Markets

Aramis, Estée Lauder’s men’s fragrance brand, launched its new scent, Intuition, during New York Fashion Week, aiming to attract a new generation of consumers. Global ambassador Dwyane Wade spearheaded the launch, which included an immersive pop-up experience on the High Line and a discussion at Bloomingdale’s on personal grooming and modern masculinity. The brand is leveraging social media, including the #ARAMISINTUITION campaign, to amplify its message and engage with a younger demographic. This repositioning strategy is part of Estée Lauder’s broader effort to revive legacy brands.

A Shanghai court ruled in favor of Haidilao in a lawsuit against two minors, Tang and Wu, and their parents, over an incident where the minors urinated into a hot pot at a restaurant. The court ordered Tang and Wu (through their parents) to issue apologies and mandated the parents to pay RMB 2.2 million (approximately $300,000 USD) for damages, cleaning, operational losses, reputational damage, and legal fees. Haidilao’s claim for RMB 23.26 million was rejected, as the court deemed the 10x compensation to customers a business decision, not a legally claimable damage.

Gladstone Capital Corporation (GLAD) declared a supplemental cash distribution of $0.10 per share, payable September 29, 2025, to stockholders of record on September 23, 2025. GLAD, a business development company, focuses on debt and equity financing for lower middle-market businesses. It also offers a dividend reinvestment plan (DRIP). The supplemental dividend reflects confidence in its portfolio and commitment to shareholder value, within regulatory constraints for BDCs.

During the Munich Motor Show, XPeng CEO He Xiaopeng test-drove the new XPeng P7 on the German Autobahn, reaching 234 km/h in rainy conditions. He emphasized the vehicle’s stability and handling, noting initial apprehension quickly turned to confidence. This demonstration highlights XPeng’s commitment to high-performance engineering and serves as a strategic move to build brand credibility in the European market by showcasing the P7’s capabilities under demanding conditions. Advanced driver-assistance systems likely contributed to the overall safety and driving experience.

At NECA 2025, Schneider Electric showcased new products designed for electrical contractors, including a LV Reduced Energy Transformer, Integrated Power Center 2, and QO Smart Panel Solution. These innovations streamline operations, enhance efficiency, and address industry demands. Schneider Electric experts also led discussions on the 2026 NEC code changes and veteran recruitment. The company emphasized its commitment to supporting electrical contractors through domestic manufacturing, strategic partnerships, and a focus on evolving industry needs.

SKY Perfect JSAT (SJC) has partnered with Harmonic to modernize its broadcast workflow using Harmonic’s XOS Advanced Media Processor. This software-based solution will enable SJC to improve video quality, reduce costs, and explore new revenue opportunities. The XOS media processor’s cloud-native architecture and advanced compression are expected to increase operational efficiencies by 40%. SJC aims to gain a competitive advantage in the broadcast landscape through this deployment. Harmonic will showcase XOS at IBC2025.

A dispute between Luo Yonghao and Xibei’s founder over the use of pre-prepared meals in restaurants has sparked debate in China. Luo criticized Xibei, prompting denials but also scrutiny of Xibei’s long-shelf-life ingredients. This highlights consumer demand for transparency, especially regarding food safety. Benefitting from this is Laoxiangji, praised for its open disclosure of pre-prepared meal standards via a color-coded labeling system and detailed public statements, building consumer trust and setting a new industry standard.

DigiAsia Corp. (NASDAQ: FAAS) will voluntarily delist from Nasdaq, with the last trading day expected around October 2, 2025, due to the inability to meet the Form 20-F filing deadline. This decision is driven by high listing costs and challenges in raising capital. DigiAsia received a $400 million acquisition offer from PayMate, which includes cash and a share swap. The board is reviewing strategic alternatives and plans to prioritize repaying lenders following any sale. They believe privatization best protects shareholder value.

A viral video alleging a customer urinated in a Haidilao hot pot led to public outrage and reputational damage. Two minors were detained. A court ordered them and their parents to apologize and pay approximately $319,000 USD in damages for financial losses, brand damage, cleaning, and legal fees. The *People’s Daily* emphasized responsible behavior. Experts say the ruling stresses corporate liability and reinforces guardian responsibility for minors’ actions, protecting businesses from illegal interference and building a fair business environment. It highlights crisis management, brand protection, and individual accountability in China.

Xebra Brands (CSE:XBRA) will implement a 1-for-10 share consolidation on September 19, 2025, reducing outstanding shares to approximately 8,065,442. Trading of XBRA is currently suspended due to a cease trade order (CTO) issued by the British Columbia Securities Commission on September 3, 2025. The CTO resulted from Xebra’s failure to file required financial documents. The company will retain its name and symbol; however, new CUSIP and ISIN numbers are assigned. Trading will remain halted until compliance is achieved and the BCSC lifts the CTO.