https://www.scmp.com/rss/521952/feed Pop Mart: A leading entity in the designer toy industry, Beijing-based Pop Mart specialises in collectible ’blind box’ toys and consumer goods. Primarily serving young adults, particularly Generation Z women, they are known for pioneering the "Pop Toy IP + Blind Box" model in China and achieving significant global expansion. Their business focuses on IP creation, retail through stores and Robo-shops, and fostering a collector community. However, the company faces criticism regarding the... en https://assets.i-scmp.com/static/img/icons/scmp-meta-1200x630.png https://www.scmp.com Zhu Wenqian,Daniel Ren Zhu Wenqian,Daniel Ren Chinese companies – from sectors as diverse as bubble tea, budget retail and cars – are expanding their presence in Brazil, with analysts saying the robust trade ties between China and Latin America’s biggest economy could help pave the way for further investment. Mixue Group, known for its affordable ice cream and beverages, opened its first Brazil outlet on Saturday, drawing large crowds in Sao Paulo, the country’s largest city. The opening marked its third store in the Americas after... https://www.scmp.com/business/china-business/article/3349982/chinese-firms-target-brazil-it-becomes-magnet-expansion?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/business/china-business/article/3349982/chinese-firms-target-brazil-it-becomes-magnet-expansion?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 14 Apr 2026 06:57:44 +0000 Yulu Ao Yulu Ao Chinese toymaker Pop Mart remains under pressure despite carrying out six share buy-backs over the past few days following a sell-off after its results, raising questions over whether the weakness reflects concerns about its Labubu-led growth and valuation. The Beijing-based company has stepped up efforts to support its share price through market purchases. Pop Mart bought back 700,000 shares on Thursday at prices ranging from HK$140.90 to HK$142.30, for a total of HK$99.2 million (US$12.6... https://www.scmp.com/business/china-business/article/3348876/chinas-pop-mart-struggles-stem-slide-despite-buy-backs-amid-labubu-reliance-concerns?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/business/china-business/article/3348876/chinas-pop-mart-struggles-stem-slide-despite-buy-backs-amid-labubu-reliance-concerns?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 03 Apr 2026 04:03:57 +0000 Cao Li Cao Li Hong Kong stocks dropped on Monday as escalating tensions in the Middle East sent oil prices to recent highs. Over the weekend, Yemen’s Iran-backed Houthi rebels launched attacks directly on Israel, which intensified strikes on Tehran. The US has also deployed additional military forces to the Middle East. The escalation pushed up oil prices, with Brent crude jumping as much as 3.7 per cent to US$116.80 a barrel, its highest in more than a week, while West Texas Intermediate rose to US$101 a... https://www.scmp.com/business/article/3348360/hong-kong-stocks-fall-asia-iran-conflict-drives-oil-prices-higher?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/business/article/3348360/hong-kong-stocks-fall-asia-iran-conflict-drives-oil-prices-higher?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 30 Mar 2026 06:10:13 +0000 Zhu Wenqian Zhu Wenqian Chinese toymaker Pop Mart reported strong annual growth in revenue and net profit for 2025, but not enough to alleviate investor fears that the company remains too reliant on the Labubu phenomenon. Annual revenue jumped 184.7 per cent from a year earlier to 37.12 billion yuan (US$5.4 billion), while net profit surged 284.5 per cent to 13.08 billion yuan, the company said on Wednesday. However, its Hong Kong-listed shares plunged 22.5 per cent to HK$168.30 on Wednesday, marking the biggest drop... https://www.scmp.com/business/article/3347851/pop-mart-shares-dive-despite-soaring-profit-investors-fear-labubu-dependence?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/business/article/3347851/pop-mart-shares-dive-despite-soaring-profit-investors-fear-labubu-dependence?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 25 Mar 2026 08:30:12 +0000 Zhu Wenqian Zhu Wenqian Major Chinese consumer stocks listed in Hong Kong rose immediately after reporting strong full-year earnings, but retreated on Wednesday. Analysts said the results did not point to a broad recovery in the consumer market but instead underscored structural divergence and new growth drivers in mainland China consumption. Jeweller Laopu Gold posted stronger-than-expected results for 2025, with revenues of 27.3 billion yuan (US$4 billion) last year, a 221 per cent surge year on year, while net... https://www.scmp.com/business/banking-finance/article/3347779/china-consumer-stocks-jump-strong-earnings-analysts-warn-limited-recovery?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/business/banking-finance/article/3347779/china-consumer-stocks-jump-strong-earnings-analysts-warn-limited-recovery?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 25 Mar 2026 01:39:46 +0000 Themis Qi Themis Qi About 130 family office decision-makers and affluent second-generation members from across the world attended a dinner held by the Hong Kong government on Monday evening, including billionaire Pop Mart founder, chairman and CEO Wang Ning. The dinner set the stage for the fourth edition of the Wealth for Good in Hong Kong (WGHK) Summit, themed “Building Lasting Legacies”, which will take place on Tuesday, as the city promotes its capabilities as an international wealth management hub amid global... https://www.scmp.com/business/banking-finance/article/3347628/hong-kongs-family-office-summit-draws-pop-mart-billionaire-among-global-guest-list?