Ma Yun's Speech at the 2008 Alibaba Group Staff Meeting

Global Internet Situation

Alibaba employees all want to ask: what is the impact of the Yahoo-Microsoft incident on Alibaba, and how does Alibaba view such matters. To date, Alibaba Group has not issued any opinions or comments, and I would like to convey to all employees the group's views on this matter.

Firstly, as the largest Internet country, Chinese Internet companies must participate in building the future of the global Internet, and thereby become an important force that can influence the global Internet landscape.

Secondly, Microsoft's acquisition of Yahoo not only involves the interests of Alibaba Group, but will also directly change the current structure of the world's Internet, having a crucial impact on the future direction of China's Internet. On the premise of ensuring the interests of the nation, customers, employees, and shareholders, Alibaba Group is highly concerned, actively participating, maintaining close contact and exchanges with Microsoft and Yahoo, and has already hired several renowned financial advisors and law firms for this purpose.

Thirdly, Alibaba Group will continue to adhere to the principle of independent development, viewing changes with an optimistic and positive attitude. Regardless of the outcome of Microsoft's acquisition of Yahoo, Alibaba Group will not change its leadership and direction of the company.