Markets

Ericsson announced the completion of equity investments by twelve CSPs into Aduna, establishing it as a 50:50 joint venture operational since September 2024. Aduna aims to aggregate and commercialize network APIs globally, fostering developer innovation through a unified platform. Its ecosystem includes CSPs, developer platforms, GSIs, CPaaS providers, and ISVs. This collaborative effort, leveraging Ericsson’s network platform and the partners’ telecom expertise, seeks to avoid fragmentation in network API development and drive industry growth.

Influencers on short-form video platforms are exploiting anti-gaming sentiment by amplifying parental anxieties about video games and screen time. They position themselves as “family education experts” and sell expensive “internet addiction” programs, some costing upwards of $66,800 for seven days. Investigations reveal that these influencers often lack proper qualifications, raising concerns about the validity and ethics of their services and highlighting the exploitation of vulnerable parents.

Relief Therapeutics will merge with NeuroX, the successor to MindMaze, in a deal valuing Relief at CHF 100M and NeuroX at CHF 1B. Relief shareholders will own approximately 9% of the combined entity, focused on AI-based digital neurotherapeutics. NeuroX, which acquired MindMaze’s assets, brings a clinically validated platform with over $350M invested. The transaction is expected to close in Q4 2025, pending approvals and customary conditions. The merger aims to create a publicly listed, AI-driven health tech enterprise.

Seres Group’s AITO M9 SUV executed the first documented satellite-enabled roadside rescue after a tire blowout in a remote area lacking cellular service. The M9’s integrated China Telecom satellite connectivity allowed the driver to contact roadside assistance, providing precise GPS coordinates. A rescue team, guided by satellite phone communication, successfully reached and aided the stranded driver. Huawei’s Li Xiaolong emphasized the importance of satellite communication, citing the P70 series’ capabilities, including Beidou messaging and Tiantong-1 calling, for emergency situations.

A dialogue between Zhang Xuefeng and Sina Finance’s CEO included Zhang’s reflections on his future legacy and potential epitaph. He envisions a trending Weibo topic upon his death and hopes his lectures will continue to inspire. On his tombstone, he’d write, “Life was so fun. I’m coming back next lifetime!” This reflects his drive, optimism, and desire for lasting impact beyond business success. His self-deprecating humor and past controversies invite reflection on ambition and the meaning of a well-lived life.

NWTN Inc. will hold its Extraordinary General Meeting of Shareholders on August 12, 2025, both in person in Dubai and virtually. Shareholders as of July 16, 2025, can vote on key proposals, including a name change to “Robo.ai Inc.” and a board reshuffle featuring the removal of several directors and the nomination of a new independent director. Investors will also vote on adopting a Third Amended and Restated Memorandum and Articles of Association. NWTN urges shareholders to review all SEC filings before voting.

At WAIC 2025, PPIO unveiled its Agentic AI Infra platform, the first of its kind in China, designed to accelerate AI Agent development. The platform features both General and Enterprise editions, including China’s first Agent Sandbox for secure execution and model services optimized for Agent construction. PPIO’s system offers advantages like long-term memory, controllable processes, and multi-modal collaboration. By providing comprehensive support and reducing costs, PPIO aims to drive the large-scale deployment of intelligent agents across various industries.

Xiaomi founder Lei Jun’s fitness regime, marked by 73 gym sessions this year, became a trending topic on Weibo amidst severe weather conditions in Northern China. Torrential rains have battered regions including Beijing and Hebei, raising concerns about flooding and landslides. Meteorologists attribute the extreme precipitation to a strong subtropical high, leading to unstable atmospheric conditions and record rainfall. Authorities are urging vigilance due to the elevated risk of flash floods and landslides.

A recent Chinese autonomous driving assist system test by Dongchedi, involving 36 vehicles, has sparked controversy and conspiracy theories. The test revealed limitations, even in Tesla’s systems, and polarized reactions. Some criticize the methodology, while others allege bias, suggesting a foreign-backed plot to undermine Chinese automakers and delay Level 3 standards. Skeptics dismiss these claims, viewing the test as highlighting real-world limitations. More balanced views see the controversy as a necessary step towards accurately representing autonomous driving capabilities and avoiding public misinformation.

VeriSign announced that Berkshire Hathaway is selling 4.3 million shares of its common stock at $285.00 per share in a secondary offering underwritten by J.P. Morgan Securities. The sale aims to reduce Berkshire Hathaway’s ownership below 10%, avoiding regulatory oversight. Berkshire Hathaway has agreed to a 365-day lock-up period on its remaining shares. Underwriters have an option to purchase an additional 515,032 shares. Proceeds will go to the selling stockholders, not VeriSign.