Tencent

Tencent Holdings Limited is a Chinese multinational technology and entertainment conglomerate founded in 1998 by Ma Huateng (Pony Ma) and a group of partners. It is headquartered in Shenzhen, Guangdong, and is listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange. It is one of the largest internet and technology companies in the world by market value and revenue.

Tencent operates in a broad range of services: social networks and messaging (QQ, WeChat/Weixin), digital content platforms (QQ Music, Tencent Video), online advertising, and cloud computing (Tencent Cloud). It is also a major publisher and developer in the video game sector through Tencent Games.

Tencent's payments arm includes WeChat Pay and TenPay, which are widely used in China for consumer and business transactions. The company has invested in and partnered with numerous technology and entertainment firms globally, and maintains stakes in numerous game developers and publishers, such as Riot Games, Epic Games, and Supercell.

Tencent faces regulatory oversight from the Chinese government, including antitrust and data security rules, entertainment licensing, censorship, and rules affecting gaming time for minors. Its business strategy emphasizes diversification across social platforms, digital content, gaming, and cloud services, along with international investments.

In addition to its consumer services, Tencent operates Tencent Music Entertainment Group (TME) for music streaming and Tencent Pictures for film and television production, contributing to its role in digital media and entertainment. The company has a global footprint through its investments and partnerships across Asia, North America, and Europe.