Markets

Aggressive promotions in the food delivery market benefit consumers but harm restaurants. Despite increased order volumes, restaurants report decreased profits and losses due to platform fees and subsidies. CCTV highlighted examples where restaurants barely break even or lose money on takeout orders. Many feel compelled to participate to stay competitive, even at a loss. Experts warn this “burn-to-acquire” strategy is unsustainable and risks compromising service quality. The practice offloads costs onto merchants and drivers, intensifying competition.

Western Union will acquire International Money Express, Inc. (Intermex) for $16.00 per share in cash, a deal valued at approximately $500 million. The acquisition aims to strengthen Western Union’s North American retail presence, expand its reach beyond Latin America, and accelerate digital customer acquisition. Western Union anticipates $30 million in annual cost synergies within 24 months. The deal, unanimously approved by both boards of directors, is expected to close in mid-2026, subject to regulatory approvals and Intermex stockholder approval.

Meituan has launched “Ya Mi,” a niche restaurant review app positioned as a “boutique Dianping,” seemingly competing with its own Dazhong Dianping. Currently iOS-only and limited to Beijing, Ya Mi features a minimalist design, curated collections, and a hyperlocal “Moments” feed. Its key differentiator is the “Golden Spoon Restaurants” ranking system based on reviews from selected “Recommendation Officers,” aiming to combat fake reviews. The app prioritizes authenticity and taste over ambiance, with no immediate monetization plans, presenting a challenge to big tech business models. Its long-term viability hinges on maintaining quality content while scaling.

RadNet (RDNT) reported record Q2 2025 results, with revenue up 8.4% to $498.2M and Adjusted EBITDA increasing 12.3% to $81.2M. Digital Health segment revenue rose 30.9% to $20.7M. Advanced imaging volumes grew strongly: MRI +9.0%, CT +8.1%, PET/CT +22.4%. Adjusted EPS nearly doubled to $0.31. RadNet raised its 2025 revenue guidance to $1.85-1.90 billion and Adjusted EBITDA to $271-279 million. The company holds $833.2M cash and a low 0.96x leverage ratio.

Chinese netizens engaged in a “Compression War,” competing to compress the film “NeZha 2” to the smallest possible file size. Starting from 50MB, enthusiasts progressively reduced the file to kilobytes, sacrificing visual quality. Techniques included lowering resolution, frame rate, bitrate, and color depth. Experiments with “Initial D” also explored extreme compression limits. The competition, dubbed “Pupil-Grinding Visual Reduction,” prioritized file size over usability, evolving into an absurd internet phenomenon.

Geely Auto’s Galaxy A7 was showcased at a recent event in Zhengzhou, highlighting its modern design, intelligent features, and efficient hybrid system. The mid-size sedan features a 15.4-inch central screen, HUD, and Galaxy NOS with Flyme Auto. Equipped with advanced ADAS, including Highway NOA and AEB, it boasts a 1.5-liter engine-based EM-i super hybrid system with a 47.26% thermal efficiency and a 2.67L/100km fuel consumption (CLTC). The A7 received over 10,000 pre-orders shortly after launch.

IO Biotech (IOBT) will release topline results from its Phase 3 trial (IOB-013/KN-D18) of Cylembio, an immune-modulatory cancer vaccine, in combination with KEYTRUDA® for advanced melanoma on August 11, 2025. A conference call and live webcast will detail the data comparing Cylembio plus KEYTRUDA® versus KEYTRUDA® alone as a first-line treatment. The trial focuses on patients with unresectable or metastatic melanoma. A replay will be available on the company website.

Haier has launched a static pressure air-bearing compressor, demonstrating its leadership in oil-free technology and advancing the industry towards scaled applications. This technology offers over 50% energy savings compared to traditional compressors and is protected by numerous patents. Following its success with magnetic levitation chillers, Haier aims to replicate that growth in the air-bearing chiller market, which benefits from a strong focus on green transformation. An industry alliance has been formed to accelerate the adoption of air-bearing technology.

China XLX Fertiliser reported strong Q2 2025 results, with revenue up 16.7% QoQ to RMB 6.82 billion and profit surging 103.4% QoQ to RMB 402 million. H1 revenue grew 5% YoY to RMB 12.666 billion, although profit declined 12.8% YoY. The company improved its debt structure and reduced finance expenses. Key operational highlights include increased urea exports and revenue growth in compound fertilizer and methanol segments. Phase II of the Jiangxi Project is scheduled to commence operations in Q3 2025.

Foshan, China, will pilot autumn and spring breaks for compulsory education starting in the 2025-2026 academic year, adding five extra days off for students. This initiative, aiming to reduce academic pressure in line with the “double reduction” policy, encourages social practice and limits homework during breaks. Schools will provide on-campus care. The autumn break is scheduled for November 2025, and the spring break will be around the May Day holiday. Several regions in China are exploring similar breaks, potentially indicating a national trend toward prioritizing student well-being.