Tencent operates the WeChat messaging and payments platform.
Tencent launched WeChat in 2011 as a mobile messaging service. It expanded into voice and video calls, social feeds, digital payments, mini-programs, and other services. WeChat is known as Weixin in mainland China, while WeChat is the international branding used in many markets.
Tencent was founded in 1998 by Ma Huateng, also known as Pony Ma, and other co-founders. The company’s businesses include online games, social networks, digital content, advertising, fintech, and cloud services. It owns or invests in a broad collection of technology and entertainment businesses.
Tencent is often confused with Alibaba because both are major Chinese technology companies. Alibaba is best known for e-commerce and cloud computing, whereas Tencent is especially associated with social communication, gaming, and digital content. Both companies’ market values can change substantially with regulation, economic conditions, and investor expectations.