in exchange for ADSs involves the following procedures:
● If ordinary shares have been deposited with CCASS, the investor must transfer 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 conversion form to the depositary via his or her broker.
● If ordinary shares are held outside CCASS, the investor must arrange to deposit his or her ordinary shares into CCASS for
delivery to the depositary’s account with the custodian within CCASS, submit and deliver a request for conversion form to
the custodian and after duly completing and signing such conversion form, deliver such conversion form to the custodian.
● 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 in the name(s) requested by an investor and will
deliver the ADSs to the designated DTC account of the person(s) designated by an investor or his or her broker.
For ordinary shares deposited in CCASS, under normal circumstances, the above steps generally require two business days. For
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 trade the ADSs until the procedures are completed.
Converting ADSs to Ordinary Shares Trading in Hong Kong
An investor who holds ADSs and who intends to convert his/her ADSs into ordinary shares to trade on the Hong Kong Stock
Exchange must cancel the ADSs the investor holds and withdraw ordinary shares from the Company’s ADS program and cause his or her
broker or other financial institution to trade such ordinary shares on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange.
An investor that holds ADSs indirectly through a broker should follow the broker’s procedure and instruct the broker to arrange
for cancelation of the ADSs, and transfer of the underlying 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 ordinary shares from the Company’s ADS program, an investor who holds ADSs may 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.
● Upon payment or net 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 ordinary shares underlying the canceled ADSs to the
CCASS account designated by an investor.
● If an investor prefers to receive ordinary shares outside CCASS, he or she must receive ordinary shares in CCASS first and
then arrange for withdrawal from CCASS. Investors can then obtain a transfer form signed by HKSCC Nominees (as the
transferor) and register ordinary shares in their own names with the Hong Kong Share Registrar.
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For ordinary shares to be received in CCASS, under normal circumstances, the above steps generally require two business days.
For 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 trade the ordinary shares on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange 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 is subject to there being a sufficient number of ordinary shares
on the Hong Kong share register to facilitate a withdrawal from the ADS program directly into the CCASS system. We are not under any
obligation to maintain or increase the number of ordinary shares on the Hong Kong share register to facilitate such withdrawals.
Depositary Requirements
Before the depositary issues ADSs or permits withdrawal of 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
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 registers are closed or at any time if the depositary or our Company
determines it advisable to do so or it would violate any applicable law or the depositary’s policies or procedures.
All costs attributable to the transfer of ordinary shares to effect a withdrawal from or deposit of ordinary shares into the
Company’s ADS program will be borne by the investor requesting the transfer. In particular, holders of ordinary shares and ADSs should
note that the Hong Kong Share Registrar will charge between HK$2.50 to HK$20.00, 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. In addition, holders of ordinary shares and ADSs must pay up to US$5.00 (or less) per 100 ADSs for each issuance of ADSs and
for each cancelation of ADSs, as the case may be, in connection with the deposit of ordinary shares into, or withdrawal of ordinary
shares from, the Company’s ADS program.
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Item 13. Defaults, Dividend Arrearages and Delinquencies
None.
PART II
Item 14. Material Modifications to the Rights of Security Holders and Use of Proceeds
Material Modifications to the Rights of Security Holders
Upon our lising on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange, all the Class B ordinary shares were converted into Class A ordinary shares
on a one-for-one basis. Subsequently, no Class B ordinary shares will be issued or outstanding and and we will cease to have a dual-class
voting structure. On December 23, 2022, we adopted the sixth amended and restated memorandum and articles of association to reflect
the removal of the dual-class voting structure, among other things.
See “Item 10. Additional Information” for a description of the rights of securities holders.
Use of Proceeds
The following “Use of Proceeds” information relates to the shelf registration statement on Form F- 3 (File Number: 333-
265732) filed on June 21, 2022 and prospectus supplements filed on June 29 and July 7, 2022, respectively, relating to our global
offering in connection with the Hong Kong listing in 2022. We offered and sold 1,152,160 ordinary shares at an initial offering price of
HK$292.00 per ordinary share, including the partial exercise of the over-allotment option by the joint global coordinators, on behalf of
the international underwriters, of 52,160 ordinary shares. Goldman Sachs (Asia) L.L.C. was the sole sponsor and sole representative for
the global offering. Goldman Sachs (Asia) L.L.C., BOCI Asia Limited and DBS Asia Capital Limited were joint global coordinators,
joint bookrunners and joint lead managers for the global offering. Futu Securities International (Hong Kong) Limited was a joint
bookrunner and joint lead manager for the global offering.
We raised approximately US$40.2 million in net proceeds from the global offering, after deducting estimated underwriting fees
and other offering expenses, including the net proceeds we received from the partial exercise of the over-allotment option by the
international underwriters. There has been no change in the intended use of net proceeds as previously disclosed in the shelf registration
statement on Form F- 3 (File Number: 333- 265732) filed on June 21, 2022 and prospectus supplements filed on June 29 and July 7,
2022, respectively, and the Company expects to fully utilize the residual amount of the net proceeds in accordance with such intended
purposes as previously disclosed.
Item 15. Controls and Procedures
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 or submit 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.
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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 such term
is defined in Rule 13a-15(f) under the Exchange Act, for our company. Internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to
provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of consolidated financial statements in
accordance with GAAP and 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 a company’s assets, (2) provide reasonable assurance that
transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of consolidated financial statements in accordance with GAAP, and that a
company’s receipts and expenditures are being made only in accordance with authorizations of a company’s management and directors,
and (3) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of a
company’s assets that could have a material effect on the consolidated financial statements.
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.
As required by Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 and related rules as promulgated by the Securities and Exchange
Commission, our management assessed the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2023 using
criteria established in Internal Control-Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the
Treadway Commission.
Based on this assessment, management concluded that our internal control over financial reporting was effective as of
December 31, 2023 based on the criteria established in Internal Control-Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission.
Attestation Report of the Registered Public Accounting Firm
The effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2023 has been audited by Deloitte Touche
Tohmatsu Certified Public Accountants LLP, an independent registered public accounting firm, who has also audited our consolidated
financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2023.
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Report of the Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
Opinion on Internal Control over Financial Reporting
We have audited the internal control over financial reporting of Noah Holdings Limited and its subsidiaries (the “Company”) as
of December 31, 2023, based on criteria established in Internal Control—Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). In our opinion, the Company maintained, in all material respects,
effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2023, based on criteria established in Internal Control—Integrated
Framework (2013) issued by COSO.
We have also audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (the
“PCAOB”), the consolidated financial statements as of and for the year ended December 31, 2023 of the Company and our report dated
March 27, 2024 expressed an unqualified opinion on those financial statements and included an explanatory paragraph regarding the
convenience translation.
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.
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/ Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Certified Public Accountants LLP
Shanghai, China
March 27, 2024
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Changes in Internal Controls over Financial Reporting
As required by Rule 13a-15(d), under the Exchange Act, our management, including our chief executive officer and our chief
financial officer, also conducted an evaluation of our internal control over financial reporting to determine whether any changes occurred
during the period covered by this report have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over
financial reporting. Based on that evaluation, it has been determined that there were no changes in our internal control over financial
reporting that occurred during the year ended December 31, 2023 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially
affect, our internal control over financial reporting.
Item 16. Reserved
Item 16A. Audit Committee Financial Expert
Our board of directors has determined that Mr. Tze-Kaing Yang, Mr. Zhiwu Chen and Ms. May Yihong Wu, independent
directors (under the standards set forth in Section 303A of the Corporate Governance Rules of the NYSE and Rule 10A-3 under the
Exchange Act) and members of our audit committee, are audit committee financial experts.
Item 16B. Code of Ethics
Our board of directors has adopted a code of ethics that applies to our directors, officers, employees and agents, including
certain provisions that specifically apply to our chief executive officer, chief financial officer, chief operating officer, chief technology
officer, vice presidents and any other persons who perform similar functions for us. We have filed our code of business conduct and
ethics as an exhibit to our registration statement on Form F-1 (No. 333-170055).
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 Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Certified Public Accountants LLP and Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu, our principal external auditors,
for the periods indicated. We did not pay any other fees to our auditors during the periods indicated below.
Audit fees(1)
Audit-related fees(2)
Tax and other fees(3)
Note:
For the Year Ended
December 31,
2022
2023
(RMB’000)
9,950
5,290
1,752
10,070
154
—
(1) “Audit fees” means the aggregate fees billed for professional services rendered by our principal auditors for the audit of our annual
financial statements, the review of our comparative interim financial statements and the statutory audits of certain of our subsidiaries
and the consolidated affiliated entities.
(2) “Audit-related fees” represents aggregate fees billed for professional services rendered for assurance and related services that are not
reported under audit fees, including the services provided for the issuance of our ordinary shares of our secondary listing on the
Hong Kong Stock Exchange.
(3) “Tax and other fees” represents aggregate fees for professional services performed in connection with tax planning, tax compliance
and other consulting service fees.
The policy of our audit committee is to pre-approve all audit and non-audit services provided by Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu
Certified Public Accountants LLP and its affiliates, including audit services, audit-related services, tax services and other services as
described above, other than those for de minimis services which are approved by the audit committee prior to the completion of the audit.
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Item 16D. Exemptions from the Listing Standards for Audit Committees
Not applicable.
Item 16E. Purchases of Equity Securities by the Issuer and Affiliated Purchasers
On December 1, 2020, our board of directors authorized a share repurchase program, or the Share Repurchase Program, under
which we may repurchase up to US$100 million worth of our ADSs over the following two years. On February 25, 2021, we completed
the Share Repurchase Program, with approximately 2,233,770 ADSs representing 1,116,885 ordinary shares repurchased at an average
price of US$44.77 per ADS.
Item 16F. Change in Registrant’s Certifying Accountant
Not applicable.
Item 16G. Corporate Governance
As a Cayman Islands company listed on the NYSE, we are subject to the NYSE corporate governance listing standards.
However, NYSE 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, differ significantly from the New York Stock
Exchange 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 our independent directors would not necessarily hold regularly scheduled
meetings at which only independent directors are present. We currently rely on home country practice exemption with respect to the
requirement of having a corporate governance and nominating committee composed entirely of independent directors. As a result, our
shareholders may be afforded less protection than they otherwise would under the NYSE corporate governance listing standards
applicable to domestic issuers. See “Item 3. Key Information-D. Risk Factors-Risks Related to Our ADSs and Ordinary Shares-As a
company incorporated in the Cayman Islands, we are permitted to adopt certain home country practices in relation to corporate
governance matters that differ significantly from NYSE corporate governance listing standards; these practices may afford less protection
to shareholders than they would enjoy if we complied fully with NYSE corporate governance listing standards.”
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 NYSE corporate governance standards.
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.
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We have developed a comprehensive cybersecurity threat defense system to address both internal and external threats. This
system is based on an information labeling system that categorizes our internal data and personal data collected from clients into different
levels based on their sensitivity. It implements specific procedures for handling each level of information. For instance, investment-
related data and clients’ personal information are assigned the highest protection level, subject to the most rigorous scrutiny in terms of
storage, transmission, and dissemination. We are dedicated to managing cybersecurity risks and safeguarding sensitive information
through various measures. These measures include technical safeguards, procedural requirements, and an intensive incident response
program. Additionally, we provide regular cybersecurity awareness training for our employees. Our cybersecurity team, a specialized
unit within our IT department, consistently monitors the performance of our platforms and infrastructure. This enables us to respond
promptly to potential issues, including 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.
Governance
We have implemented a hierarchical governance system to oversee cybersecurity risks. Our dedicated cybersecurity team, led
by the experienced general manager of our IT department, is responsible for assessing and managing cybersecurity risks. They also
handle the prevention, detection, mitigation, and remediation of cybersecurity incidents. The General Manager of the IT department
reports directly to our chief executive officer and provides regular updates to the Noah Group Technology Committee, which is chaired
by the chief executive officer. These updates cover any significant cybersecurity incidents or material risks resulting from cybersecurity
threats. Periodic reviews are conducted to assess the cybersecurity landscape, potential threats, and our overall readiness to address
cybersecurity risks that may affect our company. In the event of a significant cybersecurity incident, the information security team of IT
department and Noah Group Technology Committee assume responsibility for reviewing the relevant information and issues involved.
They also oversee the disclosure process and ensure appropriate procedures are followed to handle the incident effectively.
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PART III
Item 17. Financial Statements
We have elected to provide financial statements pursuant to Item 18.
Item 18. Financial Statements
The consolidated financial statements of Noah Holdings Limited and its subsidiaries and consolidated entities are included at
the end of this annual report.
Item 19. Exhibits
Exhibit
Number
Description of Document
1.1
2.1
2.2
2.3
2.4
2.5
2.6
2.7
4.1
4.2
Sixth Amended and Restated Memorandum and Articles of Association of the Registrant (incorporated herein by reference
to Exhibit 3.1 to the Registrant’s current report on Form 6-K furnished to the Commission on December 22, 2022 (File No.
001-34936))
Registrant’s Specimen Certificate for Ordinary Shares under the Cayman Islands Share Registrar (incorporated herein by
reference to Exhibit 4.2 to the Registrant’s registration statement on Form F-1, as amended (File No. 333-170055), initially
filed with the Commission on October 20, 2010)
Registrant’s Specimen Certificate for Ordinary Shares under the Hong Kong Share Registrar (incorporated herein by
reference to Exhibit 4.1 to the Registrant’s current report on Form 6-K furnished to the Commission on July 5, 2022 (File
No. 001-34936))
Registrant’s Specimen American Depositary Receipt (incorporated herein by reference to Form 424B3 (File No. 333-
170167) filed with the Commission on December 23, 2022)
Deposit Agreement among the Registrant, the depositary and holders and beneficial holders of the American Depositary
Shares (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.3 from our S-8 registration statement (File No. 333-171541), as amended,
filed with the Commission on January 5, 2011)
Amendment No. 1 to the Deposit Agreement among the Registrant, the depositary and holders and beneficial owners of the
American Depositary Shares (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (a)(i) to the Post-Effective Amendment No.1 to
the registration statement on Form F-6 (File No. 333-170167) filed with the Commission on March 15, 2016)
Amended and Restated Shareholders Agreement between the Registrant and other parties therein dated June 30, 2010
(incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.4 from our F-1 registration statement (File No. 333-170055), as amended, initially
filed with the Commission on October 20, 2010)
Description of Registrant’s Securities (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 2.7 from our Form 20-F (File No. 001-34936)
filed with the Commission on April 24, 2023)
2017 Share Incentive Plan (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 from our Form S-8 registration statement
(File No. 333-222342) filed with the Commission on December 29, 2017)
2022 Share Incentive Plan (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 from our Form S-8 registration statement (File No.
333-268978) filed with the Commission on December 23, 2022)
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Exhibit
Number
Description of Document
4.3
4.4
4.5
4.6
4.7
4.8
4.9
4.10
8.1*
11.1
Form of Indemnification Agreement between the Registrant and its Directors and Officers (incorporated by reference to
Exhibit 10.3 from our F-1 registration statement (File No. 333-170055), as amended, initially filed with the Commission
on October 20, 2010)
Form of Employment Agreement between the Registrant and an Executive Officer of the Registrant (incorporated by
reference to Exhibit 10.4 from our F-1 registration statement (File No. 333-170055), as amended, initially filed with the
Commission on October 20, 2010)
English translation of the Exclusive Option Agreement between Shanghai Noah Investment (Group) Co., Ltd. and
shareholders of Noah Investment Management Co., Ltd. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.5 from our F-
1 registration statement (File No. 333-170055), as amended, initially filed with the Commission on October 20, 2010)
English translation of the Exclusive Support Service Contract between Shanghai Noah Investment Management Co., Ltd.
and Shanghai Noah Investment (Group) Co., Ltd. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.6 from our F-1 registration
statement (File No. 333-170055), as amended, initially filed with the Commission on October 20, 2010)
English translation of the form of Power of Attorney issued by shareholders of Shanghai Noah Investment Management
Co., Ltd. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.7 from our F-1 registration statement (File No. 333-170055), as
amended, initially filed with the Commission on October 20, 2010)
English translation of the Share Pledge Agreement between Shanghai Noah Investment (Group) Co., Ltd. and shareholders
of Noah Investment Management Co., Ltd. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.8 from our F-1 registration statement
(File No. 333-170055), as amended, initially filed with the Commission on October 20, 2010)
English translation of Loan Agreement between Jingbo Wang, Zhe Yin, Xinjun Zhang, Yan Wei, Boquan He, Qianghua
Yan and Shanghai Noah Investment (Group) Co., Ltd. (formerly known as Shanghai Noah Rongyao Investment Consulting
Co., Ltd.), dated December 26, 2013 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.9 from our annual report on Form 20-
F (File No. 001-34936), as amended, initially filed with the Commission on March 24, 2014)
English translation of the Acquisition Agreement among Noah Kekong (Shanghai) Enterprise Management Co., Ltd.,
Ningbo Meishan Free Trade Port Xinting Investment Partnership (Limited Partnership), Nanchang Qingting Asset
Management Co., Ltd., United Win (China) Technology Limited, Shanghai Qingting SunnyWorld Real Estate Co., Ltd.,
New World (Qingdao) Real Estate Co., Ltd., Qi Hongbo and Lin Xia, dated May 9, 2021 (incorporated by reference to
Exhibit 4.11 from our annual report on Form 20-F (File No. 001-34936), as amended, initially filed with the Commission
on April 6, 2022)
List of Significant Consolidated Entities
Code of Business Conduct and Ethics of Registrant (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 99.1 from our F-1 registration
statement (File No. 333-170055), as amended, initially filed with the Commission on October 20, 2010)
12.1*
Chief Executive Officer Certification Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
12.2*
Principal Accounting Officer Certification Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
13.1**
Chief Executive Officer Certification Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
13.2**
Principal Accounting Officer Certification Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
15.1*
Consent of Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Certified Public Accountants LLP, an Independent Registered Public Accounting
Firm
15.2*
Consent of Zhong Lun Law Firm
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Table of Contents
Exhibit
Number
Description of Document
15.3*
Consent of Maples and Calder (Hong Kong) LLP
97.1*
Clawback Policy of the Registrant
101.INS* XBRL Instance Document
101.SCH* XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document
101.CAL* XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document
101.DEF* XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document
101.LAB* XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document
101.PRE* XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document
104*
Cover Page Interactive Data File (embedded within the Inline XBRL document)
*
Filed with this Annual Report on Form 20-F.
** Furnished with this Annual Report on Form 20-F.
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The registrant hereby certifies that it meets all of the requirements for filing on Form 20-F and that it has duly caused and
authorized the undersigned to sign this annual report on its behalf.
SIGNATURES
Date: April 24, 2024
NOAH HOLDINGS LIMITED
By:
Name:
Title:
/s/ Jingbo Wang
Jingbo Wang
Chairwoman
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Noah Holdings Limited
Index to Consolidated Financial Statements
For the Years Ended December 31, 2021 2022 and 2023
Reports of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm (PCAOB ID: 1113)
Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31, 2022 and 2023
Consolidated Statements of Operations for the Years Ended December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income for the Years Ended December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023
Consolidated Statements of Changes in Equity 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
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Additional Financial Information of Parent Company - Financial Statements Schedule I
F-2
F-5
F-6
F-7
F-8
F-9
F-11
F-51
F-1
Table of Contents
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
To the Board of Directors and Shareholders of Noah Holdings Limited
Opinion on the Financial Statements
We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Noah Holdings Limited and its subsidiaries (the “Company”) as of
December 31, 2022 and 2023, the related consolidated statements of operations, comprehensive income (loss), changes in equity, and
cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2023, and the related notes and the financial statement schedule
listed in the Schedule I (collectively referred to as the “financial statements”). In our opinion, the financial statements present fairly, in all
material respects, the financial position of the Company as of December 31, 2022 and 2023 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 accounting principles generally accepted in
the United States of America.
We have also 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 the criteria established in Internal Control —
Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission and our report dated
March 27, 2024, expressed an unqualified opinion on the Company’s internal control over financial reporting.
Convenience Translation
Our audits also comprehended the translation of Renminbi amounts into United States dollar amounts and, in our opinion, such
translation has been made in conformity with the basis stated in Note 2(u) to the financial statements. Such United States dollar amounts
are presented solely for the convenience of readers outside the People’s Republic of China.
Basis for Opinion
These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the
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 critical
audit matter does not alter in any way our opinion on the 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.
Allowance for credit losses — Loan receivables — Refer to Notes 2(x) and 11 to the financial statements
Critical Audit Matter Description
As of December 31, 2023, the Company’s allowance of credit losses on loan receivables (“ACLL”) was RMB79.5 million, represents
management’s best estimate of losses inherent in the loan receivables. The Company estimated expected loss for loans with different risk
charateristics by using a method which involves the probability of default and loss given default assumption derived from applicable
statistical models. The methodology requires the projection of future loan repayments based on assumptions which are impacted by
reasonable and supportable forecasts. The expected loss is computed on individual loan basis. In addition, adjustments for qualitative
factors are made to the ACLL when unique risk factors are identified and not considered within the models.
