Markets

Jay Chou launched “周同学” on Douyin, gaining over 3 million followers **before posting any content**, showcasing immense influence. This follows his 2020 debut on Kuaishou (also as “Classmate Jay”), where followers exceeded 10 million in a week. Industry observers predict Douyin, with its larger user base, will likely surpass that benchmark. A key distinction noted is that his Douyin arrival sparks hopes for more direct artist-fan interaction compared to his team-managed Kuaishou presence. Fans and marketers anticipate potential authenticity.

Ge Huijie, former partner of singer Wang Feng, publicly disclosed undergoing an abdominal “sobriety implant” to treat alcohol addiction. The minimally invasive procedure places 10 naltrexone pellets under her skin, blocking alcohol’s euphoric effects for approximately 150 days and posing severe risks if alcohol is consumed. Although recognized as an emerging technological solution, medical experts caution that addiction is a chronic brain disorder requiring sustained therapy and support beyond the implant’s temporary effect. Her revelation highlights personal struggles and this medical approach’s limitations.

Diebold Nixdorf has deployed its Interactive Teller Machines (ITMs) at Kuwait International Bank (KIB), introducing hybrid banking solutions combining self-service efficiency with live teller video support. Operational at select branches ahead of nationwide rollout, the DN Series ITMs enable extended cash transactions, instant debit card issuance, check processing, and accessibility features. Implemented with Axis Solutions, the platform supports KIB’s digital transformation, enhancing customer engagement through 24/7 specialist access and compliance services. Executives highlight the ITMs’ role in advancing Kuwait’s banking infrastructure and meeting GCC demand for blended digital-human interfaces. This initiative aligns with KIB’s “Bank for Life” strategy, leveraging Diebold Nixdorf’s global expertise in branch modernization.

**Summary:** The US will impose 25% tariffs on all Japanese and South Korean imports starting August 1. This threatens global tech supply chains, especially memory chips where both nations dominate. Key exporters like Samsung, SK Hynix, Canon, Tokyo Electron, Renesas, and operations of US firms Micron/Western Digital face significant impact. Strict anti-circumvention rules and warnings against retaliation were issued. Companies manufacturing these goods within the US gain tariff exemption via expedited approvals.

Taobao Flash Sale’s July-launched ¥50 billion subsidy program significantly boosted consumption. Initial results showed restaurant brands achieving record sales, while 2,318 non-restaurant categories doubled orders. Non-restaurant orders surged 143%, indicating a structural demand shift. Responding to summer heat, appliance orders like air coolers soared over tenfold. Daily active users hit 200 million, translating to physical sales across numerous cities. The program drove a milestone of daily orders surpassing 80 million for the first time, significantly expanding the market. Furthermore, it attracted 140,000 new physical stores and helped over 210,000 existing stores double orders via its integrated platform, powerfully catalyzing service-led consumption growth nationwide.

Gray Media priced $900 million in 9.625% senior secured second lien notes maturing in 2032 at par, a $150 million increase from its initial target. The proceeds, upon closing July 18, 2025, will refinance its 7.000% 2027 notes, partially repay its 2029 Term Loan F, and cover fees. Guaranteed by restricted subsidiaries, the notes are being offered exclusively to qualified institutional buyers and non-U.S. investors.

Avenir Intelligence, under Huawei’s HarmonyOS, unveiled a redesigned emblem for its Zhijie EV brand, sparking public feedback. A social media post tagging Xiaomi’s CEO Lei Jun was deleted, fueling industry buzz. The metal hexagonal design echoes Tesla but adds Chinese elements. Free retrofits for owners aim to boost loyalty, aligning with Q4 vehicle plans in China’s competitive $150B market. (82 words)

Huawei’s Yu Chengdong clarified that viral footage showing him appearing asleep while driving occurred when he was distracted by smartphone use during vehicle’s Intelligent Driving mode. He emphasized the system’s reliability, explaining its stability leads to uneventful manual operation. Yu received a traffic fine after misinterpreting a passerby’s interaction triggered an investigation. Advocating regulatory evolution, he proposed legal frameworks for Level 3 autonomy allowing device use during driving, with vehicles autonomously pulling over and activating non-intrusive alerts (seatbelt tensioning/massage) if intervention is needed, prioritizing safety during occupant distraction.

Delixy Holdings priced its Nasdaq IPO at $4.00/share, raising $5.4 million from 1.35M primary and 650K secondary shares. Trading begins July 9, 2025 (ticker DLXY) at an $8M valuation, with Bancroft Capital underwriting. Proceeds will target expansion in Southeast Asia and Middle East oil markets. Positives include capital for growth and Nasdaq credibility, while concerns involve the modest scale and significant secondary offering (32.5% of IPO shares).

Apple COO Jeff Williams to retire later this year after 27 years. Instrumental in global operations, launching the Apple Watch, and leading the design team, he will stay in transition until year-end. Tim Cook praised Williams’ immense contributions. Sabih Khan, current head of global supply chain, will succeed Williams as COO, ensuring a seamless transition. Williams plans to dedicate more time to family. (98 words)