Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the shift in consumer behavior among the Z generation and millennials, emphasizing the importance of emotional value in purchasing decisions, which has led to a transformation in retail experiences and brand strategies [3][4][6]. Group 1: Changing Consumer Behavior - The Z generation and millennials are becoming the main consumer force, focusing on emotional value rather than just the practical utility of products [3][6]. - Nearly 30% of young consumers are willing to spend for emotional satisfaction, indicating a significant shift in consumption patterns [6][7]. - The traditional classification of high-end and mid-range brands is becoming less relevant, as consumers prioritize brands that offer emotional connection and unique experiences [7][9]. Group 2: Retail Experience Evolution - Retail spaces are evolving from mere transaction venues to platforms that provide unique experiences and emotional connections [4][8]. - Brands are increasingly integrating diverse activities and experiences to enhance consumer engagement, such as pop-up events and cultural exhibitions [9][10]. - The "Louis Number" project exemplifies the trend of combining retail, dining, and exhibitions to create a compelling consumer experience, significantly increasing visitor dwell time [9][10]. Group 3: Return to Physical Stores - The trend of emotional value is driving consumers back to physical stores, with brands like Pop Mart and Jellycat relying heavily on brick-and-mortar locations [10][11]. - Many online brands are recognizing the importance of physical presence, leading to a surge in new store openings across various cities [11][12]. - The expansion of brand stores is revitalizing offline commercial activity, with a focus on experiential retail that fosters deeper connections with consumers [11].

Core Insights - The traditional classification of high-end and mid-range consumer goods is becoming blurred due to changing consumer trends, particularly among Gen Z and Millennials, who prioritize emotional value over mere practicality in their purchasing decisions [1][2][3] Consumer Behavior Trends - The rise of "emotional value" in consumer spending is evident, with nearly 30% of young respondents indicating they make purchases for emotional healing [2] - Consumers are increasingly seeking unique experiences and emotional satisfaction rather than just material ownership, leading to a shift towards more diverse and experiential consumption [2][4] Retail Space Evolution - Future retail spaces are expected to transform from mere transaction venues to platforms that offer unique experiences and emotional connections, necessitating a multi-dimensional approach from market participants [1][3] - Brands are focusing on creating engaging environments that encourage longer consumer visits, as seen with the "Louis Number" project, which significantly increased visitor dwell time compared to traditional retail [5][6] Brand Strategy Adjustments - Brands are moving away from strict high-end classifications and are instead focusing on content, relevance, and emotional value to attract consumers [3][4] - The trend of emotional value-driven brands is becoming a new traffic engine, with brands like Pop Mart and Jellycat successfully entering high-end retail spaces [3][4] Shift Back to Physical Retail - The emphasis on experiential consumption is driving a resurgence in physical retail, with many brands recognizing the importance of in-person experiences to foster deeper connections with consumers [5][6] - A notable trend is the expansion of physical stores by previously online-only brands, indicating a recognition of the value of tangible consumer interactions [6]

Core Viewpoint - The gold market is gaining attention as the National Day holiday approaches, with various brands adjusting their gold jewelry prices, indicating a potential upward trend in gold prices [1][2][3]. Price Adjustments - Major brands such as Chow Tai Fook, Chow Sang Sang, and Luk Fook Jewelry have set their gold prices at 1108 CNY per gram, while other brands like Lao Feng Xiang and Lao Miao are priced at 1100 CNY per gram [1][2]. - Chow Tai Fook confirmed that its "fixed price" gold products will see price increases starting in October, with specific adjustments to be announced later [2][3]. - Recent reports indicate that some brands have already begun or are about to increase their product prices, with potential increases of 30%-40% for popular items [3]. Emerging Trends - A new product called "Pain Gold," which resonates with younger consumers, has gained popularity, priced at 2800 CNY per gram, significantly higher than standard gold jewelry prices [4]. - The collaboration between traditional brands and popular culture, such as Chow Tai Fook's partnership with the game "Black Myth: Wukong," has resulted in substantial sales, exceeding 1.5 billion CNY [4]. Market Dynamics - The "谷子" (Guzi) economy, which includes merchandise from comics, games, and animations, is projected to reach a market size of 168.9 billion CNY in 2024, growing over 40% from 2023 [5]. - Gold's intrinsic value provides a more stable investment compared to other merchandise in the "谷子" category, even as trends fluctuate [5]. Price Influences - Multiple factors are contributing to the sustained high gold prices, including anticipated interest rate cuts by the Federal Reserve and geopolitical risks [6][7]. - Historical data suggests that gold prices tend to rise following interest rate cuts, with an average increase of 6% within 60 days [6]. - The long-term outlook for gold remains positive due to the restructuring of the global monetary credit system and the weakening of the dollar's reserve status [7].

