# Youku.com

Startup profile on Capital Atlas: https://capitalatlas.ai/startups/youku-com

- Industry: Internet
- Headquarters: Beijing, China
- Website: www.youku.com
- Total disclosed funding: $127M
- Latest round: Series E (Sep 1, 2010)
- Investors on record: 8

## About

Youku.com is a prominent video-sharing platform that provides a rich array of content, enabling users to access and enjoy diverse programming seamlessly across multiple devices.Founded in 2005 in Beijing, China, Youku.com operates as a video-sharing platform designed to enhance user engagement through high-definition content delivery. In December 2010, Youku Tudou Inc. raised USD 202.9 mn in an IPO, selling 15.8 million shares at USD 12.8 per share on NASDAQ. Subsequently, in March 2012, Youku merged with Tudou in a 100% stock-for-stock transaction, forming the consolidated entity Youku Tudou Inc.Youku primarily operates as a video-sharing platform that integrates multiple features to enhance user experience and content accessibility. Its core offerings include synchronized multi-device viewing capabilities, allowing users to maintain a seamless viewing experience across various platforms. Youku's extensive content library features a diverse range of programming, including popular fantasy animated series, engaging reality shows, and historical documentaries, catering to the tastes of a broad audience. The platform is designed to deliver high-definition viewing experiences, targeting domestic consumers as well as international audiences interested in Chinese culture and entertainment. Youku's services are predominantly available in the Chinese market and are tailored to meet the needs of its vast user base, comprised of both individual consumers and content creators.The revenue model of Youku is primarily subscription-based, providing users with access to premium content at a fixed monthly fee. Users can subscribe to a monthly plan, which is priced at 9.9 yuan, granting them access to a variety of high-quality content including films, series, and documentaries. This pricing structure encourages direct-to-consumer transactions, fostering a loyal subscriber base. Revenue is further supplemented through potential partnerships and advertising, which may involve collaborations with content creators and brands looking to reach Youku's extensive audience. The platform's diverse content offerings, combined with its user-friendly features, facilitate a steady flow of transactions, ultimately contributing to its financial performance.Youku's future growth strategy includes the continued enhancement of its content library, with plans to introduce new programming aimed at both domestic and international audiences. The recent IPO funding of USD 202.9 mn will be utilized to explore expansion opportunities in additional geographic markets, particularly in Southeast Asia by the end of 2023. The company aims to leverage its established platform to attract a wider audience and enhance content offerings, ensuring sustained growth and engagement.

## Funding rounds

- Series E, Sep 1, 2010, $50M — T Rowe Price, Chengwei Capital, New Horizon Capital, Maverick Capital, Farallon Capital Management, Brookside Capital
- Series D, Jul 1, 2008, $40M — Chengwei Capital, Brookside Capital Partners, Sutter Hill Ventures, Farallon Capital Management, Maverick Capital
- Series C, Nov 21, 2007, $25M — Chengwei Capital, Brookside Capital Partners, Sutter Hill Ventures, Farallon Capital Management
- Series B, Dec 1, 2006, $12M — Chengwei Capital, Sutter Hill Ventures, Farallon Capital Management

## Investors

- Chengwei Capital (https://capitalatlas.ai/funds/chengwei-capital) — Series B, Series C, Series D, Series E
- Sutter Hill Ventures (https://capitalatlas.ai/funds/sutter-hill-ventures) — Series B, Series C, Series D
- Farallon Capital Management (https://capitalatlas.ai/funds/farallon-capital-management) — Series B, Series C, Series D, Series E
- Brookside Capital Partners (https://capitalatlas.ai/funds/brookside-capital-partners) — Series C, Series D
- Maverick Capital (https://capitalatlas.ai/funds/maverick-capital) — Series D, Series E
- T Rowe Price (https://capitalatlas.ai/funds/t-rowe-price) — Series E
- New Horizon Capital — Series E
- Brookside Capital — Series E