Markets
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China’s Lunar Exploration Pioneer Honored as Touching China Figure: A Nation’s Journey Goes Further
China honored Luan Enjie, the first chief commander of its Lunar Exploration Program, with the “Touching China 2024” award. Luan, instrumental in the Chang’e missions, expressed his dedication to further space exploration, stating the “Chinese people’s footsteps will extend further.” The Lunar Exploration Program is China’s third major space endeavor. His contributions, including the naming of asteroid “Luan Enjie Star,” are a testament to China’s advancements. Despite personal sacrifices, Luan affirms his commitment to the space industry, highlighting China’s ambition in space exploration.
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Yu Chengdong on “Leading”: I Actually Talk Very Little, Only Speak When Truly Achieved
Huawei’s Richard Yu addressed the company’s use of the phrase “leading far ahead” in a recent interview, clarifying he uses it sparingly, reserved for genuine achievements. He highlighted the significant impact of U.S. sanctions, causing smartphone shipments to plummet from 240-250 million annually to just over 20 million. Yu also refuted rumors of a fine imposed by Ren Zhengfei for using the phrase, stating it has been overused and the rumors were false. The company aims to only use the term when definitively leading in a specific area.
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Now Live in Germany: Exclusive Travel Club for Global Explorers
Travelzoo (TZOO) is introducing “Club Offers” in Germany, providing exclusive, curated travel deals for members. Offers include discounted hotel stays in Rome and getaways to Kos and various locations within Germany. These deals, meticulously vetted by Travelzoo, offer significant savings. Membership is required to access these limited-inventory offers.
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End of “80-Cent Nationwide Shipping” Era? Franchisees Speak Out.
Guangdong’s express delivery sector is experiencing a price correction with rates increasing by approximately ¥0.4 per parcel, exceeding an average of ¥1.4. Implemented on August 4th, this floor price aims to eliminate below-cost deliveries and has been adopted by major companies. Primarily affecting e-commerce parcels, this shift follows a period of intense, unsustainable price competition. Experts see this as a turning point towards a more stable market, urging companies to prioritize innovation and service quality over price wars.
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EstrellaTV Achieves Ratings Surge in July, Demonstrates Strong Growth Among Adults 18-49
EstrellaTV, MediaCo Holding Inc.’s Spanish-language network, experienced significant growth in July among the Adults 18-49 demographic during prime time, bucking industry trends. Its prime-time viewership increased by 13% year-over-year, driven by popular shows like *Alarma TV*, *Tengo Talento, Mucho Talento*, and *100 Latinos Dijeron*. Competitors like Univision and Telemundo saw declines, while EstrellaTV continues to expand with new programming like *Objetivo Fama* and live soccer events.
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Changzhou Team Scores! JD Waimai Congratulates
Changzhou FC celebrated their first goal and victory in the Jiangsu Urban Football League, defeating Zhenjiang 1-0 after an eight-game winless streak. Zhao Lianping’s goal sparked city-wide excitement, trending on social media. JDDelivery, a league sponsor, congratulated the team and offered vouchers. This follows JD.com’s strategic partnership with the Jiangsu Provincial Sports Industry Group, aiming to integrate sports, e-commerce and food delivery to enhance fan experience and expand its market reach.
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Lei Jun Reminisces About Xiaomi’s First Phone, Netizens Share Nostalgic Memories
Xiaomi CEO Lei Jun’s recent tweet asking about the first generation Xiaomi phone sparked a wave of nostalgia and reminiscence among users. The post, featuring the original device with its removable battery, triggered a digital forum of memories and testimonials. Users shared experiences highlighting the phone’s initial appeal, perceived superior functionality, and the brand loyalty it fostered across different user segments in China. The event underscores the lasting impact of Xiaomi’s early products and the power of social media in maintaining customer loyalty.
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Owner Devastated as $12,500 Akhal-Teke Horse Dies in Highway Accident After Transport
A prized Akhal-Teke horse, purchased for 90,000 yuan, was injured in an accident during transport via Chinese logistics platform Hualala. The owner intended to transport the horse to Hunan for training. The driver reported the incident after traveling 100 kilometers. Due to the horse’s injuries, it is being cryopreserved, pending resolution and potential humane disposal. The Akhal-Teke breed is historically significant, known for its endurance and unique characteristics contributing to its perceived value.
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HeyTea’s Unopened Milk Tea Goes Viral After Customer Finds Roach, Company Pays Compensation
Mixue Ice Cream & Tea, a popular Chinese tea chain, is facing backlash after a customer found a cockroach in an unopened Jasmine Milk Tea in Ganzhou. The incident went viral, raising concerns about quality control. While the customer received a refund and compensation, the company is investigating, citing possible CCTV footage. Analysts suggest Mixue’s extensive franchise model (99.96% of their 46,479 stores are franchised) may contribute to food safety issues. The company apologized and pledged to improve service and awareness.
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Parents Defend Daughter’s Unique Name, “Wu Xuelisha Barui,” After It Trends Online
A Chinese-Israeli couple in Nanchang, China, named their daughter “Wu Xuelisha Barui,” sparking online debate. The unusual six-character name, a combination of the mother’s surname, a Chinese term of endearment, and a transliteration of the father’s Israeli surname, was chosen with specific Chinese character components in mind. While legally registered and favored by the parents, some netizens worry about the child’s future challenges with such a unique name and its social implications. The event reflects cross-cultural naming trends.