Foundation of Tencent
Ma Huateng co-founded Tencent with Zhang Zhidong in Shenzhen. The company initially focused on providing internet and mobile value-added services.
1998
1999
Launch of QQ
Tencent launched its first product, an instant messaging service called QQ, which quickly gained popularity in China.
2000
First Round of Funding
Tencent received its first round of venture capital funding from IDG and PCCW, which helped accelerate its growth.
2001
Ma Huateng introduced QQ Membership, a premium service that allowed users to access exclusive features, marking Tencent's first major revenue stream.
2003
Launch of QQ Games
Tencent launched QQ Games, an online gaming platform that quickly became popular, further diversifying the company's product offerings.
2004
Tencent Goes Public
Under the leadership of Ma Huateng, Tencent went public on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange, raising significant capital for expansion.
2005
Introduction of Qzone
Tencent launched Qzone, a social networking service that allowed users to create personalized spaces, share photos, and blog.
2007
Expansion into Online Advertising
Ma Huateng led Tencent into the online advertising market, leveraging its massive user base to attract advertisers.
2010
Launch of WeChat
Tencent launched WeChat, a revolutionary messaging app that combined text messaging, social media, and mobile payment services, under the guidance of Ma Huateng.
2011
Acquisition of Riot Games
Tencent acquired a majority stake in Riot Games, the developer of the popular game League of Legends, marking a significant step in its global gaming strategy.
2014
WeChat Pay Introduction
Ma Huateng introduced WeChat Pay, a mobile payment service integrated into WeChat, which quickly became one of the leading mobile payment platforms in China.
2015
Formation of Tencent Pictures
Tencent formed Tencent Pictures to produce and distribute films, expanding its influence into the entertainment industry.
2017
Tencent Becomes Asia's Most Valuable Company
Under Ma Huateng's leadership, Tencent's market value surpassed $500 billion, making it the most valuable company in Asia.
2018
Investment in Tesla
Tencent, under Ma Huateng's direction, acquired a 5% stake in Tesla, reflecting its strategy to invest in innovative technologies.
2020
Tencent's Role in COVID-19 Response
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Tencent, led by Ma Huateng, played a crucial role by providing digital health services and supporting remote working tools through its platforms.
2022
Launch of Metaverse Initiative
Ma Huateng announced Tencent's entry into the Metaverse, aiming to integrate virtual reality and social networking for immersive experiences.
2023
Expansion of Cloud Services
Under Ma Huateng's leadership, Tencent expanded its cloud computing services, becoming a major player in the global cloud market.
2024
Sustainability and Green Initiatives
Ma Huateng committed Tencent to significant sustainability and green energy initiatives, aiming to reduce the company's carbon footprint and promote environmental responsibility.
