Markets

At the AGI Playground 2025, Luo Yonghao hinted at a new product launch after years of R&D under his company, Thin Red Line. Initially focused on AR glasses (found commercially unviable), the company pivoted to an AI-powered hardware/software solution, delayed by setbacks. However, a pure software solution is expected to launch within three months. Luo remained tight-lipped on specifics, likely due to past experiences with premature announcements.

U-Haul is providing 30 days of free self-storage and U-Box container usage in North Dakota and Minnesota to assist residents affected by recent tornadoes and a derecho. The company aims to help communities impacted by severe weather, offering secure storage for belongings during recovery. This complimentary offer applies to new rentals, with details on participating locations available in the provided list.

Former “Journey to the West” actor Chi Chongrui, known for his Tang Sanzang portrayal, is now marketing a luxury Beijing real estate project. The move, near the Forbidden City, sparked online amusement, highlighting his pivot into a new career. His wife, real estate tycoon Chen Lihua, provides a rich foundation for this venture. Chi’s move reflects his adaptation to changing markets, seeking to leverage his celebrity status.

BioAge Labs presents preclinical data demonstrating apelin receptor (APJ) agonist potential for diabetic obesity and heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF). APJ activation, acting as an exercise mimetic, enhances the effects of incretin therapy, improving glycemic control and offering cardioprotective benefits. The company is developing next-generation APJ agonists, including oral and injectable formulations, with an IND filing planned for 2026, aiming to develop new therapies for obesity and its complications.

Eli Lilly announced positive Phase 3 results for orforglipron, a once-daily oral drug for type 2 diabetes. The ACHIEVE-1 trial showed the drug lowered A1C levels (1.3-1.6% reduction) in four weeks and promoted weight loss (up to 7.9%). The safety profile was consistent with existing GLP-1 medications. Lilly plans further studies, positioning orforglipron as a potential competitor in the diabetes and weight-loss treatment market.

Changzhou is generating buzz by incorporating animatronic dinosaurs into its Jiangsu Super League soccer match promotion, attracting huge interest. The unique marketing strategy, dubbed the “dinosaur gambit,” led to a sold-out game with over 760,000 pre-sale ticket reservations. This follows a successful promotion offering free scenic site access to boost tourism, demonstrating Changzhou’s knack for innovative fan engagement and boosting its brand.

JD.com, the only Chinese retailer, impressively climbed to #22 in Gartner’s Supply Chain Top 25, a testament to its advanced supply chain. This success is driven by substantial investments in technology, including its AI model for forecasting and extensive automation, within its over 40 smart warehouses. Its focus on AI-powered robotics and autonomous vehicles has optimized operations, leading to a rapid inventory turnover rate.

At SNMMI, GE HealthCare unveils theranostics-enabling solutions focused on precision care. The debut of MIM Software’s LesionID Pro utilizes AI for automated pre-processing, streamlining workflows and aiding in personalized cancer treatment. Key highlights include the MINItrace Magni cyclotron, the Omni Legend PET/CT, and the StarGuide SPECT/CT, facilitating improved disease detection, treatment accuracy and efficient workflow. GE HealthCare aims to provide comprehensive solutions, from imaging to software, advancing personalized medicine and improving patient outcomes.

This article explores the evolution of China’s historic merchant groups, like the Jin, Min, and Wenzhou merchants. It examines their traditional values and business strategies, highlighting how they are adapting in the digital age. From e-commerce in Shanxi to brand building in Fujian and live streaming in Wenzhou, the article showcases modern entrepreneurs carrying on the spirit of their predecessors, often leveraging platforms like Pinduoduo.

Beijing authorities are clamping down on “self-media” accounts exploiting Professor We Dong Yi following the viral spread of videos showing him in a university cafeteria. The crackdown, targeting impersonation, misleading content, and manipulative marketing, has resulted in the removal of over 5,000 illegitimate accounts and the deletion of nearly 4,700 content pieces. This action, a commitment to a healthier digital environment, aims to curb sensationalism and encourage ethical online behavior.