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/business/banking-finance/article/3347628/hong-kongs-family-office-summit-draws-pop-mart-billionaire-among-global-guest-list?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 23 Mar 2026 14:13:17 +0000 Fran Lu Fran Lu Chinese youth are enthusiastically adopting Japan’s “ita bag” fashion accessory style to showcase their admiration for beloved anime and real-life idols, elevating the culture with their imaginative designs. On China’s popular lifestyle-sharing platform, RedNote, the hashtag #tongbao, which means “painful bag” (the Chinese translation of ita bag), boasts 2.3 billion views. Originating in Japan around the 2010s, the “ita bag” refers to bags adorned with plushies, badges, or small cards... https://www.scmp.com/news/people-culture/trending-china/article/3347384/how-painful-bag-becomes-popular-subculture-fashion-trend-especially-among-china-youth?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/people-culture/trending-china/article/3347384/how-painful-bag-becomes-popular-subculture-fashion-trend-especially-among-china-youth?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 21 Mar 2026 01:00:14 +0000 Zhu Wenqian Zhu Wenqian Chinese toymaker Pop Mart and Sony Pictures Entertainment announced on Thursday a feature film starring Labubu, the company’s most popular character. Analysts said the film was a strategic move to extend Labubu’s intellectual property (IP) value and support medium-term growth, following the trajectory of global icons like Barbie and Hello Kitty. The film, still in early development, would be a mix of live action and computer-generated imagery, Pop Mart said in a statement. Lung Ka-sing, the... https://www.scmp.com/business/companies/article/3347028/pop-marts-labubu-headed-big-screen-collaboration-sony-pictures?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/business/companies/article/3347028/pop-marts-labubu-headed-big-screen-collaboration-sony-pictures?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 19 Mar 2026 00:00:16 +0000 Yulu Ao Yulu Ao Hong Kong stocks rose for a third day on Wednesday as investors tracked overnight gains on Wall Street and took cues from stabilising oil prices, despite lingering geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. The Hang Seng Index added 0.6 per cent to 26,025.42 at the close of trading, marking its third consecutive day of gains and the longest winning streak since January 29. The Hang Seng Tech Index was little changed. On the mainland, the CSI 300 Index gained 0.5 per cent and the Shanghai... https://www.scmp.com/business/china-business/article/3346952/hong-kong-stocks-extend-winning-streak-amid-stabilising-oil-prices-despite-iran-conflict?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/business/china-business/article/3346952/hong-kong-stocks-extend-winning-streak-amid-stabilising-oil-prices-despite-iran-conflict?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 18 Mar 2026 02:04:27 +0000 Vanessa Cai Vanessa Cai China and Japan’s long-standing rivalry has deep historic roots, and relations between the two have taken a significant turn for the worse in recent months. This article, the first in a three-part series, looks at how both countries are trying to turn soft power to their advantage in the battle to shape international opinion. Read the second part here. The rise of China’s soft power has been fuelled by global successes in fields ranging from gaming and films to consumer brands and... https://www.scmp.com/news/china/diplomacy/article/3346910/why-japan-thinks-chinas-growing-cultural-clout-something-it-needs-counter?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/china/diplomacy/article/3346910/why-japan-thinks-chinas-growing-cultural-clout-something-it-needs-counter?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 17 Mar 2026 22:00:08 +0000 Zhu Wenqian Zhu Wenqian Several years ago, prime ground-floor spaces in major shopping malls across Beijing and Shanghai’s business districts were commonly occupied by electric vehicle (EV) showrooms, with staff often escorting customers to car parks for test drives. Many of these stores have now closed amid sluggish EV sales – yet mall owners have not been left disappointed. Instead, a new retail landscape is emerging, filled with tenants who are proving to be even more effective at drawing crowds and boosting rental... https://www.scmp.com/business/article/3346537/china-mall-shuffle-evs-exit-whos-filling-ground-floor-showrooms?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/business/article/3346537/china-mall-shuffle-evs-exit-whos-filling-ground-floor-showrooms?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 15 Mar 2026 04:00:12 +0000 Luna Sun Luna Sun A budget bubble tea chain from China best known for its cheap ice creams and drinks may soon be adding roller coasters and immersive shows to its menu. Mixue, boasting more stores than McDonald’s and growing rapidly outside China, is planning to build a theme park at its headquarters in Zhengzhou, the capital of central China’s Henan province. The park will be based on its Snow King mascot, a singing snowman that has become one of Chinese retailing’s most recognisable intellectual properties... https://www.scmp.com/economy/china-economy/article/3346502/chinese-bubble-tea-chain-mixue-straps-theme-park-project?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/economy/china-economy/article/3346502/chinese-bubble-tea-chain-mixue-straps-theme-park-project?