Core Viewpoint - The article emphasizes the importance of focusing on personal value and financial gain rather than seeking emotional validation in the workplace [7][21][59]. Group 1 - Employees should not expect emotional support or sympathy from their superiors when facing challenges or criticism [20][42]. - The narrative illustrates that seeking emotional value can hinder financial success, as demonstrated by the experiences of individuals who faced criticism but chose to focus on improving their skills instead [36][52]. - The article argues that the primary purpose of work is to earn money, and emotional fulfillment should be secondary [21][55]. Group 2 - The article provides examples of individuals who initially sought emotional validation but ultimately found success by concentrating on their professional development and contributions [11][36][52]. - It highlights that emotional value and financial gain are often at odds, suggesting that to achieve financial success, one must relinquish the desire for emotional recognition [42][58]. - The narrative encourages individuals to adopt a resilient mindset, focusing on self-improvement and the tangible aspects of their work rather than emotional responses [60].

新华社上海9月27日电（记者 陈爱平）旅游正日益成为人们社交的场景。人们对"情绪价值"的追求，促进旅游业界创新产品服务，拓展文旅 体验"外延"。 第36届上海旅游节重点活动之一，2025年上海旅行摄影大赛正如火如荼开展，赛事邀请游客用镜头记录下上海都市游、文博游、乡村游等场 景，还设有"手机摄影大师课""航拍上海训练营"等配套活动，让游客在旅途中学到更多摄影知识。 9月23日，2025年上海旅行摄影大赛启动现场，旅游从业者向摄影爱好者推荐摄影主题旅游线路。新华社发 9月9日，在上海浦东新区一家酒店举办的非遗体验活动上，外国游客（前排）手持剪纸作品合影。新华社记者 陈爱平 摄 多家旅游平台预计，在即将到来的国庆、中秋"超级黄金周"，多地将迎来旅游热潮。携程平台预订数据显示，国庆节假期跨省游订单量同比 增长45%，"场景+文化+体验"的沉浸式产品因更能满足人们的"情绪价值"需求，而更受欢迎。 这家旅行社除服务一批摄影爱好者外，还创新设立滑雪俱乐部、举办骑行活动等，将社交、体育、旅行、艺术相结合，在丰富游客体验的同 时提升了企业经营效益。 无独有偶，越来越多酒店做起"加法"，将公共空间打造成为文化体验和社交活动的场 ...

Group 1 - The 2025 World Design Cities Conference (WDCC2025) is being held in Shanghai from September 25 to September 28, showcasing the city's significant achievements in creative design since joining UNESCO's Creative Cities Network in 2010, with the creative design industry exceeding 1.6 trillion yuan [1] - The conference features various exhibitions, including a popular booth by Pop Mart showcasing its "THE MONSTERS" series, which attracts a high number of visitors [3] - The trend of "emotional value" in consumer products is highlighted, with young consumers increasingly willing to pay for well-designed items that offer social attributes, enhancing brand competitiveness [5] Group 2 - The brand "IYI" from Laiyifen transforms its image into an "astronaut" at the conference, aiming to provide not only snacks but also emotional value through creative branding and potential collaborations with artists for unique packaging [7] - The dairy brand Miaokelando is targeting a broad age market with visually appealing products that resonate with young consumers, such as its tearable cheese designed to create fun shapes [7] - The tea brand "Hushang Ayi" is addressing young consumers' health needs by integrating various vegetables into its tea products, showcasing a "nutritional visualization area" at the conference [8] - The overall exhibition includes a main venue in Shanghai and an overseas section, featuring nearly 500 brands and over 3,000 exhibits, promoting a new paradigm of fashionable living and facilitating the international expansion of Shanghai's design and fashion products [8]

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the phenomenon of Zhang Xuefeng, who has gained popularity by providing emotional value to parents and students, acting as a "mouthpiece" for their frustrations and aspirations in the education sector [5][9]. Summary by Sections Zhang Xuefeng's Situation - Zhang Xuefeng's main account has been banned on various platforms, but his smaller accounts continue to operate, suggesting potential for a comeback [5]. - His rise to fame is attributed to his ability to articulate the sentiments of millions of parents and students, providing them with emotional comfort [5]. Emotional Value vs. Professional Value - Zhang's statements, such as the lack of future in journalism and the importance of hard work in high school, resonate emotionally but lack substantive professional insight [6][7]. - The appeal of his messages lies in their emotional resonance rather than their factual accuracy, as they reflect widespread frustrations with the education system [7][8]. Role as a "Mouthpiece" - Zhang Xuefeng serves as a voice for parents who feel disillusioned with the media and education, allowing them to express their grievances [8]. - His motivational speeches to high school students are more impactful than traditional advice from teachers, as he embodies a successful figure that students can relate to [8][9]. Market for Educational Consulting - Zhang's services create an illusion of a shortcut for parents seeking to navigate the complexities of college admissions and career choices for their children [9][10]. - He capitalizes on the desire of Chinese parents to control their children's futures, offering them a sense of agency through his consulting services [10]. Information Gap and Trends - Despite claims of possessing unique insights, Zhang's advice often lacks originality and is reactive to prevailing trends in education and job markets [10][11]. - The article suggests that his influence is based on providing emotional value rather than genuine expertise, as he adapts his messages to align with current societal sentiments [11]. Conclusion on KOL Dynamics - The article concludes that the role of Key Opinion Leaders (KOLs) like Zhang Xuefeng is increasingly about providing emotional support rather than delivering expert knowledge, reflecting a broader trend in social media [11].

