Group 1: Market Growth and Trends - The "Guzi economy" market size in China is projected to grow from 58 billion yuan in 2020 to 168.9 billion yuan by 2024, nearly tripling in size[9] - By 2029, the overall market size is expected to reach 308.9 billion yuan[9] - The number of related enterprises in the Guzi economy has increased from 78,900 in 2015 to nearly 7 million by mid-2025, an increase of 87 times[9] Group 2: Consumer Demographics - Consumers aged 18 to 40 account for over 78% of Guzi product purchases, with the Gen Z demographic contributing more than 50%[13] - Female consumers' share in the Guzi economy is projected to rise from 67% in 2023 to 78% by 2025[13] - High-tier cities account for over 80% of Guzi consumption, indicating potential growth in lower-tier markets[13] Group 3: Challenges and Recommendations - Insufficient copyright protection is harming the interests of original creators and consumers, necessitating stronger IP protection measures[34] - Market disorder due to irrational speculation is disrupting the Guzi economy, highlighting the need for regulatory oversight[34] - The industry faces challenges from homogenized competition, which limits growth potential, suggesting a need for innovation in IP development and product differentiation[36]

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the emerging trend of "pain buildings" (痛楼) in shopping malls, which are immersive fan experiences that blend commercial interests with fan culture, particularly in the context of the declining performance of physical retail spaces [6][19][20]. Summary by Sections What is Pain Building? - Pain buildings originated from Japanese "pain culture," where fans express their preferences through exaggerated displays, such as "pain bags" filled with badges and figures [8][9]. - In China, pain buildings have become popular in major cities, with venues like Shenzhen's Zhongzhou Bay frequently hosting these events [9][14]. Fan Engagement and Commercial Collaboration - Pain buildings are typically organized through collaborations between fan groups and shopping malls, allowing fans to express their appreciation for idols [15][16]. - The cost of creating a pain building can vary widely, from tens of thousands to hundreds of thousands of yuan, depending on the scale and duration of the event [17]. Impact on Shopping Malls - Shopping malls are increasingly adopting pain buildings as a strategy to attract foot traffic and enhance customer engagement, especially in a challenging retail environment [19][20]. - The rise of pain buildings reflects a broader trend where shopping centers seek to create experiential spaces rather than just transactional ones [26]. Market Dynamics and Consumer Behavior - The article highlights the growing audience for the "二次元" (two-dimensional) culture, with a projected compound annual growth rate of 10.4% from 2016 to 2021, indicating a significant market opportunity for related events [20]. - Pain buildings not only attract dedicated fans but also casual passersby, creating a more inclusive atmosphere compared to traditional fan events [16][22]. Limitations and Future Outlook - Not all commercial spaces are suitable for pain buildings; shopping malls tend to be more adaptable than traditional department stores, which focus on price-driven sales [24][25]. - The longevity of pain buildings as a trend is uncertain, with industry experts suggesting that while they can generate short-term interest, they may not be a sustainable long-term strategy for engaging younger consumers [26].

Core Viewpoint - The rising popularity of "pain gold" jewelry, which features designs based on anime characters, is driven by young consumers' willingness to pay for emotional value, despite concerns about its long-term value retention [1][10]. Group 1: Market Trends - "Pain gold" products are gaining traction in gold stores, with traditional items like bracelets being replaced by anime-themed gold jewelry [2][6]. - Major brands such as Chow Tai Fook, Lao Miao, and others are increasingly featuring these collaborations, with a significant portion of their displays dedicated to these products [2][6]. - The pricing strategy for "pain gold" items is notably different, often sold at fixed prices rather than by weight, with some items priced as high as 2,600 yuan per gram [7][9]. Group 2: Consumer Behavior - Young consumers are emotionally invested in these products, often purchasing them as a form of self-expression related to their favorite characters [2][3]. - Sales staff actively engage with customers by referencing popular culture and creating a sense of community, which enhances the purchasing experience [3][6]. - The emotional appeal is emphasized by marketing strategies that highlight the uniqueness and perceived value of these items [10][14]. Group 3: Pricing and Valuation - The pricing of "pain gold" items often exceeds traditional gold prices significantly, with some products showing a premium of over 100% compared to the market gold price [7][9]. - The high prices are justified by the complexity of the designs and the costs associated with licensing the intellectual property [9][10]. - Despite claims of value retention, the actual resale value of these items tends to be much lower, with significant depreciation observed in the secondary market [11][14]. Group 4: Marketing and Consumer Rights - There are concerns regarding the transparency of marketing practices, with accusations of misleading claims about the investment value of "pain gold" products [14][15]. - Experts suggest that consumers should be made aware of the actual weight and resale conditions of these products to avoid misconceptions [15]. - The marketing of "pain gold" may not adequately inform consumers about the potential for significant value loss upon resale [14][15].

