Chinese Robotics Stocks React as Humanoid Robot Marathon Sparks Competition Concerns

Chinese robotics stocks showed mixed performance on Monday after a high-profile humanoid robot half-marathon in Beijing highlighted rapid advancements in artificial intelligence and robotics technology. The event drew significant attention across global markets, influencing investor sentiment toward companies involved in China’s fast-growing robotics sector.

Shares of several established robotics firms declined as investors weighed the impact of rising competition. The spotlight was on smartphone maker Honor, a Huawei spinoff, whose humanoid robots dominated the 21-kilometer race. Honor’s flagship robot completed the course in just 50 minutes and 26 seconds, outperforming the human half-marathon world record by several minutes. The company secured all three top positions in the race, signaling a major breakthrough in humanoid robotics performance. Despite this achievement, Honor is not yet publicly listed.

Companies linked to Honor’s robot development saw gains. Lingyi iTech Guangdong Co (SZ:002600), Lens Technology Co Ltd (HK:6613), and AAC Technologies Holdings Inc (HK:2018) rose between 3% and 4%, benefiting from their roles in supplying structural components and navigation systems. These gains reflect growing investor confidence in robotics supply chain companies tied to emerging leaders in AI-driven innovation.

Meanwhile, other robotics stocks faced pressure. Ubtech Robotics Corp Ltd (HK:9880), known for its humanoid robots, dropped 3.6%, while parts suppliers Hesai Group (HK:2525) and Orbbec Inc (SS:688322) also declined. Market participants appear cautious as Honor’s entry into the humanoid robotics space in early 2026 introduces new competition for established players.

Elsewhere, tech giant Xiaomi Corp (HK:1810) posted a modest gain of 1.6%, while electric vehicle maker Xpeng Inc (HK:9868), both of which recently unveiled humanoid robots, saw mixed investor reactions. The Hang Seng China A Robotics Index slipped slightly by 0.2%, reflecting the sector’s overall uncertainty.

In contrast, Manycore Tech Inc (HK:0068), focused on spatial artificial intelligence with robotics applications, surged 51% following its recent Hong Kong listing, highlighting strong demand for innovative AI-driven technologies.