Markets

A QQ user, “Ai Jiemo,” has become the first to reach the maximum level 256 on Tencent’s instant messaging platform, prompting celebrations and exclusive rewards. This milestone highlights QQ’s enduring popularity. The achievement sparked social media engagement, while users of Huawei’s HarmonyOS noted potential disadvantages in accessing the latest platform features.

Grupo Aeroportuario del Pacífico (GAP) finalized its passenger tariff review and committed investments for Montego Bay’s airport (2026-2030). Passenger charges will increase annually, reaching $19.07 in 2030. Significant capital development spending is planned, totaling $118.1 million, with $38.4 million allocated in 2026. These investments support GAP’s long-term aviation sector growth strategy.

Meituan launched a rewards program for delivery riders during China’s Gaokao to support students. Riders assisting with emergencies like forgotten IDs or transportation issues can receive bonuses and recognition as “Pioneer Riders.” The platform also exempts riders from penalties if their deliveries are delayed due to helping students or road closures related to the exam.

This article chronicles Jack Ma’s challenging path to higher education. Despite repeated failures on his college entrance exams, including a dismal mathematics score, Ma persevered. His eventual success, fueled by relentless determination and a refusal to give up, serves as an inspiring example of resilience and the power of perseverance in the face of adversity. His journey highlights his eventual triumph, emphasizing the philosophy of overcoming setbacks.

Empress Royalty Corp. (EMPR) announced strategic moves to incentivize key personnel. The company granted 1,400,000 stock options at $0.68, vesting over three years, and 1,750,000 restricted share units (RSUs) and 650,000 deferred share units (DSUs), vesting over two years. These initiatives aim to align employee interests with long-term shareholder value, demonstrating Empress’ commitment to rewarding performance and fostering a culture of ownership. Empress focuses on gold and silver investments using royalty and streaming models.

Gree Electric’s success stems from CEO Dong Mingzhu’s emphasis on product quality and innovation. She highlights the “Rose” air conditioner’s “wind-free” technology, designed for comfortable, natural cooling and heating. Dong emphasizes Gree’s pioneering approach, claiming they’ve revolutionized air conditioning by addressing consumer health concerns. She underscores the company’s commitment to quality and integrity, believing lasting success requires focusing on consumer needs, not merely cost.

A four-second video propelled Peking University’s Professor Wei Dongyi (“Wei Shen”) to internet fame. Dubbed “The Unassuming Monk,” his modest appearance, contrasting with his mathematical genius, captivated millions. Wei’s simple lifestyle and recent video, including his missing teeth, sparked online discussion. The clip’s release, timed with China’s Gaokao, drew hopeful comments, symbolizing aspirations for academic success.

Draganfly Inc. announced the partial exercise of the over-allotment option from its recent US$3.6 million public offering. Maxim Group LLC purchased an additional 100,000 common shares at US$2.09 per share, generating US$209,000. Proceeds will fund operations, growth initiatives, product development, and potential strategic acquisitions. The offering was executed under a prior shelf registration, with securities sold exclusively in the U.S.

Donald Trump and Elon Musk’s relationship has soured, with Trump saying he isn’t speaking to Musk. Their public disagreements have sparked speculation about repercussions, and Trump is reportedly considering selling his Tesla. While House Speaker Mike Johnson hopes for reconciliation, Trump’s former advisor Peter Navarro downplayed the conflict, and the feud casts a shadow on the future of Tesla and SpaceX.

PENN Entertainment and HG Vora are aligned on director nominees, Johnny Hartnett and Carlos Ruisanchez, for the upcoming 2025 Annual Meeting. Following an ISS report, PENN urges shareholders to vote for these candidates, who they feel are best positioned to execute the company’s strategic plan. PENN also expressed concerns regarding William Clifford’s candidacy and highlighted issues with HG Vora’s institutional waivers.