Alibaba

Baidu

ByteDance

Meituan

Pinduoduo

Tencent

Most Followed

KrASIA Connection

China's Auto Sector

Earnings Reports

Inside China's Startups

Venture Roundup

Our Events

View All

Collections

News

Features

Insights

Ecosystem

DeepSeek

Kuaishou

Li Auto

Xiaohongshu

Xiaomi

Xpeng

On the Radar

Events

Latest

About

36Kr (EN)

Consumer

Robotics

Fintech

… garments are known for their high price points. “We only target the high-end market,” Loeffler said.
During a recent visit to China, Loeffler met with companies such as Kailas and noted shifting demands among Chinese partners. They are seeking shorter development cycles, a broader range of textiles, increased customization, and faster delivery times to remain competitive in the market.
Swedish outdoor group Fenix Outdoor’s Fjallraven brand has also accelerated its store openings in China through its long-time local distributor, Yangzhou Jinquan. Recently, Fjallraven renewed its partnership with Gore-Tex, leveraging a fluorine-free material developed by Gore-Tex to align with its strict environmental standards.
Whether through technological advancements or sustainability efforts, the vitality of a market is often defined by its capacity for innovation. While Bosideng may have entered the high-end outdoor apparel race later than competitors like Anta, the growing demand for premium functional clothing provides ample opportunities for expansion. Leveraging Moose Knuckles’ established reputation and craftsmanship, Bosideng seeks to address its current challenges in the luxury segment.
However, the company faces a delicate balancing act: preserving Moose Knuckles’ brand identity while managing costs effectively and safeguarding its prestige post-acquisition. Moose Knuckles’ appeal in Canada is rooted in its use of rare materials and distinctive designs, with its fox fur–trimmed hoods standing out as an iconic feature.
As “L” noted: “If they switch to other materials, they might still sell, but maintaining a sense of professionalism and exclusivity will depend on Bosideng’s finesse.”
KrASIA Connection features translated and adapted content that was originally published by 36Kr. This <a href="https://36kr.com/p/3095177312090248">article</a> was written by He Zhexin for 36Kr.

Bosideng’s luxury pivot: Can Moose Knuckles elevate its outdoor game?

Fashion

Creative

Retail

Consumer Services

China

… superapp operator Grab acquired the operations of Nham24, a leading food delivery platform in Cambodia, following regulatory approval.</li>
<li aria-level="1">Chinese internet giant Alibaba Group announced the sale of its 78.7% stake in Sun Art Retail Group, the operator of RT-Mart hypermarkets, to private equity firm DCP Capital for HKD 12.298 billion (USD 1.6 billion).</li>
<li aria-level="1">Khazanah Nasional Berhad, Malaysia’s sovereign wealth fund, made strategic investments in the Cambrian Fund and California-based AI company Syntiant under its Dana Impak initiative.</li>
</ul>
If there are any news or updates you'd like us to feature, get in touch with us at: <a href="mailto:hello@kr-asia.com">hello@kr-asia.com</a>.
<style>.addcaption{font-size:14px!important;line-height:20px!important;color:inherit;padding-top:8px;border-top:1px solid #e8e8e8}.entry-content blockquote p{font-size:22px;line-height:33px}@media only screen and (max-width:767px){.entry-content blockquote p{font-size:20px;line-height:32px}.entry-content h3{font-size:24px;line-height:32px}}</style>

Deals in brief: Paper battery maker Flint lands seed funding, Pimax raises over RMB 100 million for premium VR headsets, other China deals, and more

Venture Capital

Private Equity

Investment

Merger &amp; Acquisition

Singapore

Southeast Asia

… href="https://www.cnbc.com/2024/03/22/kevin-oleary-on-why-he-wants-to-buy-tiktok-.html">Kevin O’Leary</a> have both signaled interest and claimed to have secured commitments from supporting investors. Notably, Oracle—whose chairman Larry Ellison backed Musk’s Twitter purchase—partnered with Walmart in a failed <a href="https://corporate.walmart.com/news/2020/09/19/walmart-statement-about-potential-investment-in-and-commercial-agreements-with-tiktok-global">2020 bid</a> for part of TikTok. The prospect of their renewed interest remains speculative but not implausible.
<h3>The bigger picture</h3>
Ultimately, the ongoing TikTok saga isn’t just about one app—it’s a proxy for larger tensions between the US and China. Washington’s efforts to curb Chinese tech influence echo Beijing’s longstanding restrictions on US platforms like Facebook and Google. A TikTok sale or ban would mark a significant escalation in this rivalry, with ripple effects for other foreign-owned platforms operating in the US.
As the Supreme Court deliberates, the implications of its decision extend beyond ByteDance. Whether TikTok survives, is sold, or is banned, the outcome will reshape how nations navigate the intersection of digital sovereignty, innovation, and security. For now, TikTok remains a flashpoint in a tech cold war with no clear resolution in sight.