Given the significant amount of judgment required by management to estimate the ACLL, performing audit procedures to evaluate the
reasonableness of the estimated ACLL required a high degree of audit judgment and increased effort, including the need to involve our
credit specialists.
How the Critical Audit Matter Was Addressed in the Audit
Our audit procedures related to the Company’s ACLL included the following, among others:
● We tested the design and operating effectiveness of controls implemented by the Company related to the estimation of
ACLL, including the appropriateness of the models applied, the reasonableness of the assumptions utilized and the
qualitative factors considered.
● On a sample basis, we tested the accuracy and completeness of the loan-level information and the internal historical data
used.
● With the assistance of our specialists, we (i) evaluated the appropriateness of the statistical models utilized by the
management, (ii) evaluated the relevance and appropriateness of internal and external information applied in the models
and (iii) tested the mathematical accuracy of management’s calculation.
● We inspected management’s documentation supporting the use of qualitative factors and analyzed the reasonableness of
such factors.
/s/ Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Certified Public Accountants LLP
Shanghai, China
March 27, 2024
We have served as the Company’s auditor since 2010.
F-3
Table of Contents
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
To the Board of Directors and Shareholders of Noah Holdings Limited
Opinion on Internal Control over Financial Reporting
We have audited the internal control over financial reporting of Noah Holdings Limited and its subsidiaries (the “Company”) as of
December 31, 2023, based on criteria established in Internal Control—Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). In our opinion, the Company maintained, in all material respects,
effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2023, based on criteria established in Internal Control — Integrated
Framework (2013) issued by COSO.
We have also audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (PCAOB),
the consolidated financial statements as of and for the year ended December 31, 2023 of the Company and our report dated March 27,
2024 expressed an unqualified opinion on those financial statements and included an explanatory paragraph regarding the convenience
translation.
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.
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/ Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Certified Public Accountants LLP
Shanghai, China
March 27, 2024
F-4
Table of Contents
Noah Holdings Limited
Consolidated Balance Sheets
(Amount in Thousands, Except Share and Per Share Data)
Assets
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents
Restricted cash
Short-term investments (including short-term investments measured at fair value of RMB295,319 and RMB220,728 as of December 31,
2022 and 2023, respectively)
Accounts receivable, net of allowance for credit losses of RMB3,647 and RMB6,862 as of December 31, 2022 and 2023, respectively
Amounts due from related parties, net of allowance for credit losses of RMB25,666 and RMB23,394 as of December 31, 2022 and 2023,
respectively
Loan receivables, net of allowance for credit losses of RMB93,859 and RMB79,510 as of December 31, 2022 and 2023, respectively
Other current assets
Total current assets
Long-term investments (including long-term investments measured at fair value of RMB706,413 and RMB666,867 as of December 31,
2022 and 2023, respectively)
Investment in affiliates
Property and equipment, net
Operating lease right-of-use assets, net
Deferred tax assets
Other non-current assets
Total Assets
Liabilities and Equity
Current liabilities: (including amounts of the consolidated VIEs without recourse to Noah Holdings Ltd. See Note 2(b))
Accrued payroll and welfare expenses
Income tax payable
Deferred revenues
Contingent liabilities
Other current liabilities
Total current liabilities
Deferred tax liabilities
Operating lease liabilities, non-current
Other non-current liabilities
Total Liabilities
Contingencies (Note 19)
Shareholders’ equity:
Ordinary shares1: 1,000,000,000 ordinary shares authorized (US$0.00005 par value), 319,455,750 shares issued and 313,019,320 shares
outstanding as of December 31, 2022 and 1,000,000,000 ordinary shares authorized (US$0.00005 par value), 328,034,660 shares
issued and 326,307,330 shares outstanding as of December 31, 2023
Additional paid-in capital
Retained earnings
Accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income
Total Noah Holdings Limited shareholders’ equity
Non-controlling interests
Total Shareholders’ Equity
Total Liabilities and Equity
2022
RMB
As of December 31,
2023
RMB
2023
US$
4,403,915
23,203
315,979
498,106
443,424
465,780
166,739
6,317,146
774,095
1,491,820
2,486,317
168,192
436,441
124,124
11,798,135
668,953
126,848
67,967
568,018
473,175
1,904,961
249,768
83,171
59,760
2,297,660
5,192,127
154,433
379,456
503,978
393,891
286,921
206,250
7,117,056
810,484
1,526,544
2,482,199
139,019
431,494
178,582
12,685,378
564,096
89,694
72,824
482,802
681,802
1,891,218
262,404
76,533
27,660
2,257,815
731,296
21,751
53,445
70,984
55,478
40,412
29,052
1,002,418
114,154
215,009
349,610
19,580
60,775
25,152
1,786,698
79,451
12,633
10,257
68,001
96,030
266,372
36,959
10,779
3,896
318,006
105
3,803,183
5,604,954
(2,546)
9,405,696
94,779
9,500,475
11,798,135
110
3,798,662
6,436,946
74,616
10,310,334
117,229
10,427,563
12,685,378
15
535,030
906,625
10,509
1,452,179
16,513
1,468,692
1,786,698
Note 1: Results have been retroactively adjusted to reflect the 1-for-10 Share Subdivision effective on October 27, 2023. See Note 2 for
details.
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.
F-5
Table of Contents
Revenues:
Revenues from others
One-time commissions
Recurring service fees
Performance-based income
Other service fees
Total revenues from others
Revenues from funds Gopher manages
One-time commissions
Recurring service fees
Performance-based income
Total revenues from funds Gopher manages
Total revenues
Less:VAT related surcharges
Net revenues
Operating cost and expenses:
Compensation and benefits
Relationship manager compensation
Other compensations
Total compensation and benefits
Selling expenses
General and administrative expenses
(Provision for) reversal of credit losses
Other operating expenses, net
Government subsidies
Total operating cost and expenses
Income from operations
Other income (expense):
Interest income
Investment income (loss)
Settlement expenses
Contingent litigation expenses
Other (expense) income
Noah Holdings Limited
Consolidated Statements of Operations
(Amount in Thousands, Except Share and Per Share Data)
Year Ended December 31,
2021
RMB
2022
RMB
2023
RMB
1,130,894
913,700
391,903
161,982
2,598,479
140,522
1,195,309
392,290
1,728,121
4,326,600
(33,506)
4,293,094
(920,896)
(1,089,941)
(2,168,880)
(437,131)
(383,321)
(112,959)
(107,844)
115,939
(3,094,196)
1,198,898
71,866
65,426
(19,908)
—
(18,240)
99,144
1,298,042
(293,940)
301,979
1,306,081
(8,050)
1,314,131
3.91
3.89
617,636
768,980
184,048
223,441
1,794,105
63,809
1,145,435
125,528
1,334,772
3,128,877
(28,505)
3,100,372
(497,147)
(937,696)
(1,441,882)
(349,014)
(235,319)
424
(115,653)
129,521
(2,011,923)
1,088,449
61,416
85,554
—
(99,000)
13,130
61,100
1,149,549
(267,108)
89,148
971,589
(4,982)
976,571
2.86
2.86
1,072,838
707,580
16,344
270,579
2,067,341
16,365
1,112,850
121,265
1,250,480
3,317,821
(23,125)
3,294,696
(655,460)
(801,293)
(1,456,753)
(485,778)
(275,727)
7,028
(112,506)
126,955
(2,196,781)
1,097,915
161,926
(61,486)
—
—
10,892
111,332
1,209,247
(262,360)
54,128
1,001,015
(8,479)
1,009,494
2.91
2.91
2023
US$
151,106
99,661
2,302
38,110
291,179
2,305
156,742
17,080
176,127
467,306
(3,257)
464,049
(92,320)
(112,860)
(205,180)
(68,420)
(38,835)
990
(15,846)
17,881
(309,410)
154,639
22,807
(8,660)
—
—
1,534
15,681
170,320
(36,953)
7,624
140,991
(1,194)
142,185
0.41
0.41
Total other income
Income before taxes and income from equity in affiliates
Income tax expense
Income from equity in affiliates
Net income
Less: net loss attributable to non-controlling interests
Net income attributable to Noah Holdings Limited shareholders
Net income per share1:
Basic
Diluted
Weighted average number of shares used in computation:
Basic
Diluted
335,858,180
337,817,730
341,660,160
341,980,710
347,369,860
347,422,580
347,369,860
347,422,580
Note 1: Results have been retroactively adjusted to reflect the 1-for-10 Share Subdivision effective on October 27, 2023. See Note 2 for
details.
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.
F-6
Table of Contents
Noah Holdings Limited
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income
(Amount in Thousands)
Net income
Other comprehensive income , net of tax
Foreign currency translation adjustments
Comprehensive income
Less: comprehensive loss attributable to non-controlling interests
Comprehensive income attributable to Noah Holdings Limited
2021
RMB
1,306,081
Year Ended December 31,
2022
RMB
971,589
2023
RMB
1,001,015
(60,851)
1,245,230
(8,001)
137,555
1,109,144
(4,895)
76,990
1,078,005
(8,651)
2023
US$
140,991
10,844
151,835
(1,218)
shareholders
1,253,231
1,114,039
1,086,656
153,053
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.
F-7
Table of Contents
Balance at December 31, 2020
Net income
Share-based compensation
Treasury stock reissued for vesting of restricted shares, net
Treasury stock reissued for stock options exercised, net
Treasury stock reissued for settlement, net (Note 14)
Other comprehensive income (loss)-foreign currency
translation adjustments
Receipt of employees’ shares to satisfy tax withholding
obligations related to share-based compensation
Non-controlling interest capital injection
Divestment of non-controlling interests
Impact of acquisition (Note 2(b))
Distributions to non-controlling interests
Acquisition of non-controlling interests in subsidiaries (Note
2 (j))
Repurchase of ordinary shares
Retirement of treasury stock
Balance at December 31, 2021
Net income
Share-based compensation
Treasury stock reissued for vesting of restricted shares, net
Treasury stock reissued for stock options exercised, net
Restricted share units for settlement (Note 14)
Other comprehensive income (loss)-foreign currency
translation adjustments
Receipt of employees’ shares to satisfy tax withholding
obligations related to share-based compensation
Non-controlling interest capital injection
Divestment of non-controlling interests
Impact of acquisition (Note 2(b))
Distributions to non-controlling interests
Class B Ordinary Shares transfer to Class A Ordinary Shares
(Note 3)
Issuance of ordinary shares upon completion of Hong Kong
public Offering
Retirement of treasury stock
Balance at December 31, 2022
Net income
Dividends (Note 20)
Share-based compensation
Ordinary shares issued for settlement, net (Note 14)
Ordinary shares issued for vesting of restricted shares
Ordinary shares issued for exercising of options
ther comprehensive income (loss) —foreign currency
translation adjustments
Non-controlling interest capital injection
Impact of acquisition (Note 2(b))
Disposal of subsidiaries
Divestment of non-controlling interests
Distributions to non-controlling interests
Balance at December 31, 2023
Noah Holdings Limited
Consolidated Statements of Changes in Equity
(Amount in Thousands, Except for Share Data)
Class A
Ordinary Shares2
Class B
Ordinary Shares2
Shares
227,735,420
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
(895,720)
226,839,700
—
—
—
—
1,027,000
—
—
—
—
—
RMB1
76
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
76
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
RMB
Shares
83,150,000
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
83,150,000
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
28
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
28
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
Treasury Stock
Shares
(5,442,020)
—
—
570,640
376,060
1,027,000
RMB
(290,913)
—
—
32,557
21,456
58,594
—
—
(895,720)
—
—
—
—
—
(5,726,830)
895,720
(9,195,150)
—
—
323,120
60,090
—
(34,788)
—
—
—
—
—
(363,073)
34,788
(541,379)
—
—
20,252
3,585
—
—
—
(707,040)
—
—
—
83,150,000
28
(83,150,000)
(28)
—
11,521,600
(9,518,980)
313,019,320
—
—
—
11,779,470
1,508,390
150
—
—
—
—
—
—
326,307,330
4
(3)
105
—
—
—
4
1
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
110
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
9,518,980
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
(23,111)
—
—
—
—
—
540,653
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
Additional
Paid-in
Capital
RMB
3,565,667
—
51,037
(5,700)
(3,748)
95,339
—
—
15,689
3,547
—
—
(187,090)
—
—
3,534,741
—
42,300
(3,436)
(618)
—
—
—
—
(10,315)
—
(6,500)
—
247,011
3,803,183
—
—
11,530
(4)
(1)
3
—
—
—
—
—
(16,049)
3,798,662
Accumulated
Other
Comprehensive
(Loss) Income
RMB
(79,114)
—
—
—
—
—
Total Noah
Holdings
Limited
Shareholders’
Equity
RMB
7,185,511
1,314,131
51,037
—
11,114
105,597
(60,900)
(60,900)
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
(140,014)
—
—
—
—
—
(34,788)
15,689
3,547
—
—
(187,090)
(363,073)
—
8,040,775
976,571
42,300
—
1,493
—
Noncontrolling
Interests
RMB
91,860
(8,050)
—
—
—
—
49
—
27,674
(14,190)
1,012
(5,772)
8,283
—
—
100,866
(4,982)
—
—
—
—
Total
Shareholders’
Equity
RMB
7,277,371
1,306,081
51,037
—
11,114
105,597
(60,851)
(34,788)
43,363
(10,643)
1,012
(5,772)
(178,807)
(363,073)
—
8,141,641
971,589
42,300
—
1,493
—
137,468
137,468
87
137,555
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
(2,546)
—
—
—
—
—
—
77,162
—
—
—
—
—
74,616
(23,111)
—
(10,315)
—
(6,500)
—
247,015
—
9,405,696
1,009,494
(177,502)
11,530
—
—
3
77,162
—
—
—
—
(16,049)
10,310,334
—
17,680
(13,338)
966
(6,500)
—
—
—
94,779
(8,479)
—
—
—
—
—
(172)
13,911
68,018
(23,377)
(6,925)
(20,526)
117,229
(23,111)
17,680
(23,653)
966
(13,000)
—
247,015
—
9,500,475
1,001,015
(177,502)
11,530
—
—
3
76,990
13,911
68,018
(23,377)
(6,925)
(36,575)
10,427,563
Retained
Earnings
RMB
3,989,767
1,314,131
—
(26,857)
(6,594)
(48,336)
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
(34,788)
5,187,323
976,571
—
(16,816)
(1,474)
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
(540,650)
5,604,954
1,009,494
(177,502)
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
6,436,946
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.
The amount less than RMB 1 is rounded to zero.
1
2 Upon adoption of the sixth amended memorandum and articles of association on December 23, 2022, the Company no longer has dual-
class voting structure. Results have been retroactively adjusted to reflect the 1-for-10 Share Subdivision effected on October 27, 2023.
See Note 2 for details.
3 As of December 31, 2023, 1,727,330 ordinary shares were issued in relation to the future share awards for employees (Note 13) and
settlement (Note 14). These shares are considered legally issued but not outstanding.
F-8
Table of Contents
Noah Holdings Limited
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
(Amount in Thousands)
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net income
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
(Gain) loss from disposal of property and equipment
Depreciation expenses
Non-cash lease expenses
Share-based compensation expenses
Share-based settlement expenses
Foreign exchange gain
Income from equity in affiliates, net of dividends
Loss from disposal of subsidiaries
Provision for (reversal of) credit losses
Impairment of long-term investments
Fair value (gains) losses in the consolidated funds
Fair value (gains) losses of equity investments measured at fair value
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:
Accounts receivable
Amounts due from related parties
Other current assets
Other non-current assets
Accrued payroll and welfare expenses
Income taxes payable
Deferred revenues
Other current liabilities
Other non-current liabilities
Contingent liabilities
Lease assets and liabilities
Trading debt securities
Deferred tax assets and liabilities
Net cash provided by operating activities
Cash flows from investing activities:
Purchases of property and equipment
Proceeds from disposal of property and equipment
Purchase of held-to-maturity investments
Proceeds from redemption of held-to-maturity investments
Purchases of available-for-sale investments
Proceeds from sale or redemption of available-for-sale investments
Purchases of short-term equity securities
Proceeds from short-term equity securities
Purchase of other long-term investments
Proceeds from sale of other long-term investments
Purchase of investments held by consolidated funds
Proceeds from investments held by consolidated funds
Loans to related parties
Principal collection of loans to related parties
Loans disbursement to third parties
Principal collection of loans originated to third parties
Increase in investments in affiliates
Capital return from investments in affiliates
Proceeds from disposal of subsidiaries, net of cash deconsolidated
Acquisitions, net of cash acquired
Net cash (used in) provided by investing activities
Year Ended December 31,
2021
RMB
2022
RMB
2023
RMB
2023
US$
1,306,081
971,589
1,001,015
140,991
(6,063)
146,567
85,695
51,037
19,908
—
(206,218)
—
112,959
10,000
(2,520)
(67,420)
(362,996)
53,194
57,135
(8,919)
240,925
49,483
(7,982)
191,420
99,165
(11,398)
(93,805)
(14,804)
(119,606)
1,521,838
(2,271,216)
38,845
(17,000)
101,639
(15,000)
15,632
(18,975)
3,686
(91,256)
8,465
(3,327)
8,777
(28,629)
18,101
(1,007,378)
685,978
(101,988)
129,507
—
(27,955)
(2,572,094)
1,183
155,968
95,280
42,300
—
—
(33,708)
—
(424)
—
10,483
(99,991)
304,698
(2,040)
(17,001)
33,622
(277,594)
(63,412)
4,336
(178,823)
(40,260)
99,000
(94,535)
(192,866)
(84,904)
632,901
(62,710)
—
(1,035)
9,662
—
—
(1,722)
3,887
(3,943)
19,366
(75,029)
30,627
(21,375)
36,308
(200,111)
348,446
(73,296)
65,214
—
—
74,289
23,488
158,082
78,212
11,530
—
(7,037)
(19,340)
(10,834)
(7,028)
13,343
7,513
43,113
258
94,367
(51,245)
(37,761)
(104,904)
(37,154)
4,857
225,565
(32,100)
(99,000)
(78,208)
124,005
17,583
1,318,320
(157,922)
—
(489,941)
257,474
—
—
(16)
2,718
—
4,087
(42,206)
32,905
(84,341)
41,619
(18,029)
221,251
(53,620)
63,857
30,430
(55,407)
(247,141)
3,308
22,265
11,016
1,624
—
(991)
(2,724)
(1,526)
(990)
1,879
1,058
6,072
36
13,291
(7,218)
(5,318)
(14,775)
(5,233)
684
31,770
(4,521)
(13,944)
(11,015)
17,466
2,477
185,682
(22,243)
—
(69,007)
36,264
—
—
(2)
383
—
576
(5,945)
4,635
(11,879)
5,862
(2,539)
31,164
(7,552)
8,994
4,286
(7,804)
(34,807)
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.
F-9
Table of Contents
Noah Holdings Limited
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
(Amount in Thousands)
Cash flows from financing activities:
Proceeds from offereing, net of issuance cost
Proceeds from issuance of ordinary shares upon exercise of stock options
Contribution from non-controlling interests
Distributions to non-controlling interests
Payments to acquire non-controlling interests in subsidiaries
Divestment of non-controlling interests
Payment for repurchase of ordinary shares
Dividend paid
Payments of assumed liability resulting from certain asset acquisition
Net cash (used in) provided by financing activities
Effect of exchange rate changes
Net (decrease) increases in cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash
Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash—beginning of the year
Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash—end of the year
Supplemental disclosure of cash flow information:
Cash paid for income taxes
Supplemental disclosure of non-cash investing and financing activities:
Purchase of property and equipment in other current liabilities
Operating lease right - of - use assets obtained in exchange for operating lease liabilities
Reconciliation to amounts on consolidated balance sheets:
Cash and cash equivalents
Restricted cash
Restricted cash – non-current included in other non-current assets
Total cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash
2021
RMB
—
11,114
43,363
(5,772)
(178,807)
(10,643)
(372,376)
—
—
(513,121)
(46,714)
(1,610,091)
5,022,704
3,412,613
Year Ended December 31,
2022
RMB
247,015
1,493
17,680
—
—
(23,653)
—
—
(8,774)
233,761
81,054
1,022,005
3,412,613
4,434,618
2023
RMB
—
3
13,911
(23,584)
—
(6,925)
—
(177,502)
(5,738)
(199,835)
48,098
919,442
4,434,618
5,354,060
364,120
407,494
285,507
44,875
52,183
3,404,603
510
7,500
3,412,613
36,763
55,761
4,403,915
23,203
7,500
4,434,618
37,018
92,401
5,192,127
154,433
7,500
5,354,060
2023
US$
—
—
1,959
(3,322)
—
(975)
—
(25,001)
(808)
(28,147)
6,775
129,503
624,603
754,106
40,213
5,214
13,014
731,296
21,751
1,059
754,106
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.
