Robotics listings slump not seen as sector threat

By the Editorial Team · Friday, September 25, 2026

China’s regulators have tightened review processes for humanoid robot companies seeking IPOs in response to recent market volatility, but firms with strong commercial strategies and sustainable growth prospects still have access to funding. This selective oversight signals a shift toward supporting robotics firms with proven business models, while Hong Kong’s IPO market is projected to hit a record HK$480 billion in 2026, fueled by robust demand and policy support.

China’s recently intensified regulatory scrutiny of humanoid robot manufacturers seeking initial public offerings (IPOs) is not expected to pose a significant threat to companies with clear commercialisation strategies, according to Deloitte China. At a press conference on Wednesday, Dick Kay, national leader of Deloitte China’s capital market services group, noted that while approvals have become more selective, funding channels remain accessible for firms demonstrating sustainable revenue growth, strong technological capabilities, and practical application scenarios.

This shift in regulatory approach follows concerns about excessive market hype in the robotics sector, which was heightened after Unitree Robotics experienced a 55 percent drop in its share price less than a month after its August debut on the Shanghai Star Market. The decline wiped more than US$30 billion off the company’s market value, prompting regulators to tighten vetting standards for humanoid robot start-ups listing on mainland stock exchanges.

Despite this increased scrutiny, six major listings by artificial intelligence and robotics companies were recorded on mainland markets in the first three quarters of 2026, with many other high-tech firms reportedly preparing to go public. Edward Au Chung-hing, Deloitte China’s managing partner for the southern region, highlighted that over 500 companies have already applied for listings in Hong Kong, with that number expected to exceed 600 once confidential applications are accounted for.

Kay explained that the market’s previous phase—characterized by a “blind rush” into the sector—has given way to “fine screening,” where investors and regulators prioritize firms with core competitive advantages and real-world business models. He affirmed that companies with genuine commercial strengths continue to find ample financing opportunities in the capital markets.

In Hong Kong, Au expressed confidence in the sustained momentum of growth, driven by a robust pipeline of IPOs, supportive policies for firms pursuing dual listings in both mainland China and Hong Kong, and substantial fundraising demand from mainland enterprises. Reflecting this optimism, Deloitte raised its full-year 2026 fundraising forecast for Hong Kong’s IPO market to HK$480 billion, marking a record high and a 60 percent increase from its June projection of HK$300 billion.

This article was reported by synthesizing coverage from multiple independent news outlets to present a balanced, unbiased account. Read about our editorial standards. Spotted an error? Let us know.