Markets

Questcorp Mining has commenced its maiden 1,500m drilling program at the La Union Gold & Silver Project in Sonora, Mexico, targeting CRD mineralization. Operated by Riverside Resources, the program focuses on four key areas with historical gold production. Questcorp’s initial C$1,000,000 exploration is part of a C$5,500,000 commitment. Historical sampling revealed high grades (e.g., 59.4 g/t gold, 833 g/t silver), suggesting potential for large-scale gold discoveries. The drilling aims to assess alteration and identify robust mineralized systems in previously mined areas.

Hua Xiaoxiao, a Xinjiang stir-fried rice noodle brand, is rapidly expanding across China, projected to reach over 3,000 locations by 2025. Founder Zhao Gang, leveraging his marketing background, strategically utilized e-commerce to overcome challenges faced by traditional restaurants. By focusing on a standardized, replicable menu item and building a strong online presence, Hua Xiaoxiao achieved scalable growth and improved product development through immediate customer feedback. E-commerce accounts for a significant portion of revenue, enabling community stores and promoting Xinjiang culture. The brand aims for global expansion, using a multi-platform approach to maximize reach.

Taobao, owned by Alibaba, has launched “Taobao Grand Membership,” integrating services like Ele.me and Fliggy. The tiered program, with six levels (Bronze to Black Diamond) and five star levels within each, offers escalating benefits based on “Taobao Points.” Perks range from shopping discounts to travel benefits. Membership tiers are updated quarterly. Black Diamond, the highest tier, is invitation-only. Spending across Taobao, Ele.me, and Fliggy will contribute to point accumulation. 88VIP members receive an automatic upgrade.

Cathay Pacific is increasing its order for Boeing 777-9 passenger jets, adding 14 aircraft for a total commitment of 35. The 777-9 offers a 20% reduction in fuel consumption and emissions and a 40% decrease in noise. This will allow Cathay Pacific to expand its fleet, improve operational efficiencies, and meet sustainability goals, while also strengthening its brand as a provider of premium air travel with extended long-haul routes. The order reinforces Boeing’s role in aerospace and its contribution to economic growth and sustainability.

A 2007 paper proposing a connection between ancient Chinese and the origins of English has sparked debate. The paper suggests similarities between the Code of Hammurabi and the Shang Dynasty, and posits that English words could be derived from ancient Chinese. Author Professor Li Rongjian welcomes scholarly discussion and acknowledges the evolution of his views. He emphasizes academic discourse and cautions against personal attacks. The paper hypothesizes that Indo-European speaking Britons originated in the Eurasian steppes and that ancient Chinese was a major language in the ancient Near East.

The “JiuGui·Freedom Love” baijiu, a collaboration between JiuGui Liquor and Pang Dong Lai supermarket, is attracting scalpers due to its popularity and limited availability. Retailing for 200 yuan per 550ml bottle (1200 yuan/carton), this special edition offers a compelling gross profit margin. Scalpers online are selling cartons for an additional 110-150 yuan, highlighting the difficulty in obtaining the product directly due to purchase restrictions. The baijiu, crafted with aged reserves and a 173-step distillation process, is sold through Pang Dong Lai’s stores and online platforms.

Coinbase (COIN) announced the pricing of $1.3 billion each in 0% Convertible Senior Notes due in 2029 and 2032 through a private placement, exceeding initial expectations. Net proceeds are projected to be $2.56 billion, potentially rising to $2.96 billion if underwriters fully exercise their options. Coinbase intends to use the funds for general corporate purposes, including strategic investments and potential share repurchases. The notes are senior, unsecured obligations with conversion prices representing premiums over Coinbase’s August 5, 2025 closing price.

Microsoft is considering tightening its return-to-office policy, potentially requiring employees at its Redmond headquarters to work in the office at least three days a week. This signals a shift from the company’s flexible work arrangements implemented since 2020, which allowed many employees to work remotely up to 50% of the time. The policy change, potentially announced as early as September and implemented in January, contrasts with Microsoft’s earlier lenient approach compared to companies like Apple.

Tesla’s CEO Elon Musk could receive a $30 billion stock grant, reigniting debate about his compensation. A Tesla engineer, Tsai, defended the award on X, noting Musk’s eight years without a salary, consistent work attendance, and leadership through crucial milestones. Tsai also humorously pointed out that his own salary once surpassed Musk’s. He emphasized Musk’s passion and commitment as a team motivator, hoping he receives his first paycheck after years of dedication. The stock package aims to align Musk’s interests with long-term shareholder value and ambitious growth targets.

South Korea’s minimum hourly wage will rise to ₩10,320 ($7.80 USD) in 2026, a 2.9% increase. The minimum monthly wage will be ₩2,156,880 ($1,630 USD). Despite this, high living costs, especially for food items like watermelons (averaging $25 USD) and napa cabbage (up 68% monthly), significantly impact purchasing power. Many low-income Seoul residents struggle to save, and the middle class faces similar challenges compared to some Chinese workers. This illustrates the tension between wage growth and rising expenses.