NetEase appoints Johnny Chan as independent director

HANGZHOU - NetEase, Inc. (NASDAQ:NTES and HKEX:9999), a prominent entertainment industry player with a market capitalization of $87 billion and trading near its 52-week high of $141.26, has appointed Kok Chung Johnny Chan to its board of directors as an independent director, effective August 14, 2025, according to a press release statement.

Chan brings over 40 years of experience in investment banking and investment management to the Chinese internet and game services provider. He currently serves as Chief Investment Officer of the Hong Kong Cyberport Management Company and is a member of the Market Misconduct Tribunal under Hong Kong’s Securities and Futures Ordinance. The appointment comes as NetEase demonstrates strong financial performance, with InvestingPro data showing a 52% year-to-date stock return and robust profit margins of 63%.

His background includes previous service as deputy chairman of the Listing Committee of the Hong Kong Stock Exchange. Chan also holds independent non-executive director positions at CNQC International Holdings Ltd. (HKEX:1240) and Hangzhou SF Intra-city Industrial Co., Ltd. (HKEX:9699).

Chan’s educational background includes a bachelor’s degree in economics from London Metropolitan University (formerly City of London Polytechnic), an MBA from City University London, and a postgraduate diploma from The Financial Services Institute of Australasia.

According to InvestingPro analysis, NetEase maintains excellent financial health with strong cash flows and minimal debt exposure. NetEase CEO William Ding stated that Chan’s "extensive background and nuanced understanding of the capital markets" would bring "fresh and practical insights" to the company.

NetEase develops and operates mobile and PC games available in China and globally. The company’s business portfolio also includes majority-controlled subsidiaries Youdao (NYSE:DAO), NetEase Cloud Music (HKEX:9899), and consumer lifestyle brand Yanxuan. The company’s strong market position is reflected in its financial metrics, with annual revenue of $14.8 billion and a healthy return on equity of 24%.

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