Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the rising popularity of metaphysics and astrology among young people in China, highlighting how these practices have become integrated with modern technology, particularly AI, to meet emotional needs and provide psychological comfort [6][11]. Group 1: Popularity and Acceptance of Metaphysics - The divorce of popular astrology influencer Tao Baibai has sparked discussions about the credibility of astrology, reflecting a broader acceptance of metaphysical beliefs among young people [7][8]. - A report from iiMedia Consulting predicts that the emotional economy market in China will reach approximately 23 trillion yuan in 2024 and exceed 45 trillion yuan by 2029, with 18.29% of consumers showing a preference for metaphysics [9][11]. Group 2: Integration with Technology - The rise of AI tools like DeepSeek has led to a surge in interest in using AI for fortune-telling, with many young users engaging in discussions about their results in social media groups [13][14]. - AI applications in metaphysics have evolved from simple text-based fortune-telling to more complex analyses that incorporate traditional Chinese metaphysical texts, attracting a larger audience [16][17]. Group 3: Engagement and Content Creation - Social media platforms have facilitated the creation of interactive tarot reading videos, allowing users to engage with content in a more personalized manner, which has contributed to the popularity of these practices [18][20]. - The format of tarot reading videos has become standardized, with creators using engaging techniques to attract viewers and enhance their experience [19][21]. Group 4: Monetization Strategies - Various monetization methods have emerged in the metaphysical space, including one-on-one consultations and the sale of "energy products" like crystals, with prices ranging from a few yuan to thousands [22][23]. - Many tarot readers and metaphysical influencers are leveraging their platforms to offer paid services, creating a new avenue for income generation while also providing psychological support to clients [22][24].

Core Insights - The rise of interest in metaphysics among young people is highlighted by the popularity of astrology influencer Tao Baibai, whose recent divorce has sparked discussions about the credibility of metaphysical beliefs [2] - The emotional economy in China is projected to grow significantly, with a market size expected to reach 23,077.67 billion yuan in 2024 and surpass 45,000 billion yuan by 2029, indicating a strong consumer preference for metaphysical and luck-related services [3] - The integration of AI technology into metaphysical practices is creating new opportunities and attracting more participants, as seen with the use of AI models for fortune-telling [6] Group 1: Technology and Metaphysics - The popularity of AI models like DeepSeek has led to a surge in young people using these tools for fortune-telling, with many sharing their experiences in social media groups [7][9] - AI models provide personalized readings based on traditional Chinese metaphysics, which are shared widely among users, indicating a blend of technology and traditional practices [10][13] - The overall user engagement with AI-assisted fortune-telling is significant, with 612 million monthly active users in this sector, second only to search engines [10] Group 2: Consumer Behavior and Trends - Young consumers are increasingly viewing metaphysical practices as a form of psychological counseling rather than superstition, with tarot reading and astrology becoming popular among this demographic [20] - The monetization of metaphysical services is evolving, with influencers and practitioners offering personalized consultations and selling related products, such as crystals, at varying price points [25][23] - The psychological appeal of metaphysics is rooted in the Barnum effect and self-fulfilling prophecies, which help alleviate decision-making anxiety for consumers [25] Group 3: Social Media Influence - Social media platforms have transformed tarot reading from one-on-one sessions to mass engagement through video content, allowing users to participate in collective experiences [16][19] - The format of tarot videos on platforms like Bilibili and Douyin is designed to maximize user interaction and engagement, often leading to prolonged viewing sessions [17][19] - Influencers often tailor their content to resonate with a broad audience, enhancing the perceived accuracy and relevance of their readings [19]

Core Insights - The rise of crystal products is driven by their aesthetic appeal, perceived emotional value, and the influence of celebrities and social media, making them a new trend among young consumers [1][3][13] Group 1: Market Trends - Crystal products have gained immense popularity, with significant engagement on social media platforms, such as 34.2 billion views on Xiaohongshu and 46.1 billion views on Douyin [4][12] - The crystal market is expanding, with the industry transaction value surpassing 46 billion yuan in 2024, and over 7,000 companies involved in crystal sales [12][17] - The global crystal jewelry market is projected to reach $22.83 billion by 2028, with a compound annual growth rate of 14.5% [17] Group 2: Consumer Behavior - Young consumers, particularly those aged 18-30, account for 80% of crystal sales, with a significant female demographic [13][16] - The emotional value associated with crystals, such as their perceived ability to bring good luck or alleviate anxiety, drives consumer interest [13][14] Group 3: Celebrity Influence - Celebrities and influencers play a crucial role in promoting crystal products, with notable figures like Yi Nengjing and Xu Yiyang leading successful live-stream sales [6][9][10] - Yi Nengjing's live-stream event featured 15 crystal products, generating an estimated sales revenue of 5.39 million yuan, highlighting the financial potential of crystal live-streaming [9] Group 4: Pricing and Quality Concerns - The crystal market faces challenges related to pricing inconsistencies and the prevalence of counterfeit products, with some sellers using deceptive practices to inflate prices [18][19] - The average profit margin for legitimate crystal sales is around 20-30%, but can reach 70% for counterfeit items, indicating a significant risk for consumers [18] Group 5: Future Outlook - The future of crystal live-streaming may shift towards high-end customization and artistic pieces, moving away from purely emotional consumption [17] - The industry must address issues of transparency, quality control, and consumer trust to sustain growth and maintain a positive reputation [19]