F-10
Table of Contents
Noah Holdings Limited
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
For the Years Ended December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023
(In Thousands Renminbi, except for share and per share data, or otherwise stated)
1. Organization and Principal Activities
Noah Holdings Limited (“Company”) was incorporated on June 29, 2007 in the Cayman Islands with limited liability. The
Company, through its subsidiaries and consolidated variable interest entities (“VIEs”) (collectively, the “Group”), is a leading and
pioneer wealth management service provider in the People’s Republic of China (“PRC”) offering comprehensive one-stop advisory
services on global investment and asset allocation primarily for high net wealth (“HNW”) investors. The Group began offering services
in 2005 through Shanghai Noah Investment Management Co., Ltd. (“Noah Investment”), a consolidated VIE, founded in the PRC in
August 2005.
2. Summary of Principal Accounting Policies
(a) Basis of Presentation
The consolidated financial statements were prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United
States of America (“U.S. GAAP”).
The resolution of Share Subdivision (as defined below) was duly passed by the Company’s shareholders as ordinary resolution
by way of poll at the Extraordinary General Meeting held on October 26, 2023. Upon the effectiveness of the resolution, each of the
issued and unissued ordinary shares of par value of US$0.0005 each was hereby subdivided into ten (10) ordinary shares of par value of
US$0.00005 each (“Subdivided Shares”), and such Subdivided Shares shall rank pari passu in all respects with each other in accordance
with the Company’s memorandum and articles of association and have the same rights and privileges and be subject to the same
restriction as the shares of the Company in issue prior to the Share Subdivision. (“Share Subdivision”)
As a result of the Share Subdivision, all share amounts and per share amounts disclosed in this Annual Report have been
adjusted to reflect the Share Subdivision on a retroactive basis in all periods presented.
(b) Principles of Consolidation
The consolidated financial statements include the financial statements of the Company, its subsidiaries and consolidated VIEs.
All inter-company transactions and balances have been eliminated upon consolidation.
A consolidated subsidiary is an entity in which the Company, directly or indirectly, controls more than one half of the voting
power or has the power to: appoint or remove the majority of the members of the board of directors; cast a majority of votes at the
meeting of the board of directors; or govern the financial and operating policies of the investee under a statute or agreement among the
shareholders or equity holders.
U.S. GAAP provides guidance on the identification and financial reporting for entities over which control is achieved through
means other than voting interests. The Group evaluates each of its interests in entities to determine whether or not the investee is a VIE
and, if so, whether the Group is the primary beneficiary of such VIE. In determining whether the Group is the primary beneficiary, the
Group considers if the Group (1) has power to direct the activities that most significantly affects the economic performance of the VIE,
and (2) receives the economic benefits of the VIE that could be significant to the VIE. The consolidation guidance requires an analysis to
determine (i) whether an entity in which the Group holds a variable interest is a VIE and (ii) whether the Group’s involvement, through
holding interests directly or indirectly in the entity or contractually through other variable interests (for example, management and
performance income), would give it a controlling financial interest. If deemed the primary beneficiary, the Group consolidates the VIE.
F-11
Table of Contents
Consolidation through contractual arrangements
The Company had been engaged in the asset management business through contractual arrangements among its PRC subsidiary,
Shanghai Noah Investment (Group) Co., Ltd (“Noah Group”), its PRC VIE, Noah Investment, and Noah Investment’s shareholders
(“Registered Shareholders”). The Group relies on the contractual agreements with Noah Investment and the Registered Shareholders for
a portion of its operations in the PRC, including the Group’s asset management business. Because of the contractual arrangements, the
Company is able to consolidate the financial results of Noah Investment and its operating subsidiaries.
Since the Company does not have any equity interests in Noah Investment, in order to exercise effective control over its
operations, the Company, through Noah Group, entered into a series of contractual arrangements with Noah Investment and its
shareholders, pursuant to which the Company is entitled to receive effectively all economic benefits generated from all the equity
interests in Noah Investment. These contractual arrangements include:
(i) Exclusive Option Agreement
Pursuant to an exclusive option agreement entered into by the Registered Shareholders and Noah Group in September 2007 (the
“Exclusive Option Agreement”), the Registered Shareholders granted Noah Group or its third-party designee an irrevocable and
exclusive option to purchase all or part of their equity interests in Noah Investment when and to the extent permitted by PRC law. The
purchase price shall be the minimum purchase price permitted under PRC law, or a higher price as otherwise agreed by the Noah Group.
Noah Group may exercise such option at any time and from time to time until it has acquired all equity interests of Noah Investment.
During the term of this agreement, the Registered Shareholders are prohibited from transferring their equity interests in Noah Investment
to any third party, and Noah Investment is prohibited from declaring and paying any dividend without Noah Group’s prior consent.
(ii) Exclusive Support Service Agreement
Pursuant to an exclusive support service agreement entered into by Noah Investment and Noah Group in September 2007 (the
“Exclusive Support Service Agreement”), Noah Investment has engaged Noah Group as its exclusive technical and operational
consultant to support Noah Investment’s operational activities. Noah Group has agreed to provide certain support services to Noah
Investment, including client management, technical and operational support and other services, for which Noah Investment has agreed to
pay to Noah Group service fees determined based on actual services provided, which shall be the income of Noah Investment, less (i)
expenses and costs, and (ii) the License Fee (as defined below). Noah Group is also obligated to grant Noah Investment licenses to use
certain intellectual property rights, for which Noah Investment has agreed to pay license fees (the “License Fee”) at the rates set by the
board of Noah Group.
(iii) Share Pledge Agreement
Pursuant to the share pledge agreement entered into by each of the Registered Shareholders and Noah Group in September 2007
(the “Share Pledge Agreement”), the Registered Shareholders pledged all of their equity interests in Noah Investment (the “Pledge
Equity Interests”) to Noah Group as collateral to secure their obligations under the Exclusive Option Agreement and Noah Investment’s
obligations under the Exclusive Support Service Agreement. In the case that Noah Investment increases its registered capital upon prior
written consent of Noah Group, the Pledge Equity Interests shall include all the additional equity interests subscribed by the Registered
Shareholders in such capital increase. If Noah Investment or the Registered Shareholders breach any of their respective obligations under
the Exclusive Support Service Agreement or the Exclusive Option Agreement, Noah Group, as the pledgee, will be entitled to certain
rights, including being repaid in priority by the proceeds from auction or sale of the Pledge Equity Interests. The share pledges under the
Share Pledge Agreement have been registered with competent branches of State Administration for Market Regulation of the PRC.
F-12
Table of Contents
(iv) Powers of Attorney
Each of the Registered Shareholders executed a power of attorney in September 2007 (the “Powers of Attorney”), respectively,
to grant Noah Group or its designee the power of attorney to act on his or her behalf on all matters pertaining to Noah Investment and to
exercise all of his or her rights as the registered shareholder of Noah Investment, including the right to attend shareholders meetings,
appoint board members and senior management members, other voting rights and the right to transfer all or a part of his or her equity
interests in Noah Investment. The Powers of Attorney shall remain irrevocable and effective during the period that the Registered
Shareholders are shareholders of Noah Investment.
The contractual arrangements provide the Company effective control over Noah Investment and its subsidiaries, while the Share
Pledge Agreement secure the equity owners’ obligations under the relevant agreements. Because the Company, through Noah Group, has
(i) the power to direct the activities of Noah Investment that most significantly affect its economic performance and (ii) the right to
receive substantially all of the benefits from Noah Investment, the Company is deemed the primary beneficiary of Noah Investment.
Accordingly, the Group has consolidated the financial statements of Noah Investment since its inception. The aforementioned contractual
agreements are effective agreements between a parent and a consolidated subsidiary, neither of which is separately accounted for in the
consolidated financial statements (i.e. a call option on subsidiary shares under the Exclusive Option Agreement or a guarantee of
subsidiary performance under the Share Pledge Agreement) or are ultimately eliminated upon consolidation (i.e. service fees under the
Exclusive Support Service Agreement).
The Company believes that its corporate structure and the contractual arrangements do not result in a violation of the current
applicable PRC laws and regulations. The Company’s PRC Legal Adviser, based on its understanding of PRC laws and regulations
currently in effect, is of the opinion that each of the contracts under the contractual arrangements among the Company’s wholly-owned
PRC subsidiary, Noah Group, Noah Investment, and its shareholders, is valid, legal and binding in accordance with its terms. However,
the Company has been further advised by its PRC Legal Adviser that as there are substantial uncertainties regarding the interpretation
and application of PRC laws and regulations and relevant regulatory measures concerning the foreign investment restrictions and
administrative licenses and permits related to various underlying industries, there can be no assurance that the PRC government
authorities or courts, or other authorities that regulate the industries that the Group’s funds are directly or indirectly investing into, would
agree that the Company’s corporate structure or any of the contracts under the contractual arrangements comply with PRC licensing,
registration or other regulatory requirements, with existing policies or with requirements or policies that may be adopted in the future.
PRC laws and regulations governing the legality, validity and enforceability of the contractual arrangements are uncertain and the
relevant government authorities have broad discretion in interpreting these laws and regulations.
If the Company’s corporate structure and the contractual arrangements are deemed by relevant regulatory authorities to be
illegal, either in whole or in part, the Company may lose control of its VIEs and have to modify such structure to comply with regulatory
requirements. However, there can be no assurance that the Company can achieve this without material disruption to its business. Further,
if the Company’s corporate structure and the contractual arrangements are found to be in violation of any existing or future PRC laws or
regulations, the relevant regulatory authorities would have broad discretion in dealing with such violations, including:
● revoking the Group’s business and operating licenses;
● levying fines on the Group;
● confiscating any of the Group’s income that they deem to be obtained through illegal operations;
● shutting down the Group’s services;
● discontinuing or restricting the Group’s operations in China;
● imposing conditions or requirements with which the Group may not be able to comply;
● requiring the Group to change its corporate structure and the contractual arrangements;
F-13
Table of Contents
● restricting or prohibiting the Group’s use of the proceeds from overseas offering to finance the VIEs’ business and
operations; and
● taking other regulatory or enforcement actions that could be harmful to the Group’s business.
Consolidation of investment funds
In evaluating whether the investment funds in the legal form of limited partnership the Group manages as general partner are
VIEs or not, the Group firstly assesses whether a simple majority or lower threshold of limited partnership interests, excluding interests
held by the general partner, parties under common control of the general partner, or parties acting on behalf of the general partner, have
substantive kick-out rights or participating rights. If such rights exist, the limited partnership is not deemed as a VIE and no further
analysis will be performed. If the limited partnership is assessed to be a VIE, the Group will further assess whether there is any interest it
has constituted a variable interest. The Group concludes that the service fees it earns, including carried interest earned in the capacity of
general partner, are commensurate with the level of effort required to provide such services and are at arm’s length and therefore are not
deemed as variable interests. Before 2015, all limited partnerships the Group managed as general partner had substantive kick-out rights
exercisable by a simple-majority of non-related limited partners and therefore were not deemed as VIEs. Since 2015, not all the newly
formed limited partnerships the Group manages as general partners have substantive kick-out rights exercisable by a simple-majority of
non-related limited partners and therefore constitute VIEs. The Group performed a quantitative analysis to determine if its interest could
absorb losses or receive benefits that could potentially be significant to the VIEs and if it would be deemed to be the primary beneficiary
of the VIEs. Such limited partnerships are deemed as VIEs not consolidated by the Group if the general partner interest to absorb losses
or receive benefits is not potentially significant to the VIEs.
The Group also manages contractual funds as fund manager and earns management fee and/or performance-based income. The
contractual funds are VIEs as the fund investors do not have substantive kick-out rights or participating rights. The Group from time to
time invested in the contractual funds it manages for investment income. Such investments constitute variable interests to the contractual
funds.
The Group determines whether it is a primary beneficiary of a VIE when it initially involves with a VIE and reconsiders that
conclusion when facts and circumstances change.
The Group does not provide performance guarantees and has no other financial obligation to provide funding to consolidated
VIEs other than its own capital commitments.
During the year ended December 31, 2023, the Group consolidated an investment fund upon the acquisition of partial
investment as it was the primary beneficiary of the fund. As of the date of consolidation, the Group’s total assets, total liabilities and non-
controlling interests were increased by RMB68.6 million, RMB0.6 million and RMB68.0 million, respectively. The Group
deconsolidated two investment funds upon the withdrawal of partial investment as they were no longer the primary beneficiary of the
funds. Upon the deconsolidation, the Group’s total assets and non-controlling interests were reduced by RMB23.4 million and RMB23.4
million, respectively.
The Group assessed whether it was the primary beneficiary and consolidated or deconsolidated several funds during the years
ended December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023, the impact of which was immaterial.
F-14
Table of Contents
The following amounts of Noah Investment and its subsidiaries and the consolidated funds were included in the Group’s
consolidated financial statements and are presented before the elimination of intercompany transactions with the non-VIE subsidiaries of
the Group.
Cash and cash equivalents
Restricted cash
Short-term investments
Accounts receivable, net
Amounts due from related parties, net
Amounts due from the Group’s subsidiaries*
Loans receivables, net
Other current assets
Long-term investments
Investment in affiliates
Property and equipment, net
Operating lease right-of-use assets, net
Deferred tax assets
Other non-current assets
Total assets
Accrued payroll and welfare expenses
Income tax payable
Amounts due to the Group’s subsidiaries*
Deferred revenue
Other current liabilities
Deferred tax liabilities
Other non-current liabilities
Operating lease liabilities, non-current
Total liabilities
As of December 31,
(Amount in Thousands)
2023
RMB
1,420,089
9,775
119,399
57,682
251,235
149,250
34,987
81,660
433,201
852,163
74,600
10,195
74,418
8,889
3,577,543
144,688
17,007
—
3,672
164,171
32,656
14,978
6,044
383,216
2022
RMB
1,566,729
1,916
82,594
161,957
287,577
68,805
64,900
348,992
858,700
35,694
13,598
92,105
3,753
3,587,320
236,131
123,099
55,762
8,616
178,652
17,719
13,967
6,850
640,796
2023
US$
200,015
1,377
16,817
8,124
35,386
21,021
4,928
11,502
61,015
120,025
10,507
1,436
10,482
1,252
503,887
20,379
2,395
—
517
23,123
4,600
2,110
851
53,975
*Amounts due from/to the Group’s subsidiaries are eliminated in the process of preparing the consolidated balance sheets.
F-15
Table of Contents
Revenues:
Revenues from others
One-time commissions
Recurring service fees
Other service fees
Total revenues from others
Revenues from funds Gopher manages
One-time commissions
Recurring service fees
Performance-based income
Total revenues from funds Gopher manages
Total revenues(1)
Less: VAT related surcharges
Net revenues
Total operating cost and expenses(2)
Total other income
Net income
Net income attributable to Noah Holdings Limited shareholders
Cash flows provided by (used in) operating activities(3)
Cash flows provided by (used in) investing activities
Cash flows used in financing activities
2021
RMB
552,761
50,817
69,951
673,529
86,801
588,337
165,791
840,929
1,514,458
(9,350)
1,505,108
(867,215)
23,868
616,421
621,010
562,400
(207,114)
(16,416)
Year Ended December 31,
(Amount in Thousands)
2023
2022
RMB
RMB
365,927
50,494
105,612
522,033
50,227
665,724
51,688
767,639
1,289,672
(7,452)
1,282,220
(586,993)
105,426
658,023
628,645
661,944
(275,289)
—
371,863
4,083
37,251
413,197
4,135
569,458
10,414
584,007
997,204
(4,538)
992,666
(740,138)
(11,197)
212,334
215,954
(7,660)
(131,120)
—
2023
US$
52,376
575
5,247
58,198
582
80,206
1,467
82,255
140,453
(639)
139,814
(104,246)
(1,577)
29,907
30,416
(1,079)
(18,468)
—
(1) The total revenues include intragroup transactions amounted to RMB38,399, RMB64,419 and RMB19,591 for the years ended
December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023, respectively, which were eliminated in the process of preparing the consolidated statements of
operations.
(2) The total operating cost and expenses include intragroup transactions amounted to RMB186,962, RMB264,376 and RMB359,075
for the years ended December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023, respectively, which were eliminated in the process of preparing the
consolidated statements of operations.
(3) Cash flows (used in) provided by operating activities in 2021, 2022 and 2023 include amounts due (to) from the Group’s subsidiaries
of RMB(179,325), RMB(55,762) and RMB149,250 (US$21,021).
The VIEs contributed an aggregate of 35.1%, 41.4% and 30.1% of the consolidated net revenues for the years ended December
31, 2021, 2022 and 2023, respectively and an aggregate 47.2%, 66.4% and 21.2% of the consolidated net income for the years ended
December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023, respectively. As of December 31, 2022 and 2023, the VIEs accounted for an aggregate of 30.4% and
28.2%, respectively, of the consolidated total assets.
There are no consolidated assets of the VIEs and their subsidiaries that are collateral for the obligations of the VIEs and their
subsidiaries and can only be used to settle the obligations of the VIEs and their subsidiaries, except for the cash held by the consolidated
funds of which cash could only be used by the consolidated funds. There are no terms in any arrangements, considering both explicit
arrangements and implicit variable interests that require the Company or its subsidiaries to provide financial support to the VIEs.
However, if the VIEs ever need financial support, the Company or its subsidiaries may, at its option and subject to statutory limits and
restrictions, provide financial support to its VIEs through loans to the shareholders of the VIEs or entrustment loans to the VIEs.
Relevant PRC laws and regulations restrict the VIEs from transferring a portion of their net assets, equivalent to the balance of
its statutory reserve and its share capital, to the Group in the form of loans and advances or cash dividends. Please refer to Note 16 for
disclosure of restricted net assets.
F-16
Table of Contents
As of December 31, 2022 and 2023, the Group had some variable interests in various investment funds and contractual funds
that were VIEs but were not consolidated by the Group as the Group was not determined to be the primary beneficiary of the funds. The
maximum potential financial statement loss the Group could incur if the investment funds and contractual funds were to default on all of
their obligations is (i) the loss of value of the interests in such investments that the Group holds, including equity investments recorded in
investments in affiliates as well as debt securities investments recorded in short-term investments and long-term investments in the
consolidated balance sheet, and (ii) any management fee and/or carried interest receivables as well as loans to the funds recorded in
amounts due from related parties. The following table summarizes the Group’s maximum exposure to loss associated with identified non-
consolidated VIEs in which it holds variable interests as of December 31, 2022 and 2023, respectively.
Amounts due from related parties
Investments
Maximum exposure to loss in non-consolidated VIEs
As of December 31,
(Amount in Thousands)
2023
RMB
23,307
562,426
585,733
2022
RMB
25,473
508,376
533,849
2023
US$
3,283
79,216
82,499
The Group has not provided other form of financial support to these non-consolidated VIEs during the years ended December
31, 2022 and 2023, and had no liabilities, contingent liabilities, or guarantees (implicit or explicit) related to these non-consolidated VIEs
as of December 31, 2022 and 2023.
(c) Use of Estimates
The preparation of 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 the disclosures of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of
the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenue and expense during the reporting period. Actual results could differ
materially from such estimates. Significant accounting estimates reflected in the Group’s consolidated financial statements include
assumptions used to determine valuation allowance for deferred tax assets, allowance for credit losses, fair value measurement of
underlying investment portfolios of the funds that the Group invests, fair value of financial instruments, assumptions related to the
consolidation of entities in which the Group holds variable interests, assumptions related to the valuation of share-based compensation,
variable consideration for revenue recognition, impairment of long-term investments, impairment of long-lived assets, determination of
the incremental borrowing rates used for operating lease liabilities and loss contingencies.
(d) Concentration of Credit Risk
The Group is subject to potential significant concentrations of credit risk consisting principally of cash and cash equivalents,
accounts receivable, amounts due from related parties, loan receivables and investments. All of the Group’s cash and cash equivalents
and more than half of investments are held at financial institutions, Group’s management believes, to be high credit quality. The Group
also invests in equity securities of private companies, of which no single equity security accounted for more than 3% of total assets as of
December 31, 2022, and 2023. In addition, the Group’s investment policy limits its exposure to concentrations of credit risk.
Credit of lending business is controlled by the application of credit approvals, limits and monitoring procedures. To minimize
credit risk, the Group requires collateral in form of right to securities. The Group identifies credit risk on a customer by customer basis.
The information is monitored regularly by management.
F-17
Table of Contents
The following table presents the investment product providers which accounted for 10% or more of total revenues for the years
ended December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023:
Investment product provider X
(e) Investments in Affiliates
Year ended December 31,
2021
2022
2023
11.4 %
11.1 % less than 10 %
Affiliated companies are entities over which the Group has significant influence, but which it does not control. The Group
generally considers an ownership interest of 20% or higher to represent significant influence. Investments in affiliates are accounted for
by the equity method of accounting. Under this method, the Group’s share of the post-acquisition profits or losses of affiliated companies
is recognized in the statements of operations and its shares of post-acquisition movements in other comprehensive income are recognized
in other comprehensive income. Unrealized gains on transactions between the Group and its affiliated companies are eliminated to the
extent of the Group’s interest in the affiliated companies; unrealized losses are also eliminated unless the transaction provides evidence
of an impairment of the asset transferred. When the Group’s share of losses in an affiliated company equals or exceeds its interest in the
affiliated company, the Group does not recognize further losses, unless the Group has incurred obligations or made payments on behalf
of the affiliated company. Any dividends received on affiliated companies are recorded as a reduction to the investment balance. An
impairment loss is recorded when there has been a loss in value of the investment that is other than temporary.