TikTok's ticking clock: The app’s fate in the US hangs in the balance

TikTok

Northeast Asia

Short Video

Live Streaming

Video

Content

A recently released demonstration video by Boston Dynamics is making the rounds in the robotics industry, showcasing its humanoid robot, Atlas, in a festive setting. Without the constraints of bulky cables, Atlas, dressed in Christmas attire, performs impressive moves, including squats, backward leaps, and a near-perfect backflip.
<div class="embed-container"><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/sFkUH5XFHKU?autoplay=0&amp;mute=1&amp;origin=https://kr-asia.com" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen> height="278" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" data-ytbridge="vidSurrogate2"></iframe></div>
While Boston Dynamics has yet to reveal the price of the electric version of Atlas, an industry insider told 36Kr that the estimated cost is around RMB 1 million (USD 140,000).
On the same day the Atlas video was released, the Chinese robotics market responded. Engine AI unveiled its humanoid robot, PM01, with a starting price of just RMB 88,000 (USD 12,320).
Engine AI’s PM01 reflects a broader trend of decreasing costs in humanoid robots. In May 2024, Unitree Robotics launched its Unitree G1, priced at RMB 99,000 (USD 13,860), breaking the RMB 100,000 threshold. Historically, high manufacturing costs have been a significant barrier to the mass production of humanoid robots. For example, Xiaomi introduced a humanoid robot in 2022 with a per-unit cost exceeding RMB 600,000 (USD 84,000), which made large-scale production impractical. However, as more startups enter the industry, the landscape is shifting.
Currently, the humanoid robot market remains in its early stages, with fragmented customer bases and no standardized pricing. Offering low prices has become a key strategy to attract customers and drive product shipments. According to an industry source cited by 36Kr, price wars in the humanoid robot market have been on the rise since 2024. The source noted that, by pricing a product 50% lower than competitors, his company secured a surge in orders and expects to sell several hundred robots in 2025, significantly outpacing competitors in sales volume.
This trend toward lower pricing is partially driven by investor pressure. “Primary market funding is consolidating into a few enterprises. Only by increasing sales can companies attract investors,” the source said.
Humanoid robots require thousands of components, from lead screws to joint modules, and current assembly processes remain labor-intensive. A technician can assemble just one robot per day, with assembly time increasing to four days if the robot has more than 200 cables. While outsourcing assembly can save time, it drives up costs. As a result, companies are focusing on reducing component expenses as an alternative.
Light detection and ranging (LiDAR) systems exemplify this cost reduction trend. RoboSense’s mid-2024 financial report highlighted a 1,600-unit year-on-year increase in LiDAR sales for robotics and other applications, even as revenue fell by 11.9% due to the rising proportion of low-cost products. However, not all components lend themselves to cost-cutting. Joint modules, which account for 30–60% of a robot’s bill of materials, remain expensive due to the high cost of lead screw materials.
To address these challenges, some robotics companies are developing components in-house. He Liang, CEO of Yunmu Zhizao, said his company is working on in-house joint motors, hydraulic power systems, and dexterous hands to reduce costs by 30–40%. Similarly, Unitree Robotics and Deep Robotics began developing their own motors years ago to lower costs, while Inspire-Robots has started purchasing raw materials and machinery to manufacture its own lead screws.
Despite these efforts, humanoid robots still face significant functional limitations, with stable walking remaining an advanced capability for most models. High-end robots with advanced functionalities for research and industrial applications often cost upwards of seven figures in RMB. By contrast, simplified models, typically priced below RMB 100,000, have fewer joints and limited interfaces.
whereRelatedArticle
Sales volumes remain low due to limited application scenarios and heightened investor demands. Earlier in 2024, prototypes capable of walking were sufficient to attract funding. However, by midyear, investors prioritized robots capable of performing complex tasks and leaned toward companies with stronger financial backing. This dynamic forces smaller firms to quickly generate commercial revenue or risk being eliminated. At the same time, increasing competition has shifted market power to buyers, further driving down prices.
Inspire-Robots’ marketing director, Fang Hainan, revealed that his company reduced the price of its dexterous hand by RMB 15,000 (USD 2,100) in early 2024, resulting in sales of nearly 2,000 units this year. Beyond discounts, robotics companies are diversifying revenue streams by selling self-developed components. Unitree Robotics, for example, secured contracts with universities for modular materials and robotic arms, while Deep Robotics offered discounts on quadruped robots and integrated joints during the Singles’ Day shopping festival.
Under dual pressures from cautious investors and a demanding market, price reductions have transitioned from a stopgap tactic to a core strategy for increasing sales and securing funding. While not all robotics companies are eager to engage in price wars, the early-stage nature of the market leaves room for growth. Many companies hope that intense price competition can be delayed, allowing all players an opportunity to establish themselves.
KrASIA Connection features translated and adapted content that was originally published by 36Kr. This <a href="https://36kr.com/p/3082563692345480">article</a> was written by Tian Zhe for 36Kr.