Core Viewpoint - The rise of "痛楼" (pain building) in shopping malls reflects a new trend where fan culture and commercial spaces intersect, aiming to attract foot traffic and enhance consumer engagement in a challenging retail environment [4][14][26] Group 1: Concept and Origin of "痛楼" - "痛楼" originated from Japan's "痛文化" (pain culture), which expresses fandom through exaggerated displays of affection for characters or idols [4][5] - The concept has been adapted in China, with cities like Shenzhen becoming hubs for these immersive fan experiences, often featuring popular characters and celebrities [5][6] Group 2: Economic Impact and Consumer Behavior - The implementation of "痛楼" can generate significant revenue for shopping malls through venue fees, while also attracting a diverse audience with potential for longer-term consumer engagement [14][15] - The fan community's willingness to spend on these events is evident, as demonstrated by a fan spending 600,000 RMB on a themed "痛楼" for a game character [7][12] Group 3: Comparison with Other Fan Activities - Unlike traditional fan gatherings like "生咖" (birthday cafes), "痛楼" allows for broader participation, drawing in casual passersby and creating a more vibrant atmosphere [11][20] - The duration of "痛楼" events can extend for weeks or months, contrasting with the short-lived nature of other fan activities [11][12] Group 4: Challenges and Limitations - Not all shopping centers are suitable for "痛楼," as traditional department stores may prioritize direct sales over foot traffic [20][24] - Concerns about the sustainability of "痛楼" as a long-term strategy exist, with some industry experts suggesting that the trend may be fleeting [23][24] Group 5: Future of Retail Spaces - The shift towards experiential retail is highlighted by the popularity of "痛楼," indicating a need for shopping centers to evolve from mere transaction spaces to experience-driven environments [26] - The integration of fan culture into commercial spaces may not be a universal solution, as different malls have varying target demographics and operational strategies [25][26]

Core Insights - The gold brands are actively embracing the "ACG" culture by launching products like "Golden Guzi" in collaboration with popular IPs, targeting young consumers who are interested in purchasing anime and game-related merchandise [2][6][11] Group 1: Market Trends - The trend of "pain gold" products, which integrate anime and game elements into gold jewelry, is gaining popularity among young consumers, reflecting a shift from traditional gold consumption to emotional and cultural value [6][11] - The collaboration between gold brands and popular IPs has led to significant sales, with products like the Zhou Dafu x "Black Myth: Wukong" series achieving notable success in attracting male customers [9][11] Group 2: Product Pricing and Consumer Behavior - The price of "pain gold" products is significantly higher than traditional gold, with items like the 0.2g gold note from Lao Miao priced at 520 yuan, translating to approximately 2600 yuan per gram, which is 2-3 times the price of regular gold [2][16] - Young consumers are willing to pay a premium for these products due to their emotional value, even as the overall gold jewelry consumption in China is expected to decline [9][11] Group 3: Brand Collaborations - Major gold brands such as Lao Miao, Lao Feng Xiang, and Zhou Dafu are collaborating with various popular IPs, including "Heaven Official's Blessing" and "Gundam," to create unique gold products that resonate with the younger demographic [2][7][9] - The "Golden Guzi" products are showcased at events like Bilibili World and ChinaJoy, directly engaging with the "Z Generation" [2][6] Group 4: Challenges and Controversies - Despite the success, there are challenges such as high pricing and potential backlash from fans, as seen in the controversy surrounding Lao Miao's collaboration with STAYREAL, where accusations of design plagiarism arose [16][17]

