Home Blog Page 2667

SenseTime Announces 2025 Interim Results: Revenue Exceeded Market Expectations with Period-over-Period Growth of 36% in 1H 2025, Loss Significantly Narrowed

HONG KONG, Aug. 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — SenseTime Group Inc. (“SenseTime” or the “Company”; Stock Code: 0020) announced its interim results today for the six months ended June 30, 2025 (“1H”).

In 1H 2025, SenseTime delivered results that exceeded market expectations, with total revenue increasing by 36% period-over-period to RMB 2.4 billion. Generative AI revenue maintained high growth for the third consecutive year, rising by 73%. The adjusted net loss narrowed significantly both period-over-period and quarter-over-quarter, decreasing by 50% period-over-period. Trade receivable collections reached RMB 3.2 billion, up 96% period-over-period and marking a record high. As of 1H 2025, the Group’s cash reserves amounted to RMB 13.2 billion.

In 1H 2025, the Group continued to deepen its “1+X” strategy and achieved substantive results, maintaining robust business momentum and further optimizing its structure. Under this framework, Generative AI and Computer Vision form the “1”, the Group’s core businesses and dual engines, while the “X” represents the X Businesses segment, which adopts innovation ecosystem incubation as its core strategy, focusing on four verticals: Smart Auto, Smart Healthcare, Home Robotics, and Smart Retail.

Generative AI further increased its contribution to Group revenue to 77%. The multimodal capabilities of the SenseNova large model have reached the global forefront, with applications centered on two core scenarios, productivity tools and interaction tools, rapidly enhancing penetration and customer loyalty. Among these, the “Raccoon” series represents productivity tools, offering finance, education, and public service versions, and has surpassed 3 million users. In interaction tools, SenseNova V6.5 achieved the integration of text with audio and video, with multimodal real-time interaction hours increasing by 510% within the year. The Computer Vision segment re-ignited its growth curve, leveraging a high-quality customer strategy and leading market share to improve both profitability and cash flow. As of end-June 2025, the Computer Vision segment served more than 660 customers across China and international markets, with a long-term repeat purchase customer ratio of 57%. Overseas pipelines and new orders grew significantly period-over-period in 1H 2025.

At the organizational level, SenseTime encouraged firm-wide entrepreneurship around its “1” and “X” businesses through a “Re-CoFound” organizational transition, creating a leadership structure with professionalism and diversity. Autonomous founding teams were appointed for each innovative business, enabling the “X” businesses to unlock operational vitality and capital market appeal following the strategic restructuring.

Dr. Xu Li, Chairman of the Board and CEO of SenseTime, said, “Against the backdrop of China’s State Council announcing the “AI Plus” Initiative as a key policy, SenseTime has seized the opportunity for implementation and deepened its presence across industries. With Generative AI and Computer Vision as dual engines, SenseTime will build on its leadership in Computer Vision to capture the unprecedented opportunities brought by Generative AI and to create sustained value for employees, customers, and shareholders.”

Key Highlights of the Company’s Business Operations in 1H 2025

  • The total revenue of the Group increased 36% period-over-period to RMB 2.4 billion, with growth momentum further accelerating compared to previous years. Adjusted EBITDA and adjusted net loss both improved significantly, narrowing by 72.5% and 50.0% period-over-period, respectively.
  • Trade receivable collections reached a record high of RMB 3.2 billion, up 96% period-over-period, while trade receivable turnover days shortened by 49% period-over-period.
  • Net cash outflow from operating activities narrowed significantly by 82% period-over-period, reflecting strengthened cash generation capability. The Group’s total cash reserves increased to RMB 13.2 billion, providing ample funding to support the Group’s focus on long-term strategic implementation.

SF Holding Reports Solid First Half 2025 Results, Demonstrating Logistics Leadership in Asia

  • Daily parcel volume reached 43.4 million for First Half 2025, 26.4% increase year-on-year, outpacing industry average growth;
  • Revenue reached RMB146.9 billion for First Half 2025, 9.3% increase year-on-year;
  • The net profit attributable to owners of the parent increased to RMB5.74 billion for First Half 2025, 19.4% increase year-on-year;
  • Interim cash dividend reached RMB2.32 billion, up 20.9% year-on-year, with dividend per share climbing 15.0% to RMB0.46.

SHENZHEN, China, Aug. 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — S.F. Holding Co., Ltd. (‘SF Holding’ or ‘SF’ or ‘the Company’, 002352.SZ; 06936.HK) the largest integrated logistics service provider in Asia and the fourth largest globally, has announced its financial results for First Half 2025. The Company, which ranks 393rd on the Fortune Global 500 list, delivered robust growth, demonstrating continued market leadership and strengthened competitiveness through the successful execution of strategic initiatives.

