Naspers, the South African technology investor, has reported a remarkable 74% increase in its half-year core headline earnings, reaching $1.5 billion for the six months ending September 30. This surge in profitability is attributed to the accelerated growth and improved profitability of its e-commerce businesses, alongside significant contributions from its investment in China's Tencent. The company's core headline earnings, a key indicator of profit that adjusts for non-operational items, rose from $866 million in the previous year.

Naspers' Dutch subsidiary, Prosus NV, which manages its international businesses and investments, also reported a substantial increase in core headline earnings, nearly doubling to $3.5 billion from $2 billion. The group's revenue saw a 23% rise to $3.4 billion, with adjusted earnings before interest and tax (EBIT) swinging to a profit of $36 million from a previous loss of $121 million, as its e-commerce segment turned profitable.

The e-commerce division's consolidated revenue grew by 24% to $3.3 billion, with adjusted EBIT reaching a profit of $169 million, a significant turnaround from a loss of $35 million. This growth is further supported by the recent listing of Swiggy, valued at $11.3 billion, and the sale of over $2 billion in assets, including a portion of its Swiggy stake and its position in Trip.com.

Naspers is also exploring opportunities in artificial intelligence to enhance its offerings to over 2 billion customers, aiming to drive future growth and profitability. The company has been actively managing its portfolio through equity stake sales and a share buyback program, which has created $36 billion in value since its launch.

The company's leadership is undergoing changes, with Basil Sgourdos retiring as Group Chief Financial Officer, and Nico Marais stepping in as Interim CFO. Additionally, Phuthi Mahanyele-Dabengwa is set to be appointed as an executive director of Naspers Limited, reflecting the company's commitment to strategic leadership and growth.

Overall, Naspers' strong performance in e-commerce and its strategic investments in Tencent have positioned the company for continued success, with a focus on innovation and leveraging AI to deliver exceptional products and services.