Group 1 - The core viewpoint of the articles highlights the rising trend among young consumers in purchasing gold jewelry, particularly items like "golden grains" and "pain gold," as gold prices reach historical highs [2][3][5] - The price of gold has surged, with COMEX gold futures reaching a record high of $3,578.4 per ounce, prompting increased interest from younger demographics [2][8] - Young consumers are redefining gold as a "social currency," integrating it into their lifestyle and fashion, rather than viewing it solely as an investment or traditional asset [2][6] Group 2 - The emergence of "pain gold" and "golden grains" is characterized by their association with popular culture, particularly anime and gaming, leading to a significant premium over traditional gold pricing [3][5][7] - The pricing logic for these gold items has shifted from traditional metrics based on weight and international gold prices to being influenced by the popularity and rarity of the associated intellectual property (IP) [5][7] - The market for these products is marked by high premiums, with some items being sold at prices several times their gold content value, indicating a speculative bubble driven by consumer sentiment [5][6] Group 3 - The articles discuss the broader implications of rising gold prices, with forecasts suggesting continued upward momentum due to factors such as central bank purchases and economic uncertainties [8][9] - Analysts predict that gold will remain a strong asset class, with expectations for prices to reach $3,765 per ounce by the end of 2025, driven by ongoing demand for gold as a safe-haven asset [8][9] - The trend of young consumers engaging with gold products reflects a cultural shift, where emotional value and brand association play a crucial role in purchasing decisions, often overshadowing traditional investment considerations [6][7]

Core Viewpoint - The emergence of "pain gold" represents a significant shift in gold consumption among young consumers, blending traditional gold with elements of anime culture, thus creating a new market segment that appeals to emotional and aesthetic values [1][3][7]. Group 1: Market Trends - "Pain gold" is rapidly gaining popularity among the youth, particularly in the context of IP collaborations with well-known anime and gaming franchises, leading to a "breakthrough revolution" in gold consumption [1][3]. - Various gold brands have launched IP collaboration products, with high demand noted for items like "Tian Guan Ci Fu" and "Dao Mu Bi Ji," indicating a trend towards limited edition and collectible gold items [1][4][6]. Group 2: Consumer Behavior - Consumers are increasingly purchasing "pain gold" not just as an investment but as a means of expressing their fandom and emotional attachment to specific characters, with many young buyers being students [3][4][7]. - The emotional value associated with "pain gold" often outweighs its financial investment potential, as consumers are willing to pay a premium for items that resonate with their interests [7][12]. Group 3: Pricing and Valuation - The pricing of "pain gold" products typically ranges from 2 to 3 times the market price of standard gold, with some items priced significantly higher due to their unique designs and IP licensing costs [8][10]. - The resale value of "pain gold" in secondary markets can exceed original prices, but the liquidity and potential for appreciation are limited compared to traditional gold products [14]. Group 4: Industry Implications - The rise of "pain gold" is pushing the gold industry towards a younger demographic, enhancing the emotional and aesthetic appeal of gold products, which may lead to increased sales and market expansion [7][8]. - Gold retailers are adapting to this trend by offering more IP collaboration products, which not only boosts their product offerings but also increases the perceived value of gold as a collectible item [1][7].