Humanoid robots are getting cheaper—can affordability drive adoption?

Deep Tech

On December 31, 2024, Zhuoyu Technology, formerly known as DJI Automotive, unveiled its end-to-end (E2E) smart driving solution designed for mid-tier computing power. This innovative system features hardware that includes seven cameras and a TDA4-VH chip delivering approximately 32 TOPS of computing power, supporting advanced functionalities like city navigation assistance.
This solution targets vehicles priced around RMB 100,000 (USD 14,000), aiming to make advanced smart driving more accessible. Zhuoyu said that automakers using this system can provide free upgrades via over-the-air (OTA) software updates, offering continuous improvements to end users.
Vehicles equipped with Zhuoyu’s system, such as models from Baojun and Chery’s iCar, are expected to feature this functionality as early as the first half of 2025. The company’s efforts align with an industry-wide push in 2024 toward scalable, cost-effective E2E solutions. Major players, including Huawei, Xpeng Motors, and Li Auto, have primarily relied on Nvidia’s Orin X chip platform, which offers a hefty 254 TOPS of computing power as a baseline. Zhuoyu, however, has taken a different path—developing E2E capabilities with only 32 TOPS, significantly lowering the barrier for urban smart driving.
As automakers ramp up the deployment of smart driving technologies in 2025, suppliers like Zhuoyu are refining their solutions to meet shifting market demands. Zhuoyu’s development strategy centers on two distinct chip platforms:
<ul>
<li aria-level="1">Compute-intensive solution: Built on Qualcomm’s 8650 chip with 100 TOPS of computing power, this platform supports advanced features such as map-free navigation in urban environments. It is already deployed in FAW Hongqi’s E007 and E009 models.</li>
<li aria-level="1">Mid-tier solution: Powered by the TDA4-VH chip, this system debuted in September 2023 with highway navigation assistance. It has since evolved to incorporate memory-based driving and E2E capabilities, broadening its functionality and appeal.</li>
</ul>
Zhuoyu’s advanced edge computing techniques further enhance the deployment of E2E models, enabling high performance even on platforms with limited computing power. According to a technical expert from Zhuoyu, both the mid-tier and high-tier solutions share a unified artificial intelligence model architecture. This design integrates core modules—perception, prediction, decision-making, and planning—while incorporating a safety inference framework for redundancy in trajectory outputs.
Shared architecture and training datasets ensure a consistent user experience across scenarios, whether on a 32 TOPS or 100 TOPS system. This unified approach not only simplifies development but also enhances scalability.
Zhuoyu’s binocular vision-enhanced E2E architecture represents a standout innovation. By incorporating geometric data from both image and point cloud inputs, the system allegedly achieves a 10–20 times improvement in training efficiency. This approach drastically reduces the reliance on extensive long-tail data, requiring only about 10% of the training data needed for conventional monocular or heterogeneous solutions to reach comparable performance levels.
This efficiency promises to reshape how smart driving solutions are developed and scaled, ensuring advanced capabilities can reach a broader range of vehicles and consumers, driving the industry closer to universal adoption of smarter, safer driving technologies.
KrASIA Connection features translated and adapted content that was originally published by 36Kr. This <a href="https://36kr.com/p/3102202050006537">article</a> was written by Li Anqi for 36Kr.

