Livestreaming

Rumors allege Chinese livestreamer Xinba is under investigation and detained following claims his “Cotton Secret” sanitary napkins caused cancer. Xin Selection denies the accusations. This follows Xinba’s announcement of retirement due to health issues, handing operations to his wife. Notably, Xinba has announced similar departures before. The controversy stems from numerous reports of cancer diagnoses among users of “Cotton Secret,” which was found to contain thiourea in testing. The company asserts the thiourea levels pose no health risk, and regulators claim the product met standards upon previous inspection. Alleged victims have remained silent since the initial accusations.

Chinese livestreaming star Xinba (Xin Youzhi) announced his (apparent) retirement during his “818” anniversary livestream, citing health reasons. The account will be transferred to Xin Xuan Group, managed by his wife, Chu Ruixue. Xinba addressed skepticism, claiming this retirement is final, despite four previous announcements of stepping back. He officially handed over the account to Chu Ruixue. This announcement comes amidst controversy surrounding his “Cotton Secret” sanitary napkins, which were found to contain high levels of thiourea, a class 3 carcinogen. Xinba has yet to comment on the product safety concerns.

JOYY Inc. reported Q2 2025 revenue of $507.8 million, a 2.7% increase QoQ. Non-livestreaming revenue, primarily BIGO Ads, grew 25.6% YoY, now comprising 26.1% of total revenue. Non-GAAP EBITDA rose 25.7% YoY to $48.2 million. The company reported a GAAP net profit of $60.8 million and non-GAAP net profit of $77.0 million. JOYY is committed to shareholder returns, deploying $135 million in dividends and buybacks in H1 2025, with a plan for further dividends and share repurchases.

Tech figure Luo Yonghao claimed Dong Yuhui’s “With Hui Tong Xing” venture generates a yearly income of 2-3 billion yuan and that Dong needed a loan for housing before leaving New Oriental. “With Hui Tong Xing” denied the claims. New Oriental’s stock surged after Dong’s initial success but plummeted after his official departure in July 2024, erasing HK$3 billion in value, amid concerns about New Oriental’s future without his influence. Dong himself has refuted earlier reports placing his annual income near 2.85 billion yuan, calling them rumours.

Streamlabs launched its Sponsorships platform, offering streamers full control and payouts, with 100% of earnings going to creators during its initial phase. This platform simplifies brand collaborations, providing creators with guaranteed base pay, bonus potential, a dedicated dashboard, and transparent terms. It aims to democratize sponsorships by removing traditional barriers and providing brands with a direct way to engage with creators across various categories.

Former Xuesersi executive “Princess” Chengcheng is returning to the company’s livestreaming channel on June 14th after departing earlier in 2025 for work-life balance. Following her leave, she traveled and launched her own successful personal livestreaming channel. Prior to her departure, she aimed to share a lifestyle-focused approach, discussing learning and education topics.

JOYY Inc. reported strong Q1 2025 results, showcasing revenue of $494.4 million. Non-livestreaming revenue surged 25.3% year-over-year, representing 24.9% of total revenue. Significant growth was observed in both GAAP and non-GAAP operating profit, with operational efficiency reflected in operating margins. The company also returned value to shareholders through dividends and share repurchases, and is focusing on diversification through core livestreaming and the expanding BIGO Ads platform.