Markets

Gree Electric Appliances reported a slight revenue decrease of 2.46% to ¥97.325 billion in its 2025 H1 report, while net profit rose 1.95% to ¥14.412 billion. The company will not distribute dividends. Livestreaming e-commerce generated over ¥5 billion in sales, contributing to consumer engagement. Gree also highlighted its extensive online and offline sales network. Recently, Gree and Xiaomi engaged in a public dispute over air conditioner sales rankings, underscoring market competition.

Abercrombie & Fitch (ANF) partners with the Dallas Cowboys and Cheerleaders as the Official Fashion Partner in a multi-year deal, marking Abercrombie’s first NFL team collaboration. Licensed Cowboys merchandise will be available at select pro-shops and AT&T Stadium. Cowboys players CeeDee Lamb and Jake Ferguson will participate in the “Style Concierge” program, with Lamb debuting his own apparel line this season. This partnership aims to blend fashion and football, extending beyond game day.

REGENXBIO (Nasdaq: RGNX) will participate in several investor conferences in September 2025, including events hosted by Wells Fargo, Morgan Stanley, Baird, and H.C. Wainwright. The company will engage in one-on-one meetings and fireside chats to discuss its strategic vision, clinical progress, and the potential of its AAV gene therapies for rare and retinal diseases, including RGX-202 for Duchenne muscular dystrophy and surabgene lomparvovec (ABBV-RGX-314) for wet AMD and diabetic retinopathy. Webcasts will be available on REGENXBIO’s website.

China’s luxury market is rebounding, driven by Qixi Festival gifting. Apparel, shoes, and handbags are popular choices, with e-commerce platforms seeing increased sales. However, consumers prioritize value, seeking discounts and cost-effectiveness. E-tailers are capitalizing on this trend with sales events, offering luxury goods at significantly reduced prices. This shift reflects a broader consumer behavior, where cost-effectiveness and emotional satisfaction are key drivers, particularly among younger shoppers moving away from purely expensive items. China’s gift economy continues to grow, projected to reach ¥1.6197 trillion by 2027.

WuXi Biologics (2269.HK) announced SBTi approval of its near-term and net-zero GHG emissions reduction targets, aligning with 1.5°C pathways and committing to net-zero across its value chain by 2050. As a leading Green CRDMO, WuXi Biologics implements a comprehensive strategy, engaging suppliers to reduce its environmental footprint. CEO Dr. Chris Chen views this as a catalyst for further action and delivering ESG excellence. The company holds MSCI AAA Rating, EcoVadis Platinum Medal, and DJSI listing.

8×8, Inc. has extended its partnership with Southampton FC, continuing as an official partner for Men’s and Women’s First Teams through the 2025/26 season. 8×8’s cloud-based technology is integral to the club’s operations, enhancing matchday experiences and fan engagement through streamlined communications. The partnership focuses on fostering deeper connections with supporters via personalized interactions and timely updates. The renewed agreement includes increased brand visibility and collaborative community outreach programs, leveraging 8×8’s unified platform to elevate fan experiences and operational efficiency.

Haier Group, via Katai Capital, acquired a 43% controlling stake in Autohome from Ping An Insurance for $1.8 billion. This makes Haier the controlling shareholder, while Ping An retains a 5.1% indirect stake. Concurrently, Wu Tao stepped down as CEO, replaced by Yang Song who assured no layoffs. Yang Song envisions Autohome’s evolution into a comprehensive automotive ecosystem through collaboration with Haier and Ping An. Autohome, founded in 2005, has seen previous ownership transitions involving Telstra and Ping An.

CMB.TECH (CMBT) reported mixed Q2 2025 results. While revenue increased to $387.8 million, the company posted a net loss of $7.6 million, a stark contrast to the $184.4 million profit in Q2 2024. EBITDA also declined to $224.1 million. The merger with Golden Ocean was completed, creating a 250-vessel fleet. CMB.TECH declared an interim dividend of $0.05 USD and maintains a strong contract backlog of $2.93 billion. Vessel sales generated significant capital gains. Legal challenges from Golden Ocean shareholders remain.

Following Wuhan’s pet-friendly hotel trend, a Guangzhou guesthouse is gaining popularity for offering “Cat Cuddling” or “Cat Butler” services. Guests can enjoy the companionship of eight resident cats (Ragdolls, British Shorthairs, and American Shorthairs) in three rooms, with nightly rates ranging from ¥400 to over ¥1000. The guesthouse prioritizes hygiene and safety with vaccinated and groomed cats, 24-hour surveillance, and readily available first aid. They’ve served over 700 customers, offering a private experience distinct from traditional cat cafes.

Cognition Therapeutics (CGTX) announced a $30 million direct offering of 14.7 million common shares to two new institutional investors. Closing is expected around August 29, 2025. Proceeds will fund Phase 3 program preparation for zervimesine in neurodegenerative disorders, working capital, and general corporate purposes. Titan Partners Group acted as the sole placement agent. This secures funding to advance zervimesine to Phase 3 trials, however, the offering causes share dilution.