Positioned as the go-to logistics partner for both business and retail customers, SF Holding offers comprehensive, end-to-end domestic and international logistics solutions. These include time-definite express, economy express, freight, cold chain and pharmaceutical logistics, intra-city on-demand delivery, as well as supply chain and international services. Under its The One in Asia” Strategy, the Company continues to focus on solving complex logistics challenges, enhancing its differentiated service capabilities and driving sustainable and healthy development.

Commenting on the results, Alex Ho, Executive Director and Chief Financial Officer, said: “Despite a complex macroeconomic environment, SF delivered solid results in the First Half of 2025 by adhering to our principle of sustainable and healthy development. Leveraging our extensive network and diversified product portfolio, we enhanced service value and deepened execution of our ‘Stimulate Operation Vitality’ and ‘Industry-Focused Transformation’ initiatives. These strategies supported stronger free cash flow, sustained growing shareholder returns, and enhanced our resilience to capture emerging opportunities.

First Half 2025 Operational Highlights: Achieving High-Quality Growth with Expanded Global Presence

In the first half of 2025, SF Holding shipped 7.8 billion parcels, up 25.7% year over year, significantly outperforming the industry average of 19.3%. The Company capitalized on opportunities in emerging industries and overseas markets with two initiatives. Firstly, the Company advanced its organizationally-wide upgrade centered on the “Stimulate Operation Vitality” strategy, mobilizing enterprise-wide momentum to stimulate business expansion. By optimizing authorization, incentive, and evaluation mechanisms, the Company effectively energized individual initiative. Furthermore, the Company accelerated the “Industry-Focused Transformation” by transitioning from selling standard products to delivering customized solutions. Through the establishment of dedicated industry-specific departments, the Company boosted market share across multiple sectors.

In the domestic market, SF Holding delivered solid growth across key logistics services. Revenue from time-definite express services increased 6.8% year-on-year, outpacing China’s GDP growth of 5.3%, driven by tailored solutions for consumer and manufacturing scenarios such as theme parks, concerts, and transit hubs. Economy express services achieved revenue growth of 14.4%, fueled by independent third party positioning, dynamic pricing strategies and emerging demand from proximity-based E-commerce. Freight services also maintained healthy momentum, with revenue up 11.5% bolstered by strengthened channel penetration and increased customer touchpoints across key scenarios. Benefiting from growing demand from on-demand retail, intra-city on-demand delivery maintained strong momentum with 38.9% year-on-year revenue growth.

Increasing global trade uncertainties highlight Asia’s critical role as both a growth engine and center for global supply chains. Internationally, the Company capitalized on opportunities arising from the growing overseas expansion of enterprises – both in terms of products and production capacities, as well as increasing demand from cross-border consumption, expanding its global reach and market share. By providing a robust product portfolio that integrates highly reliable, standardized logistics products with comprehensive supply chain solutions, SF Holding has positioned itself as one of the preferred choices for Go-Global partners. Revenue from its international and supply chain businesses reached RMB34.2 billion, 9.7% increase year-on-year, solidifying their role as key growth drivers.

Operational Excellence Enabled by Intelligent Technology

The Company advanced structural cost reduction through initiatives like resource lean management, network structural optimization, and AI technology empowerment. Concurrently, strategic investments were directed towards enhancing customer experience, laying the foundation for long-term structural cost efficiency and sustained competitiveness. In addition, the Company operated over 1,800 logistics unmanned vehicles for last-mile transportation, easing the physical workload for staff and allowing them to focus on higher-value tasks. As a result, small parcel pickup and delivery efficiency increased by 13.7% year-on-year.

As of the end of the reporting period, SF Holding held 4,134 granted and pending patents and 2,530 software copyrights, with inventions comprising 63% of patents. This demonstrates the Company’s determination to innovate and sustain competitiveness.

Robust Cash Flow Supporting Shareholder Return Commitment

The Company’s free cash flow reached RMB8.7 billion for First Half 2025, up 6.1% year-on-year. This equipped the Company with strategic flexibility during different market conditions. In August 2025, the Company proposed an interim cash dividend of RMB0.46 per share – representing a 15.0% year-on-year increase and corresponding to a dividend payout ratio of 40%. The total cash dividends to be distributed amounts to approximately RMB2.32 billion, a 20.9% rise year-on-year, highlighting the Company’s ongoing commitment to enhancing long-term shareholder returns. 

Business Outlook: Driving Sustainable Growth Through Smart and Industry-Focused Solutions

SF Holding will leverage its digital and intelligent logistics capabilities to create tailored solutions and modular services for diverse industries and scenarios. As a global logistics leader connecting Asia with the rest of the world, by strengthening domestic and international logistics networks and agile operational coordination, the Company is dedicated to accelerating international expansion, improving operational efficiency and promoting sustainable development throughout Asia. Driven by increasing customer demand for comprehensive logistics and end-to-end solutions, SF Holding is well-poised to reinforce its leadership as the trustworthy logistics solutions provider – all while upholding its commitment to long-term sustainable and healthy development.