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 15 Mar 2026 02:00:07 +0000 Enoch Yiu Enoch Yiu HSBC Holdings, Xiaomi, AIA, Pop Mart International, Tsingtao Brewery and others are among about 650 listed companies that may need to change their trading unit under proposed reforms by bourse operator Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing (HKEX). Market participants generally support the reform as it would bring Hong Kong’s stock market trading in line with international practices and allow retail investors to more easily trade a wider range of stocks, but they also warn of challenges in... https://www.scmp.com/business/markets/article/3345863/why-hkexs-board-lot-reform-could-pose-challenges-hsbc-and-others?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/business/markets/article/3345863/why-hkexs-board-lot-reform-could-pose-challenges-hsbc-and-others?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 09 Mar 2026 00:15:12 +0000 Cao Li Cao Li Hong Kong stocks extended declines on Tuesday after panic selling gripped global markets, as the US-Iran war kept investors on edge and surging oil prices fuelled inflation concerns. The Hang Seng Index closed 1.1 per cent lower at 25,768.08 after losing 2.1 per cent on Monday. The Hang Seng Tech Index fell 2.3 per cent. On the mainland, the CSI 300 Index slid 1.5 per cent and the Shanghai Composite Index fell 1.4 per cent. Tensions between the US, its allies and Iran have disrupted global oil... https://www.scmp.com/business/markets/article/3345204/hong-kong-stocks-slide-second-day-us-iran-war-rattles-sentiment?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/business/markets/article/3345204/hong-kong-stocks-slide-second-day-us-iran-war-rattles-sentiment?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 03 Mar 2026 02:14:04 +0000 Cao Li Cao Li At Pop Mart’s shop in Hong Kong’s bustling Causeway Bay shopping district, a display of the toymaker’s newly launched character, Merodi, drew little attention on Friday morning. “A few people are buying it,” a salesperson said. “It’s not very well known yet.” The new series, Merodi After School, features a mischievous little girl with the magical ability to talk to animals. It was created by Taiwanese artist Will Chen Wei-hua. The launch came two months after Pop Mart’s previous debut,... https://www.scmp.com/business/companies/article/3344856/merodi-debut-hong-kong-shows-pop-marts-struggle-beyond-ip-darling-labubu?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/business/companies/article/3344856/merodi-debut-hong-kong-shows-pop-marts-struggle-beyond-ip-darling-labubu?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 27 Feb 2026 08:45:18 +0000 Yulu Ao Yulu Ao Hong Kong stocks fell on Friday on the first trading day of the Year of the Horse, led by tech heavyweights, with escalating tensions between the US and Iran hurting sentiment. The Hang Seng Index closed 1.1 per cent lower at 26,413.35, after the market reopened following a three-day holiday for the Lunar New Year. The Hang Seng Tech Index dropped 2.9 per cent. Mainland China’s bourses are closed this week and will reopen on Tuesday. E-commerce major Alibaba Group Holding slumped 4.9 per cent to... https://www.scmp.com/business/china-business/article/3344062/hong-kong-stocks-fall-market-reopens-after-3-day-lunar-new-year-holiday?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/business/china-business/article/3344062/hong-kong-stocks-fall-market-reopens-after-3-day-lunar-new-year-holiday?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 20 Feb 2026 02:04:32 +0000 Themis Qi Themis Qi Around a decade ago, aboard a train winding through China’s landscape, Wang Ning, the founder and chairman of Beijing-founded international art toy brand Pop Mart, shared with designer Kenny Wong Shun-ming the story of his early attempts at entrepreneurship. As a fresh graduate, Wang struggled to sell affordable men’s suits sourced from Yiwu in Zhejiang province, eastern China, experimenting with small-scale arbitrage and learning first-hand how difficult it was to connect products with... https://www.scmp.com/business/companies/article/3343503/can-pop-mart-turn-viral-hits-lasting-icons-molly-and-labubu-offer-answer?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/business/companies/article/3343503/can-pop-mart-turn-viral-hits-lasting-icons-molly-and-labubu-offer-answer?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 14 Feb 2026 02:00:13 +0000 Yulu Ao Yulu Ao Hong Kong stocks fell on Thursday after Beijing’s market regulator summoned major online platforms for talks over irregularities in the online sale of train tickets ahead of Lunar New Year, triggering losses among technology heavyweights. The Hang Seng Index dropped 0.9 per cent to 27,032.54 at the close, ending a three-day streak of winning sessions. The Hang Seng Tech Index declined 1.7 per cent. On the mainland, the CSI 300 Index and the Shanghai Composite Index both added 0.1 per... https://www.scmp.com/business/markets/article/3343249/hong-kong-stocks-slip-beijing-regulator-summons-tech-firms-train-ticket-complaints?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/business/markets/article/3343249/hong-kong-stocks-slip-beijing-regulator-summons-tech-firms-train-ticket-complaints?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 12 Feb 2026 01:57:50 +0000 Yulu Ao Yulu Ao Hong Kong stocks rose on Wednesday, supported by holiday-related flows ahead of the Lunar New Year break, with investors adjusting positions as the market heads into a shortened trading schedule next week. The Hang Seng Index rose 0.3 per cent to 27,266.38 at the close of trading, adding to the 0.6 per cent gain recorded on Tuesday. The Hang Seng Tech Index climbed 0.9 per cent. On the mainland, the CSI 300 Index fell 0.2 per cent and the Shanghai Composite Index added 0.1 per cent. Wuxi... https://www.scmp.com/business/china-business/article/3343127/hong-kong-stocks-rise-positive-holiday-bias-sets-ahead-lunar-new-year?