Companies listed on China's science and technology innovation board, known as the STAR Market, reported strong earnings growth in the first three quarters of 2026, with net profits rising significantly faster than revenue, according to the latest data from the Shanghai Stock Exchange.

As of October 27, a total of 186 STAR Market-listed companies had released their third-quarter financial reports, posting combined revenue of 426.68 billion yuan ($60 billion), up 31.5% year-on-year. Their combined net profits surged 57.4% to 38.95 billion yuan, highlighting improving profitability alongside business expansion.

Leading technology companies played a key role in driving the growth. Among the reporting firms, 14 constituents of the STAR 50 Index contributed 29% of total revenue and 47% of net profits, underscoring their importance in supporting the market's overall performance.

These 14 STAR 50 companies generated combined revenue of 123.17 billion yuan, an increase of 26% year-on-year, while net profits climbed 46.2% to 18.30 billion yuan.

Technology leaders in sectors including artificial intelligence and semiconductors maintained robust growth in both revenue and earnings, reflecting sustained momentum in China's high-tech industries.

The stronger growth in profits compared with revenue suggests that leading STAR Market companies are not only expanding their business scale but also improving their earnings performance, as China's innovation-driven industries continue to develop. 

(Cover via VCG)