About SF Holding

Founded in 1993, S.F. Holding Co., Ltd. (002352.SZ; 06936.HK) is the largest integrated logistics service provider in Asia and the fourth largest globally. Listed on the Shenzhen Stock Exchange and the Hong Kong Stock Exchange, SF Holding is the constituent stock in the CSI 300 Index, MSCI Emerging Market Index and FTSE China 50 Index. Demonstrating a commitment to being fast, reliable, and customer-centric, the Company possesses digital technology to promote the development of intelligent and green supply chains.

For further information, please visit https://ir.sf-express.com/en/.

ECOVACS 2024 Sustainability Report Highlights Its Commitment to Sustainability and Data Security

SUZHOU, China, Aug. 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Recently, ECOVACS (603486.SH), a global leader in service robotics, has outlined its environmental, social and governance performance in its 2024 Sustainability Report.

As a pioneer in home service robotics and smart home appliances, ECOVACS delivers intelligent, reliable, and high-performance products and regards sustainability as a core driver of brand value. Guided by its sustainability strategy, PROGRESS, ECOVACS envisions creating a more responsible, inclusive, and sustainable world. As it advances this strategy, ECOVACS is fulfilling its environmental and social responsibility while reinforcing its brands, ECOVACS ROBOTICS and TINECO, as trusted partners in consumers’ daily lives.

The sustainability report highlights ECOVACS’ achievements in energy efficiency and recycling, carbon emission reduction, data security, and privacy protection. It also outlines the company’s future strategic goals, and how the PROGRESS strategy is guiding its ongoing sustainability efforts.

Qian Dongqi, Chairman of ECOVACS stated, “ECOVACS is committed to providing consumers worldwide with energy-efficient, high-performance, and reliable products. We prioritize high-quality development to strengthen competitiveness and sustainability and will continue to guide industry partners and consumers toward green practices and environmental responsibility, making a positive contribution to global sustainable development.”

Reducing Carbon Emissions and Promoting Circular Economy Practices

ECOVACS has pledged to peak carbon emissions by 2030 and achieve carbon neutrality by 2060. The company has also set specific 2030 sustainability goals:

  • Reduce energy intensity by 20% compared to 2020
  • Reduce water intensity by 10% compared to 2020
  • Reduce packaging material usage by 30%

To achieve these goals, ECOVACS is integrating green production practices across its operations, systemically reducing resource consumption and waste through process optimization and energy management:

  • In 2024, ECOVACS used 6,031.35 MWh of clean energy, including 2,530.71 MWh generated on-site by photovoltaic power systems at its Phase IV and Phase V factories, and 3,500.64 MWh of photovoltaic systems purchased by its subsidiary, Taiding New Energy.
  • New green facilities under construction for ECOVACS and TINECO will further expand the use of renewable energy.

The company actively supports a circular economy through trade-in programs that encourage reuse and sustainability:

  • In 2024, ECOVACS’ trade-in program collected 29,000 old units, backed by an investment of USD 3.13 million.
  • The company recovered 5,434.05 tons of recyclable materials, including old computers and parts, with a total recycling value of USD 4.07 million.

In addition, ECOVACS integrates sustainability into its product innovation. Its newest robotic vacuum cleaner, DEEBOT X11 OmniCyclone, incorporates PureCyclone 2.0 Auto-Empty Technology directly into the OMNI Station – an industry first. This “bagless revolution” eliminates the need for disposable dust bags, saving up to 2 million dust bags annually[1]. The design not only reduces costs for users but also makes everyday cleaning more efficient and sustainable.

Ensuring Robust Data Security and Protecting Consumer Privacy  

ECOVACS strictly complies with information security laws and regulations in all operating regions, including China’s Cybersecurity Law, Data Security Law, Personal Information Protection Law, and the EU’s General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). The company has implemented a comprehensive, multi-layered information security management framework encompassing organizational structures, standards, and procedures to safeguard networks and personal data.

In 2024, ECOVACS received multiple high-level data protection certifications:

  • External audits for ISO 27001 (Information Security Management System) and ISO 27701 (Privacy Information Management System) from BSI.
  • Product certifications include the ETSI EN303 645 Consumer IoT Cybersecurity Standard from TÜV Rheinland, and the TÜV Rheinland 2pfg CH0003 information security certification for IoT systems.
  • ECOVACS’ robotic vacuum cleaner models DEEBOT T80, X8 Family, and X9 Family received the “Diamond” Level loT Security Verification from UL Solutions.