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the rising trend of "pain gold" (痛金), a fusion of traditional gold products with anime and pop culture elements, particularly appealing to younger consumers, creating a "breakthrough revolution" in gold consumption [1][2]. Group 1: Market Trends - "Pain gold" is gaining popularity among young consumers, particularly in the context of the "otaku" culture, where items are adorned with anime elements to express preferences [2][5]. - Various gold brands have launched IP collaboration products, with notable examples including partnerships with popular franchises like "Saint Seiya" and "Tomb Raider" [2][7]. - The demand for these IP collaboration gold products is high, with reports of limited editions selling out quickly and attracting customers from outside the local area [6][12]. Group 2: Consumer Behavior - Consumers are purchasing "pain gold" not only for its investment potential but also for emotional value tied to their favorite characters, indicating a shift from traditional gold as a mere investment tool to a form of emotional spending [12][17]. - The younger demographic, particularly those born after 2000, is driving the trend, with many expressing a willingness to pay a premium for items that resonate with their interests [10][12]. - The emotional connection to the IPs enhances the perceived value of the gold products, making them more than just financial assets [12][17]. Group 3: Pricing and Valuation - The pricing of "pain gold" products is generally 2-3 times higher than the market price of gold, with some items priced significantly above the gold content value due to added design and licensing costs [14][16]. - For example, a "pain gold" bracelet weighing 0.6g is priced at over 1500 yuan, translating to approximately 2500 yuan per gram, which is considerably higher than standard gold prices [16][19]. - The resale value of "pain gold" in the secondary market can exceed the original purchase price, but the liquidity and potential for appreciation are limited compared to traditional gold products [19][20].

Core Insights - The article discusses the emerging trend of "pain gold," a fusion of IP elements from anime, games, and films with gold jewelry, appealing to young consumers who value both emotional and collectible aspects [3][4]. Group 1: Market Dynamics - The popularity of "pain gold" is driven by the increasing influence of subculture and IP products, leading to a unique "peripheral economy" that resonates with younger demographics [3]. - The high price of traditional gold jewelry has limited its consumption, while "pain gold" offers a lower entry price point, making it more accessible to young consumers [4]. - The transaction value of IP gold products has seen a significant increase, with a reported year-on-year growth of 294% [4]. Group 2: Pricing and Profitability - "Pain gold" has a high premium due to its complex production process and IP licensing fees, resulting in retail prices that can be several times higher than traditional gold jewelry [4]. - Some manufacturers employ "hunger marketing" strategies, creating a perception of scarcity and driving prices up significantly [4]. Group 3: Risks and Considerations - The high premium of "pain gold" is contingent on the popularity of the associated IP, which can be volatile; many IPs may lose popularity over time, leading to potential price collapses [5]. - Young consumers are advised to approach "pain gold" purchases with caution, avoiding impulsive buying and excessive leveraging, as the emotional appeal may not sustain long-term value [5]. - Businesses should prioritize established IPs with proven longevity to mitigate risks of unsold inventory and market saturation [5].

Core Insights - The emerging concept of "Pain Gold" has gained significant traction among young consumers, combining anime and gaming IP with gold jewelry, creating a new market phenomenon [2][4] - "Pain Gold" disrupts traditional gold pricing logic, where the value is now determined by the scarcity and popularity of the IP rather than just weight and international gold prices [4][6] - The World Gold Council's report indicates a substantial shift in consumer behavior, with gold jewelry ownership among the 18-24 age group rising from 37% in 2019 to an expected 62% by 2025 [4] Market Dynamics - The sales of IP gold products have surged, with a reported 294% year-on-year growth in transactions on e-commerce platforms, and specific collaborations achieving over 100,000 units sold in six months [2][4] - The pricing of "Pain Gold" often exceeds 2,000 RMB per gram, significantly higher than the typical gold price of around 1,000 RMB per gram, reflecting the added value of IP licensing and design costs [6] Consumer Behavior - "Pain Gold" aligns with the Z generation's demand for personalized and emotional consumption, serving as a social currency that conveys identity and interests [5] - The intrinsic value of gold provides a safety net for consumers, making "Pain Gold" a more stable choice compared to other collectibles with high price volatility [5] Challenges and Risks - The high premium associated with "Pain Gold" raises concerns about its long-term value retention, especially as the popularity of specific IPs can fluctuate [6] - The market is witnessing a polarization in the resale value of "Pain Gold," with limited editions seeing price increases while regular items face depreciation [6] Future Outlook - UBS has raised its gold price forecast for 2026 to 3,700 USD per ounce, suggesting that high gold prices may become the norm [7] - Brands need to effectively communicate the narrative behind their IPs to sustain consumer interest and repeat purchases, while consumers should approach "Pain Gold" with a clear understanding of its emotional versus investment value [7]