• Hyundai Motor officially launches its all‑electric IONIQ lineup brand in China, signaling a renewed commitment to the NEV market
• Two new design concepts preview the future direction of the IONIQ lineup brand ahead of Auto China 2026
• The VENUS Concept sedan and EARTH Concept family SUV debut as two ‘planets’ in a new ‘universe’ of models

BEIJING and SEOUL, South Korea, April 10, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Hyundai Motor Company officially launched its all-electric IONIQ lineup brand in China, unveiling two design concept cars at the IONIQ brand launch event in Beijing ahead of Auto China 2026 (‘Beijing Auto Show’) on April 24.

Alongside the concepts, Hyundai Motor presented a strategy aimed at strengthening its position in the Chinese market, expanding the IONIQ brand’s lineup beyond products into a mobility experience.

The two all-electric concept cars developed for China — the VENUS Concept, a trend-setting sedan, and the EARTH Concept, a dependable family SUV — signal the beginning of this new chapter. Both concepts highlight Hyundai Motor’s readiness for China’s new energy vehicle (NEV) market.

“Starting with the two concept cars unveiled today, we will continue to present products that reflect deep insight into Chinese customers and our genuine commitment to this market. Built on IONIQ’s uncompromising principles of world-class safety and quality, we will soon introduce production models that seamlessly combine the smart driving and smart cabin experiences that Chinese consumers demand.” – Li Fenggang, President at Beijing Hyundai Motor Company

What Is IONIQ and How Will the lineup Brand Be Tailored for China?

As Hyundai Motor’s dedicated all-electric vehicle lineup brand, IONIQ has quickly become a global benchmark for innovation, design and quality. Built on critically acclaimed models such as the IONIQ 5, IONIQ 6 and IONIQ 9, the EV lineup reflects Hyundai Motor’s advanced electrification capabilities and human-centric mobility vision.

IONIQ’s global excellence is further underscored by multiple industry recognitions, including ‘hat-trick’ victories for the IONIQ 5 and IONIQ 6 at the World Car Awards. High-performance models such as the IONIQ 5 N and IONIQ 6 N have also reinforced the brand’s leadership in electric performance, with IONIQ 6 N most recently named 2026 World Performance Car.

In China, IONIQ will evolve beyond a product lineup into a broader mobility ecosystem tailored to local customers. While maintaining Hyundai Motor’s globally proven standards in safety and quality, IONIQ is being redefined through localized technologies, services and user experiences for China’s fast-evolving NEV market.

As part of this strategy, Hyundai Motor is introducing a unique naming convention tailored for China. Future IONIQ models will be named after ‘planets’, symbolizing how each vehicle orbits around the customer — the central focus of this new IONIQ universe.

What Are the Two IONIQ Concept Cars for the Chinese Market?

The VENUS and EARTH concepts are the first tangible results of Hyundai Motor’s new China strategy, serving as a design ‘barometer’ for future IONIQ production models. Guided by the ethos ‘Lead, don’t follow‘, the two concepts feature unique single-curve silhouettes that are instantly recognizable and emotionally distinctive, delivering a lasting and impactful first impression.

VENUS (Iconic Sedan): Inspired by the brightest planet’s timeless beauty, VENUS presents a new icon for sedans.

• Exterior: Finished in striking ‘Radiant Gold’ that captures a narrative of breakthrough, exploration and glory, its high-tech exterior features a lightweight, frame-structured roof and a transparent spoiler. A unique one-curve silhouette further defines its distinctive profile, creating a sleek, characterful design identity.
• Interior: The driver-focused, wrap-around cockpit evokes Venus’s glowing atmosphere with layered mood lighting. A strong material contrast between soft suede and solid, chrome-gold seatback covers enhances the premium feel, while a friendly ‘Lumi’ character is integrated into the design for a playful connection between driver and vehicle.

EARTH (Powerful SUV): Embodying the vitality and biological balance of our home planet, EARTH is a bold and powerful family SUV.

• Exterior: Finished in ‘Aurora Shield’, the balance between sharp edges and sculpted volumes creates a futuristic image, alongside robust details such as EARTH’s skid plates and exposed bolt accents.
• Interior: The interior is a comfortable ‘small Earth’, featuring innovative ‘air-hug’ seats made of soft air modules. Serene mood lighting that mimics tree shadows and clever ‘shy-tech’ elements create a calm and breathable space, while a fun ‘Aero’ character and hidden map patterns of Beijing offer a sense of discovery.

