Markets

Johnson & Johnson’s Phase 3 MARIPOSA study reveals that first-line RYBREVANT^® plus LAZCLUZE^® significantly reduces EGFR- and MET-driven resistance in EGFR-mutated NSCLC compared to osimertinib. The combination demonstrates a lower incidence of MET amplification and EGFR mutations, potentially transforming disease biology. This chemo-free regimen has shown an overall survival benefit exceeding four years. These findings, presented at WCLC 2025, support the combination’s approval in multiple markets.

Manulife and UpLink announced the winners of the “Innovating for Asia’s Demographic Future Challenge”, the second in a longevity-focused series. Ten ventures addressing financial resilience, healthy aging, and lifelong fulfillment in Asia’s changing demographic landscape were selected from over 85 submissions. Winners gain access to networking, partnerships, and visibility, with three top innovators receiving a share of CAD $200,000. The challenge highlights the urgent need for innovation to support Asia’s aging population, projected to be one in four over 60 by 2050.

Xiaomi Auto has hired Fabian Schmlz, Lamborghini’s former chief exterior designer, as Head of Exterior Design, Europe, since April 2025. Based in Germany, Schmlz’s experience includes designing the Lamborghini Temerario and contributing to Porsche models like the Taycan prototype. This appointment highlights Xiaomi’s commitment to design innovation and attracting top-tier talent to strengthen its position in the competitive EV market, particularly in Europe. His experience will allow Xiaomi to cater to European consumer preferences and aesthetics, blending them with broader technological goals.

Hesai Group (HSAI) announced a global offering of 17 million Class B shares, including a Hong Kong public offering and an international offering, alongside a dual-primary listing on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange (“2525”). The maximum Hong Kong offer price is HK$228.00 per share. Cornerstone investors committed approximately US$148 million, representing about 29.8% of the initial offering. Proceeds will fund R&D, manufacturing, business expansion, and working capital. The dual-listing aims to diversify Hesai’s investor base and mitigate regulatory uncertainties.

Revive Therapeutics (RVVTF) is extending its private placement to raise up to $650,000 by issuing units at $0.021 each. Each unit includes a share and a warrant exercisable at $0.05 for 36 months. Having already raised $60,900 in the first tranche, the remaining $589,000 will be used for working capital and settling trade payables. The securities are subject to a four-month and one-day hold period. While providing needed capital, the offering involves significant dilution potential for shareholders.

Wu Xiaoqiu anticipates the rise of Chinese tech giants like Nvidia and Apple, though acknowledges short-term challenges. He highlights the potential of numerous smaller tech firms (“mini-Huaweis”) and established companies to drive innovation. A shift in investor focus from traditional dividend stocks to technology ventures is expected, supported by regulatory reforms. Wu emphasizes the importance of tech IPOs for market maturation, requiring a supportive ecosystem including talent acquisition and access to resources, to compete globally.

THEMAC Resources Group’s (TSXV: MAC) application to transfer Santa Teresa water rights for the Copper Flat Mine was denied by the New Mexico State Engineer. Filed in 2019, the application sought to change the water diversion point and usage. THEMAC is now exploring alternative water management, including dry stack tailings technology. This more sustainable approach could eliminate the need for the contested water rights. The company is currently evaluating the implementation and permitting requirements for this technology.

GSR IV Acquisition Corp. (GSRF) has closed its $230 million IPO, including the full exercise of the over-allotment option. The offering consisted of 23 million units at $10.00 each. Each unit includes one Class A ordinary share and one-seventh of a right, convertible into shares upon a business combination. Units trade on Nasdaq under “GSRFU,” with shares and rights to follow under “GSRF” and “GSRFR.” Polaris Advisory Partners and The Benchmark Company were joint bookrunners; the latter acting as qualified independent underwriter. GSRF is a blank check company seeking a merger target.

Alibaba, JD.com, and Meituan are intensifying competition in China’s hard discount retail sector. Meituan recently launched “Happy Monkey,” a self-operated supermarket, joining Alibaba’s rebranded “Super Hema Suan NB” and JD.com’s quietly launched discount supermarkets. This model focuses on offering high-quality products at significantly lower prices by streamlining product selection, negotiating directly with suppliers, and emphasizing private label brands. Unlike traditional retail, hard discount prioritizes cost control and efficient supply chains, potentially benefiting consumers with lower prices and increased value.

On September 5, 2025, KBRA assigned preliminary ratings to Upstart Securitization Trust 2025-3, a $320 million consumer loan ABS. The notes, backed by unsecured consumer loans from Upstart’s platform, feature tiered credit enhancement levels ranging from 20.50% to 56.45%. The ratings reflect overcollateralization, excess spread, cash reserve, and subordination. This is Upstart’s 47th ABS securitization, signaling ongoing confidence in its lending model. KBRA’s ratings are based on consumer loan ABS, structured finance, and ESG methodologies, considering portfolio data, underwriting practices, and economic conditions.