Markets

At the Huawei Developer Conference 2025, the gaming sub-forum examined how HarmonyOS is transforming the game industry. HarmonyOS’s “one-time development, multi-platform deployment” capability enables seamless user reach. Huawei Game Center supports developers with all-scenario applications, mini-games, and international expansion, fostering innovation and driving user growth. New features enhance gameplay, user engagement, and developer support, creating a thriving ecosystem.

The Xiaomi SU7 Ultra has set a new lap record for production EVs at the Nürburgring, clocking in at 7 minutes and 4.95 seconds. This achievement, highlighted by Top Gear, puts the SU7 Ultra ahead of previous leaders like Porsche and Tesla. The remarkable feat, accomplished on the first attempt, marks a significant milestone for Chinese automakers in the global EV market, according to the report.

SINOVAC Biotech Ltd. successfully defended against a legal challenge in New York, paving the way for its declared $55.00 per share dividend. The court denied Advantech/Prime’s petition, a move that supports the current board’s actions and their plans for further shareholder payouts. Shareholders are encouraged to vote against proposals to oust the current board.

South Korea is implementing major labor reforms, including a 4.5-day workweek with no pay cuts, reducing weekly work hours from 52 to 48. The government aims to lower average annual working hours to below the OECD average by 2030. Other changes include expanded annual leave eligibility and promoting flexible work arrangements like adjusted schedules and remote work, with incentives for businesses. These policies aim to improve work-life balance and align with international standards.

Former Chinese national team player Xu Liang reignites debate on footballers’ salaries. He argues that top players’ earnings (around $414,000 annually post-tax) are justified, comparing them to other competitive industries. Xu stresses the importance of evaluating a range of player compensation, not just the elite’s. He defends salaries as separate from performance criticism, recognizing that elite players have earned their position.

DDB Worldwide, part of Omnicom, was named Network of the Year at the 2025 Cannes Lions, marking its second win in three years. Under the leadership of Alex Lubar and Chaka Sobhani, DDB collected 112 Lions, including four Grands Prix. Key highlights include regional wins, agency awards, and record-breaking achievements for DDB Latina. DDB’s success, driven by impactful creativity, is a testament to its “emotional advantage” approach.

Dangdang founder Li Guoqing and Zhang Danhong will marry on August 16, 2025, marking a new chapter. The announcement follows Li’s divorce settlement. The wedding, themed “A Delayed Answer for Two Peking University Graduates,” will be held in Beijing. Guests are asked to donate to a Guizhou primary school, reflecting the couple’s philanthropic nature. Li, 61, appears to be embracing this new phase.

China’s State Administration for Market Regulation (SAMR) is launching a 2025 product quality supervision campaign, inspecting 164 product categories across manufacturing, distribution, and online platforms. The initiative emphasizes consumer safety, especially for children’s products and items like power banks and e-bikes, with a 70% increase in live streaming platform inspections. The campaign follows a power bank recall prompted by safety concerns and focuses on emerging sectors. Results will be publicly disclosed.

University Bancorp (UNIB) increased its stake in Currency Exchange International (CXI) by approximately 0.48%, reaching about 12.02% ownership. The company acquired shares on both the Toronto Stock Exchange and the OTC Markets. UNIB views its CXI holdings as an investment, subject to ongoing review, and may consider various strategic options. The announcement follows UNIB’s strong 2024 financial results and highlights its position as a significant financial holding company in Michigan.

InnSuites Hospitality Trust (IHT) reported a strong Q1 2026 with over $2 million in hotel revenue and $2.2 million total revenue. The company is diversifying through investments in clean energy (UniGen Power) and managing InnDependent Boutique Collection (IBC Hotels). IHT maintains a positive outlook, citing strong hotel performance, potential in diversification, and commitment to annual dividends. The annual shareholder meeting is scheduled for August 14, 2025.