“We chose to be ‘The Origin’. Something entirely new — recognizable at a glance from a distance, with a powerful presence on the road, and delivering what we call a ‘Best in First Impression’. ‘The Origin’ is our declaration: ‘Lead, don’t follow’. It is the point from which our movement begins. Our ambition is to set a new direction.” – Simon Loasby, Senior Vice President and Head of Hyundai Design Center at Hyundai Motor Company

How Is Hyundai Motor Redefining Its Approach to the Chinese Market?

At the event, Hyundai Motor also provided a glimpse into exclusive IONIQ technologies tailored for Chinese customers. Key advancements include the introduction of autonomous driving systems developed with local partners and the adoption of market-specific solutions, such as extended range electric vehicles (EREVs). These technologies reflect Hyundai Motor’s commitment to returning to the market with a truly human-centric philosophy, prioritizing tangible benefits that address the real-world needs of Chinese consumers.

To support this vision, Hyundai Motor has also released an IONIQ brand launch film under the message “Open Your Universe,” further illustrating the brand’s direction.

Further details will be unveiled during Hyundai Motor’s press conference at Auto China 2026 on April 24, at Hall E4 of the China International Exhibition Center (Shunyi Hall) in Beijing.

More information about Hyundai Motor and its products can be found at https://www.hyundai.com/worldwide/en/

HONG KONG, April 10, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — As spring arrives, drastic changes in temperature and environmental humidity often lead to “seasonal discomforts” such as fatigue and disrupted routines. Recognizing the rising demand for spring skincare and nutritional supplements, global cross-border health e-commerce platform iHerb has launched the “Spring Defense Supplement Guide.” It features 6 cost-effective health products, ranging from daily nutritional supplements to lifestyle care, to support consumers through the seasonal transition.

As a world-renowned online retailer of health and wellness products, iHerb offers over 50,000 products, covering vitamins, sports nutrition, beauty and personal care, natural foods, and home lifestyle items. Shipped through fulfillment centers in the U.S. and Asia, the platform serves over 180 countries and regions worldwide, allowing consumers to easily purchase popular international health products. To address the unpredictable spring weather and pace of life, iHerb has organized three daily supplement categories—nutritional support, sleep relaxation, and daily functional nutrition—to help consumers maintain a good state amidst their busy lives.

Maintaining Inner and Outer Balance: Daily Nutritional Supplements for Seasonal Changes

During seasonal transitions, issues like skin instability and disrupted life rhythms are common; thus, starting adjustments with daily nutritional supplements is particularly important. The popular supplement “Thorne Zinc Picolinate,” known for its zinc nutritional support, has become a top choice for many consumers during this period. For home life, the highly popular “Mrs. Meyer’s Clean Day Hand Soap,” featuring a birchwood scent and plant-based formula, provides a refreshing forest woody aroma that brings a sense of relaxation to daily hand cleaning.

Quality Sleep and Relaxation: Recharging for the Rhythm of Life

Good sleep quality is an essential foundation for maintaining the rhythm of life. “Swanson Albion Magnesium Glycinate” provides mineral support and serves as a daily source of magnesium nutrition, attracting attention from those who value a balanced lifestyle. For those working long hours or needing to maintain focus, the “Brain Health Veggie Capsules” from iHerb’s popular brand California Gold Nutrition offer multifaceted nutritional support, serving as a pillar for busy professionals.

Functional Nutritional Supplements: Welcoming Spring Vitality

As the weather gradually warms up, the demand for outdoor activities and exercise increases. “Nutricost HMB Capsules” provide the daily nutritional support needed for the active population, whether for home yoga or outdoor jogging. Furthermore, with the rising popularity of concerts and sports events, daily eye care supplements are also gaining attention. iHerb recommends “Doctor’s Best Natural Vision Enhancers,” which contain not only lutein and zeaxanthin but also Omega-3, DHA, and EPA to provide the comfort and nourishment required by modern individuals for long durations.

