19-05-2025
ATA Creativity Global (AACG) Q1 2025 Earnings Call Highlights: Revenue Growth Amid Enrollment ...
Release Date: May 16, 2025
For the complete transcript of the earnings call, please refer to the full earnings call transcript.
ATA Creativity Global (NASDAQ:AACG) reported a 16% increase in net revenue and gross profit for Q1 2025, driven by portfolio training and research-based learning services.
The portfolio training program saw a 5.8% increase in delivery, contributing to an 11.5% growth in revenue from these programs.
Research-based learning and overseas study counseling services increased revenue by more than 28%, accounting for nearly 30% of total net revenues.
AACG received positive feedback from students regarding 2025 admission results, with students gaining admission to prestigious institutions like Cambridge University and the University of Southern California.
AACG was recognized as a leading brand in China for studying abroad, alongside New Oriental Education, at the 2025 International Education Leaders Annual Conference.
Total student enrollment for Q1 2025 decreased by 19.4% compared to the prior year period, attributed to normalized demand.
Despite increased revenues, AACG reported a loss from operations of RMB16.8 million for Q1 2025, though this was an improvement from the previous year's loss.
General and administrative expenses increased due to professional fees and new project development, offsetting some of the gains from reduced selling and R&D expenses.
The company faces challenges in maintaining growth momentum amidst changing domestic and international market conditions.
AACG's cash and cash equivalents stood at RMB39.4 million, which may limit flexibility in pursuing aggressive expansion or new initiatives.
Warning! GuruFocus has detected 3 Warning Signs with AACG.
Q: Can you provide more details on the financial performance for Q1 2025? A: Kevin Ma, Chairman and CEO, highlighted a 16% increase in net revenue and gross profit, driven by portfolio training and research-based learning services. The portfolio training program saw a 5.8% increase in delivery, contributing to improved bottom-line results compared to Q1 2024.
Q: What were the key operational highlights for the first quarter of 2025? A: Kevin Ma noted that trading services accounted for the majority of revenue, with project-based programs contributing 74% of total credits delivered. Revenue from research-based learning and other educational services increased by over 28%, making up nearly 30% of total net revenues.
Q: How did the company perform in terms of student admissions and recognition? A: Kevin Ma reported positive feedback on admissions, with students receiving offers from prestigious institutions like Cambridge University and UC Berkeley. ACG was also recognized as a leading brand in studying abroad at the 2025 International Education Leaders Annual Conference.
Q: What are the expectations for the full year 2025? A: Robi Sima, CFO, stated that ACG expects total net revenues of RMB 276 million to RMB 281 million, representing a 3-5% year-over-year increase. Growth is anticipated to be driven by portfolio training services and supported by other business lines.
Q: What are the company's long-term growth strategies? A: Junjiang, President, emphasized a focus on organic expansion, controlling expenses, and improving operational efficiency. The company aims to increase classroom utilization and provide higher value programs, leveraging its teaching resources to cater to a broader student base.
For the complete transcript of the earnings call, please refer to the full earnings call transcript.
This article first appeared on GuruFocus.
