Markets

Anker Innovations is recalling several power bank models (A1642, A1647, A1652, A1680, A1681, A1689, A1257) due to a potential fire hazard. Inspections revealed unauthorized material alterations in battery cells from an external vendor, potentially leading to overheating and combustion. The company has removed affected products from e-commerce platforms and ended its relationship with the supplier. This recall highlights the importance of product safety for the popular brand with a global presence.

Centrus Energy has received a contract extension from the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) for High-Assay, Low-Enriched Uranium (HALEU) production, valued at approximately $110 million through June 30, 2026. This extension affirms the DOE’s confidence and supports domestic uranium enrichment. The agreement includes options that could extend the partnership for up to eight years.

JD.com is aggressively entering the travel market. Offering hotels a commission-free program for up to three years has already attracted nearly 50,000 applications. Leveraging its vast user base and lifestyle market leadership, JD.com aims to capitalize on peak travel season. This move follows a successful foray into food delivery using subsidies. However, facing giants like Meituan and Ctrip, the travel sector presents a distinct, more competitive challenge.

Romoss Technology, a leading power bank maker, faces challenges. Numerous 3C certifications for its fast-charging power banks are suspended, with the official Douyin store removing power banks. A recall of over 490,000 power banks is underway due to potential overheating issues, leading to consumer concerns. The recall process, involving potentially problematic postal returns, has also raised further questions.

Former Ele.me CEO and logistics head Han Liu has been taken into custody. An internal investigation revealed “job-related crimes,” prompting Ele.me to report to law enforcement. Han Liu, who previously held positions at JD.com and Alibaba, became CEO in March 2024 and oversaw instant delivery before the incident in June 2025 at the Shanghai office. The company emphasizes adhering to its code of conduct.

Yum China is piloting “Q-Smart,” an AI-powered assistant for restaurant managers, designed to streamline operations. The hands-free system uses voice commands to aid with tasks like scheduling, inventory, and quality control, allowing managers to focus on customer service. It aligns with Yum China’s strategy to improve efficiency and the customer experience through technology. The company also launched a frontline innovation fund during its inaugural AI Day.

The refrigerator market is undergoing a consumer-driven transformation, moving from functionality to aesthetics. A leading brand achieved remarkable success with its “Mai Lang” refrigerator by embracing a “co-creation” approach. This model, featuring a warm color palette and slim design tailored to consumer preferences, quickly became the premium segment leader. The company continually incorporates feedback, with a new iteration promising extended freshness. This success validates the co-creation strategy as the future of the appliance industry.

Facing extreme heat, Chinese shopping malls are using giant digital displays to offer a virtual cooling experience. These screens feature animated fans and breezy visuals to create a sense of relief, attracting customers with visual illusions. This innovative marketing strategy aims to boost foot traffic and offers a moment of psychological comfort, generating varied reactions online, from amusement to skepticism.

Inspiration Energy Corp. is commencing an advanced remote sensing survey at its Rottenstone North Gold Project in Saskatchewan. Using Atomic Mineral Resonance Tomography (AMRT) technology, the company aims to identify prime drilling targets on the 4,512-hectare property, located adjacent to Ramp Metals Inc. Initial findings are expected soon. The project aims to leverage AMRT for detailed subsurface insights, ahead of an inaugural drilling program.

The extended “618” shopping festival saw a surge in consumers utilizing interest-free installment plans, reflecting a trend toward “efficient” spending. A 19% YoY increase in installment plan use was observed, fueled by government subsidies and merchant offerings. Longer-term plans saw higher adoption. This trend extends across various product categories, including electric vehicles, leading to sales growth. Regionally, financially aware areas like Guangdong and Zhejiang led in installment plan usage, with varying product preferences by region. This strategy benefits both consumers and merchants, boosting sales and market activity.