Autohome (NYSE: ATHM) reported Q4 EPS of $1.39, $0.18 better than the analyst estimate of $1.21. Revenue for the quarter came in at $334.6 million versus the consensus estimate of $324.53 million.

Fourth Quarter 2019 Highlights[1]

• Adjusted net income attributable to Autohome Inc. (Non-GAAP), defined as net income attributable to Autohome Inc., excluding share-based compensation expenses and amortization expenses of intangible assets related to acquisitions, was RMB1,150.0 million ($165.2 million) in the fourth quarter of 2019, compared to RMB1,076.2 million in the corresponding period of 2018. Non-GAAP basic and diluted EPS were RMB9.67 ($1.39) and RMB9.62 ($1.38), respectively, compared to non-GAAP basic and diluted EPS of RMB9.12 and RMB9.03, respectively, in the corresponding period of 2018.
• Net Revenues in the fourth quarter of 2019 were RMB2,329.7 million ($334.6 million), an increase of 6.5% year-over-year.
• Intelligent New Car Launch: Launched in mid-2019, the Intelligent New Car Launch is a data product for automakers that aims to improve the market awareness of newly launched car models by leveraging the Company\'s content and big data capabilities. By the end of December 2019, 13 automakers have signed up for this new service.

Mr. Min Lu, Chairman of the Board of Directors and Chief Executive Officer of Autohome, stated, "We concluded 2019 with solid top- and bottom-line performances. On the content front, Autohome laid a firm foundation and continued to make progress in optimizing overall user experience through building a diverse and high-quality content portfolio. We achieved encouraging user matrix across each of our key channels. In the past year, our data business solidified its leading position through continuous technology upgrades and product innovations. With a broadened array of data products available for our partners, Autohome creates more value for the auto ecosystem. Together with our enhanced management team, we believe we are fueling up and well prepared for the opportunities ahead."

Mr. Jun Zou, Chief Financial Officer of Autohome, added, "Looking back at 2019, I'm pleased with the progress we have made throughout the year. Despite challenging operating conditions, we managed to deliver steady revenue growth with a decent profit level. Total revenues set a new record at RMB8.42 billion in the year 2019. Contribution from new initiatives increased to an impressive 18% of the total revenues. Looking into 2020, we will continue to invest in key initiatives in order to strengthen our long-term competitiveness while increasing operational efficiency and keeping a streamlined cost structure."

GUIDANCE:

Autohome sees Q1 2020 revenue of $219.8-227 million, versus the consensus of $226.03 million.

• Autohome currently expects to generate net revenues in the range of RMB1,530.0 million ($219.8 million) to RMB1,580.0 million ($227.0 million) in the first quarter of fiscal year 2020.

For earnings history and earnings-related data on Autohome (ATHM) click here.