Markets
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European Patent Awarded to Rail Vision for Locomotive Imaging System
Rail Vision (RVSN) received a European patent for its locomotive imaging tech, enhancing sampling of regions of interest (SROI). The system uses train-mounted cameras and processing to capture and analyze visual data. It features a tracking module for rail detection, safety margin definition, and braking distance calculation. By focusing on specific regions, the system achieves higher sampling rates, enabling earlier hazard detection and faster response, improving railway safety and efficiency. This strengthens Rail Vision’s position in the railway safety technology market.
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Miniso Accused of Hiring Online Trolls to Attack Pop Mart Over Alleged Store Design Copycat
A social media controversy has erupted in China over alleged design similarities between Pop Mart’s new Bangkok flagship store and Miniso’s “MINISO LAND” concept. Online users noted resemblances in color palettes, layout, and overall ambiance. Pop Mart stated that their internal team designed the store and pledged a review. Adding fuel to the fire, some allege Miniso may have initiated the criticism using online trolls. This incident highlights the intense competition and the importance of IP protection in China’s retail market.
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京东养车: “Bone-Rattling” Prices with Massive Subsidies
JD Auto has rebranded its “$5 Billion Stimulus” campaign to “Zhen Gu Jia” (“Bone-Rattling Prices”) after a crowdsourcing initiative. The “818 Zhen Gu Jia Savings Fest,” starting August 11th, offers discounts up to 50% on tires, maintenance, accessories, and even electric bikes. Customers can save significantly with deals like RMB 250 off every RMB 500 spent on tires. JD Auto also introduces “365 Worry-Free Purchase,” extending coupon validity. This initiative aims to lower car ownership costs through transparent pricing and improved service.
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Job Scam on 58.com: Domestic Helper Agency Accused of Fake Ads, Broken Promises & Unrefunded Fees
Two women allege they were scammed out of thousands of dollars in training fees after responding to fraudulent job postings on 58.com, a Chinese online marketplace. Recruited by “Liu Ba Jia Zheng,” they paid fees based on promises of high salaries which proved unattainable. The company allegedly pushed them to establish shell companies and recruit others. Legal experts argue 58.com has a duty to vet job postings to protect job seekers. 58.com has not yet issued a statement.
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Gaotu Techedu Announces Second Quarter 2025 Earnings Release Date
Gaotu Techedu Inc. (GOTU) will release its Q2 2025 earnings on August 26th before U.S. markets open, followed by an earnings call at 8:00 AM ET. Investors are focused on the company’s AI-powered learning solutions and growth strategy. Gaotu’s executives are also expected to address the evolving regulatory environment for edtech in China. A replay of the call will be available on Gaotu’s investor relations website until September 2, 2025. Gaotu aims to revolutionize education with personalized AI-driven solutions for all ages.
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Big Tech’s Scramble for Talent Begins: ByteDance Offers Interns $5000 Daily Wage in 2026 Recruitment Drive
Chinese tech giants like Alibaba, ByteDance, and Tencent are aggressively recruiting AI talent for their 2026 campus programs. Recruitment numbers are up year-over-year, with a strong focus on AI research and development. ByteDance plans a 20% increase in hiring, while AI roles comprise over 60% of Alibaba’s openings. The competition is fierce, with reports of high compensation, including daily rates for AI interns, highlighting the strategic importance of AI in these companies’ future.
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Female Rideshare Driver’s Astonishing Year of Traffic Violations
A ride-sharing driver’s social media post showcasing a year’s worth of traffic tickets has gone viral. The driver faces over $3,000 in fines, primarily for “failure to follow lane directions.” The incident raises concerns about road safety, driver monitoring systems, and the suitability of some drivers for ride-sharing services. Social media users have questioned the driver’s driving habits, and some even suggest a career change.
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CMB.TECH Updates on Golden Ocean Merger Process
CMB.TECH’s merger with Golden Ocean is progressing, with Golden Ocean shareholders voting on approval August 19, 2025. The stock-for-stock merger entails an exchange ratio of 0.95 CMB.TECH shares per Golden Ocean share. Pending shareholder approval and secondary listing on Euronext Oslo Børs, the merger is expected to close around August 20, 2025, initiating trading of new shares on multiple exchanges. The company has received demand letters and faces potential dissenting shareholder actions and legal proceedings, and must complete Golden Ocean’s refinancing.
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Alibaba’s “Sweeping Monk” Cai Jingxian, Taobao’s First Programmer, Reportedly Resigns
Reports indicate that Cai Jingxian (“Duolong”), a highly respected Alibaba engineer and known as the “Code God,” has left the company. Cai, Taobao’s first programmer who joined Alibaba in 2000, was a core engineer responsible for building Taobao’s core transaction and forum systems. He became an Alibaba partner in 2014, recognized for his significant contributions to Taobao. Alibaba’s 2023 report confirms Cai is no longer a partner, fueling speculation about his departure and its potential impact on Alibaba’s technology leadership.
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Ant Group Denies Claims of Rare Earth Yuan Stablecoin Project with PBOC and China Rare Earth Group
Ant Group has publicly denied rumors of a joint venture with the People’s Bank of China and China Rare Earth Group to launch a rare earth-backed RMB stablecoin. This follows a previous denial from AntChain regarding collaboration on Real World Assets with Hainan HuaTie. Ant Group cautions the public against investment scams and misinformation related to digital assets, particularly those falsely implying association with Ant Group or AntChain. The company reserves the right to pursue legal action against unauthorized brand use.