Limited-Time Promo Code Code: 22% Off at Checkout

In addition to product recommendations, iHerb is simultaneously launching several limited-time promotions. iHerb stated that through its diverse range of health products and cross-border direct shipping services, it hopes consumers can easily replenish necessary nutrients during the seasonal change. To thank consumers for their long-term support, iHerb is offering a special value deal for Hong Kong consumers in the spring of 2026.  From April 10 to April 24, use the promo code “78IHERB” at the iHerb official website checkout to enjoy 22% off. Grab the opportunity for spring replenishment and boost healthy energy into your daily life.

iHerb:Your One-Stop Global Health Destination

Headquartered in California, USA, iHerb is a leading global online retail brand for health and wellness products. iHerb’s greatest advantage is providing Hong Kong consumers with a secure channel that eliminates the need for purchasing agents and the fear of counterfeit goods. All products are shipped directly from fulfillment centers in the U.S. and Asia, guaranteeing authentic products and an extremely convenient shopping experience:

• Fast Delivery: Arriving as early as the next day after ordering.
• Free Shipping: Enjoy free shipping on orders over HKD$300.

From vitamins and nutritional supplements to health essentials for the family, now is the best time to shop. If you want to shop smart and with peace of mind, visit the iHerb official website now and don’t let thesehigh-value deal slip away!

About iHerb (Official Website: https://hk.iherb.com/)

iHerb is a world-renowned cross-border e-commerce platform from the United States, focusing on providing high-quality health foods, nutritional supplements, beauty and personal care, and lifestyle products. With over 50,000 selected products across the site, serving more than 180 countries and regions, iHerb is committed to allowing global consumers to obtain healthy and beautiful choices at reasonable prices. All products are shipped directly from multiple advanced fulfillment centers in the U.S. and Asia, maintaining product freshness under full cold chain and temperature-controlled warehouse management. iHerb also continues to strengthen its multilingual customer service and local payment methods to ensure a safe, transparent, and convenient shopping experience for users worldwide.

• Hankook proves its top-tier technological leadership by serving as the official tyre supplier to the ‘Bathurst 6 Hour’ for the second consecutive year
• Ventus TD delivered consistent grip, stability and durability across six hours of racing
• Motorsport-derived R&D reinforces Hankook’s global premium brand positioning

SYDNEY, April 10, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Global leading tyre company Hankook Tire & Technology (Hankook) announced that Hankook Tyre Australia successfully served as the official tyre supplier to the 2026 Bathurst 6 Hour for the second consecutive year, held from April 3 to 5 at Mount Panorama Circuit. Through this six-hour endurance competition, Hankook reinforced its commitment to high-performance motorsport and advanced tyre technology.

Marking the 10th edition of the Bathurst 6 Hour, the event featured 69 cars competing across multiple classes. Held on the demanding 6.2-kilometre Mount Panorama Circuit, the race stands as Australia’s premier production car endurance event, known for its combination of high-speed straights, technical corners and significant elevation changes.

The 2026 race featured intense competition, with multiple lead changes and strategic battles throughout the six-hour duration. Supercars driver Thomas Randle, alongside Ben and Michael Kavich, secured overall victory in a closely contested finish, highlighting the importance of consistency, strategy and performance in endurance racing at Mount Panorama.

As the official tyre supplier, Hankook Tyre Australia supported the event with its advanced motorsport tyre technology. Since 2025, all competing vehicles have been equipped with the high-performance semi-slick racing tyre ‘Ventus TD’, ensuring stable race performance. Engineered to perform under demanding conditions, Ventus TD delivers high levels of dry grip, consistent handling performance and enhanced durability throughout extended race sessions.

In an endurance racing environment such as Bathurst, sustained tyre performance is critical. Ventus TD demonstrated stable grip and predictable handling across extended stints, enabling teams to optimise race strategy. Its construction and compound are designed to enhance durability, heat resistance and reduced wear under varying track conditions. The tyre’s optimised contact patch and tread design enable balanced load distribution, contributing to consistent performance.

In Australia, Hankook continues to strengthen its sales competitiveness with its flagship tyre brand ‘Ventus’ while actively supporting major local motorsport events, including the First Focus Radical Cup Australia Series, the Precision National Sports Sedans Series and the Hyper Racer Hankook Australian Drivers Championship, thereby expanding its global motorsport footprint.