The sustainability report also highlights ECOVACS’ advocacy of open innovation through its collaborations with universities, research institutes, and technology partners, using joint laboratories and incubation platforms to accelerate the development of advanced technologies. In supply chain management, ECOVACS collaborates with upstream and downstream partners across the industry chain to drive joint innovation, sharing resources and complementary capabilities in areas such as key technology development and green solutions. The company’s vertically integrated supply chain, combined with its focus on emerging technologies like embodied intelligence, ensures its competitiveness.

Looking ahead, ECOVACS remains committed to integrating sustainability into every aspect of its business, from product design and manufacturing to supply chain management and consumer engagement. By continuing to advance green initiatives, strengthen data security, and foster innovation, ECOVACS aims to lead the robotics industry and contribute to a more responsible, inclusive, and sustainable global future.

[1] Based on the projected sales of the DEEBOT X11.

ABOUT ECOVACS Group

Founded in 1998 and headquartered in Suzhou, China, the ECOVACS Group has developed into a group of listed companies that are driven by independent R&D and innovation, mastering core robotics and intelligent technologies, owning two international consumer technology brands “ECOVACS ROBOTICS” and “TINECO”, as well as a complete industrial chain layout.

As a leader and pioneer in the service robot and high-end intelligent household appliances industries, the ECOVACS Group is built on the commitment of being fully people-focused, with a dedication to continuously innovate so that people around the world can enjoy a better life through the benefits of our technology and products. The ECOVACS ROBOTICS brand launched China’s first robotics vacuum cleaners DEEBOT and the TINECO brand launched China’s first smart wet dry vacuum cleaner Floor One, both of which have won the favor of the global market and built up a wide user base. Currently, ECOVACS Group’s products are exported to over 170 countries and regions worldwide, serving more than 50 million household users.

Bybit On-Chain Earn Launches HYPE Festival: Gateway to Hyperliquid Ecosystem Opportunities

DUBAI, UAE, Aug. 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Bybit, the world’s second-largest cryptocurrency exchange by trading volume, is excited to launch the Bybit On-Chain Earn HYPE Festival, offering HYPE (Hyperliquid) holders access to premium staking rewards, while positioning them to capitalize on the expanding Hyperliquid ecosystem.

Exclusive on Bybit On-chain Earn, the month-long event starts now until September 27, 2025, inviting users to unlock a 2,500 HYPE bonus pool. It offers eligible users access to attractive yield and serves as a strategic entry point for participants seeking exposure to Hyperliquid’s leading decentralized finance infrastructure. HYPE holders who engage in staking activities gain enhanced positioning within an iconic ecosystem designed for high-frequency trading, perpetual contracts, and advanced DeFi applications.

Hyperliquid operates as a high-performance Layer 1 blockchain engineered specifically for fully on-chain financial operations. The platform processes orders, trades, and liquidations with sub-second execution times while maintaining complete transparency through on-chain settlement. This infrastructure creates substantial opportunities for ecosystem participants, from liquidity provision to advanced trading strategies.

Bybit On-Chain Earn Launches HYPE Festival:  Gateway to Hyperliquid Ecosystem  Opportunities
Bybit On-Chain Earn Launches HYPE Festival: Gateway to Hyperliquid Ecosystem Opportunities

Enhanced Staking Infrastructure and Returns

Bybit’s On-Chain Earn platform addresses traditional staking complexities by managing technical requirements and fee structures while distributing daily earnings automatically. The infrastructure supports blockchain network security through validation activities while providing participants with flexible staking and redemption options.

Bybit is committed to providing institutional-grade infrastructure for emerging blockchain ecosystems while improving accessibility for users to participate in next-generation DeFi protocols. Through on-chain staking with HYPE on Bybit, participants stand to position themselves within a rapidly expanding ecosystem that combines high-performance trading infrastructure with innovative tokenomic design.

#Bybit / #TheCryptoArk  

About Bybit

Bybit is the world’s second-largest cryptocurrency exchange by trading volume, serving a global community of over 70 million users. Founded in 2018, Bybit is redefining openness in the decentralized world by creating a simpler, open and equal ecosystem for everyone. With a strong focus on Web3, Bybit partners strategically with leading blockchain protocols to provide robust infrastructure and drive on-chain innovation. Renowned for its secure custody, diverse marketplaces, intuitive user experience, and advanced blockchain tools, Bybit bridges the gap between TradFi and DeFi, empowering builders, creators, and enthusiasts to unlock the full potential of Web3. Discover the future of decentralized finance at Bybit.com.

For more details about Bybit, please visit Bybit Press
For media inquiries, please contact: media@bybit.com
For updates, please follow: Bybit’s Communities and Social Media

Discord | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Reddit | Telegram | TikTok | X | Youtube

 

Sands China Properties Surpass Milestone of 1.1 Billion Visitors

Continued investment in non-gaming offerings while marking a new chapter in development

MACAO, Aug. 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Sands China Ltd. has now welcomed over 1.1 billion visitors to its properties, a major milestone in the company’s more than two decades of development in Macao.

