Markets

Boeing and the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) have successfully concluded MQ-28 Ghost Bat Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) demonstrations ahead of schedule. The tests validated autonomous behaviors, multi-ship coordination, and seamless integration with manned platforms like the E-7A Wedgetail. Data fusion and transfer between MQ-28s and manned aircraft were also demonstrated. These capabilities will be incorporated into Block 2 aircraft, paving the way for future operational capability. A planned air-to-air weapon shot is scheduled for later this year or early 2026.

Malu, a millennial entrepreneur, left a traditional Japanese corporation due to its rigid seniority system (nenkō joretsu). She now runs a new media advertising company, observing that Japan’s market lags behind China’s. Key challenges include acquiring local clients, navigating cultural nuances (like omotenashi), and understanding platform preferences such as Amazon and Rakuten. Success in Japan requires a different approach, emphasizing service quality over cost and adapting strategies for platforms like TikTok Shop, avoiding direct replication of Chinese methods.

Acadian Asset Management is gaining attention as it shifts to a pure-play public systematic manager. Chairman John Paulson reaffirmed commitment after a stock sale driven by investor interest. Acadian’s quantitative models and algorithms are key to identifying market inefficiencies, offering a data-driven approach. This strategy faces risks, including model over-optimization and the evolving sophistication of market algorithms. Acadian managed $151 billion in assets as of June 30, 2025, offering systematic strategies for institutional investors. Risks associated with forward-looking statements are noted.

Curaleaf has opened a new dispensary near New Albany, Ohio, expanding its nationwide footprint to 155 locations. This strategic move strengthens Curaleaf’s presence in Ohio’s growing cannabis market, offering a range of products including vapes, flower, and edibles. The grand opening is scheduled for September 12, 2025, with local vendors and promotions. Curaleaf is also engaged in local community initiatives. In addition, Curaleaf rebranded its Reef Dispensary in Las Vegas and relocated its Payson, Utah Pharmacy.

Ahead of the Xuzhou-Nanjing soccer match, Ant Insurance and Alipay, both Ant Group subsidiaries, have engaged in a playful marketing rivalry. Ant Insurance sent “Guardian Ducks” to support Nanjing, while Alipay countered with China’s “Four Great Chickens” to back Xuzhou. Alipay is also offering a one million yuan subsidy for every Xuzhou goal to residents of supporting provinces. The humorous exchange leverages regional culinary specialties and aims to boost local economies and user engagement, particularly promoting Alipay’s “Touch and Pay” feature for post-game celebrations.

Qualcomm and BMW have unveiled the Snapdragon Ride Pilot AD system in the BMW iX3 at IAA Mobility 2025. This scalable platform, co-engineered over three years, supports AD levels from NCAP to Level 2+ highway and urban navigation. It features AI-powered automation, 360-degree perception, and a data-driven approach validated in 60 countries, expanding to over 100 by 2026. The system offers customizable AD solutions with a focus on safety, aiming for broader accessibility across the automotive industry.

Himax Technologies will showcase its automotive display technologies at the 2025 SID Vehicle Displays and Interfaces Symposium in Detroit, September 9-10. Demonstrations include a single-chip TDDI with local dimming, automotive TDDI with user-aware touch, OLED touch IC with Knob-on-Display, and a new local dimming Tcon. Also featured are the 3D Time-of-Flight vision processor, Liqxtal® Dim smart light control, micro-pattern design services, and Sparkle Elimination Film. These innovations target smart cabins with advanced displays in electric and conventional vehicles.

Tinglixiong has launched the X3, China’s first AI learning companion phone for children aged 6-16, addressing parental concerns about screen time, content, and distractions. The X3 features robust safety measures, including an AI content review model developed with Alibaba Cloud, and introduces “Teeni Cloud Bear,” an AI growth agent for learning and emotional support. It aims to transform the phone from a control tool into a growth partner, integrating AI into education and creativity while prioritizing child safety and fostering digital literacy.

Roche’s VENTANA HER2 (4B5) test received CE-IVDR approval for expanded use in breast and biliary tract cancers. It’s the first companion diagnostic to identify HR-positive metastatic breast cancer patients with HER2-ultralow expression potentially eligible for ENHERTU treatment. It’s also approved to identify previously-treated, unresectable or metastatic HER2-positive biliary tract cancer (BTC) patients who may be eligible for ZIIHERA. This strengthens Roche’s position in personalized cancer treatment, offering more targeted options for patients.

A Chinese manufacturer in Qingdao has developed a “liquid gold” tire purportedly solving the “magic triangle” of tire performance: rolling resistance, wet grip, and abrasion resistance. This innovation claims to enhance all three simultaneously, unlike traditional tires. The result is a potential 10% fuel efficiency improvement, saving consumers nearly 5,000 yuan over the tire’s lifespan. Analysts suggest that if verified, this breakthrough could reshape the global tire market, strengthen China’s manufacturing reputation, and have applications in other industries needing friction and wear solutions, also aligning with goals for reduced carbon emissions.