Business Context and Reporting Period
The9 Limited (NASDAQ: NCTY), a leading online game operator and developer in China, filed this Form 6-K on January 21, 2009. The company operates licensed MMORPGs including World of Warcraft and MU, as well as proprietary titles like Joyful Journey West.
Key Financial Metrics
The filing announces a special cash dividend declaration but does not provide specific revenue, profit, cash flow, margin, debt, or liquidity figures for the period.
- Special Cash Dividend: Aggregate amount of U.S. $29,410,000.
- Dividend Per Share: Approximately U.S. $1.11 per ordinary share (based on shares outstanding as of the filing date).
- Record Date: February 2, 2009.
- Payment Date: On or around February 9, 2009.
Material Changes
The filing does not provide comparative financial data or detail material changes in operating metrics versus prior periods. The primary material event is the declaration of the special cash dividend.
Guidance, Outlook, and Risks
The filing contains no forward-looking guidance, management commentary on future performance, or specific risk factors. The company continues to focus on operating and developing high-quality games for the Chinese market, including titles such as FIFA Online 2 and Ragnarok Online 2.
Investor Verification Checklist
- Verify the exact number of shares outstanding on the record date (February 2, 2009) to confirm the final dividend per share amount.
- Confirm the tax withholding implications for non-resident shareholders.
- Review the company's most recent audited financial statements (Form 20-F) for context on the source of funds for the $29.4 million dividend.
- Check for any subsequent filings regarding the actual payment date or adjustments to the dividend amount.