Haier will acquire Autohome, one of China's top three vertical portals in the automotive sector, by purchasing a partial stake to achieve controlling ownership. It is expected that the relevant team will move in by the end of the year, with a 30% layoff planned for January next year. However, the news has not been confirmed by either party, and Haier Group has declined to comment on the rumor. In the first three quarters of 2024, Haier Smart Home reported revenue of 203 billion yuan, a year-on-year increase of 2.2%, with net profit attributable to shareholders of 15.15 billion yuan, up 15.3% year-on-year. Autohome's total revenue in the third quarter was 1.77 billion yuan, with online marketing and other business income growing 3.1% year-on-year, while revenue from new energy brands surged 54%. Adjusted net profit was 497 million yuan.

Haier will acquire a partial stake in Autohome to achieve controlling ownership. Although the news has not been officially confirmed by either party, after Haier's team moves into Autohome by the end of the year, new retail operations will be integrated, and significant changes in senior management are expected. Autohome will need to find a new CEO. Following the acquisition, a 30% layoff at Autohome is anticipated in January next year, likely targeting the used car business. If the acquisition is completed, Haier will gain control of Autohome, with the underlying reasons possibly tied to Haier's search for new growth avenues and Autohome's own business development situation.