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/business/china-business/article/3343127/hong-kong-stocks-rise-positive-holiday-bias-sets-ahead-lunar-new-year?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 11 Feb 2026 01:52:29 +0000 Cao Li Cao Li Pop Mart’s shares climbed on Monday after the Chinese toymaker highlighted strong operating momentum at its annual gathering, reinforcing investor confidence ahead of earnings. The company’s Hong Kong-listed stock rose 8.6 per cent to HK$264.20 in afternoon trading before edging down to close 5.8 per cent up at HK$257.20. Shares are now up more than 37 per cent year to date, though still about 24 per cent below their August peak of HK$339.80. Founder Wang Ning said at the company’s annual party... https://www.scmp.com/business/article/3342884/chinas-pop-mart-gains-earnings-hopes-investors-eye-growth-beyond-labubu?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/business/article/3342884/chinas-pop-mart-gains-earnings-hopes-investors-eye-growth-beyond-labubu?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 09 Feb 2026 05:15:40 +0000 Zhang Shidong Zhang Shidong Hong Kong stocks rose alongside other markets in Asia, as sentiment towards global risk assets stabilised and the victory of Japan’s ruling party in the parliamentary election boosted risk appetite. The Hang Seng Index added 1.8 per cent to 27,027.16 at the close, the highest in a week. The Hang Seng Tech Index gained 1.3 per cent. On the mainland, the CSI 300 Index climbed 1.6 per cent and the Shanghai Composite Index rose 1.4 per cent. Biotech firm Innovent Biologics surged 7.4 per cent to... https://www.scmp.com/business/china-business/article/3342863/hong-kong-stocks-start-week-strong-note-sentiment-stabilisation-japan-election?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/business/china-business/article/3342863/hong-kong-stocks-start-week-strong-note-sentiment-stabilisation-japan-election?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 09 Feb 2026 02:06:04 +0000 Zhu Wenqian Zhu Wenqian As the Year of the Horse approaches, Chinese consumers are hunting online for mascots, dolls and charms themed after the zodiac animal, favouring soft, round and playful designs over formal styles, in what industry observers say places more weight on emotional fulfilment than on material possessions or brand prestige. This craze is boosting retail sales for plush toys and gold accessories, as is evident in toymaker Pop Mart’s sold-out Have a Good Run series of plush pendants, as well as brisk... https://www.scmp.com/business/china-business/article/3342795/chinas-year-horse-shoppers-let-emotional-satisfaction-take-reins?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/business/china-business/article/3342795/chinas-year-horse-shoppers-let-emotional-satisfaction-take-reins?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 08 Feb 2026 02:30:09 +0000 Yulu Ao Yulu Ao Hong Kong stocks edged up on Thursday, as robust southbound inflows overcame losses in technology shares driven by valuation and AI-related concerns. The Hang Seng Index ended 0.1 per cent higher at 26,885.24 as of the close of trading, after dropping as much as 1.6 per cent. The Hang Seng Tech Index gained 0.7 per cent. On the mainland, both the CSI 300 Index and the Shanghai Composite Index lost 0.6 per cent. Search-engine operator Baidu rose 2.7 per cent to HK$140.90 after unveiling a US$5... https://www.scmp.com/business/china-business/article/3342440/alibaba-kuaishou-smic-drop-hong-kong-tech-stock-sell-ai-fears-grip?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/business/china-business/article/3342440/alibaba-kuaishou-smic-drop-hong-kong-tech-stock-sell-ai-fears-grip?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 05 Feb 2026 02:13:15 +0000 Yulu Ao Yulu Ao Hong Kong stocks rose on Tuesday amid stabilising risk sentiment, but losses in technology shares capped the upside amid market chatter that Chinese authorities may target financial and internet value-added services for tax-rate adjustments. The Hang Seng Index climbed 0.2 per cent to 26,834.77 at the close of trading, after rising as much as 1.3 per cent earlier. The Hang Seng Tech Index fell 1.1 per cent. On the mainland, the CSI 300 Index gained 1.2 per cent and the Shanghai Composite Index... https://www.scmp.com/business/china-business/article/3342166/hong-kong-stocks-rise-easing-geopolitical-tensions-precious-metals-gain?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/business/china-business/article/3342166/hong-kong-stocks-rise-easing-geopolitical-tensions-precious-metals-gain?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 03 Feb 2026 01:48:07 +0000 Yulu Ao Yulu Ao Labubu toymaker Pop Mart plans to establish its European headquarters in London, as UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer met the company’s founder during a high-profile China visit aimed at rebuilding Britain’s economic ties with the world’s second largest economy. That plan was revealed at a closed-door CEO round table on Friday during the UK-China Business Forum, where Starmer met a group of Chinese business leaders that included Pop Mart founder and CEO Wang Ning. “London stands at the heart of the... https://www.scmp.com/business/china-business/article/3341948/labubu-toymaker-pop-mart-picks-london-european-headquarters-rolls-out-new-stores?