Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the common misconception that asset allocation is synonymous with chasing rising assets, highlighting the cognitive trap that confuses market price phases with allocation logic [4][5][6]. Group 1: Investment Theory - The classic Markowitz portfolio optimization theory indicates that asset allocation is directly proportional to expected returns and inversely proportional to volatility [9]. - Historical data is often used to estimate future expected returns and volatility, leading to a "chasing" effect where assets with higher past returns receive higher allocation [10][12]. - The Black-Litterman model and other improved versions of portfolio optimization incorporate subjective investor expectations, yet still exhibit a tendency to chase rising assets due to cognitive biases [13]. Group 2: Behavioral Finance - The concept of "availability bias" in behavioral finance explains why investors tend to chase rising assets, as they rely on easily recalled information rather than comprehensive data [14]. - In the digital age, the prevalence of real-time information and social media amplifies this bias, leading to potentially detrimental investment decisions [14]. Group 3: Avoiding Chasing Behavior - Establishing an objective analysis framework is crucial for independent judgment and contrarian investing, as demonstrated by the analysis of U.S. inflation trends [16][21]. - Recommendations for avoiding chasing behavior include distinguishing between long-term logic and short-term variables, minimizing the pursuit of short-term performance, and diversifying asset allocation to create a richer "return stream" [23][24][25]. - Understanding the difference between style beta and alpha is essential for investors to avoid chasing funds based solely on past performance [28]. Group 4: Investment Strategy - The article advocates for a simplified investment strategy, such as the "Snowball Three-Part Method," which emphasizes diversification across global asset classes to mitigate volatility and enhance long-term returns [29][30].

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the importance of avoiding "chasing gains" in asset allocation and emphasizes the need for a scientific and objective analysis framework to make independent investment decisions [9][38]. Group 1: Asset Allocation Strategy - The author, 唐军, manages a diversified asset allocation strategy that includes various asset classes such as A-shares, Hong Kong stocks, US stocks, US bonds, and ETFs focused on high dividends and electricity [5][6]. - 唐军's approach, termed "Configuration First," is based on a three-step framework: assessing credit expansion and liquidity trends, evaluating whether market expectations are excessive, and ensuring asset diversification and complementarity [7][6]. Group 2: Chasing Gains Phenomenon - The article highlights that even sophisticated models like the Markowitz portfolio optimization theory can lead to "chasing gains" due to reliance on historical data for expected returns and volatility [11][20]. - The tendency to chase gains is exacerbated by behavioral biases, such as the "availability heuristic," where investors rely on easily accessible information rather than comprehensive data [25][10]. Group 3: Avoiding Chasing Gains - To avoid chasing gains, the article suggests establishing an objective analysis framework that incorporates quantitative indicators and macroeconomic drivers [26][30]. - It emphasizes the importance of distinguishing between long-term logic and short-term variables, as well as the need to diversify asset allocation to mitigate pressure during market fluctuations [31][34]. Group 4: Market Expectations and Investment Decisions - The article warns that consistent market expectations can often serve as a contrary indicator, suggesting that investors should be cautious during periods of high consensus [35][36]. - It also discusses the importance of recognizing the difference between style beta and alpha when selecting funds, as this understanding can prevent chasing based solely on past performance [37].

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the relationship between asset allocation and chasing gains, highlighting that both concepts often appear intertwined in investment practices, despite their theoretical differences [2][3]. Group 1: Asset Allocation and Chasing Gains - The observation that "allocation" is often linked with "chasing gains" suggests that high perceived value in certain assets typically occurs during price increases, while assets with prolonged losses are rarely considered for allocation [2]. - Traditional investment theories, such as Markowitz's Modern Portfolio Theory (MPT), indicate that asset allocation can lead to chasing gains due to reliance on historical data for expected returns and volatility [7][12]. - The tendency to chase gains is not solely a flaw in the models but arises from using past performance to predict future outcomes, which can lead to higher allocations in assets that have recently performed well [14]. Group 2: Behavioral Finance and Subjective Expectations - Behavioral finance concepts, such as availability bias, explain why investors may chase gains based on easily accessible information rather than comprehensive data [18]. - The influence of social media and real-time information can amplify the tendency to chase gains, as investors react to trending assets without thorough analysis [18]. Group 3: Strategies to Avoid Chasing Gains - Establishing an objective analytical framework is crucial for independent judgment and avoiding the common behavior of chasing gains [20]. - Differentiating between long-term logic and short-term variables can help investors avoid misapplying long-term trends to short-term market movements [27]. - Diversifying asset allocation can provide a buffer against the pressure to chase gains, allowing investors to maintain their strategies even when market conditions are unfavorable [29]. - Understanding the distinction between style beta and alpha is essential for evaluating fund performance and avoiding the impulse to chase funds based solely on past performance [32].

Core Insights - Labubu has become a cultural phenomenon, attracting global celebrities and fashion influencers, and is now a staple in luxury fashion circles [1][3] - The blind box sales model has significantly contributed to Labubu's success, appealing to the psychological traits of consumers, particularly Generation Z [4][5] - The market for blind boxes is projected to reach $14.5142 billion in 2024, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.90% from 2024 to 2031 [4] Financial Performance - Labubu's popularity has driven Pop Mart's stock price to surge by 909% over the past year, with a market capitalization exceeding HKD 300 billion, surpassing brands like GUCCI [3][21] - Projected revenue for 2024 is HKD 5.07 billion, representing a year-on-year growth of 375.2%, with Southeast Asia, particularly Thailand, expected to see a revenue increase of 619.1% [3][21] Consumer Behavior - The uncertainty and surprise elements of blind boxes stimulate dopamine release, creating a rewarding experience that encourages repeat purchases [5][6] - Social media amplifies consumer perceptions of winning rare items, leading to an overestimation of the likelihood of obtaining such items [7][8] Marketing and Brand Strategy - Labubu's design and cultural resonance have allowed it to transcend traditional toy markets, appealing to adult consumers seeking emotional comfort and self-expression [10][11] - The "ugly cute" design aesthetic aligns with contemporary trends, allowing Labubu to resonate with younger consumers who embrace non-traditional beauty standards [13][14] Community and Engagement - Labubu has fostered a strong fan community, where shared experiences and user-generated content enhance brand loyalty and social connections [12][20] - The brand's collaborations with luxury goods and cultural institutions have elevated its status and broadened its consumer base [18][20] Business Model and Valuation - Pop Mart's valuation logic is supported by a multi-IP strategy, diversifying revenue streams and mitigating risks associated with reliance on a single IP [21][24] - The company's focus on emotional, social, and cultural value creation positions it favorably in the market, with high gross margins and strong channel control [24][25]