Sands China team members gather Thursday at its flagship property, The Venetian Macao, to celebrate the arrival of its 1.1 billionth guest. Dr. Wilfred Wong, executive vice chairman of Sands China Ltd., and Grant Chum, the company’s chief executive officer and executive director, presented exclusive surprises to the lucky guest, commemorating Sands China’s journey along the Cotai Strip.
Sands China team members gather Thursday at its flagship property, The Venetian Macao, to celebrate the arrival of its 1.1 billionth guest. Dr. Wilfred Wong, executive vice chairman of Sands China Ltd., and Grant Chum, the company’s chief executive officer and executive director, presented exclusive surprises to the lucky guest, commemorating Sands China’s journey along the Cotai Strip.

The company celebrated the arrival of its 1.1 billionth guest with a welcome ceremony Thursday at its flagship property, The Venetian® Macao. During the event, Dr. Wilfred Wong, executive vice chairman of Sands China Ltd., and Grant Chum, the company’s chief executive officer and executive director, presented exclusive surprises to the lucky guest, commemorating Sands China’s journey along the Cotai Strip. The occasion coincided with Thursday’s 18th anniversary of The Venetian Macao, a favourite spot among global travellers and a must-visit destination in Macao.

Sands China’s story in Macao began in 2004 with the eagerly awaited grand opening of Sands® Macao, Macao’s first hotel and entertainment complex of its type. It laid a solid foundation for the company’s introduction of integrated resort offerings on the Cotai Strip. In 2007, The Venetian® Macao debuted as the world’s second-largest building at the time, pioneering large-scale integrated resorts in Macao. This was followed by The Plaza® Macao, Sands® Cotai Central, and The Parisian® Macao, opened respectively in 2008, 2012, and 2016 – with Sands Cotai Central now upgraded and transformed into The Londoner Macao®. These iconic attractions along the Cotai Strip are seamlessly connected, forming a European-themed destination that has reshaped the skyline of Cotai. Their development has laid a key foundation for Macao to offer a diverse, all-round mix of business, tourism, and leisure experiences to visitors.

“Surpassing 1.1 billion arrivals is not only a significant milestone for the company, but also a testament to the popularity of Macao’s tourism offerings and the vitality and sustainability of its economic development,” said Dr. Wong. “This remarkable achievement would not have been made possible without the guidance and strong support of the central and SAR governments, the concerted efforts of our 27,000 team members, and the solidarity of over 2,500 suppliers. Sands China calls Macao home and we are committed to fulfilling our corporate social responsibility while actively giving back to our community. Moving forward, we will continue to work alongside Macao and invest in non-gaming projects to polish further its ‘golden business card’ as an international metropolis, showcasing its unique charm to both residents and visitors from around the world.”

Sands China’s cumulative investment in Macao has exceeded MOP 134.5 billion, a consistent contributor to the city’s development as a world centre of tourism and leisure. The company’s integrated resorts offer over 10,000 hotel rooms, 150 dining options, and 760 retail outlets. They feature the region’s premier meetings and conventions destination, spanning more than 150,000 square metres, as well as two arenas and four theatres for international entertainment performances, with a total seating capacity of over 25,000.

Through efforts such as holding overseas roadshows and launching initiatives that promote the integration of sports, culture, and tourism, Sands China remains focused on enriching the visitor experience and raising the benchmark for hospitality, entertainment and gourmet experiences in Macao to attract international visitors.

About Sands China Ltd.

Sands China Ltd. (Sands China or the Company) is incorporated in the Cayman Islands with limited liability and is listed on The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited (HKEx: 1928). Sands China is the largest operator of integrated resorts in Macao. The Company’s integrated resorts on the Cotai Strip comprise The Venetian® Macao, The Plaza® Macao, The Parisian® Macao and The Londoner Macao®. The Company also owns and operates Sands® Macao on the Macao peninsula. The Company’s portfolio features a diversified mix of leisure and business attractions and transportation operations, including large meeting and convention facilities; a wide range of restaurants; shopping malls; world-class entertainment at The Venetian Arena, The Londoner Arena, The Venetian Theatre, The Parisian Theatre, the Londoner Theatre and the Sands Theatre; and a high-speed Cotai Water Jet ferry service between Hong Kong and Macao. The Company’s Cotai Strip portfolio has the goal of contributing to Macao’s transformation into a world centre of tourism and leisure. Sands China is a subsidiary of global resort developer Las Vegas Sands Corp. (NYSE: LVS).

For more information, please visit www.sandschina.com.