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/business/china-business/article/3341948/labubu-toymaker-pop-mart-picks-london-european-headquarters-rolls-out-new-stores?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 31 Jan 2026 11:30:11 +0000 Themis Qi Themis Qi Pop Mart extended its rally in Hong Kong on Wednesday after unveiling an accelerated push into the US market, underscoring how overseas expansion is helping the Chinese toymaker offset lingering pressures at home. The maker of Labubu figurines plans to open more than 20 new stores across the United States this year, under a partnership with US mall operator Simon Property Group, which announced the roll-out in mid-January. The outlets will be located in major shopping centres including King of... https://www.scmp.com/business/china-business/article/3341552/pop-mart-rallies-hong-kong-aggressive-push-us-retail-market?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/business/china-business/article/3341552/pop-mart-rallies-hong-kong-aggressive-push-us-retail-market?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 28 Jan 2026 09:30:15 +0000 Fran Lu Fran Lu Chinese toymaker Pop Mart’s new blind box series, inspired by the Buddhist ritual instrument called muyu, or “wooden fish,” has become the latest sensation in China following the success of Labubu. The series, titled Pucky Knock Knock, was launched in January and is priced at 99 yuan (US$14) per piece. This plush toy keychain series showcases a charming and fluffy character that holds a wooden drumstick. One can pull out the drumstick to knock on the toy’s head, producing the electronic sound of... https://www.scmp.com/news/people-culture/trending-china/article/3341358/china-new-blind-box-series-features-cute-muyu-inspired-toys-help-gain-merits-reduce-stress?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/people-culture/trending-china/article/3341358/china-new-blind-box-series-features-cute-muyu-inspired-toys-help-gain-merits-reduce-stress?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 28 Jan 2026 06:00:08 +0000 Zhu Wenqian Zhu Wenqian Young consumers’ spending on anime, comics, games and pop toys, alongside growing wellness expenditures by senior consumers, will continue to shape China’s consumption landscape this year, according to HSBC Holdings. Against this backdrop, the coming nine-day Spring Festival holiday was set to benefit the food, hotel and tourism sectors, HSBC said in a trend report, adding that this tailwind would propel first-quarter growth in the food sector, particularly for snack food and dairy... https://www.scmp.com/business/china-business/article/3341239/china-needs-silver-and-young-spenders-plus-policy-support-consumption-growth-hsbc?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/business/china-business/article/3341239/china-needs-silver-and-young-spenders-plus-policy-support-consumption-growth-hsbc?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 26 Jan 2026 07:33:54 +0000 Yulu Ao Yulu Ao Hong Kong stocks closed marginally higher on Monday amid geopolitical tensions, with some investors rotating into Chinese equities as a hedge against US market volatility, while optimism over a nascent rebound in the city’s property market pushed developers higher. Haven assets such as gold and silver surged to new highs. The Hang Seng Index rose less than 0.1 per cent to 26,765.52, after dropping as much as 0.5 per cent. The Hang Seng Tech Index lost 1.2 per cent. On the mainland, the CSI 300... https://www.scmp.com/business/china-business/article/3341194/pop-mart-zijin-mining-lead-hong-kong-stocks-higher-early-trading?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/business/china-business/article/3341194/pop-mart-zijin-mining-lead-hong-kong-stocks-higher-early-trading?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 26 Jan 2026 02:01:57 +0000 Yulu Ao Yulu Ao Shares of Labubu maker Pop Mart surged on Friday, extending this week’s gain to 23 per cent, after its CEO appeared in a high-profile state media interview and a newly launched product went viral amid growing investor appetite for consumer stocks. In a documentary interview released by Xinhua news agency at noon, founder and CEO Wang Ning reflected on the company’s entrepreneurial journey and outlined his long-term vision, offering rare public remarks that investors viewed as a signal of... https://www.scmp.com/business/china-business/article/3340938/labubu-maker-pop-mart-rallies-new-toy-trend-and-state-media-spotlight-spark-confidence?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/business/china-business/article/3340938/labubu-maker-pop-mart-rallies-new-toy-trend-and-state-media-spotlight-spark-confidence?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 23 Jan 2026 06:15:20 +0000 Zhang Shidong Zhang Shidong A rebound in Hong Kong stocks continued on Friday after China’s central bank signalled more room for policy loosening and strong US economic data reinforced bullish bets on global equities, paring a weekly loss spurred by geopolitical jitters. The Hang Seng Index gained 0.5 per cent to 26,749.51 at the close, finishing at a one-week high and trimming the decline for the five-day period to 0.4 per cent. The Hang Seng Tech Index rose 0.6 per cent. On the mainland, movements in stock prices... https://www.scmp.com/business/china-business/article/3340920/hong-kong-stocks-rise-third-day-china-easing-hope-and-resilient-us-data?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/business/china-business/article/3340920/hong-kong-stocks-rise-third-day-china-easing-hope-and-resilient-us-data?