The Group also considers it has significant influence over the funds that it serves as general partner or fund manager. For funds
that the Group is not deemed the primary beneficiary of these funds, the equity method of accounting is accordingly used for investments
by the Group in these funds. In addition, the investee funds meet the definition of an Investment Company under ASC 946 and are
required to report their investment assets at fair value. The Group records its equity pick-up based on its percentage ownership of the
investee funds’ operating result.
(f) Fair Value of Financial Instruments
The Group records certain of its financial assets and liabilities at fair value on a recurring basis. Fair value reflects the price that
would be received from selling an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the
measurement date. When determining the fair value measurements for assets and liabilities required or permitted to be recorded at fair
value, the Group considers the principal or most advantageous market in which it would transact and considers assumptions that market
participants would use when pricing the asset or liability.
The Group applies a fair value hierarchy that requires an entity to maximize the use of observable inputs and minimize the use
of unobservable inputs when measuring fair value. A financial instrument’s categorization within the fair value hierarchy is based upon
the lowest level of input that is significant to the fair value measurement. The hierarchy is as follows:
Level 1 applies to assets or liabilities for which there are quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities.
Level 2 applies to assets or liabilities for which there are inputs other than quoted prices included within Level 1 that are
observable for the asset or liability, such as quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in active markets; quoted prices for identical
asset or liabilities in markets with insufficient volume or infrequent transactions (less active markets); or model-derived valuations in
which significant inputs are observable or can be derived principally from, or corroborated by, observable market data.
F-18
Table of Contents
Level 3 applies to assets or liabilities for which there are unobservable inputs to the valuation methodology that are significant
to the measurement of the fair value of the assets or liabilities.
As a practical expedient, the Group uses Net Asset Value (“NAV”) or its equivalent to measure the fair value of certain private
equity funds. NAV is primarily determined based on information provided by external fund administrators.
(g) Cash and Cash Equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents consist of cash on hand, demand deposits, fixed term deposits and money market funds, which are
unrestricted as to withdrawal and use, and which have original maturities of three months or less when purchased, presenting
insignificant risk of changes in value.
As of December 31, 2022 and 2023, cash and cash equivalents of RMB11,455 and RMB9,728, respectively, was held by the
consolidated funds. Cash and cash equivalents held by the consolidated funds represents cash that, although not legally restricted, is not
available to general liquidity needs of the Group as the use of such funds is generally limited to the investment activities of the
consolidated funds.
(h) Restricted Cash
The Group’s restricted cash primarily represents cash legally set aside for specified purposes, including (1) cash deposits
required by China Insurance Regulatory Commission for entities engaging in insurance agency or brokering activities in the PRC, which
cannot be withdrawn without the written approval of the China Insurance Regulatory Commission, and (2) cash held on behalf of clients
which shall be segregated or set aside based on the rules mandated by regulators.
(i) Investments
The Group invests in debt securities and accounts for the investments based on the nature of the products invested, and the
Group’s intent and ability to hold the investments to maturity.
The Group’s investments in debt securities include marketable bond fund securities, trust products, asset management plans,
contractual funds and real estate funds those have a stated maturity and normally pay a prospective fixed rate of return and secondary
market equity fund products, the underlying assets of which are portfolios of equity investments in listed enterprises. The Group
classifies the investments in debt securities as held-to-maturity when it has both the positive intent and ability to hold them until maturity.
Held-to-maturity investments are recorded at amortized cost and are classified as long-term or short-term according to their contractual
maturity. Long-term investments are reclassified as short-term when their contractual maturity date is less than one year. Investments that
are bought and held principally for the purpose of selling them in the near term are classified as trading debt securities. Investments that
do not meet the criteria of held-to-maturity or trading debt securities are classified as available-for-sale, and are reported at fair value
with changes in fair value deferred in other comprehensive income.
The Group records equity investments that are not subject to equity method of accounting at fair value, with gains and losses
recorded through net earnings. In accordance with ASC 321, the Group elects the measurement alternative and records certain equity
investments without readily determinable fair value at cost, less impairments, plus or minus observable price changes. The Group
continues to apply the alternative measurement guidance until the investments have readily determinable fair values or become eligible
for the NAV practical expedient. The Group may subsequently elect to measure such investments at fair value and the election of
changing measurement approach is irrevocable.
Equity investments the Group elects to use measurement alternative are evaluated for impairment qualitatively at each reporting
date based on various factors, including projected and historical financial performance, cash flow forecasts and financing needs, the
regulatory and economic environment of the investee and overall health of the investee’s industry. If impairment indicators of the
investment are noted, the Group has to estimate the fair value of the investment in accordance with ASC 820. An impairment loss in net
income will be recognized equal to the difference between the carrying value and fair value if the fair value is less than the investment’s
carrying value.
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For held-to-maturity investments, the Group evaluates current expected credit loss (“CECL”) upon acquisition at the pool level
based on available information relevant to assessing the collectability of cash flows. An expected credit loss will be recognized as an
allowance through earnings if the net amount of cash flow expected to be collected is less than the amortized cost basis. For available-
for-sale investments, the impairment is assessed under the specific identification method based on available quantitative and qualitative
evidences, and the credit loss is recorded through an allowance approach as opposed to a permanent write-down of cost basis.
(j) Non-controlling interests
A non-controlling interest in a subsidiary of the Group represents the portion of the equity (net assets) in the subsidiary not
directly or indirectly attributable to the Group. Non-controlling interests are presented as a separate component of equity in the
consolidated balance sheet, earnings and other comprehensive income are attributed to controlling and non-controlling interests.
The following schedule shows the effects of changes in the Company’s ownership interest in less than wholly owned
subsidiaries on equity attributable to Noah Holdings Limited shareholders:
Net income attributable to Noah Holdings Limited shareholders
Transfers from (to) the non-controlling interests:
Decrease in Noah’s equity by acquiring equity interests from non-controlling
interests
Increase (decrease) in Noah’s equity from divestment of non-controlling interests
Increase in Noah’s capital from contribution of non-controlling interests
Decrease in Noah’s equity from distributions to non-controlling interests
Net transfers to non-controlling interests
Change from net income attributable to Noah Holdings Limited shareholders and
2021
RMB
1,314,131
Years Ended December 31,
(Amount in Thousands)
2022
RMB
976,571
2023
RMB
1,009,494
2023
US$
142,185
(187,090)
3,547
15,689
—
(167,854)
—
(10,315)
—
(6,500)
(16,815)
—
—
—
(16,049)
(16,049)
—
—
—
(2,260)
(2,260)
transfers to non-controlling interests
1,146,277
959,756
993,445
139,925
In 2021, the Group purchased equity interests in subsidiaries from certain non-controlling interest holders (unrelated third
parties) for cash considerations of RMB178.8 million while the Group maintains control of subsidiaries and thus represents equity
transactions. The transactions were accounted for equity transactions with no impact on current period earnings, given the Group
maintained the control of the subsidiaries before and after the transactions.
(k) Property and Equipment, net
Property and equipment is stated at cost less accumulated depreciation, and is depreciated using the straight-line method over
the following estimated useful lives:
Leasehold improvements
Furniture, fixtures and equipment
Motor vehicles
Software
Building improvements
Buildings
Estimated Useful Lives in Years
Shorter of the lease term or expected useful life
3 - 5 years
5 years
2 - 5 years
10 years
30 years
The estimated useful life of buildings acquired in the year of 2021 was determined based on the remaining term of the real estate
certificate.
Gains and losses from the disposal of property and equipment are included in income from operations.
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(l) Impairment of long-lived assets
The Group reviews long-lived assets for indicators of impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the
carrying amount may not be recoverable. The evaluation is performed at the lowest level of identifiable cash flows. Undiscounted cash
flows expected to be generated by the related assets are estimated over the asset’s useful life based on updated projections. If the
evaluation indicates that the carrying amount of the asset may not be recoverable, any potential impairment is measured based upon the
fair value of the related asset or asset group as determined by an appropriate market appraisal or other valuation technique.
(m) Revenue Recognition
Under the guidance of ASC 606, the Group is required to (a) identify the contract(s) with a customer, (b) identify the
performance obligations in the contract, (c) determine the transaction price, (d) allocate the transaction price to the performance
obligations in the contract and (e) recognize revenue when (or as) the Group satisfies its performance obligation. In determining the
transaction price, the Group has included variable consideration only to the extent that it is probable that a significant reversal in the
amount of cumulative revenue recognized would not occur. Revenues are recorded, net of sales related taxes and surcharges.
The following table summarizes the Group’s main revenues streams from contracts with its customers:
Revenue Streams
One-time commissions - Fund
distribution services
One-time commissions - Insurance
brokerage services
Recurring service fees
Performance-based income
Lending services
One-time commissions
Performance Obligation
Satisfied Over Time or
Point In Time
Point in time
Point in time
Over time
Point in time
Over time
Payment Terms
Typically paid within a month after investment product
established
Typically paid within a month after insurance policy issued
and/or renewed
Typically quarterly, semi-annually or annually
Typically paid shortly after the income has been determined
Typically monthly in arrears
Variable or
Fixed
Considerations
Fixed
Fixed and
Variable
Variable
Variable
Fixed
The Group earns one-time commissions from fund raising services provided to clients or investment product providers. The
Group enters into one-time commission agreements with clients or investment product providers which specify the key terms and
conditions of the arrangement. One-time commissions are separately negotiated for each transaction and generally do not include rights
of return, credits or discounts, rebates, price protection or other similar privileges, and typically paid on or shortly after the transaction is
completed. Upon establishment of an investment product, the Group earns one-time commission from clients or investment product
providers, calculated as a percentage of the investment products purchased by its clients. The Group defines the “establishment of an
investment product” for its revenue recognition purpose as the time when both of the following two criteria are met: (1) the investor
referred by the Group has entered into a purchase or subscription contract with the relevant product provider and, if required, the investor
has transferred a deposit to an escrow account designated by the product provider and (2) the product provider has issued a formal notice
to confirm the establishment of an investment product. After the contract is established, there are no significant judgments made when
determining the one-time commission price. Therefore, one-time commissions are recorded at point in time when the investment product
is established. For certain contracts that require a portion of the payment be deferred until the end of the investment products’ life or
other specified contingency, the Group evaluates each variable consideration and recognizes revenue only when the Group concludes that
it is probable that changes in its estimate of such consideration will not result in significant reversals of revenue in subsequent periods.
The Group earns first-year commissions, and also renewal commissions under certain contracts, from insurance companies by
referring clients to purchase the insurance products from them, and recognizes revenues when the underlying insurance contracts become
effective. The renewal commission is treated as variable consideration, which is estimated on contract basis. Revenue related to the
variable consideration is recorded when it is probable that a significant reversal of revenue recognized will not occur.
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Recurring service fees
The Group also provides investment management services to investment funds and other vehicles in exchange for recurring
service fees. Recurring service fees are determined based on the types of investment products the Group distributes and/or manages and
are calculated as either (i) a percentage of the total capital commitments of investments made by the investors or (ii) as a percentage of
the fair value of the total investment in the investment products, calculated daily. These customer contracts require the Group to provide
investment management services, which represents a performance obligation that the Group satisfies over time. After the contract is
established, there are no significant judgments made when determining the transaction price. As the Group provides these services
throughout the contract term, for either method of calculating recurring service fees, revenue is calculated on a daily basis over the
contract term. Recurring service agreements do not include rights of return, credits or discounts, rebates, price protection or other similar
privileges. Payment of recurring service fees are normally on a regular basis (typically quarterly or annually) and are not subject to
clawback once determined.
Performance-based income
In a typical arrangement in which the Group serves as fund manager, and in some cases in which the Group serves as distributor,
the Group is entitled to a performance-based fee based on the extent by which the fund’s investment performance exceeds a certain
threshold based on the contract term. Such performance-based fees earned based on the performance of the underlying fund are a form of
variable consideration in its contracts with customers to provide investment management services. Those performance-based income is
typically calculated and distributed when the cumulative return of the fund can be determined. Performance-based income will not be
recognized as revenue until (a) it is probable that a significant reversal in the amount of cumulative revenue recognized will not occur, or
(b) the uncertainty associated with the variable consideration is subsequently resolved. At each reporting date, the Group updates its
estimate of the transaction price and concludes that it cannot include its estimate of performance-based income in the transaction price
because performance-based income has various possible consideration amounts and the experience that the Group has with similar
contracts is of little predictive value in determining the future performance of the funds, thus the Group cannot conclude that it is
probable that a significant reversal in the cumulative amount of revenue recognized would not occur.
Other service fees
The Group mainly derived other service fees from lending services, investor education services and other services.
Revenue from lending services represents interest income from loan origination services, and is recognized monthly in
accordance with their contractual terms and recorded as part of other service fees in the consolidated statement of operations. The Group
does not charge prepayment penalties from its customers.
Transaction price allocation
For certain contracts that the Group provides both fund raising and investment management services involving two separate
performance obligations which belong to two major streams (i.e., one time and recurring services), the Group allocates transaction price
between these two performance obligations at the relative stand-alone selling price (“SSP”). Judgment is required to determine the SSP
for each distinct performance obligation. As the service fee rate for each service contained in the contract is typically negotiated
separately, the Group determines that those fee rates are generally consistent with SSP, and can be deemed as the transaction price
allocated to each performance obligation.
Accounts receivable
Timing of revenue recognition may differ from the timing of invoicing to customers. Amounts due from related parties
(receivables from funds that Gopher manages) and accounts receivable represent amounts invoiced or the Group has the right to invoice,
and revenue recognized prior to invoicing when the Group has satisfied its performance obligations and has the unconditional right to
consideration. As the Group is entitled to unconditional right to consideration in exchange for services transferred to customers, the
Group therefore does not recognize any contract asset. The balances of accounts receivable as of December 31, 2022 and 2023 were
substantially within one year.
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Contract liability
Contract liability (deferred revenue) relates to unsatisfied performance obligations at the end of each reporting period which
consists of cash payment received in advance for recurring service fees and/or from customers of investment management services. The
prepayment was normally paid on a quarterly basis and the majority of the performance obligations are satisfied within one year. The
amount of revenue recognized in 2021, 2022 and 2023 that was included in deferred revenue balance at the beginning of the year was
RMB67.8 million, RMB54.8 million and RMB54.2 million, respectively.
Practical expedients
The Group has used the following practical expedients as allowed under ASC 606:
The Group expenses sales commissions as incurred when the amortization period is one year or less. Sales commission
expenses are recorded within “Relationship manager compensation” in the consolidated statements of operations.
The Group assessed and concluded that there is no significant financing component given that the period between performance
and payment is generally one year or less.
The Group has also applied the practical expedient for certain revenue streams to not disclose the value of remaining
performance obligations for (i) contracts with an original expected term of one year or less or (ii) contracts for which the Group
recognizes revenue in proportion to the amount the Group has the right to invoice for services performed.
(n) VAT Related Surcharges
The Group is subject to Value-added Tax (“VAT”) and its related education surtax, urban maintenance and construction tax, on
the services provided in the PRC. VAT and related surcharges are primarily levied based on revenues concurrent with a specific revenue-
producing transaction. Starting from April 1, 2019, the applicable VAT rates include 3%, 6%, 9% and 13%. The applicable VAT rate for
the Group’s PRC entities is mainly 6%. The Group records such VAT related surcharges on a net basis as a reduction of revenues.
(o) Compensation and benefits
Compensation and benefits mainly include salaries and commissions for relationship managers, share-based compensation
expenses, bonus related to performance based income, salaries and bonuses for middle office and back office employees and social
welfare benefits.
(p) Income Taxes
Current income taxes are provided for in accordance with the relevant statutory tax laws and regulations.
The Group accounts for income taxes under the asset and liability method, which requires the recognition of deferred tax assets
and liabilities for the expected future tax consequences of events that have been included in the financial statements. Under this method,
deferred tax assets and liabilities are determined on the basis of the differences between the financial statements and tax basis of assets
and liabilities using enacted tax rates in effect for the year in which the differences are expected to reverse. The effect of a change in tax
rates on deferred tax assets and liabilities is recognized in income in the period that includes the enactment date.
The Group recognizes net deferred tax assets to the extent that it believes these assets are more likely than not to be realized. In
making such a determination, it considers all available positive and negative evidence, including future reversals of existing taxable
temporary differences, projected future taxable income, tax-planning strategies, and results of recent operations. If the Group determines
that its deferred tax assets are realizable in the future in excess of their net recorded amount, the Group would make an adjustment to the
deferred tax asset valuation allowance, which would reduce the provision for income taxes.
F-23
Table of Contents
(q) Share-Based Compensation
The Group recognizes share-based compensation based on the fair value of equity awards on the date of the grant, with
compensation expense recognized using a straight-line vesting method over the requisite service periods of the awards, which is
generally the vesting period. The Group estimates the fair value of share options granted using the Black-Scholes option pricing model.
The fair value of non-vested restricted shares and restricted share units (“RSUs”) is computed based on the fair value of the Group’s
ordinary shares on the grant date. The expected term represents the period that share-based awards are expected to be outstanding, giving
consideration to the contractual terms of the share-based awards, vesting schedules and expectations of future employee exercise
behavior. The computation of expected volatility is based on the fluctuation of the historical share price. Amortization of share-based
compensation is presented in the consolidated statements of operations as compensation and benefits.
Modification of awards
A change in any of the terms or conditions of the awards is accounted for as a modification of the award. Incremental
compensation cost is calculated as the excess, if any, of the fair value of the modified award over the fair value of the original award
immediately before its terms are modified, measured based on the fair value of the awards and other pertinent factors at the modification
date. For vested awards, the Company recognizes incremental compensation cost in the period the modification occurs. For unvested
awards, the Company recognizes over the remaining requisite service period, the sum of the incremental compensation cost and the
remaining unrecognized compensation cost for the original award on the modification date. If the fair value of the modified award is
lower than the fair value of the original award immediately before modification, the minimum compensation cost the Company
recognizes is the cost of the original award.
(r) Government Subsidies
Government subsidies include cash subsidies received by the Group’s entities in the PRC from local governments as incentives
for investing in certain local districts, and are typically granted based on the amount of investment made by the Group in form of
registered capital or taxable income generated by the Group in these local districts. Such subsidies allow the Group full discretion in
utilizing the funds and are used by the Group for general corporate purposes. The local governments have final discretion as to whether
the Group has met all criteria to be entitled to the subsidies. The Group does not in all instances receive written confirmation from local
governments indicating the approval of the cash subsidy before cash is received. Cash subsidies received were RMB115,939,
RMB129,521 and RMB126,955 for the years ended December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023, respectively. Cash subsidies are recognized
when received and when all the conditions for their receipt have been satisfied.
(s) Net Income per Share
Basic net income per share is computed by dividing net income attributable to ordinary shareholders by the weighted average
number of common shares outstanding during the reporting period. Diluted net income per share reflects the potential dilution that could
occur if securities or other contracts to issue ordinary shares were exercised or converted into ordinary shares, which consist of the
ordinary shares issuable upon the conversion of the convertible notes and ordinary shares issuable upon the exercise of stock options and
vest of non-vested restricted shares. Common share equivalents are excluded from the computation of the diluted net income per share
in years when their effect would be anti-dilutive.
F-24
Table of Contents
(t) Leases
The Group as a lessee
The Group has operating leases primarily for office space. The determination of whether an arrangement is a lease or contains a
lease is made at inception by evaluating whether the arrangement conveys the right to use an identified asset and whether the Group
obtains substantially all of the economic benefits from and has the ability to direct the use of the asset. Operating leases are included in
operating lease right-of-use assets and operating lease liabilities on the consolidated balance sheet and operating lease liabilities - short-
term are recorded within other current liabilities. Operating lease assets represent the Group’s right to use an underlying asset for the
lease term and lease liabilities represent the Group’s obligation to make lease payments arising from the lease. The Group uses its
estimated incremental borrowing rates as of the commencement date in determining the present value of lease payments. Operating lease
ROU assets and operating lease liabilities are recognized based on the present value of lease payments over the lease term at the lease
commencement date. To determine the incremental borrowing rate used to calculate the present value of future lease payments, the
Group uses information including the Group’s credit rating, interest rates of similar debt instruments of entities with comparable credit
ratings, as applicable. Variable components of the lease payments such as utilities, maintenance costs are expensed as incurred and not
included in determining the present value. The lease terms include options to extend or terminate the lease when it is reasonably certain
that the Group will exercise that option. The Group considers these options, which may be elected at the Group’s sole discretion, in
determining the lease term on a lease-by-lease basis. Lease expense is recognized on a straight-line basis over the lease term.
