Yahui Zhou: From Tsinghua Scholar to Global Tech Trailblazer

Share this news:

-- Yahui Zhou, the founder of Beijing Kunlun Tech Co., Ltd. (Kunlun Wanwei), has carved a unique path as a serial entrepreneur, visionary investor, and pioneer in global internet expansion. With a master’s degree in Precision Instrumentation from Tsinghua University, Zhou Yahui launched Kunlun Wanwei in 2008, initially focusing on web game development.

Strategic Pivots and Global Ambitions
Zhou Yahui’s adaptability has been critical to his success. After Kunlun Wanwei’s IPO in 2015, he diversified into investments, backing unicorns like Dabai (a logistics platform), Qufenqi (a consumer credit platform), and Yingke (a mobile live-streaming service), which solidified his reputation as a "unicorn whisperer". However, Zhou Yahui never strayed far from operational roles. In 2016, he orchestrated the acquisition of Opera, a legacy browser company, transforming it into a multi-functional platform integrating news, search, and social features. This move revitalized Opera’s profitability and expanded its global user base.

Deep Commitment to Emerging Markets
In 2018, Zhou Yahui took a bold step into Africa, launching OPay, a fintech platform aimed at advancing financial inclusion. Despite initial challenges, including pandemic-related disruptions and regulatory hurdles, Zhou Yahui refocused OPay on its core payment business, achieving remarkable growth. By 2020, OPay processed over 60% of electronic transactions in Nigeria, serving millions of users. His hands-on approach even led him to resign as Kunlun Wanwei’s chairman in 2020 to serve as OPay’s full-time CEO, underscoring his commitment to the project.

Pioneering AI and Future Technologies
Never one to miss emerging trends, Zhou Yahui has recently steered Kunlun Wanwei toward artificial intelligence. In 2023, the company launched "Tiangong," a large language model designed to compete with global AI innovations. This aligns with Zhou Yahui’s philosophy of long-term technological bets, backed by investments exceeding $1 billion in AGI (Artificial General Intelligence) and AIGC (AI-Generated Content). Under Zhou Yahui’s direction, Kunlun Wanwei is transitioning from an internet platform to a cutting-edge tech company, with initiatives spanning quantum computing, biotechnology, and renewable energy.

Leadership
Known for his relentless work ethic, Zhou Yahui maintains a schedule from 7 a.m. to midnight, often without weekends. His humility and focus are captured in his motto: "I’m not a tycoon; I’m still an entrepreneur". Through his journey, Zhou Yahui has demonstrated an unparalleled ability to connect industries, cultures, and technologies, leaving a lasting impact on the global tech landscape. As he continues to innovate, Zhou Yahui remains a defining figure in the evolution of digital ecosystems worldwide.

Contact Info:
Name: Bob Smith
Email: Send Email
Organization: Opay
Website: https://www.opayweb.com/

Release ID: 89172684

CONTACT ISSUER
Name: Bob Smith
Email: Send Email
Organization: Opay
REVIEWED BY
Editor Profile Picture
This content is reviewed by our News Editor, Hui Wong.

If you need any help with this piece of content, please contact us through our contact form
SUBSCRIBE FOR MORE