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 23 Jan 2026 01:57:14 +0000 Cao Li Cao Li Shares of Chinese toymaker Pop Mart rallied nearly 10 per cent on Tuesday morning before closing more than 9 per cent higher after the company announced its first share buy-back in nearly two years, following a decline from last year’s peak. Pop Mart’s Hong Kong-listed shares rose to HK$198.70 at the open as investors welcomed the move. Shares closed 9.1 per cent higher at HK$197.20. The stock remains below last year’s closing level of HK$200.20, and more than 40 per cent off its August peak,... https://www.scmp.com/business/article/3340498/labubu-maker-pop-mart-surges-10-hong-kong-us32-million-buy-back?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/business/article/3340498/labubu-maker-pop-mart-surges-10-hong-kong-us32-million-buy-back?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 20 Jan 2026 04:05:16 +0000 Zhang Shidong Zhang Shidong Jitters over China’s slowdown and uncertainty from geopolitical developments rattled Hong Kong stocks on Tuesday, leading the benchmark to its longest decline in two months. The Hang Seng Index fell 0.3 per cent to 26,487.51 at the close, capping a fourth day of declines for the longest such stretch since November 19. The Hang Seng Tech Index dropped 1.2 per cent. On the mainland, the CSI 300 Index slumped 0.3 per cent and the Shanghai Composite Index was little changed. The benchmark 10-year... https://www.scmp.com/business/china-business/article/3340487/hong-kong-stocks-trade-close-1-week-low-china-slowdown-jitters-tariff-dispute?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/business/china-business/article/3340487/hong-kong-stocks-trade-close-1-week-low-china-slowdown-jitters-tariff-dispute?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 20 Jan 2026 01:50:24 +0000 Bloomberg Bloomberg Fans of brands as varied as Le Creuset, E.L.F. Beauty, Michaels Companies and the Miami Heat can make a gamble – spend some nominal amount of money to get merchandise worth much more. The catch? Shoppers don’t know what they’re getting until they open the box – a phenomenon known as “mystery” or “blind” shopping. “It’s gamified commerce,” said Shreyas Sekar, assistant professor of operations management at the University of Toronto Scarborough, who has closely tracked the rise of blind boxes. The... https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/lifestyle/leisure/article/3340128/what-mystery-shopping-labubu-leads-way-other-retailers-join?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/lifestyle/leisure/article/3340128/what-mystery-shopping-labubu-leads-way-other-retailers-join?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 18 Jan 2026 10:00:35 +0000 Cao Li Cao Li Hong Kong stocks rose on Tuesday as global investors broadened their focus beyond US markets, fuelling gains across Asian equities, while the yuan advanced to its strongest level against the US dollar since May 2023. The Hang Seng Index closed 0.9 per cent up at 26,848.47 after earlier gaining more than 2 per cent to 27,143 – its highest since last November. The Hang Seng Tech Index was little changed after advancing more than 2.4 per cent in the morning. On the mainland, the CSI 300 Index and... https://www.scmp.com/business/article/3339662/hong-kong-stocks-climb-yuan-hits-strongest-level-nearly-three-years?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/business/article/3339662/hong-kong-stocks-climb-yuan-hits-strongest-level-nearly-three-years?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 13 Jan 2026 02:31:47 +0000 Zhang Shidong Zhang Shidong A rotation into Chinese technology companies drove Hong Kong stocks to their highest in seven weeks on Tuesday as investors sought alternatives for frothy US peers, while a gauge of Chinese mainland equities refreshed a decade high. The Hang Seng Index advanced 1.4 per cent to 26,710.45 at the close, the highest level since November 13. The Hang Seng Tech Index jumped 1.5 per cent. On the mainland, the Shanghai Composite Index climbed 1.5 per cent, closing at the highest since July 2015, while... https://www.scmp.com/business/china-business/article/3338843/hong-kong-stocks-hit-7-week-high-investors-rotate-chinese-tech-names?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/business/china-business/article/3338843/hong-kong-stocks-hit-7-week-high-investors-rotate-chinese-tech-names?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 06 Jan 2026 02:28:22 +0000 Yulu Ao Yulu Ao Hong Kong stocks made a strong start to 2026 on Friday, as investors bet on economic growth after both the mainland and Hong Kong markets recorded bull runs in 2025. The Hang Seng Index surged 2.8 per cent to 26,338.47 at the close, notching the biggest gain since May 12 and pushing the benchmark to the highest level since November 17. The Hang Seng Tech Index added 3.6 per cent. On the mainland, the markets were closed for public holidays. Leading the advance, search-engine giant Baidu jumped... https://www.scmp.com/business/china-business/article/3338452/hong-kong-stocks-jump-2026-investors-bet-continued-bull-run?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/business/china-business/article/3338452/hong-kong-stocks-jump-2026-investors-bet-continued-bull-run?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 02 Jan 2026 02:27:35 +0000 Coco Feng Coco Feng China-founded start-up Tripo AI on Tuesday launched a major update to its flagship platform, renamed Tripo Studio 1.0, that speeds up artificial intelligence-driven 3D content creation by up to 200 per cent compared with its previous version, as the company’s international user community continues to expand. A pioneer in large-scale, general-purpose 3D models, Tripo AI’s user base has more than doubled to 6.5 million from 3 million in August, company founder and CEO Simon Song Yachen told the... https://www.scmp.com/tech/tech-trends/article/3338202/china-founded-tripo-ai-updates-3d-content-creation-platform-users-more-double?