(u) Foreign Currency Translation
The Company’s reporting currency is Renminbi (“RMB”). The Company’s functional currency is the United States dollar
(“U.S. dollar or US$”). The Company’s operations are principally conducted through the subsidiaries and VIEs located in the PRC where
RMB is the functional currency. For those subsidiaries and VIEs which are not located in the PRC and have the functional currency other
than RMB, the financial statements are translated from their respective functional currencies into RMB.
Assets and liabilities of the Group’s overseas entities denominated in currencies other than the RMB are translated into RMB at
the rates of exchange ruling at the balance sheet date. Equity accounts are translated at historical exchange rates and revenues, expenses,
gains and losses are translated using the average rate for the year. Translation adjustments are reported as foreign currency translation
adjustment and are shown as a separate component of other comprehensive income in the consolidated statements of comprehensive
income.
Translations of amounts from RMB into US$ are included solely for the convenience of the readers and have been made at the
rate of US$1 = RMB7.0999 on December 29, 2023, representing the certificated exchange rate published by the Federal Reserve Board.
No representation is intended to imply that the RMB amounts could have been, or could be, converted, realized or settled into US$ at that
rate, or at any other rate.
(v) Comprehensive Income
Comprehensive income includes all changes in equity except those resulting from investments by owners and distributions to
owners.
(w) Loan receivables, net
Loan receivables represent loans offered to the clients in the lending business. Loan receivables are initially recognized at fair
value which is the cash disbursed to originate loans, measured subsequently at amortized cost using the effective interest method, net of
allowance that reflects the Group’s best estimate of the amounts that will not be collected. The Group also transfers some of the loan
receivables to unrelated third parties. The Group accounts for the transfer of loan receivables in accordance with ASC 860, Transfers and
Servicing. As the loans are sold at par value, no gain or loss is recorded as a result. The Group’s continuing involvement subsequent to
the transfer is limited to the services performed as a collection agent to collect and disburse cash flows received from the underlying
receivables to the individual investors, and does not provide guarantee on the return of the receivables. The Group has no retained
interests, servicing assets, or servicing liabilities related to the loans sold.
F-25
Table of Contents
(x) Allowance for credit losses
On January 1, 2020, the Group adopted Accounting Standards Update No. 2016-13, Financial Instruments-Credit Losses (Topic
326): Measurement of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments, using the modified retrospective transition method. Upon adoption, the
Group changed its impairment model to utilize a current expected credit losses model in place of the incurred loss methodology for
financial instruments measured at amortized cost, including loans receivables, amount due from related parties, accounts receivable and
other receivable, and held-to-maturities debt investments (see Note 2(i)). CECL estimates on those financial instruments are recorded as
allowance for credit losses on the Group’s consolidated statements of operations. The cumulative effect adjustment from adoption was
immaterial to the Group’s consolidated financial statements. The Group continues to monitor the financial implications of the macro
economy and regulatory change of certain industries on expected credit losses.
Allowance for loan losses. The expected losses of loans are estimated using a probability of default and loss given default
assumption. For loans secured by investment products issued by the Group, the assumption is derived from a statistical model which
incorporates the estimated value of collaterals, term of the loan and historical loss information. For past due loans secured by real estate
properties, the loss given default is derived using discounted cash flow methodology. The projection of cash flows is determined by a
combination of factors including the value of collaterals, historical collection experience, industry recovery rates of loans with similar
risk characteristics and other available relevant information about the collectability of cash flows.
The Group estimates the allowance for loan losses on a quarterly basis and qualitatively adjusts model results, if needed, for risk
factors that are not considered within the models, which are relevant in assessing the expected credit losses within the loan balances.
Charge-offs of principal amounts, net of recoveries are deducted from the allowance. The changes of allowances for loan losses are
detailed in Note 11.
Allowance for accounts receivable and other financial assets. The Group has identified the relevant risk characteristics of
accounts receivable and amounts due from related parties which include size, type of the services or the products the Group provides, or
a combination of these characteristics. Receivables with similar risk characteristics have been grouped into pools. For each pool, the
Group considers the historical credit loss experience, current economic conditions, supportable forecasts of future economic conditions,
and any recoveries in assessing the lifetime expected credit losses. Other key factors that influence the expected credit loss analysis
include types of investment products that the Group distributes, the NAV of underlying funds and payment terms offered in the normal
course of business to customers, and industry-specific factors that could impact the Group’s receivables. Additionally, external data and
macroeconomic factors are also considered. When specific customers are identified as no longer sharing the same risk profile as their
current pool, they are removed from the pool and evaluated separately. This is assessed at each quarter based on the Group’s specific
facts and circumstances. Accounts are written off against the allowance when it becomes evident that collection will not occur.
The Group evaluates CECL on other forms of financial assets, including other current assets and other non-current assets with
the similar approach of accounts receivable.
F-26
Table of Contents
The following table summarizes the changes of allowances for each category of affected assets:
Balance at beginning of 2021
Provisions
Balance at end of 2021
Provisions
Reversal
Write off
Foreign currency adjustment
Balance at end of 2022
Provisions
Reversal
Write off
Foreign currency adjustment
Balance at end of 2023
Amounts due
from related parties
RMB
Accounts
receivable
RMB
Other financial
receivables
RMB
4,006
26,122
30,128
544
(5,471)
(544)
1,009
25,666
2,602
(4,670)
(610)
406
23,394
—
458
458
3,905
(578)
(138)
—
3,647
4,979
(1,764)
—
—
6,862
—
4,000
4,000
495
—
(4,495)
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
During the year ended December 31, 2021, accounts receivable of RMB10.8 million written off previously were recovered and
recorded as credits to (provision for) reversal of credit losses.
(y) Financial Instruments Indexed to and Potentially Settled in the Company’s Stock
The Group evaluates all financial instruments issued in connection with its equity offerings when determining the proper
accounting treatment for such instruments. The Group considers a number of generally accepted accounting principles under U.S. GAAP
to determine such treatment and evaluates the features of the instrument to determine the appropriate accounting treatment. For equity-
linked financial instruments indexed to and potentially settled in the Company’s common stock that are determined to be classified as
equity on the consolidated balance sheets, they are initially measured at their fair value and recognized as part of equity. The Group
issued such financial instruments for settlement (see Note 14).
(z) Contingencies
On an ongoing basis, the Group assesses the potential liabilities related to any lawsuits or claims brought against it. While it is
typically very difficult to determine the timing and ultimate outcome of these actions, the Group uses best estimate to determine if it is
probable that the Group will incur an expense related to the settlement or final adjudication of these matters and whether a reasonable
estimation of the probable loss, if any, can be made. The Group accrue a liability when a loss is probable and the amount of loss can be
reasonably estimated. Due to the inherent uncertainties related to the eventual outcome of litigation and potential recovery, it is possible
that disputed matters may be resolved for amounts materially different from any provisions or disclosures that the Group has previously
made. See Note 19, “Contingencies,” for further information.
(aa) Accounting Standards Issued But Not Yet Implemented
In November 2023, the FASB issued ASU No. 2023-07, Segment Reporting (Topic 280) - Improvement to Reportable Segment
Disclosures (“ASU 2023-07”), amending disclosure requirements related to segment reporting primarily through enhanced disclosure
about significant segment expenses and by requiring disclosure of segment information on an annual and interim basis. ASU 2023-07 is
effective on January 1, 2024 and is not expected to have a significant impact on the Group’s consolidated financial statements.
F-27
Table of Contents
In December 2023, the FASB issued ASU No. 2023-09, Income Taxes (Topic 740) - Improvements to Income Tax Disclosures
(“ASU 2023-09”), which enhances the transparency and decision usefulness of income tax disclosures. ASU 2023-09 will require
disaggregated information about a reporting entity’s effective tax rate reconciliation as well as information on income taxes paid. Entities
will also be required to disclose income/(loss) from continuing operations before income tax expense/(benefit) disaggregated between
domestic and foreign, as well as income tax expense/(benefit) from continuing operations disaggregated by federal, state and foreign.
ASU 2023-09 is effective on January 1, 2025 and is not expected to have a significant impact on the Group’s consolidated financial
statements.
3. Net Income per Share
The following table sets forth the computation of basic and diluted net (loss) income per share attributable to ordinary
shareholders:
Year Ended December 31,
(Amount in Thousands, Except Share and Per Share Data)
2021
2022
2023
Net income attributable to ordinary shareholders
Weighted average number of ordinary shares outstanding—basic
Plus: effect of dilutive stock options
Plus: effect of dilutive non-vested restricted share awards
Weighted average number of ordinary shares outstanding—diluted
Basic net income per share
Diluted net income per share
976,571
1,314,131
335,858,180
1,713,550
Class A and Class B Class A and Class B Ordinary shares
1,009,494
341,660,160 347,369,860
—
52,720
341,980,710 347,422,580
2.91
2.91
246,000
337,817,730
3.91
3.89
2.86
2.86
67,010
253,540
In January 2016, the Company’s shareholders voted in favor of a proposal to adopt a dual-class share structure, pursuant to
which authorized share capital was reclassified and re-designated into Class A ordinary shares and Class B ordinary shares, with each
Class A ordinary share being entitled to one vote and each Class B ordinary share being entitled to four votes on all matters that are
subject to shareholder vote. As economic rights and obligations are applied equally to both Class A and Class B ordinary shares, earnings
are allocated between the two classes of ordinary shares evenly with the same allocation on a per share basis.
On July 13, 2022, the Company completed its secondary listing on the Main Board of The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong
Limited (the “Hong Kong Stock Exchange”) and all Class B ordinary shares were converted into Class A ordinary shares on a one-for-
one basis. Subsequently, no Class B ordinary shares will be issued or outstanding and the Company will cease to have a dual-class voting
structure. On December 23, 2022, the Company adopted the sixth amended and restated memorandum and articles of association to
reflect the removal of the dual-class voting structure, among other things.
Shares issuable to the investors of Camsing Incident (as defined in Note 14) are included in the computation of basic earnings
per share as the shares will be issued for no cash consideration and all necessary conditions have been satisfied upon the settlement.
Diluted net income per share does not include the following instruments as their inclusion would be antidilutive:
Share options
Non-vested restricted shares under share incentive plan
Total
2021
2,815,660
412,550
3,228,210
Years Ended December 31,
2022
9,340,880
1,143,070
10,483,950
2023
7,359,150
1,738,010
9,097,160
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Table of Contents
4. Investments
The following table summarizes the Group’s investment balances:
Short-term investments
Held-to-maturity investments and term deposits
Available-for-sale investments
Trading debt securities
Equity securities measured at fair value
Investments held by consolidated investment funds measured at fair
value
Total short-term investments
Long-term investments
Term deposits
Other long-term investments
- Investments measured at fair value
- Investments measured at cost less impairment
- Private equity funds products
- Other investments measured at cost less impairment
Total other long-term investments
Investments held by consolidated investment funds measured at fair
value
Total long-term investments
Total investments
2022
RMB
As of December 31,
(Amount in Thousands)
2023
RMB
2023
US$
20,660
14,941
207,670
5,265
67,443
315,979
—
631,662
27,207
40,475
699,344
158,728
—
84,537
3,630
132,561
379,456
100,000
595,854
20,367
23,250
639,471
74,751
774,095
1,090,074
71,013
810,484
1,189,940
22,356
—
11,907
511
18,671
53,445
14,085
83,924
2,869
3,275
90,068
10,001
114,154
167,599
The Group invests in term deposits and held-to-maturity debt investments which have stated maturity and normally pay a
prospective fixed or floating rate of return, carried at amortized cost. Current term deposits are bank deposits with original maturities
longer than three months but less than one year. Non-current term deposits are bank deposits with maturities longer than one year. The
Group recorded investment income on these products of RMB1,568, RMB383 and RMB7,382 for the years ended December 31, 2021,
2022 and 2023, respectively. The gross unrecognized holding gain was RMB612, RMB582 and RMB6,239 as of December 31, 2021,
2022 and 2023, respectively. No credit loss related to held-to-maturity investments was recognized for the years ended December 31,
2021, 2022 and 2023.
The consolidated investment funds are, for GAAP purposes, investment companies and reflect their investments at fair value.
The Group has retained this specialized accounting for the consolidated funds in consolidation. Accordingly, the unrealized gains and
losses resulting from changes in fair value of the investments held by the consolidated investment funds are recorded in the consolidated
statements of operations as investment income.
Other long-term investments consist of investments in several private equity funds as a limited partner with insignificant equity
interest and equity investments of common shares of several companies with less than 20% interest. The Group elects to measure these
investments at fair value or at cost, less impairment. The Group recognized impairment loss related to investments measured at cost, less
impairment, of RMB10,000, nil and RMB13,343 in investment income (loss) for the years ended December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023,
respectively.
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5. Fair Value Measurement
As of December 31, 2022 and 2023, information about (i) inputs into the fair value measurements of the Group’s assets that are
measured at fair value on a recurring basis in periods subsequent to their initial recognition and (ii) investments measured at NAV or its
equivalent as a practical expedient is as follows:
Description
Short-term investments
Available-for-sale investments
Trading debt securities
Equity securities measured at fair value
Investments held by consolidated investment fund
Long-term investments
Investments held by consolidated investment fund
Other long-term investments measured at fair value
Description
Short-term investments
Trading debt securities
Equity securities measured at fair value
Investments held by consolidated investment fund
Long-term investments
Investments held by consolidated investment fund
Other long-term investments measured at fair value
Fair Value Measurements at Reporting Date Using
(Amount in Thousands)
As of
December 31,
2022
(Amounts in
thousands)
RMB
Quoted Prices
in Active
Markets for
Identical
Assets
(Level 1)
RMB
Significant
Other
Observable
Inputs
(Level 2)
RMB
Significant
Unobservable
Inputs
(Level 3)
RMB
NAV
RMB
14,941
207,670
5,265
67,443
74,751
631,662
—
207,670
1,304
26,637
14,941
—
3,961
40,806
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
74,751
242,753
—
358,351
—
30,558
Fair Value Measurements at Reporting Date Using
(Amount in Thousands)
Quoted Prices
As of
December 31,
2023
(Amounts in
thousands)
RMB
in Active
Markets for
Identical
Assets
(Level 1)
RMB
Significant
Other
Observable
Inputs
(Level 2)
RMB
Significant
Unobservable
Inputs
(Level 3)
RMB
84,537
3,630
132,561
71,013
595,854
84,537
3,630
132,561
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
15,777
22,081
—
546,543
55,236
27,230
NAV
RMB
—
—
—
Short-term trading debt securities investments are classified as Level 1 because they are valued using quoted prices of the same
securities as they consist of bonds issued by public companies and publicly traded. Short-term equity securities measured at fair value are
valued based on the quoted stock price of its investees in the active market and are classified within Level 1.
As of December 31, 2023, the Group had several consolidated investment funds whose underlying investments are mainly
equity shares of listed companies, bonds or asset management plans. The equity shares of listed companies and the bonds issued by
public companies, whose fair value are determined by their quoted price in active markets, are classified within Level 1 measurement.
The bonds have stated maturity and normally pay a prospective fixed rate of return and using discounted cash flow model based on
contractual cash flow and a discount rate of prevailing market yield for products with similar terms as of the measurement date, as such,
it is classified within Level 2 measurement. The asset management plans measured at recent observable transaction prices are classified
within Level 2 as well.
Other long-term investments measured at fair value are (i) equity investments in private companies and private equity funds
categorized within Level 2 or Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy and (ii) private equity funds measured at NAV.
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Table of Contents
With respect to the equity investments within Level 3 measurement, the Group generally uses a market comparable analysis.
The valuation methodology requires a subjective process in determining significant inputs and making assumptions and judgments, for
which the Group considers and evaluates including, but not limited to, (1) comparable data wherever possible to quantify or adjust the
fair value, (2) quantitative information about significant unobservable inputs used by the third party and (3) prevailing market conditions.
The uncertainty of the fair value measurement due to the use of these unobservable inputs and assumptions could have resulted in higher
or lower determination of fair value. There is inherent uncertainty involved in the valuation of level 3 investments and therefore there is
no assurance that, upon liquidation or sale, the Group could realize the values reflected in the valuations.
A reconciliation of the beginning and ending balances of the investments measured at fair value using significant unobservable
inputs (Level 3) for the year ended December 31, 2023, presented as follows:
Level 3 investments as of January 1, 2023
Transfer of investments in fair value hierarchy from Level 2 to Level 3
Transfer of investments in fair value hierarchy from Level 3 to Level 2
Changes in fair value included in investment income
Settlements
Foreign currency translation adjustments
Level 3 investments as of December 31, 2023
Changes in net unrealized gains included in investment income related to Level 3 investments still held as of
December 31, 2023
RMB
(Amount in Thousands)
358,351
242,753
(8,494)
(53,071)
(1,155)
8,159
546,543
(51,999)
Total realized and unrealized gains and losses recorded for Level 3 investments are reported in investment income in the
consolidated statements of operations.
Certain equity investments were previously valued based on recent observable transaction prices, classified within Level 2 of
the fair value hierarchy. However, as no observable transactions of the investments occurred since 2022, the Group’s valuation
methodology in 2023 for these investments involved significant unobservable inputs that required significant judgment or estimation.
Hence such investments were classified within Level 3 measurement for the year ended December 31, 2023.
Fair value measurement on a non-recurring basis for the year ended December 31, 2022 included that used in impairment of
investments measured at cost less impairment (see Note 4) which was classified as a Level 3 fair value measurement.
The Group also has financial instruments that are not reported at fair value on the consolidated balance sheets but whose fair
value is practicable to estimate, which include cash and cash equivalents, restricted cash, accounts receivable, amounts due from related
parties, short-term held-to-maturity investments, loan receivables, other receivables and payables. The carrying amount of these short-
term financial instruments approximates their fair value due to the short-term nature.
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Table of Contents
6. Investments in Affiliates
The following table summarizes the Group’s balances of investments in affiliates:
Kunshan Jingzhao
Wanjia Win-Win
Others
Funds that the Group serves as general partner
-Gopher Transform Private Fund
-Real estate funds and real estate funds of funds
-Private equity funds of funds
-Others
Total investments in affiliates
As of December 31,
(Amount in Thousands)
2023
RMB
2022
RMB
8,520
91,588
15,609
1,376,103
104,429
84,719
1,175,904
11,051
1,491,820
8,690
89,249
15,839
1,412,766
102,100
105,531
1,201,703
3,432
1,526,544
2023
US$
1,224
12,570
2,231
198,984
14,380
14,864
169,256
484
215,009
In May 2011, the Group injected RMB4.0 million into Kunshan Jingzhao Equity Investment Management Co., Ltd (“Kunshan
Jingzhao”), a newly setup joint venture, for 40% of the equity interest. Kunshan Jingzhao principally engages in real estate fund
management business.
In February 2013, the Group injected RMB21.0 million into Wanjia Win-Win Assets Management Co., Ltd (“Wanjia Win-
Win”), a newly setup joint venture, for 35% of the equity interest. Wanjia Win-Win principally engages in wealth management plan
management business. In December 2017, the share owned by the Group had been diluted to 28%.
In the fourth quarter of 2016, the Group injected RMB150 million into Gopher Transformation Private Fund, which accounted
for 48% of total actual distribution volume. The fund principally invested in a limited partnership to invest a real-estate company.
Although managed by Gopher, the fund is not consolidated by the Group based on the fact that substantive kick-out rights exist which are
exercisable by a simple-majority of non-related limited partners of the fund to dissolve (liquidate) the fund or remove the Group as the
general partner of the fund without cause. In the year 2017, due to capital subscription by limited partners, the equity interest owned by
the Group had been diluted to 35%.
The Group invested in private equity funds of funds, real estate funds and real estate funds of funds, and other public securities
funds of funds that Gopher serves as general partner or fund manager. The Group held less than 10% equity interests in these funds as a
general partner. The Group accounts for these investments using the equity method of accounting due to the fact that the Group can
exercise significant influence on these investees in the capacity of general partner or fund manager.
The Group recognized impairment losses totaling nil, RMB476 and nil related to investments in affiliates for the years ended
December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023, respectively, which are recorded in income from equity in affiliates in the consolidated statements of
operations.
