Tobias

During the Munich Motor Show, XPeng CEO He Xiaopeng test-drove the new XPeng P7 on the German Autobahn, reaching 234 km/h in rainy conditions. He emphasized the vehicle’s stability and handling, noting initial apprehension quickly turned to confidence. This demonstration highlights XPeng’s commitment to high-performance engineering and serves as a strategic move to build brand credibility in the European market by showcasing the P7’s capabilities under demanding conditions. Advanced driver-assistance systems likely contributed to the overall safety and driving experience.

Chinese EV makers made a strong showing at Munich’s IAA Mobility, signaling aggressive expansion plans in Europe. Companies like Xpeng and GAC aim to disrupt the market with competitive pricing, advanced technology, and innovative features. While traditional European automakers face challenges in keeping pace, they are responding with new EV models and tech advancements. The increased competition is reshaping the automotive landscape.

A dispute between Luo Yonghao and Xibei’s founder over the use of pre-prepared meals in restaurants has sparked debate in China. Luo criticized Xibei, prompting denials but also scrutiny of Xibei’s long-shelf-life ingredients. This highlights consumer demand for transparency, especially regarding food safety. Benefitting from this is Laoxiangji, praised for its open disclosure of pre-prepared meal standards via a color-coded labeling system and detailed public statements, building consumer trust and setting a new industry standard.

A viral video alleging a customer urinated in a Haidilao hot pot led to public outrage and reputational damage. Two minors were detained. A court ordered them and their parents to apologize and pay approximately $319,000 USD in damages for financial losses, brand damage, cleaning, and legal fees. The *People’s Daily* emphasized responsible behavior. Experts say the ruling stresses corporate liability and reinforces guardian responsibility for minors’ actions, protecting businesses from illegal interference and building a fair business environment. It highlights crisis management, brand protection, and individual accountability in China.

Salesforce CEO Marc Benioff expressed admiration for Palantir’s growth and high revenue multiple, acknowledging its premium pricing strategy. He hinted at a possible re-evaluation of Salesforce’s pricing models. Competition between the two companies extends to government contracts. Palantir focuses on value creation, justifying its higher price points with customized data solutions, while Salesforce emphasizes competitive pricing. Palantir’s market capitalization is now at $406 billion, surpassing Salesforce’s $231 billion, despite Salesforce reporting significantly higher revenue. Salesforce shares are down 27% this year.

OpenAI launched “OpenAI Grove,” a program to support early-stage AI entrepreneurs. The five-week intensive program, running from October 20th to November 21st, 2025, offers mentorship from OpenAI’s technical leaders, early access to tools and models, and in-person workshops. It targets individuals with nascent AI ideas, differing from OpenAI’s Pioneer Program which supports more established ventures. The program aims to foster a vibrant AI ecosystem, reflecting the surge in AI investment, which accounted for 71% of U.S. venture funding in 2025. Applications are open until September 24th.

Opendoor is undergoing a major transformation led by co-founder Keith Rabois and new CEO Kaz Nejatian, following investor pressure and leadership changes. Rabois plans to streamline operations, reduce headcount significantly from 1,400 to around 200, and reinstate in-person work. These changes aim to address profitability concerns and refocus the company’s strategy. While the initial market reaction was positive, analysts remain cautious about the underlying fundamentals and persistent cash burn. The company’s future depends on successful implementation of the turnaround plan.

A public dispute between Luo Yonghao and Jia Guolong (Xibei restaurant founder) erupted over the use of pre-prepared ingredients. Luo criticized Xibei’s alleged use of pre-prepared dishes and high prices, advocating for mandatory labeling. Jia denied the claims, launching initiatives to showcase food preparation. The debate highlights the gap between legal definitions of “pre-prepared” food and consumer expectations of freshness and transparency. Consumers, while not inherently opposed to pre-prepared meals, demand clear information, fair pricing, and chef-prepared quality when paying premium prices.

Gemini Space Station shares surged up to 40% in its Nasdaq debut after raising $425 million in its IPO, exceeding expectations and valuing the company at $3.3 billion. The IPO signals growing confidence in the digital asset industry. Founded in 2014 by the Winklevoss brothers, Gemini has become a major crypto exchange, holding over $21 billion in assets. Despite reporting net losses, Gemini offers diverse services and the Winklevoss brothers remain bullish on Bitcoin, predicting it could reach $1 million and advocating for strategic regulation.

Apple has delayed the launch of its new, ultra-thin iPhone Air in China due to regulatory hurdles surrounding eSIM technology. Chinese wireless carriers require government licenses for devices with eSIM functionality, which are currently pending. The iPhone Air, boasting a radical redesign and a focus on eSIM, was slated for pre-orders this Friday with retail availability on September 19th. Apple is actively working with regulators to expedite the approval process. The delay highlights the increasing scrutiny of foreign technology and China’s emphasis on cybersecurity.