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/tech/tech-trends/article/3338202/china-founded-tripo-ai-updates-3d-content-creation-platform-users-more-double?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 30 Dec 2025 23:00:09 +0000 Xiaofei Xu Xiaofei Xu The first physical store of Chinese-owned fast-fashion giant Shein – which opened in central Paris in November amid heated protests – has become a new retail destination for many denizens of the French capital as they rush to finish their Christmas shopping. Hundreds of customers wandered among the racks of clothing, rifling through items carrying tags with rock-bottom prices, including a €66.99 (US$79) leather jacket and a €78.99 puffer coat. Those wishing to use the fitting rooms at the Shein... https://www.scmp.com/economy/global-economy/article/3337687/shein-labubu-french-shoppers-are-buying-chinese-christmas?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/economy/global-economy/article/3337687/shein-labubu-french-shoppers-are-buying-chinese-christmas?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 25 Dec 2025 09:00:07 +0000 Yulu Ao Yulu Ao Hong Kong stocks rose on Monday alongside Asia-Pacific markets, with traders upbeat about finishing the year on a strong note. The Hang Seng Index closed 0.4 per cent higher at 25,801.77, paring some of the 1.1 per cent loss last week. The Hang Seng Tech Index gained 0.9 per cent. On the mainland, the CSI 300 Index climbed 1 per cent and the Shanghai Composite Index added 0.7 per cent. Trading in Hong Kong will be shortened over the holiday period, with an early close on Christmas Eve, while the... https://www.scmp.com/business/china-business/article/3337259/alibaba-pop-mart-lead-hong-kong-stocks-higher-christmas-trading-break?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/business/china-business/article/3337259/alibaba-pop-mart-lead-hong-kong-stocks-higher-christmas-trading-break?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 22 Dec 2025 02:32:42 +0000 Daniel Ren Daniel Ren Chinese toymaker Pop Mart, maker of the popular Labubu monster dolls, launched the second edition of its pop culture magazine as part of a strategy to widen its customer base and grow its intellectual property (IP) portfolio. The company, which sells toys in blind boxes, started selling the Playground magazine for 39.9 yuan (US$5.7), with the theme of exploring the future. “The magazine embodies emotional value and aligns with the younger generation’s desire for self expression,” Vicson Guevara,... https://www.scmp.com/business/china-business/article/3337236/chinese-toymaker-pop-mart-targets-wider-audience-playground-magazine-grow-ip?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/business/china-business/article/3337236/chinese-toymaker-pop-mart-targets-wider-audience-playground-magazine-grow-ip?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 21 Dec 2025 13:03:52 +0000 Zhang Shidong Zhang Shidong Hong Kong stocks traded sideways on Thursday, with technology stocks retreating on growing anxiety that a global boom in artificial intelligence could turn into a bubble. The Hang Seng Index edged up 0.1 per cent to 25,498.13 at the close. The Hang Seng Tech Index dropped 0.7 per cent. On the mainland, the CSI 300 Index slid 0.6 per cent and the Shanghai Composite Index added 0.2 per cent. Xiaomi, the Chinese smartphone and electric vehicle maker, tumbled 2.5 per cent to HK$40.20 and Pop Mart... https://www.scmp.com/business/china-business/article/3336845/hong-kong-stocks-resume-decline-tech-giants-stumble-ai-bubble-jitters?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/business/china-business/article/3336845/hong-kong-stocks-resume-decline-tech-giants-stumble-ai-bubble-jitters?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 18 Dec 2025 02:32:02 +0000 Syrena Jin Syrena Jin A decade ago, the publication of three picture books – Lung Ka-sing’s “The Monsters Trilogy” – brought Labubu into the world. Today, a new exhibition is celebrating the illustrator and toy designer’s elfen characters. “Monsters by Monsters: Now and Then”, open to the public at the Asia Society Hong Kong Centre until January 4, features previously unreleased Labubu and Monster sketches and sculptures. Reflecting on the past decade, Lung tells the Post: “For me, the most important evolution is the... https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/arts/article/3336474/labubus-growth-books-cultural-viral-doll-craze-shown-hong-kong-exhibition?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/arts/article/3336474/labubus-growth-books-cultural-viral-doll-craze-shown-hong-kong-exhibition?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 15 Dec 2025 23:15:09 +0000 Wee Kek Koon Wee Kek Koon You must have seen Labubu dolls – those furry, razor-toothed monsters that come in an array of colours and hang from every third person’s bag – though perhaps you do so less frequently now than in 2024. I suppose they are cute, a momentary distraction from the fraught world we live in, but for many, these charming critters serve another, humourless purpose: they are investments. Rare or limited-edition Labubus have commanded prices 10 to 20 times their original retail value. Their manufacturer,... https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/chinese-culture/article/3336157/ancient-chinas-labubu-doll-craze-also-saw-fans-splurge-silly-money-toys?