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Table of Contents
Summarized financial information
The following table shows summarized financial information relating to the balance sheets for the Group’s equity method
investments assuming 100% ownership as of December 31, 2022 and 2023:
Balance sheet data:
Current assets
Non-current assets
Current liabilities
Non-current liabilities
2022
RMB
3,854,948
33,600,840
1,778,558
415,555
As of December 31,
(Amount in Thousands)
2023
RMB
3,348,901
31,949,789
1,853,262
555,307
2023
US$
471,683
4,500,034
261,026
78,213
The following table shows summarized financial information relating to the statements of operations for the Group’s equity
method investments assuming 100% ownership for the years ended December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023:
Operating data:
Revenue
Loss from operations
Net realized and unrealized gains from investments
Net income
7. Property and Equipment, Net
Property and equipment, net consists of the following:
Buildings
Leasehold and building improvements
Furniture, fixtures and equipment
Motor vehicles
Software
Accumulated depreciation
Construction in progress
Property and equipment, net
Year Ended December 31,
(Amount in Thousands)
2023
RMB
2022
RMB
2021
RMB
2023
US$
225,559
(554,579)
5,107,283
4,505,646
268,654
(207,143)
1,962,039
1,772,444
166,859
(167,920)
1,357,034
1,204,643
23,502
(23,651)
191,134
169,670
2022
RMB
2,478,634
154,900
135,337
33,148
190,227
2,992,246
(546,988)
2,445,258
41,059
2,486,317
As of December 31,
(Amount in Thousands)
2023
RMB
2023
US$
2,478,634
175,164
153,019
23,855
209,808
3,040,480
(581,306)
2,459,174
23,025
2,482,199
349,108
24,671
21,552
3,360
29,551
428,242
(81,875)
346,367
3,243
349,610
Depreciation expense was RMB146,567, RMB155,968 and RMB158,082 for the years ended December 31, 2021, 2022 and
2023, respectively.
F-33
Table of Contents
8. Other Current Liabilities
Components of other current liabilities are as follows:
Accrued expenses
Advance from customers
Deposits from other business
Payable to individual investors of other business
Payable for purchases of property and equipment
Other tax payable
Operating lease liability - current
Payables to suppliers
Payable for litigation (Note 19)
Other payables
Total
As of December 31,
(Amount in Thousands)
2023
RMB
94,044
30,172
11,339
188,697
37,018
38,203
61,826
104,484
99,000
17,019
681,802
2022
RMB
144,574
27,064
13,623
10,461
36,763
37,204
84,358
117,146
—
1,982
473,175
2023
US$
13,246
4,250
1,597
26,577
5,214
5,381
8,708
14,716
13,944
2,397
96,030
Accrued expenses mainly consist of payables for marketing expenses and professional service fees.
Payables to individual investors consist of payables in relation to other service to the clients.
9. Revenues
The Group derives revenue primarily from one-time commissions, recurring service fees and performance-based income paid by
clients or investment product providers.
The following tables show, by segment, revenue from contracts with customers disaggregated by service lines for the years
ended December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023:
One-time commissions
Recurring service fees
Performance-based income
Other service fees
Lending services
Other services
Total revenues
Year Ended December 31, 2021
(Amount in Thousands)
Wealth Management Assets Management
Business
RMB
1,180,900
1,469,600
469,121
92,352
4,471
87,881
3,211,973
Business
RMB
90,516
639,409
315,072
1,390
—
1,390
1,046,387
Other
Business
RMB
—
—
—
68,240
35,755
32,485
68,240
Total
RMB
1,271,416
2,109,009
784,193
161,982
40,226
121,756
4,326,600
F-34
Table of Contents
One-time commissions
Recurring service fees
Performance-based income
Other service fees
Lending services
Other services
Total revenues
One-time commissions
Recurring service fees
Performance-based income
Other service fees
Lending services
Other services
Total revenues
Year Ended December 31, 2022
(Amount in Thousands)
Wealth Management Assets Management
Business
RMB
Business
RMB
Other
Businesses
RMB
631,589
1,232,294
202,455
144,101
8,881
135,220
2,210,439
49,856
682,121
107,121
—
—
—
839,098
—
—
—
79,340
27,017
52,323
79,340
Year Ended December 31, 2023
(Amount in Thousands)
Wealth Management Assets Management
Business
RMB
1,086,570
1,105,806
86,321
221,917
6,197
215,720
2,500,614
Business
RMB
2,633
714,624
51,288
—
—
—
768,545
Other
Businesses
RMB
—
—
—
48,662
13,119
35,543
48,662
Revenues by timing of recognition is analyzed as follows:
Revenue recognized at a point in time
Revenue recognized over time
Total revenues
2021
RMB
2,144,912
2,181,688
4,326,600
Year Ended December 31
(Amount in Thousands)
2022
RMB
1,130,364
1,998,513
3,128,877
2023
RMB
1,408,389
1,909,432
3,317,821
For the Group’s revenues generated from different geographic locations, please see Note 17 segment information.
10. Income Taxes
Cayman Islands
Total
RMB
681,445
1,914,415
309,576
223,441
35,898
187,543
3,128,877
Total
RMB
1,089,203
1,820,430
137,609
270,579
19,316
251,263
3,317,821
2023
US$
198,368
268,938
467,306
Under the current laws of the Cayman Islands, the Company is not subject to tax on its income or capital gains. In addition, the
Cayman Islands do not impose withholding tax on dividend payments.
Hong Kong
Under the current Hong Kong Inland Revenue Ordinance, the first HK$2 million of profits earned by the qualifying group
entities incorporated in Hong Kong will be taxed at half the current tax rate (i.e. 8.25%) while the remaining profits will continue to be
taxed at the existing 16.5% tax rate. The profits of group entities incorporated in Hong Kong not qualifying for the two-tiered profits tax
rates regime will continue to be taxed at a flat rate of 16.5%. In addition, payments of dividends from Hong Kong subsidiaries to their
shareholders are not subject to any Hong Kong withholding tax.
F-35
Table of Contents
PRC
Under the Law of the People’s Republic of China on Enterprise Income Tax (“EIT Law”), domestically-owned enterprises and
foreign-invested enterprises (“FIEs”) are subject to a uniform tax rate of 25%. Zigong Noah Financial Service Co., Ltd. falls within the
encouraged industries catalogue in Western China, which is eligible for preferential income tax rate of 15%. Ark (Shanghai) Network
Technology Co., Ltd. obtained the approval for preferential income tax rate of 15% due to High and New Technology Enterprise in
November 2020 and such preferential income tax rate expired in November 2023. Shanghai Nuorong Information Technology Co., Ltd.
obtained the approval for preferential income tax rate of 15% due to High and New Technology Enterprise in December 2022 and such
preferential income tax rate will expire in December 2025.
Income before income taxes consists of:
Mainland China
Hong Kong
Cayman Islands
Others
Total
The tax expense comprises:
Current Tax
Deferred Tax
Total
Year Ended December 31,
(Amount in Thousands)
2021
RMB
686,188
584,236
(66,140)
93,758
1,298,042
2022
RMB
588,048
389,517
39,463
132,521
1,149,549
2023
RMB
283,045
743,619
6,537
176,046
1,209,247
2021
RMB
413,603
(119,663)
293,940
Year Ended December 31,
(Amount in Thousands)
2022
RMB
354,108
(87,000)
267,108
2023
RMB
248,353
14,007
262,360
2023
US$
39,866
104,737
921
24,796
170,320
2023
US$
34,980
1,973
36,953
Reconciliation between the statutory tax rate to (loss) income before income taxes and the actual provision for income taxes is
as follows:
PRC income tax rate
Expenses not deductible for tax purposes
Effect of non-deductible settlement expenses
Effect of tax-free investment income
Effect of different tax rate of subsidiary in other jurisdiction
Effect of deferred tax asset allowance
Effect of tax holidays
Effect of income from equity in fund of fund
Effect of dividend withholding tax
Effect of true-ups
Effect of others
2021
Years Ended December 31,
2022
2023
25.00 %
0.18 %
0.40 %
(0.57)%
(4.85)%
1.56 %
(1.27)%
2.91 %
—
(0.82)%
0.10 %
22.64 %
25.00 %
(0.07)%
—
(0.72)%
(6.61)%
7.22 %
(0.92)%
1.21 %
1.74 %
(3.36)%
(0.25)%
23.24 %
25.00 %
0.33 %
—
(2.13)%
(6.12)%
2.78 %
(0.56)%
1.03 %
1.26 %
0.33 %
(0.22)%
21.70 %
F-36
Table of Contents
The aggregate amount and per share effect of the tax holidays (including effect of timing difference reversed in the year with
different rate) are as follows:
Aggregate
Per share effect-basic1
Per share effect-diluted
2021
RMB
16,422
0.05
0.05
Year Ended December 31,
(Amount in Thousands Except Shares Data)
2022
RMB
10,594
0.03
0.03
2023
RMB
6,807
0.02
0.02
2023
US$
959
—
—
Note 1: Results have been retroactively adjusted to reflect the 1-for-10 Share Subdivision effective on October 27, 2023. See Note 2 for
details.
The principal components of the deferred income tax asset and liabilities are as follows:
Deferred tax assets:
Accrued expenses and payroll
Tax loss carry forward
Unrealized other loss
Provision for impairment of investments
Provision for allowance of credit losses
Provision for contingent liability
Others
Gross deferred tax assets
Valuation allowance
Net deferred tax assets
Deferred tax liabilities:
Unrealized investment income
Timing difference on revenue recognition
Dividend withholding tax
Acquired deferred tax liabilities (Note 7)
Net deferred tax liabilities
As of December 31,
(Amount in Thousands)
2023
RMB
2022
RMB
2023
US$
159,817
491,311
5,876
39,300
42,050
24,750
6,804
769,908
(333,467)
436,441
44,414
—
20,000
185,354
249,768
93,938
548,814
11,230
42,322
38,818
24,750
9,080
768,952
(319,780)
449,172
65,325
16,895
15,260
182,602
280,082
13,231
77,299
1,582
5,961
5,467
3,486
1,279
108,305
(45,040)
63,265
9,201
2,380
2,149
25,719
39,449
For a particular tax-paying component of the Group and within a particular tax jurisdiction, all deferred tax liabilities and assets
are offset and presented as a single amount in the balance sheet. The Company does not offset deferred tax liabilities and assets
attributable to different tax-paying components or to different tax jurisdictions. The above table presents the deferred tax assets and
liabilities before offset.
The Group considers positive and negative evidence to determine whether some portion or all of the deferred tax assets will be
more likely than not realized. This assessment considers, among other matters, the nature, frequency and severity of recent losses,
forecasts of future profitability, the duration of statutory carry forward periods, the Group’s experience with tax attributes expiring
unused and tax planning alternatives. These assumptions require significant judgment and the forecasts of future taxable income are
consistent with the plans and estimates the Group is using to manage the underlying businesses. Valuation allowances are established for
deferred tax assets based on a more likely than not threshold. The Group’s ability to realize deferred tax assets depends on its ability to
generate sufficient taxable income within the carry forward periods provided for in the tax law. The amount of the deferred tax assets
considered realizable, however, could be reduced in the near term if estimates of future taxable income during the carry-forward period
are reduced. As of December 31, 2023, operating loss carry forward amounted to RMB2,304,028 for the PRC and Hong Kong income
tax purpose. According to the Article 18 of the PRC Tax Law, the enterprise can carry over the losses to the succeeding five tax years, tax
loss carried forward that the Group recognized for PRC subsidiaries and VIEs will begin to expire from 2024 to 2028.
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Table of Contents
A valuation allowance is provided against deferred tax assets when the Group determines that it is more likely than not that the
deferred tax assets will not be utilized in the future. The movements of valuation allowance of deferred tax assets are as follows:
2021
RMB
For the year ended December 31,
2022
RMB
(Amount in Thousands)
2023
RMB
Balance at beginning of the year
Provided
Addition due to acquisition
Write off
Reversal
Balance at ending of the year
60,628
20,275
193,826
(2,916)
—
271,813
271,813
94,856
—
(9,472)
(23,730)
333,467
333,467
41,912
5,615
(52,995)
(8,219)
319,780
The acquisition of DD Finance Ltd. resulted in an increase of RMB5,615 in both deferred tax assets of tax loss carried forward
and related valuation allowance as the Group estimated that accumulated loss of DD Finance Ltd. can’t be realized in the future based on
its intent to use.
In accordance with the EIT Law, dividends, which arise from profits of FIEs earned after January 1, 2008, are subject to a 10%
withholding income tax. In addition, under tax treaty between the PRC and Hong Kong, if the foreign investor is incorporated in Hong
Kong and qualifies as the beneficial owner, the applicable withholding tax rate is reduced to 5%, if the investor holds at least 25% in the
FIE, or 10%, if the investor holds less than 25% in the FIE. A deferred tax liability should be recognized for the undistributed profits of
PRC companies unless the Group has sufficient evidence to demonstrate that the undistributed dividends will be reinvested and the
remittance of the dividends will be postponed indefinitely. The accumulated undistributed earnings of the Group’s PRC subsidiaries were
RMB5.1 billion and RMB5.1 billion as of December 31, 2022 and 2023, respectively. Referring to Note 20, (i) an annual dividend of
approximately RMB509.0 million in respect of the year ended December 31, 2023 and (ii) a non-recurring special dividend of
approximately RMB509.0 million have been recommended by the board of directors of the Company. To execute the dividend plan, the
shareholder of Kunshan Noah Xingguang Investment Management Co., Ltd. (“Noah Xingguang”, one of the Group’s PRC subsidiaries)
has approved to distribute cash dividends of RMB305.2 million to Noah Insurance (Hong Kong) Limited (the parent company of Noah
Xingguang, incorporated in Hong Kong), and the Group recorded a deferred tax liability of RMB15.3 million as of December 31, 2023
accordingly. The remaining undistributed earnings of the Group’s PRC subsidiaries would be indefinitely reinvested.
Aggregate undistributed earnings of the Group’s VIE companies located in the PRC that are available for distribution to the
Group were approximately RMB3.1 billion and RMB3.4 billion as of December 31, 2022 and 2023, respectively. A deferred tax liability
should be recorded for taxable temporary differences attributable to the excess of financial reporting amounts over tax basis amount in
domestic subsidiaries. However, recognition is not required in situations where the tax law provides a means by which the reported
amount of that investment can be recovered tax-free and the enterprise expects that it will ultimately use that means. The Group has not
recorded any such deferred tax liability attributable to the undistributed earnings of its financial interest in VIEs because it believes such
excess earnings can be distributed in a manner that would not be subject to income tax.
The Group did not record any uncertain tax positions during the years ended December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023. The Group
does not anticipate any significant increases or decreases to its liability for unrecognized tax benefits within the next 12 months.
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Table of Contents
11. Loans Receivable, Net
Loans receivable as of December 31, 2022 and 2023 consist of the following:
Loans receivable:
-Within credit term
-Past due
Total loans receivable
Allowance for credit losses
Loans receivable, net
As of December 31,
(Amount in Thousands)
2023
RMB
2023
US$
2022
RMB
289,981
269,658
559,639
(93,859)
465,780
98,925
267,506
366,431
(79,510)
286,921
13,933
37,678
51,611
(11,199)
40,412
The loan interest rates range between 3.9% and 15.0% for the years ended December 31, 2022 and 2023. Majority of loans were
short-term loans and recorded within loans receivables, net, and long-term loans of RMB62.0 million and RMB48.7 million were
recorded in other non-current assets as of December 31, 2022 and 2023, respectively. RMB580.3 million and RMB379.3 million of the
loans is secured by collateral as of December 31, 2022 and 2023 respectively. The Group also purchased past due loans from third parties
with the amount of RMB64.8 million and RMB12.5 million for the years ended December 31, 2022 and 2023, respectively. The
purchased past due loans of RMB13.0 million and RMB39.7 million were collected or transferred to other investors, for the years ended
December 31, 2022 and 2023, respectively.
The following table presents the activity in the allowance for loan losses as of and for the years ended December 31, 2022 and
2023.
Loans receivable—January 1 2022
Provisions
Write off
Loans receivable—December 31, 2022
Provisions
Reverse
Write off
Loans receivable—December 31, 2023
12. Lease
As a lessee:
RMB
(Amount in Thousands)
93,926
681
(748)
93,859
1,604
(9,779)
(6,174)
79,510
Operating lease assets primarily represents various facilities under non-cancelable operating leases expiring within one to ten
years. Lease costs are included in either selling or general and administrative expenses depending on the use of the underlying asset.
Operating lease expenses, including the short-term lease cost which was immaterial, were RMB102,321, RMB98,943 and RMB85,745
for the years ended December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023, respectively. Cash payments against operating lease liabilities were RMB93,610
and RMB93,525 for the years ended December 31, 2022 and 2023, respectively.
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Table of Contents
Supplemental consolidated balance sheet information related to leases was as follows:
Operating leases:
Operating lease right-of-use assets
Current portion of lease liabilities
Non-current portion of lease liabilities
Total operating lease liabilities
Weighted average remaining lease term (years)
Weighted average discount rate
As of December 31,
(Amount in Thousands)
2023
RMB
2023
US$
2022
RMB
168,192
139,019
19,580
84,358
83,171
167,529
61,826
76,533
138,359
8,708
10,779
19,487
2.32
4.55 %
2.70
4.73 %
The maturities of operating lease liabilities for the next five years and thereafter as of December 31, 2022 and 2023, are as
follows:
Within 1 year
Between 1 and 2 years
Between 2 and 3 years
Between 3 and 4 years
Between 4 and 5 years
Total lease payment
Less imputed interest
Total
13. Share-Based Compensation
As of December 31,
(Amount in Thousands)
2023
RMB
68,308
43,221
25,312
13,334
—
150,175
(11,816)
138,359
2022
RMB
88,780
65,378
18,153
3,845
817
176,973
(9,444)
167,529
2023
US$
9,619
6,088
3,565
1,878
—
21,150
(1,663)
19,487
The following table presents the Group’s share-based compensation expense by type of award:
Share options
Non-vested restricted share awards
Total share-based compensation
2021
RMB
18,081
32,956
51,037
Year Ended December 31,
(Amounts in Thousands)
2023
2022
RMB
RMB
24,195
18,105
42,300
1,883
9,647
11,530
2023
US$
265
1,359
1,624
During the year ended December 31, 2017, the Group adopted its 2017 share incentive plan (the “2017 Plan”). Under the 2017
Plan, the maximum aggregate number of shares in respect of which options, restricted shares, or restricted share units may be issued shall
be 2,800,000 shares. The term of any options, restricted shares, or restricted share units granted under the 2017 Plan shall not exceed ten
years. Options, restricted shares or restricted share units generally vest 25% on the first anniversary of the grant date with the remaining
75% vesting ratably over the following 36 months.
During the year ended December 31, 2022, the Group adopted its 2022 share incentive plan (the “2022 Plan”). Under the 2022
Plan, the maximum aggregate number of shares in respect of which options, restricted shares, or restricted share units may be issued shall
be 3,000,000 shares. The term of any options, restricted shares, or restricted share units granted under the 2022 Plan shall not exceed ten
years. Options, restricted shares or restricted share units generally vest 25% on the first anniversary of the grant date with the remaining
75% vesting ratably over the following 36 months.
F-40
Table of Contents
The Board of directors announced that, on December 29, 2023, it had resolved to (i) cancel 669,898 outstanding options (the
“Previously Granted Options”) involving an aggregate of 6,698,975 shares (represented by 1,339,795 ADSs) previously granted to
employees pursuant to the terms of the then effective share incentive plans, and (ii) in replacement of the Previously Granted Options,
grant 223,297 RSUs (the “Replacement RSUs”) involving an aggregate of 2,232,965 shares (represented by 446,593 ADSs) to such
employees, representing approximately 0.70% of the total ordinary shares of the Company in issue as of the date of grant. All such
223,297 RSUs were granted to the employees in consideration of the cancellation of the options previously granted to them respectively.
Upon the cancellation of 669,898 options and subject to the acceptance by the employees, 223,297 RSUs were granted. The Company
determined that the cancellation of options accompanied by the concurrent grant of the Replacement RSUs should be accounted for as a
modification of the terms of the cancelled options (the “Modification”). Incremental compensation cost was measured as the excess of
the fair value of the Replacement RSUs over the fair value of the cancelled options at the cancellation date, December 29, 2023.
Incremental compensation cost due to the Modification was RMB5,079, including expenses of RMB4,103 related to vested
restricted share awards which is recognized immediately as of date of modification, and expenses of RMB976 related to the restricted
share awards not yet vested which will be recognized over the remaining vesting period. An expense of RMB13,487 was recognized
upon the Modification due to the acceleration of vesting.
Share Options:
The weighted-average grant-date fair value of options granted during the year ended December 31, 2022 and 2023 was
RMB181.04 (US$26.25) and RMB57.37 (US$8.08) per share. There were 37,606, 6,009 and 15 options exercised during the years ended
December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023, respectively.
The Group uses the Black-Scholes pricing model and the following assumptions to estimate the fair value of the options
granted:
Average risk-free rate of return
Weighted average expected option life
Estimated volatility
Average dividend yield
2023
4.4 %
7.85 years
47.5 %
4.7 %
The risk-free interest rate is based on the U.S. Treasury constant maturity interest rate with a term consistent with the expected
term of the stock option award.
The expected volatility is estimated based on the historical volatility of the Company’s common stock with a term consistent
with the expected term of the stock option award. Average dividend yield is based on management estimation and the Company’s
dividend policy at the grant date.