Core Insights - The Lynk & Co 08 EM-P has officially launched on September 24, with a price range of 175,800 to 228,800 yuan, and a limited-time offer of 159,800 to 212,800 yuan until October 31 [1] - This model is positioned as a "luxury family intelligent hybrid SUV" and is a key part of Lynk & Co's electrification strategy, built on the CMA Evo architecture [1] - The vehicle features advancements in design, intelligent cockpit, comfort, performance, safety, and intelligent driving assistance [1] Product Features - The Lynk & Co 08 EM-P is available in four different models [1] - The car emphasizes emotional value, with a focus on features like the Harman Kardon sound system, which is highly valued by users [1]

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the rise and potential fall of Zhang Xuefeng, a popular figure in the education consulting space, highlighting his role as a "voice" for parents and students, and the emotional value he provides rather than technical expertise [1][2][9] Group 1: Zhang Xuefeng's Influence - Zhang Xuefeng's accounts on various internet platforms have been banned, but his smaller accounts continue to operate, suggesting potential for a comeback [1] - He has gained popularity by voicing sentiments that resonate with parents and students, acting as a "mouthpiece" for their frustrations and aspirations [2][4] - His statements, such as the lack of future in journalism and the importance of hard work in high school, have been widely shared, despite lacking substantial professional content [2][3] Group 2: Emotional Value vs. Technical Expertise - The emotional value provided by Zhang Xuefeng has led to a significant following, as he articulates common frustrations with the education system [2][6] - His ability to connect with audiences through emotionally charged rhetoric has overshadowed the lack of unique insights or information [6][7] - The article suggests that the blending of "professional value" and "emotional value" is a common trend in the social media era, where consumers often seek emotional satisfaction rather than genuine expertise [9] Group 3: Market Dynamics and Parental Behavior - Zhang Xuefeng's services cater to the desires of Chinese parents who seek shortcuts for their children's educational paths, reflecting a broader cultural tendency [5] - The article critiques the lack of proactive engagement from parents in understanding educational choices, which Zhang Xuefeng exploits by offering seemingly easy solutions [5][6] - The changing job market and the devaluation of degrees have made parents more reliant on figures like Zhang Xuefeng for guidance, despite the questionable validity of his advice [3][4]

Core Insights - The report highlights that "emotional value" has become a core necessity in the spiritual lives of young people by 2025, driven by the rise of emotional consumption among the youth [1] - The findings are based on a survey conducted by Soul App, which collected 2,338 valid responses, with approximately 70% of respondents being from Generation Z (post-1995 and post-2000) [3] Emotional Consumption Trends - Over 90% of young people recognize "emotional value," with many having experiences of paying for it, and nearly 40% are frequent consumers [3][4] - The average monthly expenditure on emotional consumption is 949 yuan, with 18.1% of youth willing to spend over 2,000 yuan monthly [4] Motivations and Preferences - The primary motivations for young people to pay for emotional value are "emotional tuning" and "gaining understanding and recognition," with women favoring self-rewarding consumption and men seeking understanding through consumption [6] - The top five categories of emotional consumption include physical goods (40.7%), experiential consumption (39.4%), social relationship consumption (28.1%), digital consumption (27.7%), and co-branded/IP-related consumption (24.9%) [6] Age-Related Consumption Patterns - Younger groups are more inclined to pay for social relationships and digital consumption, with the highest average spending in these categories observed among those aged 18-20 and 21-25, respectively [7] - Significant growth in interest for "AI companionship" and "digital avatars" has been noted, with post volumes and search volumes increasing dramatically on the Soul platform [7] Consumption Timing and Psychological Aspects - More than half of young people exhibit regular consumption patterns, with peak times occurring after 10 PM and during work breaks [9] - Emotional consumption serves dual purposes: 48.4% engage in it for emotional stability, while 34.9% do so to celebrate happiness [10] - The report indicates a shift towards a more rational and mature perspective on emotional consumption among young people, emphasizing the importance of diverse social networks for long-term emotional health [10]