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/chinese-culture/article/3336157/ancient-chinas-labubu-doll-craze-also-saw-fans-splurge-silly-money-toys?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 13 Dec 2025 00:15:07 +0000 Yulu Ao Yulu Ao Hong Kong stocks closed flat on Thursday as the US Federal Reserve’s rate cut briefly lifted sentiment, while investors still awaited policy signals ahead of China’s central economic work conference. The Hang Seng Index edged down less than 0.1 per cent to 25,530.51 as of the close of trading, after rising as much as 1 per cent earlier. The Hang Seng Tech Index fell 0.8 per cent. On the mainland, the CSI 300 Index dropped 0.9 per cent and the Shanghai Composite Index lost 0.7 per cent. Chinese... https://www.scmp.com/business/china-business/article/3335980/hong-kong-stocks-advance-china-stimulus-bets-and-fed-interest-rate-cut?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/business/china-business/article/3335980/hong-kong-stocks-advance-china-stimulus-bets-and-fed-interest-rate-cut?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 11 Dec 2025 02:25:03 +0000 Mia Nurmamat Mia Nurmamat With their domestic profits narrowing and production capacity expanding, China’s firms are continuing to widen their overseas footprints in search of new, more lucrative markets. In this series, we examine China Inc.’s next phase of “going global” and the complex, challenging international environment its companies have chosen to enter. The “Made in China” label has evolved considerably in recent decades. Mostly found affixed to low-cost goods of relative simplicity in China’s early years as a... https://www.scmp.com/economy/global-economy/article/3333074/chinas-companies-become-industry-leaders-where-world-are-they-going?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/economy/global-economy/article/3333074/chinas-companies-become-industry-leaders-where-world-are-they-going?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 04 Dec 2025 07:52:55 +0000 Zhang Shidong Zhang Shidong Hong Kong stocks showed signs of fatigue after a three-day gain spurred by hopes of an interest-rate cut in the US, as investors assessed the outlook for financial easing against China’s economic outlook. The Hang Seng Index rose 0.1 per cent to 25,945.93 at the close, giving up most of a 0.8 per cent gain earlier in the day but extending a 2.8 per cent advance for the previous three days. The Hang Seng Tech Index lost 0.4 per cent. On the mainland, the CSI 300 Index slipped 0.1 per cent and the... https://www.scmp.com/business/china-business/article/3334299/hong-kong-stocks-close-2-week-high-hopes-us-rate-cuts-fuel-rebound?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/business/china-business/article/3334299/hong-kong-stocks-close-2-week-high-hopes-us-rate-cuts-fuel-rebound?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 27 Nov 2025 02:34:35 +0000 Zhang Shidong,Daniel Ren Zhang Shidong,Daniel Ren Innovent Biologics will join the Hang Seng Index next month in the latest quarterly review as the compiler of the city’s stock benchmark presses ahead with its plan to increase the number of constituents to 100. The biotech firm, based in eastern Jiangsu province, has become the only new constituent of the blue-chip indicator, one month after it signed an US$11.4 billion outsourcing deal with Japan’s Takeda Pharmaceuticals to co-develop and commercialise three specific investigational cancer... https://www.scmp.com/business/china-business/article/3333744/innovent-first-chinese-biotech-firm-market-weight-loss-drug-joins-hang-seng-index?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/business/china-business/article/3333744/innovent-first-chinese-biotech-firm-market-weight-loss-drug-joins-hang-seng-index?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 21 Nov 2025 13:01:10 +0000 Cao Li Cao Li Two giant, furry Labubu balloons will debut next week at the annual Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York. A brown Labubu and a pink Mokoko, both part of the Labubu family, will be the lead features on Chinese toymaker Pop Mart International’s “Friendsgiving in Pop City” float on Thursday at the 99th parade. They will appear alongside characters such as Skullpanda, Dimoo and Molly. “Our goal at Pop Mart is to light up passion and bring joy, and Macy’s Parade has been doing that for nearly a... https://www.scmp.com/business/article/3333654/pop-marts-labubu-balloons-debut-99th-macys-thanksgiving-parade-new-york?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/business/article/3333654/pop-marts-labubu-balloons-debut-99th-macys-thanksgiving-parade-new-york?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 21 Nov 2025 06:50:41 +0000 Yulu Ao Yulu Ao Hong Kong stocks fell for a fourth day on Wednesday, with investors taking their cue from Wall Street’s overnight decline amid rising doubts over lofty artificial intelligence valuations and the timing of US rate cuts. The Hang Seng Index dropped 0.4 per cent to 25,830.65 at the close of trading, adding to the 1.7 per cent loss on Tuesday. The Hang Seng Tech Index fell 0.7 per cent. On the mainland, the CSI 300 Index gained 0.4 per cent and the Shanghai Composite rose 0.2 per cent. Among major... https://www.scmp.com/business/china-business/article/3333334/hong-kong-stocks-wobble-lofty-ai-valuations-uncertain-fed-policy-path?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/business/china-business/article/3333334/hong-kong-stocks-wobble-lofty-ai-valuations-uncertain-fed-policy-path?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 19 Nov 2025 02:34:31 +0000