Zhuoyu Technology targets affordable smart driving with end-to-end solution

Transportation

Autonomous Vehicles

Mobility

… managers.
From headquarters’ perspective, these adjustments are necessary to align leadership with the company’s evolving priorities. However, new appointees often require significant time to gain the experience needed to navigate their roles effectively. For headquarters, it is a calculated compromise—acknowledging the risks but seeing no better alternatives.
Another critical factor is the challenge of fostering trust and autonomy in remote markets. Just as companies like Google, IBM, and Microsoft faced trust issues when entering China, Chinese firms often encounter similar struggles abroad.
When Liu Zhen took over Uber China, her title was head of strategy—not CEO. The real decision-making power remained with Uber’s founder, Travis Kalanick, who spent nearly 80 days in China in 2015. Kalanick frequently called employees in China early in the morning, effectively serving as the region’s de facto CEO.
This historical example highlights a mindset still prevalent among many Chinese companies pursuing globalization: while specific approaches may vary, they often rely on top-down decision-making. This raises a critical issue—the success of overseas expansion depends largely on whether headquarters is willing to grant sufficient resources and autonomy, and whether founders can actively lead.
For instance, Wang Jie, co-founder of tea brand Ningji, personally conducted multiple field visits to North America in 2024 to prepare for the brand’s first overseas store, scheduled to open this year. Wang believes that founder-led initiatives are crucial during the early stages of international expansion, helping mitigate risks and enabling quick decision-making.
“International expansion is not an isolated effort. It’s a strategic initiative at the corporate level,” Wang said. “The founder’s ability to mobilize resources ensures greater efficiency in every aspect of entering and developing in foreign markets.”
For many overseas executives, frequently switching roles and companies has become a standard part of life.
36Kr identified several reasons for this phenomenon:
<ol>
<li aria-level="1">High demand for talent: Overseas managerial expertise is in constant demand, ensuring a steady flow of job opportunities for experienced professionals.</li>
<li aria-level="1">Transferable skills: Experience gained in similar regions and industries often translates across roles, allowing executives to leverage their accumulated knowledge repeatedly.</li>
<li aria-level="1">Advanced business models: Many Chinese business models are considered innovative and competitive in global markets, giving professionals with relevant experience a significant advantage when transitioning to new positions.</li>
</ol>
Despite the demand, the relationship between company leaders and country managers is often fraught with challenges. Headquarters frequently underestimate the complexities of building local market recognition or creating an attractive employer brand, leaving country managers to bridge the gap. This misalignment between expectations and on-the-ground realities often leads to miscommunication and frustration.
On a structural level, trust remains a critical issue. In remote regions, a strong foundation of trust is vital for success. Yet many companies hesitate to delegate meaningful authority to their country managers, opting instead for tight, centralized control. As a result, managers often feel stifled, unable to make critical decisions independently.
Take J&amp;T Express as an example. When entering unfamiliar regions, the company’s strategy of rotating personnel has led to inefficiencies and delays. New hires require significant time to adapt to their roles, disrupting operations and reflecting a broader struggle to balance flexibility with stability in global markets.
Historical precedents offer valuable insights into the challenges of globalization. Companies like Google and Microsoft faced significant hurdles when entering the Chinese market, largely due to their initial hesitation to delegate meaningful decision-making authority to local teams. This reluctance led to slow progress and missed opportunities. The takeaway here is clear: globalization requires not only a solid strategy but also a willingness to empower leaders on the ground.
Globalization remains a critical pathway to sustained growth. However, global success hinges on adaptability, patience, and a willingness to take a long-term view. Both businesses and the individuals leading their overseas expansions must embrace these principles to navigate the complexities of international markets effectively.
KrASIA Connection features translated and adapted content that was originally published by 36Kr. This <a href="https://36kr.com/p/3071251590214281">article</a> was written by Ren Qian for 36Kr.

