Core Insights - Apple is actively developing smart glasses, aiming to compete with Google's XR glasses and Meta's Ray-Ban smart glasses, with a target for mass production by 2026 or 2027 [1][6] - The smart glasses will integrate AI features, microphones, and cameras, enabling functionalities like photo and video capture, real-time translation, and environmental scanning [1][6] - Despite setbacks in developing true AR glasses, Apple remains committed to launching a product before Meta, with CEO Tim Cook prioritizing this initiative [4][6] Development Progress - Apple is creating a custom chip for the smart glasses based on the Apple Watch's system chip, which has lower power consumption compared to iPhone chips [2] - The chip has been optimized for energy efficiency to ensure adequate battery life while maintaining a compact design [2] Challenges Faced - The project has faced difficulties, including the cancellation of plans for true AR glasses that would connect to Mac computers for power [3] - Initial designs aimed for AR capabilities similar to iPhones but encountered issues with power consumption and heat generation [3] Leadership and Research - Tim Cook is personally involved in the development of the smart glasses, emphasizing their importance to the company [4][5] - Apple is conducting user research under the project codename "Atlas" to evaluate various features and interfaces [5] Market Outlook - If Apple can leverage its design strengths and integrate the glasses with iPhones effectively, the product could become a significant success [6] - The smart glasses are expected to be released to consumers as early as 2026 or 2027, while true AR glasses will take several more years to develop [6]

Key Events Overview - The National People's Congress (NPC) and the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) will hold their annual sessions in Beijing on March 4 and 5, respectively, focusing on government work reports and economic development plans [3][4]. - U.S. President Trump will deliver a speech at a joint session of Congress and host a cryptocurrency summit, with significant policy implications expected [8][6]. - The U.S. will implement tariffs on imports from Mexico and Canada, with a 25% tariff on most products and a 10% tariff on Canadian energy products, which may provoke strong responses from Canada [6][7]. Economic Data Releases - The U.S. non-farm payroll report for February is anticipated to show an increase of 160,000 jobs, with the unemployment rate expected to remain at 4% [9]. - China's February CPI and PPI data will be released, with expectations of a CPI decline to around -0.6% due to falling agricultural prices and international oil prices [11]. - China's January-February trade data will be published, with a focus on export performance amid tariff uncertainties [12]. Market Sentiment and Predictions - Bloomberg economists have expressed concerns about softening sentiment and reduced spending, which may challenge the narrative of U.S. economic exceptionalism [10]. - The European Central Bank (ECB) is expected to announce a 25 basis point rate cut, marking the sixth cut since June, amid mixed inflation signals from Germany and France [14]. New Listings and Fund Issuance - Two new stocks, Yutian Guanjia and Mixue Group, will be listed, with Mixue Group being the largest fresh beverage company in China, holding a market share of 11.3% domestically [21]. - A total of 44 new funds were issued during the week, indicating active market participation [24].