The following table summarizes option activity during the year ended December 31, 2023:
Outstanding as of January 1, 2023
Granted
Exercised
Forfeited or expired
Cancellation due to the Modification
Outstanding as of December 31, 2023
Exercisable as of December 31, 2023
Number of
options
925,473
25,000
(15)
(240,564)
(669,899)
39,995
19,709
Weighted
Average
Exercise
Price
RMB
310.49
181.05
206.32
406.89
268.49
353.35
348.96
Weighted
Average
Remaining
Contractual
Term
Years
8.4
Aggregate
Intrinsic
Value of
Options
RMB
8,379
6.2
4.1
—
—
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Table of Contents
The aggregate intrinsic value of options exercised during the years ended December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023 was RMB15,674,
RMB1,223 and RMB2, respectively. As of December 31, 2023, there was RMB856 of unrecognized compensation expense related to
unvested share options, which is expected to be recognized over a weighted average period of 3.57 years.
Non-vested Restricted Shares:
A summary of non-vested restricted share activity during the year ended December 31, 2023 is presented below:
Non-vested restricted shares
Non-vested as of January 1, 2023
Granted
Vested
Forfeited
Non-vested as of December 31, 2023
Weighted-
Number of
non-vested
restricted
shares
89,855
228,297
(150,897)
(76,905)
90,350
average
grant-
date fair
value
RMB
300.59
195.62
215.93
435.76
196.65
The total fair value of non-vested restricted share awards vested during the years ended December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023 was
RMB29,784, RMB9,672 and RMB29,713, respectively. As of December 31, 2023, there was RMB32,020 in total unrecognized
compensation expense related to such non-vested restricted share awards, which is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average
period of 2.71 years.
14. Settlement Expenses
In July 2019, in connection with certain funds managed (“Camsing Credit Funds” or “Camsing Products”) by Shanghai Gopher
Asset Management Co., Ltd. (“Shanghai Gopher”), a consolidated affiliated subsidiary of the Company, it is suspected that fraud had
been committed by third parties related to the underlying investments (the “Camsing Incident”). A total of 818 investors were affected,
and the outstanding amount of the investments that is potentially subject to repayment upon default amounted to RMB3.4 billion.
Settlement Plan
To preserve the Group’s goodwill with affected investors, it voluntarily made an ex gratia settlement offer (the “Settlement
Plan”) to affected investors. An affected investor accepting the offer shall receive RSUs, which upon vesting will become ordinary shares
of the Company, and in return forgo all outstanding legal rights associated with the investment in the Camsing Credit Funds and
irrevocably release the Company and all its affiliated entities and individuals from any and all claims immediately, known or unknown,
that relate to the Camsing Credit Funds.
On August 24, 2020, the Settlement Plan was approved by the Board of Directors of the Company that a total number of new
ordinary shares not exceeding 1.6% of the share capital of the Company has been authorized to be issued each year for a consecutive ten
years for the Settlement Plan.
The Group evaluated and concluded the financial instruments to be issued under the Settlement Plan meet equity classification
under ASC 815-40-25-10. Therefore, such instruments were initially measured at fair value and recognized as part of additional-paid-in-
capital.
As of December 31, 2023, 595 out of the total 818 investors (approximately 72.7%) had accepted settlements under the plan,
representing RMB2.6 billion out of the total outstanding investments of RMB3.4 billion under the Camsing Products. For the years
ended December 31, 2022 and 2023, no settlement expense attributable to Camsing Incident was recorded due to (i) no additional
settlement and (ii) no change in contingent liabilities relating to Camsing Incident.
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Table of Contents
15. Employee Benefit Plans
Majority of full time employees of the Group participate in a PRC 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. PRC labor regulations require the Group to accrue for these benefits based on a certain percentage of
the employees’ salaries. The total contribution for such employee benefits were RMB237,851, RMB267,278 and RMB273,507 for
the years ended December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023, respectively. The Group has no ongoing obligation to its employees subsequent to
its contributions to the PRC plan.
16. Restricted Net Assets
Pursuant to the relevant laws and regulations in the PRC applicable to foreign-investment corporations and the Articles of
Association of the Group’s PRC subsidiaries and VIEs, the Group is required to maintain a statutory reserve (“PRC statutory reserve”): a
general reserve fund, which is non-distributable. The Group’s PRC subsidiaries and VIEs are required to transfer 10% of their profit after
taxation, as reported in their PRC statutory financial statements, to the general reserve fund until the balance reaches 50% of their
registered capital. At their discretion, the PRC subsidiaries and VIEs may allocate a portion of its after-tax profits based on PRC
accounting standards to staff welfare and bonus funds. The general reserve fund may be used to make up prior year losses incurred and,
with approval from the relevant government authority, to increase capital. PRC regulations currently permit payment of dividends only
out of the Group’s PRC subsidiaries and VIEs’ retained earnings as determined in accordance with PRC accounting standards and
regulations. The general reserve fund amounted to RMB472,833 and RMB562,153 as of December 31, 2022 and 2023, respectively. The
Group has not allocated any of its after-tax profits to the staff welfare and bonus funds for any period presented.
In addition, the paid-in capital of the Group’s PRC subsidiaries and VIEs of RMB2,323,106 and RMB2,300,833 as of December
31, 2022 and 2023, respectively, was considered restricted due to restrictions on the distribution of paid-in capital.
As a result of these PRC laws and regulations, the Group’s PRC subsidiaries and VIEs are restricted in their ability to transfer a
portion of their net assets, including general reserve and paid-in capital, either in the form of dividends, loans or advances. Such
restricted portion amounted to RMB2,826,642 and RMB2,872,761 as of December 31, 2022 and 2023, respectively.
17. Segment Information
The Group uses the management approach to determine operating segments. The management approach considers the internal
organization and reporting used by the Group’s chief operating decision maker (“CODM”) for making decisions, allocating resources and
assessing performance. The Group’s CODM has been identified as the chief executive officer, who reviews consolidated results
including revenues, operating cost and expenses and income (loss) from operations when making decisions about allocating resources
and assessing performance of the Group.
The Group believes it operates in three reportable segments: wealth management, asset management and, other business. The
Group’s CODM does not review balance sheet information of the segments.
F-43
Table of Contents
Segment information of the Group’s business is as follow:
Revenues:
Revenues from others
One-time commissions
Recurring service fees
Performance-based income
Other service fees
Total revenues from others
Revenues from funds Gopher manages
One-time commissions
Recurring service fees
Performance-based income
Total revenues from funds Gopher manages
Total revenues
Less: VAT related surcharges
Net revenues
Operating cost and expenses:
Compensation and benefits
Relationship manager compensation
Performance-based compensation
Other compensations
Total compensation and benefits
Selling expenses
General and administrative expenses
Provision for credit losses
Other operating expenses
Government subsidies
Total operating cost and expenses
Income (loss) from operations
Year Ended December 31, 2021 (Amount in Thousands)
Wealth Management
Business
RMB
Assets Management
Business
RMB
Other
Businesses
RMB
Total
RMB
241
1,194
—
1,390
2,825
90,275
638,215
315,072
1,043,562
1,046,387
(4,923)
1,041,464
(19,975)
(112,130)
(317,929)
(450,034)
(55,790)
(70,686)
(13,275)
(4,347)
37,905
(556,227)
485,237
—
—
—
68,240
68,240
—
—
—
—
68,240
(11,507)
56,733
—
—
(64,557)
(64,557)
(27,213)
(42,382)
(93,194)
(49,881)
12,666
(264,561)
(207,828)
1,130,894
913,700
391,903
161,982
2,598,479
140,522
1,195,309
392,290
1,728,121
4,326,600
(33,506)
4,293,094
(920,896)
(158,043)
(1,089,941)
(2,168,880)
(437,131)
(383,321)
(112,959)
(107,844)
115,939
(3,094,196)
1,198,898
1,130,653
912,506
391,903
92,352
2,527,414
50,247
557,094
77,218
684,559
3,211,973
(17,076)
3,194,897
(900,921)
(45,913)
(707,455)
(1,654,289)
(354,128)
(270,253)
(6,490)
(53,616)
65,368
(2,273,408)
921,489
F-44
Table of Contents
Revenues:
Revenues from others
One-time commissions
Recurring service fees
Performance-based income
Other service fees
Total revenues from others
Revenues from funds Gopher manages
One-time commissions
Recurring service fees
Performance-based income
Total revenues from funds Gopher manages
Total revenues
Less: VAT related surcharges
Net revenues
Operating cost and expenses:
Compensation and benefits
Relationship manager compensation
Performance-based compensation
Other compensations
Total compensation and benefits
Selling expenses
General and administrative expenses
Reversal of (provision for) credit losses
Other operating expenses
Government subsidies
Total operating cost and expenses
Income (loss) from operations
Year Ended December 31, 2022 (Amount in Thousands)
Wealth Management
Business
RMB
Assets Management
Business
RMB
Other
Businesses
RMB
Total
RMB
—
—
—
—
—
49,856
682,121
107,121
839,098
839,098
(4,630)
834,468
(36,910)
(6,167)
(278,934)
(322,011)
(41,885)
(55,872)
386
(6,369)
39,120
(386,631)
447,837
—
—
—
79,340
79,340
—
—
—
—
79,340
(13,413)
65,927
—
—
(40,237)
(40,237)
(7,360)
(25,804)
(680)
(93,872)
1,178
(166,775)
(100,848)
617,636
768,980
184,048
223,441
1,794,105
63,809
1,145,435
125,528
1,334,772
3,128,877
(28,505)
3,100,372
(497,147)
(7,039)
(937,696)
(1,441,882)
(349,014)
(235,319)
424
(115,653)
129,521
(2,011,923)
1,088,449
617,636
768,980
184,048
144,101
1,714,765
13,953
463,314
18,407
495,674
2,210,439
(10,462)
2,199,977
(460,237)
(872)
(618,525)
(1,079,634)
(299,769)
(153,643)
718
(15,412)
89,223
(1,458,517)
741,460
F-45
Table of Contents
Revenues:
Revenues from others
One-time commissions
Recurring service fees
Performance-based income
Other service fees
Total revenues from others
Revenues from funds Gopher manages
One-time commissions
Recurring service fees
Performance-based income
Total revenues from funds Gopher manages
Total revenues
Less: VAT related surcharges
Net revenues
Operating cost and expenses:
Compensation and benefits
Relationship manager compensation
Other compensations
Total compensation and benefits
Selling expenses
General and administrative expenses
(Provision for) reversal of credit losses
Other operating expenses
Government subsidies
Total operating cost and expenses
Income (loss) from operations
Year Ended December 31, 2023 (Amount in Thousands)
Wealth Management
Business
RMB
Assets Management
Business
RMB
Other
Businesses
RMB
Total
RMB
1,072,838
707,580
16,344
221,917
2,018,679
13,732
398,226
69,977
481,935
2,500,614
(9,365)
2,491,249
(631,082)
(544,804)
(1,175,886)
(370,861)
(193,248)
(910)
(44,042)
103,597
(1,681,350)
809,899
—
—
—
—
—
2,633
714,624
51,288
768,545
768,545
(2,374)
766,171
(24,378)
(224,308)
(248,686)
(88,827)
(59,367)
(921)
(3,348)
21,638
(379,511)
386,660
—
—
—
48,662
48,662
—
—
—
—
48,662
(11,386)
37,276
—
(32,181)
(32,181)
(26,090)
(23,112)
8,859
(65,116)
1,720
(135,920)
(98,644)
The following table summarizes the Group’s revenues generated by the different geographic location.
Mainland China
Hong Kong
Others
Total revenues
Mainland China
Hong Kong
Others
Total revenues
Year Ended December 31, 2021 (Amount in Thousands)
Wealth Management
Business
RMB
2,479,576
629,587
102,810
3,211,973
Assets Management
Business
RMB
Other
Businesses
RMB
768,203
240,136
38,048
1,046,387
68,240
—
—
68,240
Year Ended December 31, 2022 (Amount in Thousands)
Wealth Management
Business
RMB
1,548,395
508,907
153,137
2,210,439
Assets Management
Business
RMB
Other
Businesses
RMB
672,785
83,029
83,284
839,098
79,340
—
—
79,340
F-46
1,072,838
707,580
16,344
270,579
2,067,341
16,365
1,112,850
121,265
1,250,480
3,317,821
(23,125)
3,294,696
(655,460)
(801,293)
(1,456,753)
(485,778)
(275,727)
7,028
(112,506)
126,955
(2,196,781)
1,097,915
Total
RMB
3,316,019
869,723
140,858
4,326,600
Total
RMB
2,300,520
591,936
236,421
3,128,877
Table of Contents
Mainland China
Hong Kong
Others
Total revenues
Year Ended December 31, 2023 (Amount in Thousands)
Wealth Management
Business
RMB
1,366,538
921,091
212,985
2,500,614
Assets Management
Business
RMB
Other
Businesses
RMB
469,193
193,588
105,764
768,545
48,662
-
-
48,662
Total
RMB
1,884,393
1,114,679
318,749
3,317,821
Substantially all of the Group’s revenues are derived from, and its assets are located in Mainlan China and Hong Kong.
18. Related Party Transactions
Parties are considered to be related if one party has the ability, directly or indirectly, to control the other party or exercise
significant influence over the other party in making financial and operational decisions. Parties are also considered to be related if they
are subject to common control or common significant influence. Related parties may be individuals or corporate entities.
The table below sets forth major related parties and their relationships with the Group:
Company Name
HongShan Capital Investment Management (Tianjin) Co., Ltd.
(“formerly known as Sequoia Capital Investment
Management (Tianjin) Co., Ltd.”)
Relationship with the Group
Affiliate of shareholder of the Group
Wanjia Win-Win
Investee of Gopher Asset Management Co., Ltd. (“Gopher Assets”)
Shanghai Dingnuo Technology Co., Ltd. (“Dingnuo”)
Affiliate of shareholder of the Group1
Investee funds of Gopher Assets
Investees of Gopher Assets, a consolidated VIE of the Group
Investee funds of Gopher Capital GP Ltd.
Investees of Gopher Capital GP Ltd., a subsidiary of the Group
Shanghai Noah Charity Fund
A charity fund established by the Group
Note 1: Dingnuo was no longer the affiliate of shareholder of the Group after the Group acquired 100% of the issued shares in DD
Finance Ltd. (the parent company of Dingnuo) on June 28, 2023.
F-47
Table of Contents
During the years ended December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023, related party transactions were as follows:
One-time commissions
Investee funds of Gopher Assets
Recurring service fees
Investee funds of Gopher Assets
Wanjia Win-Win
HongShan Capital Investment Management (Tianjin) Co., Ltd.
Investee funds of Gopher Capital GP Ltd.
Total recurring services fee
Performance-based income
Investee funds of Gopher Assets
Investee funds of Gopher Capital GP Ltd.
Total performance-based income
Other service fees
Investee funds of Gopher Assets
Total other service fees
Total
Year Ended December 31
(Amount in Thousands)
2021
RMB
2022
RMB
2023
RMB
2023
US$
140,522
63,809
16,365
2,305
871,618
463
26,488
323,691
1,222,260
768,161
—
16,791
377,274
1,162,226
712,479
—
16,286
400,371
1,129,136
166,580
225,710
392,290
51,304
74,224
125,528
10,934
110,331
121,265
100,351
—
2,294
56,391
159,036
1,540
15,540
17,080
5,945
5,945
1,761,017
—
—
1,351,563
—
—
1,266,766
—
—
178,421
As of December 31, 2022, and 2023, amounts due from related parties associated with the above transactions were comprised of
the following:
Investee funds of Gopher Assets
Investee funds of Gopher Capital GP Ltd.
Total in gross amounts
Less: allowance for credit losses
Total in net amounts
2022
RMB
317,969
108,090
426,059
(11,872)
414,187
As of December 31,
(Amount in Thousands)
2023
RMB
238,033
93,498
331,531
(9,194)
322,337
2023
US$
33,527
13,169
46,696
(1,295)
45,401
As of December 31, 2022, and 2023, amounts due from related parties associated with loan distributed were comprised of the
following:
Investee funds of Gopher Assets
Investee funds of Gopher Capital GP Ltd.
Total in gross amounts
Less: allowance for credit losses
Total in net amounts
2022
RMB
13,940
29,091
43,031
(13,794)
29,237
As of December 31,
(Amount in Thousands)
2023
RMB
11,075
74,679
85,754
(14,200)
71,554
2023
US$
1,560
10,517
12,077
(2,000)
10,077
The loans are due on demand and expected to be matured within one year, most of which are interest free.
F-48
Table of Contents
As of December 31, 2022, and 2023, deferred revenues related to the recurring management fee received in advance from
related parties were comprised of the following:
Investee funds of Gopher Assets
Investee funds of Gopher Capital GP Ltd.
Total
2022
RMB
10,325
611
10,936
As of December 31,
(Amount in Thousands)
2023
RMB
8,830
4,728
13,558
2023
US$
1,244
666
1,910
During the years ended December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023, donation made to Shanghai Noah Charity Fund were
RMB3.5 million, RMB3.2 million and RMB6.3 million, respectively.
During the years ended December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023, the Group paid RMB9.2 million, RMB5.5 million and nil as
service fees to Dingnuo for development of an online mutual fund work station for the Group’s relationship managers and one-stop
service platform for private equity fund managers, respectively.
19. Contingencies
Camsing Incident
As disclosed in Note 14, the Group offerd a voluntary settlement plan in 2020 to all affected Camsing investors, and as of
December 31, 2022, approximately 72.7% of the Camsing investors had accepted the settlement plan, representing approximately 75.4%
of the total outstanding investments of RMB3.4 billion under the Camsing Products. The Group currently has no new settlement plan for
the remaining unsettled investors, but would not preclude reaching settlements in the future with similar terms. The Group estimated the
probable amount of future settlement taking into consideration of possible forms of settlement and estimated acceptable level, and
recorded it as a contingent liability in the amount of US$68.0 million (RMB469.0 million) as of December 31, 2022.
As of December 31, 2023, there were 44 investors whose legal proceedings against Shanghai Gopher and/or its affiliates, with
an aggregate claim amount over RMB140.0 million were still outstanding. The Group is of the view that these proceedings will not have
a material adverse effect on the Group’s business. As the date of this report, the management has assessed, based on its PRC legal
counsels’ advices, the Group cannot reasonably predict the timing or outcomes of, or estimate the amount of loss, or range of loss, if any,
related to the pending legal proceedings.
Litigation
In December 2022, the Group received a civil judgment from the Bozhou Intermediate People’s Court of Anhui Province (the
“First Instance Court”). The judgement related to a civil lawsuit brought by an external institution (the “Plaintiff”) against Noah
(Shanghai) Financial Leasing Co., Ltd. (the “Defendant”, one subsidiary of the Company).
The First Instance Court first accepted the civil lawsuit filed by the Plaintiff against the Defendant in August 2019 respecting
the financial consultancy services provided by the Defendant to the Plaintiff on its investment process. The Defendant charged a fee of
RMB500,000 for providing such consultancy services to the Plaintiff. In December 2020, the First Instance Court dismissed the
Plaintiff’s case. In March 2021, the High People’s Court of Anhui Province (the “Appellate Court”) dismissed the Plaintiff’s appeal to
the ruling of the First Instance Court. No contingent liabilities with respect to the civil claim were recorded by the Group in 2021.
F-49
Table of Contents
The Plaintiff subsequently, for the third time, applied for a retrial to the Supreme People’s Court. In February 2022, the Supreme
People’s Court issued an order revoking the aforementioned rulings and remanding the case to the First Instance Court for retrial. While
the Group held the same view as before that the claim of the Plaintiff is without merit and is unfounded, in December 2023, the First
Instance Court awarded the Plaintiff monetary damages of RMB99.0 million and corresponding interests (the “First-instance Ruling”).
The First-instance Ruling is not yet effective until the appellate process is concluded. Considering the judgement in the First-instance
Ruling as of December 31, 2022, although it remains subject to appeal and applicable post-judgment proceedings, the Group reserved a
contingent liability of RMB99.0 million.
In late March 2024, the Group received the final ruling from the Appellate Court, which supports the First-instance Ruling and
became effective immediately. As a result, the contingency was resolved and the payable for the litigation of RMB99.0 million was
included in other current liabilities as of December 31, 2023.
Others
The Group is subject to periodic legal or administrative proceedings in the ordinary course of business. Other than those related
to the Camsing Incident and the litigation mentioned above, the Group does not have any pending legal or administrative proceedings to
which the Group is a party that will have a material effect on its business or financial condition.
20. Subsequent event
The board of directors of the Company recommended (i) a final dividend of RMB509.0 million (US$71.7 million) in respect of
the year ended December 31, 2023, and (ii) a non-recurring special dividend of RMB509.0 million(US$71.7 million), with an aggregate
amount of the final dividend and special dividend of approximately RMB1,018.0 million (US$143.4 million). This recommendation is
subject to the approval by the Company’s shareholders respectively at the forthcoming annual general meeting to be held on or around
June 12, 2024.
Based on the number of issued Shares as of the date of this announcement, if declared and paid, (i) the final dividend will
amount to RMB1.55 per share (tax inclusive) in respect of the year ended December 31, 2023, and (ii) the non - recurring special
dividend will amount to RMB1.55 per share (tax inclusive), both subject to adjustment to the number of Shares of the Company entitled
to dividend distribution as of the record date for dividend distribution.
