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    NetEase
    Internet technology, Online gaming, Music streaming

    NetEase

    Cayman Islands flagCayman Islands

    "Premium online services"

    Founded June 1997 Hangzhou, China; George Town, Cayman Islands CEO: Ding Lei
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    About

    Founded in June 1997 by Ding Lei, NetEase began as an email service provider before evolving into a diversified technology conglomerate. The company maintains its primary headquarters in Hangzhou while incorporating in George Town, Cayman Islands, to facilitate dual listings on the NASDAQ and Hong Kong Stock Exchange. This structure supports operations across gaming, music streaming, news aggregation, and e-commerce.

    Gaming remains the core revenue engine, producing globally recognized titles such as Fantasy Westward Journey, Identity V, and the 2026 release Marvel Rivals. The firm also expanded into non-tech sectors, notably investing in pig farming ventures to diversify income streams beyond digital entertainment.

    Strategic shifts occurred in late 2026 when NetEase ceased funding for Nagoshi Studio in March, leading to the developer's official closure in November. This decision marked a retreat from Western studio investments despite the domestic success of games like Gang of Dragon. Financial reports from 2023 showed revenue reaching US$14.6 billion, with continued share repurchase activity documented in filings through late 2026.

    Products & Sub-brands

    Fantasy Westward JourneyIdentity VMarvel RivalsGang of DragonNetEase Cloud MusicYoudaoMuMu Player

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Is NetEase owned by China?
    Yes, NetEase is a Chinese company founded and headquartered in Hangzhou, though it is incorporated in the Cayman Islands for listing purposes and operates globally. It is led by Chinese entrepreneur Ding Lei and remains subject to Chinese regulations despite its international presence.
    What is NetEase known for?
    NetEase is best known for its massive online gaming portfolio, including hits like Fantasy Westward Journey and Marvel Rivals, alongside its popular music streaming service, NetEase Cloud Music. The company also provides email services, news aggregation, and educational tools via its Youdao platform.
    Who owns NetEase and who is the CEO?
    The company was founded by Ding Lei, who currently serves as its CEO and controlling shareholder. While public shareholders own a portion of the stock listed on NASDAQ and HKEX, Ding Lei retains significant influence over the company's strategic direction and operations.
    Why did NetEase close Nagoshi Studio?
    NetEase ceased funding for Nagoshi Studio in early 2026, leading to its official closure in November 2026, citing a strategic decision to shrink its non-core gaming divisions. This move effectively ended the development of their new project, Gang of Dragon, and marked a retreat from their previous expansion into Western game studios.
    Is NetEase still in business?
    Yes, NetEase remains a highly active and profitable major player in the global technology and entertainment sectors. Despite closing specific subsidiaries like Nagoshi Studio, the company continues to report billions in revenue and actively releases new games and services across its diverse ecosystem.

    Keywords

    NetEaseDing Leionline gamingChinese techNagoshi StudioMarvel RivalsFantasy Westward JourneyNetEase Cloud MusicHangzhouCayman Islands

    Sources

    WikipediaBloombergGematsuYahoo FinanceSeeking Alpha

    Company Info

    Founded
    June 1997
    Founder
    Ding Lei
    CEO
    Ding Lei
    Headquarters
    Hangzhou, China; George Town, Cayman Islands
    Industry
    Internet technology, Online gaming, Music streaming
    Revenue
    14600000000
    Revenue (2023)
    US$14.6 billion
    Stock Tickers
    NASDAQ: NTES, HKEX: 9999
    Nagoshi Studio Closure
    November 2026
    Key Products
    Fantasy Westward Journey, Identity V, Marvel Rivals, NetEase Cloud Music

    Official Website

    www.163.com/

    Links

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