Media contacts:
Corporate Communications, Sands China Ltd.
Mabel Wu
Tel: +853 8118 2268
Email: mabel.wu@sands.com.mo 

Jesse Chiang
Tel: +853 8118 2054
Email: jesse.chiang@sands.com.mo

Best Mart 360 Reports Interim Revenue Growth to HK$1.44 billion

Proposed an interim dividend of HK11.0 cents per share


Highlights:

  • Revenue increased to approximately HK$1,436.6 million.
  • Gross profit increased to approximately HK$518.2 million.
  • Profit attributable to owners of the Company amounted to approximately HK$120.7 million.
  • As at 30 June 2025, the Group operated a total of 178 chain retail stores
  • Basic earnings per share was approximately HK12.1 cents. The Board recommended the payment of interim dividend of HK11.0 cents per share.

Financial Highlights:

For the 6 months ended 30 Jun
HK$’000 2025 2024 Change
Revenue 1,436,576 1,393,691 +3.1%
Sales derived from private label products 251,203 234,630 +7.1%
Gross profit 518,177 507,938 +2.0%
Interim dividend per share (HK cents) 11.0 11.0 – –

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 28 August 2025 – Best Mart 360 Holdings Limited (“Best Mart 360” or the “Company”, together with its subsidiaries, the “Group”; stock code: 2360.HK), a leading leisure food retailer in Hong Kong, announced its interim results for the six months ended 30 June 2025 (“the Period under Review”). During the Period under Review, the revenue recorded by the Group amounted to approximately HK$1,436,576,000, representing an increase of approximately 3.1% as compared to approximately HK$1,393,691,000 for the six months ended 30 June 2024 (the “Corresponding Period Last Year”).

During the Period under Review, profit attributable to owners of the Company amounted to approximately HK$120,652,000.

For the six months ended 30 June 2025, gross profit of the Group were approximately HK$518,177,000, representing an increase of approximately 2.0%, as compared to gross profits of approximately HK$507,938,000 for the six months ended 30 June 2024; and gross profit margin for the six months ended 30 June 2025 was approximately 36.1%. During the Period under Review, basic earnings per share of the Group was approximately HK12.1 cents. The Board recommended the payment of interim dividend of HK11.0 cents per share.

BUSINESS REVIEW

CHAIN RETAIL STORES
As at 30 June 2025, the Group operated a total of 178 chain retail stores, including 172 chain retail stores in Hong Kong and 6 chain retail stores in Macau, respectively. During the Period under Review, the Group continued to adopt its store optimization strategy by continuously improving the product display, store appearance and procurement arrangements, to provide customers with a better shopping environment and experience, and to showcase the Company’s further diversified product portfolio and good brand image.

In 2021, the Group launched a new global wine and food shop “FoodVille”, targeting mid-to-high end and global quality food products. These include fine wines, premium chocolates, health foods, cheese, Western sauces and ingredients from various countries and regions, catering to the market’s pursuit of a high-quality living and expanding the Group’s customer base. As at 30 June 2025, the Group operated a total of 8 stores under the relevant retail brand.

During the Period under Review, the ratio of rental expenses (on a cash basis) to sales revenue of the Group’s retail stores was approximately 9.6%.

THE PRODUCTS
During the Period under Review, the Group adhered to the global procurement strategy and strived to provide customers with a wide range of products from all over the world with diversified choices. During the Period under Review, the Group sold over 1,050 brands and more than 2,870 stock keeping units (“SKUs”) of products in total, offering customers a diversified range of choices. The Group continued to optimise its product portfolio, phasing out older items for new products and flavours, staying abreast of changes in customer demands.

To enrich our product mix and maintain effective control over product qualities and supplies and profitability, the Group continued to actively develop its private label products during the period. During the Period under Review, sales derived from private label products amounted to approximately HK$251,203,000 (for the six months ended 30 June 2024: approximately HK$234,630,000), accounted for approximately 17.5% of the Group’s overall revenue for the Period under Review.

The Group had a total of 12 private labels and approximately 259 SKUs of products, including masks, canned Chinese delicacies, cereals, milk, honey, nuts and dried fruits as well as a wide range of leisure food products.

MEMBERSHIP SCHEME AND MARKETING & PROMOTIONAL ACTIVITIES
As at 30 June 2025, the number of the Group’s registered fans and members was approximately 2,243,198 (30 June 2024: approximately 2,214,680). The number of mobile app members has reached approximately 1,238,775 as of 30 June 2025 (30 June 2024: approximately 1,112,031).

The Group conducted various marketing and promotional activities during the Period under Review, including the launch of the “Best Price (至優價)”, “Monday Reward (狂賞星期一)”, “Wednesday Reward (週三即日賞)”, “Instant Redemption Upon Purchase (一買即換)” and other promotional campaign, which continuously provided customers with a series of special offers for selected quality products to express our gratitude for our customers’ support and to enhance customer loyalty.

