Core Insights - Under Armour and Stephen Curry have announced the independent operation of the Curry brand, marking the end of their 10-year partnership, which has been characterized by mutual success and growth [1][2]. Company Performance - Under Armour's revenue for Q2 of fiscal year 2026 has decreased by 5% year-on-year, with a significant 8% decline in its North American market [2]. - The partnership with Curry significantly boosted Under Armour's revenue from $2.33 billion in fiscal year 2013 to $4 billion in fiscal year 2015, making it the second-largest player in the industry at that time [1]. Brand Strategy - The separation allows Under Armour to reduce operational costs and improve profit margins, presenting a more focused image to investors [2][3]. - Curry's transition to an independent brand owner enables him to explore new markets beyond basketball, including leisure and digital content, and to have full control over profits and strategic partnerships [3][5]. Market Dynamics - The split signifies a shift in the commercial landscape, where top athletes are increasingly seeking to establish their own brands rather than merely endorsing existing ones [2][3]. - Under Armour must now prove its brand value based on technology and performance rather than reliance on Curry's star power, which could lead to a more authentic brand identity [4][5]. Future Opportunities - The independent Curry brand has the potential to engage more flexibly with local brands and e-commerce platforms in China, enhancing its market presence [5]. - The separation is seen as a new beginning for both parties, with Under Armour focusing on financial recovery and strategic clarity, while Curry embarks on an independent entrepreneurial journey [5].

Core Insights - Under Armour announces the independent operation of the Curry brand, ending a decade-long partnership that redefined functional products and athlete-led narratives [1] - The company will focus on developing new basketball products while continuing to support athletes and basketball programs at all levels [1] Summary by Sections - **Strategic Split**: The Curry brand will operate independently from Under Armour, allowing both entities to leverage their strengths [1] - **Product Launch Plans**: Under Armour plans to release the final signature shoe, Curry 13, in February 2026, along with additional colorways and related apparel before October 2026 [1] - **Leadership Statement**: Under Armour's CEO Kevin Plank emphasizes that this decision is beneficial for both parties, enabling Under Armour to enhance its innovation for athletes while allowing the Curry brand to pursue its own direction [1]

Core Viewpoint - The partnership between Chery and Huawei for the Zhijie brand is facing significant challenges, leading to dissatisfaction among Zhijie car owners and declining sales figures [1][4][11]. Group 1: Partnership Issues - Chery's chairman, Yin Tongyue, indicated that the company has faced difficulties in its collaboration with Huawei, suggesting that listening to Huawei leads to better outcomes [1][4]. - There are rumors of discord between Chery and Huawei, particularly regarding the production capacity for the Zhijie brand, which has reportedly been deprioritized in favor of other models [4][11]. - The Zhijie brand has experienced a significant drop in sales, with June figures falling to 2,459 units, marking a new low [11]. Group 2: Customer Dissatisfaction - Zhijie car owners expressed their frustration over Chery's marketing strategies, feeling that the brand is not being adequately promoted compared to others [8][11]. - There have been calls from Zhijie owners to remove the Chery logo from their vehicles, emphasizing their preference for the Zhijie brand over Chery [6][11]. - The recent marketing decisions, such as using Zhijie’s official account to promote new Chery vehicles, have further angered customers [3][4]. Group 3: Sales and Market Response - The Zhijie brand's sales have been on a downward trend, with a peak of 17,736 units in December 2024, followed by a significant decline throughout 2025 [11][13]. - In response to customer complaints, Zhijie announced cash subsidies and promotional activities, but these measures have not satisfied existing customers who feel overlooked [7][11]. - The recent restructuring within Chery aims to enhance the operational independence of the Zhijie brand, which may help address some of the ongoing issues [9][13].