At the frontline: How country managers drive Chinese firms’ global expansion

The Shanghai Stock Exchange recently disclosed that Zhejiang Fine Motion Robot Joint Technology Corporation has advanced its IPO application for the Shenzhen Stock Exchange's STAR Market to the inquiry phase.
Fine Motion aims to raise RMB 1.408 billion (USD 197.1 million) through the IPO, with funds earmarked for the following initiatives:
<ul>
<li aria-level="1">Construction of a precision reducer intelligent manufacturing base: RMB 1.1 billion (USD 154 million)</li>
<li aria-level="1">Establishment of a precision transmission R&amp;D center: RMB 157 million (USD 22 million)</li>
<li aria-level="1">Working capital and loan repayment: RMB 150 million (USD 21 million)</li>
</ul>
Founded in 2020 as a subsidiary of Shenzhen-listed Shuanghuan Driveline, Fine Motion specializes in high-precision reducers for robotic joints. Its core products include rotate vector (RV) reducers, precision components, and harmonic reducers, widely used in robotics, industrial automation, and advanced manufacturing. Following a shareholding reform in August 2023, Fine Motion began its IPO process.
According to Tianyancha, Fine Motion has completed two financing rounds, attracting investments from notable backers such as Hillhouse, ZJU Joint Innovation Investment, the National Manufacturing Transformation and Upgrading Fund, CS Capital, and Temasek. Its most recent valuation places the company at RMB 3 billion (USD 420 million).
Fine Motion has demonstrated robust growth during the reporting period from 2021 to June 2024. According to its prospectus, the company’s revenue and net profit figures were as follows:
<ul>
<li aria-level="1">2021: RMB 91.41 million (USD 12.8 million); RMB 20.21 million (USD 2.8 million).</li>
<li aria-level="1">2022: RMB 169 million (USD 23.7 million); RMB 50.18 million (USD 7 million).</li>
<li aria-level="1">2023: RMB 309 million (USD 43.3 million); RMB 76.26 million (USD 10.7 million).</li>
<li aria-level="1">2024 (H1): RMB 134 million (USD 18.8 million); RMB 25.54 million (USD 3.6 million).</li>
</ul>
Fine Motion’s growth is fueled by rising demand for its flagship RV reducers, critical components in industrial robotics, positioning devices, machine tools, and medical equipment. RV reducers, known for their precision and high gear ratios, enhance industrial automation and improve safety and accuracy in medical devices. According to Business Research Insight, the global RV reducer market is projected to reach USD 15.339 billion by 2031.
Domestically, Chinese manufacturers are closing gaps in core technologies due to industrial upgrades and government support. Companies like Shuanghuan, Sima Transmission Machinery, Zhongda Leader Intelligent Transmission, Nantong Zhenkang, and Qinchuan Machine Tool are strengthening their foothold in the market.
However, technological barriers remain steep for RV reducers, involving precision manufacturing and material science. Fine Motion claims a competitive edge, with 15 trademarks and 84 patents, mostly in RV reducer technology. As of 2023, it held an 18.89% share of the domestic RV reducer market.
Despite its advantages, Fine Motion faces challenges. In the first half of 2024, the company reported an 11.96% year-on-year decline in main business revenue and slower net profit growth, attributed to reduced procurement from downstream sectors like robotics, 3C electronics, photovoltaics, and automotive. Additionally, profit declines at its top two clients during the first three quarters of 2024 exerted additional pressure. With nearly 80% of revenue coming from its top five customers, Fine Motion is significantly exposed to dependency risks.
To sustain growth, Fine Motion must address dependency risks while balancing customization demands with cost efficiency and delivery timelines. Its ability to innovate technologically and protect its patents will be critical as it navigates its IPO and seeks to strengthen its position in a competitive market.
KrASIA Connection features translated and adapted content that was originally published by 36Kr. This <a href="https://36kr.com/p/3100676432170497">article</a> was written by Chi Meng for 36Kr.

Valued at RMB 3 billion, this Zhejiang advanced manufacturer is headed for an IPO

Hardware

… Entrepreneurs Fund (AEF). The new fund is a USD 150 million initiative designed to empower startups leveraging AI to address structural challenges. The fund targets growth-stage companies in key industries such as financial services, healthcare, and consumer retail, offering resources and expertise to help them scale globally.</li>
</ul>
If there are any news or updates you'd like us to feature, get in touch with us at: <a href="mailto:hello@kr-asia.com">hello@kr-asia.com</a>.
<style>.addcaption{font-size:14px!important;line-height:20px!important;color:inherit;padding-top:8px;border-top:1px solid #e8e8e8}.entry-content blockquote p{font-size:22px;line-height:33px}@media only screen and (max-width:767px){.entry-content blockquote p{font-size:20px;line-height:32px}.entry-content h3{font-size:24px;line-height:32px}}</style>

Deals in brief: Grab acquires Cambodia’s Nham24, Alibaba to sell majority stake in Sun Art and form JV with Shinsegae, 14 new China deals, and more

Grab

East Asia

Malaysia

Cambodia

Saudi Arabia

India

Middle East

… noreferrer" data-token-index="3">partnership with Nikkei</a>.

Inside Huawei's mission to boost China's tech prowess

Huawei