Meanwhile, the Group continued to advertise through television, newspapers, social media platforms and other media channels, which successfully obtained repeat customers, attracted new customers and greatly promoted the discussions about the Group in the market.

EMPLOYEES
As at 30 June 2025, the number of full-time and part-time employees of the Group was 1,187 (31 December 2024: 1,230). The year-on-year decrease was primarily due to an increase in full-time staff alongside a reduction in part-time staff, aimed at enhancing the service quality in stores. In order to retain staff and to suitably incentivise employees of the Group so as to increase staff cohesion and loyalty, the Group regularly reviews and updates its employee benefit plans and remuneration packages with reference to labour market supply and labour cost trend, as well as individual performance. Staff costs (excluding Directors’ emoluments) of the Group accounted for approximately 9.7% of revenue during the Period under Review (for the six months ended 30 June 2024: approximately 10.0%).

OUTLOOK
Amid escalating global geopolitical conditions, economic prospects remain fraught with uncertainties. Coupled with the changes in consumer spending patterns in recent years, the growing popularity of cross-border consumption has further hindered the recovery of the retail industry in Hong Kong. The Group anticipates that the retail business environment will remain challenging this year. The Group will remain prudent in conducting business, actively explore new products and new markets, and explore opportunities for diversified development. Simultaneously, the Group will continue to enhance internal operational efficiency, promote and refine management practices, optimise business processes, and control costs. The Group will closely monitor factors affecting its operations, flexibly adjust and implement relevant strategies flexibly timely to deliver the best returns for shareholders and investors.

Looking ahead, the Group will seize market opportunity to expand its store network of its major retail brands, namely the “Best Mart 360º (優品360º)” and “FoodVille”. By leveraging the “dual brand” model, the Group aims to meet the needs of different customer segments for quality food. The Group will review the operation of existing retail outlets regularly to adjust its operational strategy as needed. In addition, in June this year, the Group officially joined the foodpanda mall platform, enabling customers to purchase products online conveniently, expanding sales channels and boosting revenue.

The Group remains committed to its business mission of “Best Quality” and “Best Price”. It will actively seek upstream suppliers to enrich its product portfolio while maintaining a competitive edge in pricing. On the other hand, the Group will continue to actively explore different categories of food products globally to enhance the development of its own brand products to meet the market demand for daily necessities and provide customers with a more diversified range of choices.Hashtag: #BestMart360 #優品360

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

Best Mart 360 Holdings Limited

Best Mart 360 Holdings Limited, mainly operates chain retail stores under the brand “Best Mart 360˚”. It offers wide collection of imported prepackaged leisure foods and other grocery products, principally from overseas. The Group’s business objective is to offer “Best Quality” and “Best Price” products to customers through continuous efforts on global procurement with a mission to provide comfortable shopping environment and pleasurable shopping experience to customers. As at 30 June 2024, the Group operates 178 retail stores that are strategically located at 18 districts in Hong Kong and Macau. In addition, the Group’s new global gourmet store, “FoodVille”, was officially opened in September 2021, which mainly provides globally sourced medium-to-high-end quality food products.

Tether announces plan to bring USD₮ to RGB, advancing native stablecoins on Bitcoin and Lightning

The stablecoin giant commits to issuing USD₮ on Bitcoin and Lightning in the near future, leveraging RGB technology. 

Paolo Ardoino, CEO of Tether: “With RGB, USD₮ gains a powerful new pathway on Bitcoin.”

LUGANO, Switzerland, Aug. 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Tether announced today its intention to issue USD₮ on RGB, a next-generation protocol for issuing and transacting digital assets on Bitcoin and the Lightning Network. The RGB Protocol Association welcomes the announcement as a strong signal for builders and institutions seeking private, scalable and user-controlled asset rails on the world’s most secure network.

RGB reached mainnet readiness earlier this year with the v0.11.1 release, enabling developers to issue and manage assets using client-side validation and Bitcoin as a commitment layer. This design keeps asset data off-chain while anchoring proofs to Bitcoin transactions – minimizing chain bloat, preserving privacy, and enabling Lightning compatibility.

Bitcoin deserves a stablecoin that feels truly native, lightweight, private, and scalable,” said Paolo Ardoino, CEO of Tether. “With RGB, USD₮ gains a powerful new pathway on Bitcoin, reinforcing our belief in Bitcoin as the foundation of a freer financial future.

With USD₮ on RGB, users and service providers will be able to:

  • Hold and transfer USD₮ alongside bitcoin in the same wallet;
  • Leverage private, client-validated transactions that don’t reveal balances or flows on-chain;
  • Integrate with the Lightning Network to achieve instant settlement experiences, using RGB’s transport extensions.

