SubscribeSign In
LeaderPortfolio
Billionaire Profile
David Xueling Li
Global Rank
#2650

Image: Unsplash Contributor | Unsplash License | via Unsplash

David Xueling Li

CEO, Live streaming service
CHINA
Real-Time Net Worth
$1.498B
Estimated based on Live streaming service stock value as of April 20, 2026
0% (24h)
Age
53
Source
Live streaming service
Industry
Technology
Citizenship
CHINA

Biography

David Xueling Li is a prominent Chinese entrepreneur and billionaire, best known as the co-founder and former CEO of JOYY Inc. (formerly YY Inc.), a global social media company. His vision propelled the company from its origins in online gaming to a leading live-streaming and short-form video platform with a substantial international presence. Li's career includes key roles as the former chief editor at Netease.com and founder of CFP.cn, a copyright trading platform. He is recognized as a pioneer in China's live-streaming industry, with consistent recognition from Forbes as a billionaire.

Fact Checked
Verified by Editorial Team
Live Data
Updated 4/20/2026

Wealth Over Time

In-Depth Profile

Early Life

David Xueling Li's journey began in China, where he earned a bachelor's degree in philosophy from Renmin University of China in 1997. Before entering the technology sector, Li gained experience as a journalist and editor.

Rise to Success

Li's career took a significant turn in 2005 when he founded YY Inc., initially a voice communication platform for gamers. This venture became a leader in the live-streaming industry. Under Li's leadership, the company launched its Initial Public Offering (IPO) on the NASDAQ in November 2012. Li also spearheaded the global expansion of JOYY, enhancing its international reach and market presence.

Key Business Strategies

A key business strategy was the development and implementation of a virtual item-based monetization model in live-streaming. In 2019, the company rebranded to JOYY Inc. to reflect its global expansion. Further strategic moves include the sale of YY Live to Baidu in 2021 for approximately $2.1 billion.

Philanthropy

Specific philanthropy amounts were not available in the search results. However, the company showed a commitment to shareholder returns.

Career Milestones

2000

Founded CFP.cn

Founded a copyright trading platform for journalists and amateur photographers.

2003

Chief Editor at Netease.com

Served as Chief Editor at Chinese news portal Netease.com.

2005

Founded YY Inc. (JOYY Inc.)

Founded a company that became a major player in live streaming and social media.

2012

NASDAQ IPO

Led YY Inc. to an Initial Public Offering on the NASDAQ.

2016-2024

Chairman of JOYY Inc.

Served as Chairman of JOYY Inc.

2016-2024

CEO of JOYY Inc.

Served as CEO of JOYY Inc.

Compare David Xueling Li

Net Worth Face-off
David Xueling Li vs Elon Musk
Compare Wealth →
Net Worth Face-off
David Xueling Li vs Jeff Bezos
Compare Wealth →
Net Worth Face-off
David Xueling Li vs Mark Zuckerberg
Compare Wealth →