F-50
Table of Contents
Additional Financial Information of Parent Company – Financial Statements Schedule I
The following Schedule I has been provided pursuant to the requirements of Rules 12-04(a) and 5-04(c) of Regulation S-X,
which require condensed financial information as to the financial position, changes in financial position and results of operations of a
parent company as of the same dates and for the same periods for which audited consolidated financial statements have been presented,
as the restricted net assets was more than 25% of the Company’s consolidated net assets as of December 31, 2023.
a) Condensed Balance Sheets (Amount in Thousands, Except Share and Per Share Data)
Assets
Current assets
Cash and cash equivalents
Amounts due from related parties
Other current assets
Total current assets
Investments in subsidiaries and VIEs
Investments in affiliates
Other non-current assets
Total assets
Liabilities and Equity
Current liabilities
Contingent liabilities
Amounts due to subsidiaries and VIEs
Other current liabilities
Total liabilities
Shareholder’s equity
Ordinary shares1 (US$0.00005 par value): 1,000,000,000 ordinary shares authorized,
319,455,750 shares issued and 313,019,320 shares outstanding as of December 31, 2022
and 1,000,000,000 ordinary shares authorized, 328,034,660 shares issued and 326,307,330
shares outstanding as of December 31, 2023
Additional paid-in capital
Retained earnings
Accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income
Total shareholders’ equity
Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity
2022
RMB
As of December 31,
2023
RMB
2023
US$
349,845
823
—
350,668
9,636,776
361,831
724
10,349,999
826,080
847
20,969
847,896
10,530,683
363,423
745
11,742,747
116,351
119
2,953
119,423
1,483,215
51,187
105
1,653,930
469,018
467,178
8,107
944,303
482,802
934,179
15,432
1,432,413
68,001
131,576
2,174
201,751
105
3,803,183
5,604,954
(2,546)
9,405,696
10,349,999
110
3,798,662
6,436,946
74,616
10,310,334
11,742,747
15
535,030
906,625
10,509
1,452,179
1,653,930
Note 1: Results have been retroactively adjusted to reflect the 1 - for - 10 Share Subdivision effective on October 27, 2023. See Note 2
for details.
F-51
Table of Contents
b) Condensed Statements of Operations (Amount in Thousands)
Net revenues
Operating cost and expenses
Other Compensations
Selling expenses
General and administrative expenses
Other operating expenses
Total operating cost and expenses
Loss from operations
Other income (expenses):
Interest income
Settlement expenses
Other income (expenses)
Total other (expenses) income
Loss before taxes and income from equity in affiliates, subsidiaries and
VIEs
Income tax expenses
Income from equity in affiliates
Income from equity in subsidiaries and VIEs
Net income
c) Condensed Statements of Comprehensive Income (Amount in Thousands)
Net income
Other comprehensive (loss) income, net of tax
Foreign currency translation adjustments
Comprehensive income
F-52
2021
RMB
—
—
285
41,955
—
42,240
(42,240)
2,266
(19,908)
(4,211)
(21,853)
(64,093)
—
68,388
1,309,836
1,314,131
Year ended December 31,
2022
RMB
—
—
2,838
16,948
12,516
32,302
(32,302)
4,250
—
11,083
15,333
(16,969)
—
51,459
942,081
976,571
2023
RMB
—
2,157
82
7,314
19,877
29,430
(29,430)
34,002
—
4,267
38,269
8,839
(20,421)
6,233
1,014,843
1,009,494
2021
RMB
1,314,131
Year ended December 31,
2022
RMB
976,571
2023
RMB
1,009,494
(60,900)
1,253,231
137,468
1,114,039
77,162
1,086,656
2023
US$
—
304
12
1,030
2,800
4,146
(4,146)
4,789
—
601
5,390
1,244
(2,876)
878
142,939
142,185
2023
US$
142,185
10,868
153,053
Table of Contents
d) Condensed Statements of Cash Flows (Amount in Thousands)
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net income
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating
activities:
Income from equity in subsidiaries and VIEs, net of dividends
(Income) loss from equity in affiliates, net of dividends
Share-based settlement expense
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:
Amounts due from related parties
Amounts due to subsidiaries and VIEs
Other current assets
Contingent liabilities
Other current liabilities
Other non-current liabilities
Net cash provided by operating activities
Cash flows from investing activities:
Increase in investments in subsidiaries and VIEs
Net cash used in investing activities
Cash flows from financing activities:
Proceeds from issuance of ordinary shares upon exercise of stock options
Proceeds from advances from subsidiaries
Repayment of advances from subsidiaries
Payment for repurchase of ordinary shares
Proceeds from offering, net of issuance cost
Dividend distribution
Net cash provided by financing activities
Effect of exchange rate changes
Net (decrease) increase in cash and cash equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents - beginning of year
Cash and cash equivalents - end of year
F-53
2021
RMB
Year ended December 31,
2022
RMB
2023
RMB
2023
US$
1,314,131
976,571
1,009,494
142,185
(1,309,836)
(28,606)
19,908
(942,081)
(41,385)
—
(834,842)
9,041
—
(117,585)
1,273
—
18
28,584
40,772
(11,398)
11,828
(2,276)
63,125
(63)
52,262
—
—
(31,336)
—
13,968
(24)
5,895
(20,969)
—
7,326
—
175,921
(1,120,785)
(1,120,785)
(17,492)
(17,492)
(16,400)
(16,400)
11,114
537,604
(82,481)
(372,376)
—
—
93,861
(171,897)
(1,135,696)
1,359,841
224,145
1,493
287,876
(448,387)
—
247,015
—
87,997
41,227
125,700
224,145
349,845
3
1,074,953
(613,847)
—
—
(177,502)
283,607
33,107
476,235
349,845
826,080
(3)
830
(2,953)
—
1,032
—
24,779
(2,310)
(2,310)
—
151,404
(86,459)
—
—
(25,001)
39,944
4,663
67,076
49,275
116,351
Table of Contents
e) Notes to Condensed Financial Statements
1.
2.
3.
The condensed financial statements of Noah Holdings Limited have been prepared using the same accounting policies as set out
in the consolidated financial statements except that the equity method has been used to account for investments in subsidiaries
and VIEs. Such investment in subsidiaries and VIEs are presented on the balance sheets as investment in subsidiaries and VIEs
and the profit of the subsidiaries and VIEs is presented as income from equity in subsidiaries and VIEs on the statement of
operations.
As of December 31, 2022 and 2023, there were no material contingencies, significant provisions of long-term obligations of the
Company, except for those which have been separately disclosed in the consolidated financial statements.
Certain information and footnote disclosures normally included in financial statements prepared in accordance with accounting
principles generally accepted in the United States of America have been condensed or omitted. The footnote disclosure certain
supplemental information relating to the operations of the Company and, as such, these statements should be read in conjunction
with the notes to the accompanying Consolidated Financial Statements.
F-54
List of Significant Consolidated Entities of Noah Holdings Limited*
Name
Noah Upright Fund Distribution Co., Ltd.
Shanghai Noah Investment (Group) Co., Ltd.
Noah Insurance (Hong Kong) Limited
Noah Holdings (Hong Kong) Limited
Gopher Capital GP Limited
Wuhu Fangtiao Technology Co., Ltd.
Shanghai Nuohong Real Estate Co., Ltd.
Noah International (Hong Kong) Limited
Shanghai Noah Investment Management Co., Ltd.
Date of Incorporation
November 18, 2003
August 24, 2007
January 3, 2011
September 1, 2011
May 11, 2012
November 28, 2019
May 30, 2013
January 7, 2015
August 26, 2005
Gopher Asset Management Co., Ltd.
February 9, 2012
Shanghai Gopher Asset Management Co., Ltd.
December 14, 2012
Shanghai Gopher Massa Asset Management Co., Ltd.
June 29, 2015
Place of
Incorporation
PRC
PRC
Hong Kong
Hong Kong
Cayman Islands
PRC
PRC
Hong Kong
PRC
PRC
PRC
PRC
Exhibit 8.1
Percentage of
Ownership
100%
100%
100%
100%
100%
100%
100%
100%
Controlled under the
Contractual Arrangement
Controlled under the
Contractual Arrangement
Controlled under the
Contractual Arrangement
Controlled under the
Contractual Arrangement
* Other consolidated entities of Noah Holdings Limited have been omitted from this list since, considered in the aggregate as a single
entity, they would not constitute a significant subsidiary.
Exhibit 12.1
Certification by the Principal Executive Officer
Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
I, Zhe Yin, certify that:
1. I have reviewed this annual report on Form 20-F of Noah Holdings Limited (the “Company”);
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, to the Company’s auditors and the audit committee of the Company’s board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent
functions):
(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: April 24, 2024
/s/ Zhe Yin
By:
Name: Zhe Yin
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, Qing Pan, certify that:
1. I have reviewed this annual report on Form 20-F of Noah Holdings Limited (the “Company”);
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, 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: April 24, 2024
/s/ Qing Pan
By:
Name: Qing Pan
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 Noah Holdings Limited (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, Zhe Yin, 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: April 24, 2024
/s/ Zhe Yin
By:
Name: Zhe Yin
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 Noah Holdings Limited (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, Qing Pan, 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: April 24, 2024
/s/ Qing Pan
By:
Name: Qing Pan
Title: Chief Financial Officer
CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
We consent to the incorporation by reference in Registration Statement Nos. 333-222342 and 333-268978 on Form S-8 and No. 333-
265732 on Form F-3 of our reports dated March 27, 2024, relating to the financial statements of Noah Holdings Limited (the
“Company”) and the effectiveness of the Company's internal control over financial reporting appearing in this Annual Report on Form
20-F for the year ended December 31, 2023.
/s/ Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Certified Public Accountants LLP
Exhibit 15.1
Shanghai, China
April 24, 2024
Exhibit 15.2
April 24, 2024
To
Noah Holdings Limited
1226 South Shenbin Road
Minhang District
Shanghai, PRC
Dear Sir/Madam:
We consent to the reference to our firm under the headings of “Enforceability of Civil Liabilities”, “Organizational Structure”, “Risk
Factors” and “People’s Republic of China Taxation” in Noah Holdings Limited’s Annual Report on Form 20-F for year ended
December 31, 2023 (the “Annual Report”), which will be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) in the month
of April 2024. 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 hereby 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.
[The remainder of this page is intentionally left blank]
Yours faithfully,
/s/ Zhong Lun Law Firm
Exhibit 15.3
Our ref
Direct tel
E-mail
VSL/658613-000001/28893690v2
+852 3690 7513
Vivian.Lee@maples.com
Noah Holdings Limited
1226, South Shenbin Road
Shanghai 200090
People's Republic of China
April 24, 2024
Dear Sirs
Noah Holdings Limited
We have acted as legal advisers as to the laws of the Cayman Islands to Noah Holdings Limited, an exempted limited liability company
incorporated in the Cayman Islands (the “Company”), in connection with the filing by the Company with the United States Securities
and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) of an annual report on Form 20-F for the year ended 31 December 2023 (“Form 20-F”).
We hereby consent to the reference of our name under the headings “Item 3.D Risk Factors” and “Enforceability of Civil Liabilities” in
the Form 20-F, and we further consent to the incorporation by reference of the summary of our opinions under this heading into the
Company’s registration statements on Form S-8 (File No. 333-171541) that was filed on 5 January 2011, Form S-8 (File No. 333-
222342) that was filed on 29 December 2017 and Form S-8 (File No. 333-268978) that was filed on 23 December 2022.
We consent to the filing with the SEC of this consent letter as an exhibit to the Form 20-F. 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
CLAWBACK POLICY
NOAH HOLDINGS LIMITED
Exhibit 97.1
PURPOSE
Noah Holdings Limited (the “Company”) believes that it is in the best interests of the Company and its
shareholders to create and maintain a culture that emphasizes integrity and accountability and that reinforces the
Company’s pay-for-performance compensation philosophy. The Company’s Board of Directors (the “Board”) has
therefore adopted this policy, which provides for the recoupment of certain executive compensation in the event
that the Company is required to prepare an accounting restatement of its financial statements due to material
noncompliance with any financial reporting requirement under the federal securities laws (this “Policy”). This
Policy is designed to comply with Section 10D of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the
“Exchange Act”), the rules promulgated thereunder, and the listing standards of the New York Stock Exchange
(the “NYSE”).
ADMINISTRATION
This Policy shall be administered by the Compensation Committee of the Board (the “Compensation
Committee”). Any determinations made by the Compensation Committee shall be final and binding on all affected
individuals.
COVERED EXECUTIVES
This Policy applies to the Company’s current and former executive officers 1 (as determined by the
Compensation Committee in accordance with Section 10D of the Exchange Act, the rules promulgated
thereunder, and the listing standards of the NYSE) and such other senior executives or employees who may from
time to time be deemed subject to this Policy by the Compensation Committee (collectively, the “Covered
Executives”). This Policy shall be binding and enforceable against all Covered Executives.
1
The definition of “executive officer” in Rule 10D-1 is consistent with the definition of Section 16 “officer”: An executive officer is the issuer’s
president, principal financial officer, principal accounting officer (or if there is no such accounting officer, the controller), any vice-president of the
issuer 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 issuer. Executive officers of the issuer’s
parent(s) or subsidiaries are deemed executive officers of the issuer if they perform such policy making functions for the issuer. Policy-making
function is not intended to include policy-making functions that are not significant. Identification of an executive officer for purposes of this
section would include, at a minimum, executive officers identified in the annual report on Form 20-F pursuant to 17 CFR 229.401(b).
RECOUPMENT; ACCOUNTING RESTATEMENT
In the event that the Company is required to prepare an accounting restatement of its financial statements
due to the Company’s material noncompliance with any financial reporting requirement under the securities laws,
including any required accounting restatement (i) to correct an error in previously issued financial statements that
is material to the previously issued financial statements, or (ii) that would result in a material misstatement if the
error were corrected in the current period or left uncorrected in the current period (each an “Accounting
Restatement”), the Compensation Committee will reasonably promptly require reimbursement or forfeiture of the
Overpayment (as defined below) received by any Covered Executive (x) after beginning service as a Covered
Executive, (y) who served as a Covered Executive at any time during the performance period for the applicable
Incentive-Based Compensation (as defined below), and (z) during the three (3) completed fiscal years
immediately preceding the date on which the Company is required to prepare an Accounting Restatement and any
transition period (that results from a change in the Company’s fiscal year) within or immediately following those
three (3) completed fiscal years. For purposes of this Policy, the date on which the Company is required to prepare
an accounting restatement is 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’s previously issued financial statements contain a material error; or (ii)
the date a court, regulator, or other legally authorized body directs the Company to prepare an accounting
restatement.
INCENTIVE-BASED COMPENSATION
For purposes of this Policy, “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, including, but not
limited to: (i) non-equity incentive plan awards that are earned solely or in part by satisfying a financial reporting
measure performance goal; (ii) bonuses paid from a bonus pool, where the size of the pool is determined solely or
in part by satisfying a financial reporting measure performance goal; (iii) other cash awards based on satisfaction
of a financial reporting measure performance goal; (iv) restricted stock, restricted stock units, stock options, stock
appreciation rights, and performance share units that are granted or vest solely or in part based on satisfaction of a
financial reporting measure performance goal; and (v) proceeds from the sale of shares acquired through an
incentive plan that were granted or vested solely or in part based on satisfaction of a financial reporting measure
performance goal.
Compensation that would not be considered Incentive-Based Compensation includes, but is not limited to:
(i) salaries; (ii) bonuses paid solely based on satisfaction of subjective standards, such as demonstrating
leadership, and/or completion of a specified employment period; (iii) non- equity incentive plan awards earned
solely based on satisfaction of strategic or operational measures; (iv) wholly time-based equity awards; and (v)
discretionary bonuses or other compensation that is not paid from a bonus pool that is determined by satisfying a
financial reporting measure performance goal.
A financial reporting measure is: (i) any measure that is determined and presented in accordance with the
accounting principles used in preparing financial statements, or any measure
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derived wholly or in part from such measure, such as revenues, EBITDA, or net income or (ii) stock price and
total shareholder return. Financial reporting measures include, but are not limited to: revenues; net income;
operating income; profitability of one or more reportable segments; financial ratios (e.g., accounts receivable
turnover and inventory turnover rates); net assets or net asset value per share; earnings before interest, taxes,
depreciation and amortization; funds from operations and adjusted funds from operations; liquidity measures (e.g.,
working capital, operating cash flow); return measures (e.g., return on invested capital, return on assets); earnings
measures (e.g., earnings per share); cost per employee, where cost is subject to an accounting restatement; any of
such financial reporting measures relative to a peer group, where the Company’s financial reporting measure is
subject to an accounting restatement; and tax basis income.
OVERPAYMENT: AMOUNT SUBJECT TO RECOVERY
The amount to be recovered will be the amount of Incentive-Based Compensation received that exceeds
the amount of Incentive-Based Compensation that otherwise would have been received had it been determined
based on the restated amounts, and must be computed without regard to any taxes paid (the “Overpayment”).
Incentive-Based Compensation is deemed “received” in the Company’s fiscal period during which the financial
reporting measure specified in the incentive-based compensation award is attained, even if the vesting, payment or
grant of the Incentive-Based Compensation occurs after the end of that period.
For Incentive-Based 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
the Accounting Restatement, the amount must be based on a reasonable estimate of the effect of the Accounting
Restatement on the stock price or total shareholder return upon which the Incentive-Based Compensation was
received, and the Company must maintain documentation of the determination of that reasonable estimate and
provide such documentation to the NYSE.
METHOD OF RECOUPMENT
The Compensation Committee will determine, in its sole discretion, the method or methods for recouping
any Overpayment hereunder which may include, without limitation:
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requiring reimbursement of cash Incentive-Based Compensation previously paid;
seeking recovery of any gain realized on the vesting, exercise, settlement, sale, transfer, or other
disposition of any equity-based awards granted as Incentive-Based Compensation;
offsetting any or all of the Overpayment from any compensation otherwise owed by the Company to the
Covered Executive;
cancelling outstanding vested or unvested equity awards; and/or
taking any other remedial or recovery action permitted by law, as determined by the Compensation
Committee.
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LIMITATION ON RECOVERY; NO ADDITIONAL PAYMENTS
The right to recovery will be limited to Overpayments received during the three (3) completed fiscal years
prior to the date on which the Company is required to prepare an Accounting Restatement and any transition
period (that results from a change in the Company’s fiscal year) within or immediately following those three (3)
completed fiscal years. In no event shall the Company be required to award Covered Executives an additional
payment if the restated or accurate financial results would have resulted in a higher Incentive-Based
Compensation payment.
NO INDEMNIFICATION
The Company shall not indemnify any Covered Executives against the loss of any incorrectly awarded
Incentive-Based Compensation.
INTERPRETATION
The Compensation Committee is authorized to interpret and construe this Policy and to make all
determinations necessary, appropriate, or advisable for the administration of this Policy. It is intended that this
Policy be interpreted in a manner that is consistent with the requirements of Section 10D of the Exchange Act and
the applicable rules or standards adopted by the Securities and Exchange Commission or the NYSE.
EFFECTIVE DATE
This Policy shall be effective as of the date it is adopted by the Board (the “Effective Date”) and shall
apply to Incentive-Based Compensation (including Incentive-Based Compensation granted pursuant to
arrangements existing prior to the Effective Date). Notwithstanding the foregoing, this Policy shall only apply to
Incentive-Based Compensation received (as determined pursuant to this Policy) on or after October 2, 2023.
AMENDMENT; TERMINATION
The Board may amend this Policy from time to time in its discretion. The Board may terminate this Policy
at any time.
OTHER RECOUPMENT RIGHTS
The Board intends that this Policy will be applied to the fullest extent of the law. The Compensation
Committee may require that any employment or service agreement, cash-based bonus plan or program, equity
award agreement, or similar agreement entered into on or after the adoption of this Policy shall, as a condition to
the grant of any benefit thereunder, require a Covered Executive to agree to abide by the terms of this Policy. Any
right of recoupment under this Policy is in addition to, and not in lieu of, any other remedies or rights of
recoupment that may be available to the Company pursuant to the terms of any similar policy in any employment
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agreement, equity award agreement, cash-based bonus plan or program, or similar agreement and any other legal
remedies available to the Company.
IMPRACTICABILITY
The Compensation Committee shall recover any Overpayment in accordance with this Policy except to the
extent that the Compensation Committee determines such recovery would be impracticable because:
(A) The direct expense paid to a third party to assist in enforcing this Policy would exceed the amount to
be recovered;
(B) Recovery would violate home country law of the Company where that law was adopted prior to
November 28, 2022; or
(C) Recovery would likely cause an otherwise tax-qualified retirement plan, under which benefits are
broadly available to employees of the Company, to fail to meet the requirements of 26 U.S.C. 401(a)(13) or 26
U.S.C. 411(a) and regulations thereunder.
SUCCESSORS
This Policy shall be binding and enforceable against all Covered Executives and their beneficiaries, heirs,
executors, administrators or other legal representatives.
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