Why it matters

RGB extends Bitcoin beyond a store of value, enabling stablecoins, tokenized assets, and programmable rights that inherit Bitcoin’s security model while keeping users in control. Adoption by major issuers like Tether can catalyze wallet support, merchant adoption, and cross-chain liquidity bridges without new L1 opcodes or consensus changes.

For developers & integrators

The Association invites wallets, exchanges, payment processors, and infrastructure providers to join working groups accelerating RGB20 (fungible assets) integrations, Lightning transports, and bridge connectors that expand USD₮ and other assets across Bitcoin-native rails.

About RGB Protocol Association

RGB Protocol Association is a Swiss non-profit committed to stewarding the development, standardization, and adoption of RGB – private & scalable digital contracts for Bitcoin and Lightning – through open collaboration with companies, researchers, and the broader free-software community. Learn more at rgbprotocol.org.

Official announcement:
https://tether.io/news/tether-to-launch-usdt-on-rgb-expanding-native-bitcoin-stablecoin-support/

Media & Partnerships
press@rgbprotocol.org 
Resources: rgb.info | github.com/rgb-protocol

 

Well-Known Chinese Brand Publishes Landmark Paper in Springer Nature’s Top Journal Nano-Micro Letters

A leading Chinese kid’s brand’s sunscreen technology sets a new global benchmark.

GUANGZHOU, China, Aug. 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Hi!papa, a leading Chinese kid’s brand, recently published a paper on sunscreen technology in Nano-Micro Letters, a top international journal under Springer Nature with an impact factor of 36.3. The study is the world’s first to apply advanced materials technology from mobile phone manufacturing to skincare, breaking through a 20-year bottleneck in sunscreen innovation and setting a new benchmark for the global sunscreen industry.


Nano-Micro Letters is a peer-reviewed, top-ranked international journal in materials science, covering interdisciplinary research on nano- and microscale structures across physics, chemistry, biology, and pharmacy. In the 2025 Journal Citation Reports, the journal ranked in the top two percent globally in three disciplines. Its content highlights industrial breakthroughs that often enter daily life within a short period of time. Hi!papa’s inclusion highlights the exceptional weight of this achievement.

This scientific breakthrough reflects the cross-disciplinary research approach of Associate Professor Qiu Ling of Tsinghua University, Chief Scientific Advisor of Hi!papa.. His background includes work at the joint research platform of the Shenzhen Geim Graphene Research Center and Tsinghua University Shenzhen Research Institute, established by 2010 Nobel Prize winner André Geim. In collaboration with major consumer electronics companies, Prof. Qiu pioneered the use of modified boron nitride in mobile phone cooling systems, highlighting the potential of structural modification in light and heat management.

Drawing on graphene’s light transmission and its ability to block ultraviolet rays and harmful substances, Hi!papa’s team, led by Associate Professor Qiu Ling of Tsinghua University, Chief Scientific Advisor of Hi!papa, redefined sunscreen design to create a Chinese Invisible Sunscreen Film. The global beauty industry takes a cautious approach to applying materials science across disciplines, but Hi!papa has broken new ground by adapting molecular structure optimization methods used in mobile phone manufacturing to skincare, achieving a breakthrough in healthy, invisible, and non-whitening sun protection.

The advanced material minimizes skin burden from sunscreen use, ushering in a new era of healthy sun protection. The Invisible Film technology reduces residue and penetration of traditional sun protection, while delivering comprehensive defense for skin health. By using structural modification and metal doping to reconstruct two-dimensional lamellar titanium dioxide, the team has broken through an almost 20-year technological bottleneck.

Over the past two decades, few advances in sunscreen have been recognized as true technological breakthroughs by leading academic journals. Most claimed improvements focus on adjusting particle size, adding moisturizers, or combining physical and chemical sunscreen. By contrast, Hi!papa’s innovative Invisible Sunscreen Film technology achieves fundamental progress at the materials level, paving the way for safer, more effective products and setting a new benchmark for the industry.

Founder and CEO, Xu Yujiangsheng, commented: “This achievement not only advances sunscreen technology through the tremendous potential of cross-disciplinary research, but also represents a meaningful contribution from a Chinese brand to global skincare innovation. Hi!papa will remain research-driven, bringing safer and more scientifically grounded skincare to new generations worldwide.”

About Hi!papa

Backed by LVMH-affiliated investment, Hi!papa is a leading scientific and functional skincare brand for kids. It independently established the Xihe Laboratory, China’s first research center dedicated to children and teen’s skincare, and has collaborated with leading experts including teams from Tsinghua University. In just four years, the brand has grown to a billion-yuan scale and now holds 60 patents and 29 special sunscreen certifications. According to Euromonitor International, Hi!papa is ranked as Asia’s No. 1 baby and child sunscreen brand, maintaining the top spot for four consecutive years, underscoring its global recognition for innovation and growth potential, underscoring its global recognition of innovation and growth potential.