Hankook Tyre Australia’s participation in the Bathurst 6 Hour reflects its broader commitment to supporting motorsport platforms that demand high levels of performance, safety and technological innovation. Leveraging its global expertise in tyre development, Hankook continues to demonstrate its top-tier technological leadership. Hankook continues to supply racing tyres and sponsor teams across more than 70 major global motorsport competitions, including the ABB FIA Formula E World Championship and the FIA World Rally Championship (WRC), further solidifying the global premium positioning of its brand.

• 38% of finance professionals who personally hold crypto view it as a growth opportunity with strong upside potential
• 96% of professional investors are optimistic about crypto’s future as an asset, vs just 39% of beginner investors
• 25% of finance professionals describe crypto primarily as a high-risk asset — falling to just 1 in 10 among those who personally invest
• 8% of respondents cite payments utility as a reason to hold crypto, yet wider merchant acceptance and regulatory integration are seen as critical drivers of future adoption
• 42% of finance professionals cite regulatory uncertainty as their primary barrier to greater institutional involvement

GENEVA, April 10, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Sandmark has today published the first edition of its Crypto Intelligence Report, uncovering how credible and reliable intelligence are building real conviction among finance professionals and investors.

Michelle Fotopoulou, Chief Marketing Officer at Sandmark, commenting on the Crypto Intelligence Report

The study captured the attitudes and behaviours of over 5,000 finance professionals and crypto investors across Australia, Brazil, India, Singapore, South Korea, UAE, UK and the US. Conducted in partnership with the global consumer audience insights platform GWI, the report fills a significant gap in existing market research by focusing specifically on the financially literate crypto investors: those working within and alongside the financial industry.

“Most crypto research focuses on retail sentiment. We wanted to understand how finance professionals – people who work with risk and capital every day – actually perceive and engage with crypto. What we found challenges a number of assumptions,” said Michelle Fotopoulou, Chief Marketing Officer at Sandmark.

Experience contextualizes risk

Just one in ten finance professionals who own crypto perceive it as high risk, compared to 25% of the wider professional finance community. Optimism and confidence rise in line with active participation, peaking among institutional investors and long-term holders. Beginners remain the least certain. The data consistently shows that hands-on experience, supported by reliable market intelligence, is what builds genuine conviction.

Regulation is recruitment

Regulatory uncertainty remains the primary barrier to broader institutional participation, alongside volatility and governance concerns. Yet across all respondent groups, crypto is viewed as a long-term strategic asset with strong upside potential, rather than a short-term trade. As regulatory clarity improves, the market’s next growth phase is widely expected to be led by institutions.

Michelle said: “Strong regulation acts as a catalyst for engagement. As jurisdictions put protections in place, activity accelerates, with greater confidence unlocking broader adoption.”

Public figures: formative but divisive

High-profile individuals continue to play an outsized role in shaping sentiment, often in conflicting ways. Among a pre-defined shortlist of public figures, Elon Musk drives the strongest positive sentiment (51%), while Donald Trump generates the most negative (38%), despite also ranking as the second most cited positive influence (17%). Among crypto holders who identify Musk as their strongest positive influence, 77% report high optimism toward crypto’s future as an asset. The study reflects how public figures are capable of simultaneously amplifying enthusiasm and undermining trust.

An evolving but maturing market

Michelle concluded, “It’s fascinating to see the evolution of sentiment in the crypto market, particularly in the case of institutions and finance professionals. While social media drives discovery, real market data is in higher demand. Investors need consistent, actionable market intelligence to understand the evolving crypto ecosystem.”

The Sandmark Crypto Intelligence Report is available here.

About Sandmark

Established in 2025 by a Switzerland-based entrepreneur, Sandmark operates internationally with editorial hubs in Europe, the Middle East, Asia and North America. Sandmark is led worldwide by traditional and new financial media professionals who have decades of experience covering a range of markets from banking to commodities, and FX trading to equities research.

The Sandmark Team is comprised of 20+ global employees – including journalists, researchers and data analysts – that are united in the mission to deliver clear, credible, and context-rich reporting. 

Sandmark Crypto Intelligence Report: first edition of key trends shaping the digital asset landscape