Markets

Focus Media and Alipay launched “Tap and Grab Red Envelope” in over 20 Chinese cities, turning elevator wait times into reward opportunities. Users tap advertising screens to unlock digital red envelopes with cash rewards and coupons, worth a total of 100 million yuan in rewards plus 10 million in waivers. This integration of Alipay’s “Tap” functionality offers a simplified, secure user experience, connecting advertising exposure with immediate incentives across various scenarios, aiming to compress conversion pathways and drive brand growth. This new feature is becoming a link between online and offline services.

Guardian Metal Resources (LON:GMET)(OTCQX:GMTLF) announced positive assay results from its Pilot Mountain tungsten project in Nevada. Drilling in the Desert Scheelite zone confirmed high-grade tungsten mineralization with significant widths, supporting their “Mined in America” initiative. The company completed 82 drillholes, including 61 at Desert Scheelite. Key intersections include 21.6 m at 0.20% WO3 and individual assays reached 1.09% WO3, along with copper, silver, and zinc. Initial results from the Garnet Zone are expected soon.

The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip7 redefines the foldable phone with its slim design, measuring just 13.7mm when folded and weighing 188g. It features a larger 4.1-inch cover screen, a 4300mAh battery, and enhanced durability with Gorilla Glass Victus 2 and an Armor Aluminum frame. The device incorporates nine recycled materials, reflecting Samsung’s commitment to sustainability. The Z Flip7 advances foldable technology toward a user-centric and eco-conscious future, solidifying Samsung’s leadership in the category.

Ant Group celebrated 2,733 employees, 7.5% of its workforce, who have dedicated over 10 years to the company. These “Decade of Dedication” awardees, averaging 39 years old, include key innovators behind initiatives like “Collect Five Blessings” and Yu’e Bao, with 45% in technical roles. CEO Eric Jing presented them with the “Entrusted with Fortune” gift set. In a humorous gesture, Jing offered a “conditional offer” to a 10-year-old boy, son of an honoree, for a job in ten years.

Questcorp Mining has commenced its maiden 1,500m drilling program at the La Union Gold & Silver Project in Sonora, Mexico, targeting CRD mineralization. Operated by Riverside Resources, the program focuses on four key areas with historical gold production. Questcorp’s initial C$1,000,000 exploration is part of a C$5,500,000 commitment. Historical sampling revealed high grades (e.g., 59.4 g/t gold, 833 g/t silver), suggesting potential for large-scale gold discoveries. The drilling aims to assess alteration and identify robust mineralized systems in previously mined areas.

Hua Xiaoxiao, a Xinjiang stir-fried rice noodle brand, is rapidly expanding across China, projected to reach over 3,000 locations by 2025. Founder Zhao Gang, leveraging his marketing background, strategically utilized e-commerce to overcome challenges faced by traditional restaurants. By focusing on a standardized, replicable menu item and building a strong online presence, Hua Xiaoxiao achieved scalable growth and improved product development through immediate customer feedback. E-commerce accounts for a significant portion of revenue, enabling community stores and promoting Xinjiang culture. The brand aims for global expansion, using a multi-platform approach to maximize reach.

Taobao, owned by Alibaba, has launched “Taobao Grand Membership,” integrating services like Ele.me and Fliggy. The tiered program, with six levels (Bronze to Black Diamond) and five star levels within each, offers escalating benefits based on “Taobao Points.” Perks range from shopping discounts to travel benefits. Membership tiers are updated quarterly. Black Diamond, the highest tier, is invitation-only. Spending across Taobao, Ele.me, and Fliggy will contribute to point accumulation. 88VIP members receive an automatic upgrade.

Cathay Pacific is increasing its order for Boeing 777-9 passenger jets, adding 14 aircraft for a total commitment of 35. The 777-9 offers a 20% reduction in fuel consumption and emissions and a 40% decrease in noise. This will allow Cathay Pacific to expand its fleet, improve operational efficiencies, and meet sustainability goals, while also strengthening its brand as a provider of premium air travel with extended long-haul routes. The order reinforces Boeing’s role in aerospace and its contribution to economic growth and sustainability.

A 2007 paper proposing a connection between ancient Chinese and the origins of English has sparked debate. The paper suggests similarities between the Code of Hammurabi and the Shang Dynasty, and posits that English words could be derived from ancient Chinese. Author Professor Li Rongjian welcomes scholarly discussion and acknowledges the evolution of his views. He emphasizes academic discourse and cautions against personal attacks. The paper hypothesizes that Indo-European speaking Britons originated in the Eurasian steppes and that ancient Chinese was a major language in the ancient Near East.

The “JiuGui·Freedom Love” baijiu, a collaboration between JiuGui Liquor and Pang Dong Lai supermarket, is attracting scalpers due to its popularity and limited availability. Retailing for 200 yuan per 550ml bottle (1200 yuan/carton), this special edition offers a compelling gross profit margin. Scalpers online are selling cartons for an additional 110-150 yuan, highlighting the difficulty in obtaining the product directly due to purchase restrictions. The baijiu, crafted with aged reserves and a 173-step distillation process, is sold through Pang Dong Lai’s stores and online platforms.