Alibaba’s Qwen Launch: More Than Just a Chatbot

Alibaba’s 30-minute Qwen app launch signaled a key shift: AI is moving from chat to task-oriented Agents—a strategic leap for Alibaba.

vs. rivals like OpenAI & DeepSeek, Alibaba holds three unique edges:

1️⃣ Closed-loop ecosystem – Qwen Agent integrates Ele.me, Amap, and DingTalk, enabling end-to-end services with higher user retention vs. pure Q&A models.

2️⃣ Controlled computing power – Large-scale migration to Huawei Ascend 910B cuts cost and latency, reduces NVIDIA reliance, and improves supply chain security.

3️⃣ Massive user base – Over 100M monthly active users in two months, rich in scenarios, driving a virtuous cycle.

Why it matters:

- Positive for Alibaba’s industrial chain (Ascend chips, servers, liquid cooling, optical modules).

- More importantly, it prompts a **re-rating of Alibaba’s business model**:

• AI Agents boost inference demand, raising revenue potential for cloud/data centers.

• Domestic computing power substitution lifts margins and profit elasticity.

• Alibaba combines “AI + ecosystem monetization,” creating deeper moats than pure API players.

Investment outlook:

Short-term – orders and substitution benefits support valuation recovery.

Long-term – Qwen’s ecosystem barriers and scenario penetration drive fundamental growth, offering sustained opportunities in core Alibaba chain names. This could counter recent negative sentiment, serving as a long-term catalyst.