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the rising popularity of Labubu, a plush toy character from Pop Mart, which has become a cultural phenomenon in both Eastern and Western markets, symbolizing good luck and personal empowerment through its unique design and marketing strategies [4][40][52]. Group 1: Labubu's Cultural Impact - Labubu is described as a character that connects with both Western celebrities and Eastern cultural practices, being referred to as a "perfect match" with luxury items like the Hermès Birkin bag [4]. - The character is marketed not just as a toy but as a talisman for good fortune, with consumers associating it with positive energy and luck [12][21]. - The character's design and backstory allow consumers to project their desires and aspirations onto it, enhancing its appeal [36][37]. Group 2: Consumer Behavior and Trends - The article highlights a shift in consumer behavior where individuals are increasingly seeking psychological comfort through purchases, such as lucky charms and decorative items [29][64]. - The popularity of blind box toys like Labubu reflects a growing trend of consumers wanting to personalize their belongings and express individuality [58][60]. - The article notes that the demand for plush toys and decorative charms is particularly strong in East Asian cultures, contrasting with Western preferences for more rigid and direct expressions of style [61][62]. Group 3: Cultural Differences in Consumption - The article emphasizes the cultural differences in how consumers in Eastern and Western markets perceive and utilize decorative items, with Eastern consumers favoring plush and soft materials while Western consumers lean towards harder materials [60][61]. - The phenomenon of "Kidult" culture in East Asia, where adults seek comfort in childhood toys, is highlighted as a significant factor driving the popularity of characters like Labubu [62][64]. - The article also discusses how the rise of social media and influencer marketing has contributed to the rapid spread of Labubu's popularity in both markets [46][49].

Core Insights - Labubu, a character from Pop Mart, is gaining global popularity and is being compared to luxury items like the Hermes Birkin bag, indicating a strong cultural and consumer trend towards collectible toys and accessories [1][26][31] - The character is associated with good luck and positive energy, appealing to consumers' desires for spiritual and emotional support through physical items [5][15][20] - The rise of Labubu reflects broader cultural differences in consumer behavior between Eastern and Western markets, particularly in the context of plush toys and accessories [38][41][47] Group 1: Cultural Significance - Labubu is seen as a modern talisman, with consumers attributing protective and luck-bringing qualities to it, similar to traditional Feng Shui practices [9][15][28] - The character's design and backstory allow consumers to project their own desires and aspirations onto it, enhancing its appeal [24][47] - The popularity of Labubu in Thailand, where it has been integrated into local culture and spirituality, highlights the character's adaptability and resonance with different cultural contexts [26][28] Group 2: Market Trends - The blind box trend, particularly in the context of Pop Mart, is becoming increasingly popular in Western markets, with Labubu being a key driver of this trend [32][43] - The search for "bag charms" has reached a ten-year high in Google searches, indicating a growing interest in personalized accessories in the West [43] - The cultural preference for softer, plush materials in Eastern markets contrasts with the Western inclination towards harder, more direct expressions in accessories [44][45] Group 3: Consumer Behavior - Consumers are increasingly seeking emotional connections with products, using items like Labubu as a form of psychological comfort in stressful environments [20][47] - The phenomenon of "Kidult" culture, where adults seek comfort in childhood toys, is particularly pronounced in East Asian markets, influencing the popularity of plush accessories [47] - The emotional value attached to items like Labubu transcends their material worth, reflecting a deeper need for spiritual and emotional support among consumers [51]

Core Viewpoint - The article explores the growing fascination with AI applications in fortune-telling, particularly focusing on the DeepSeek app, which combines scientific algorithms with traditional Chinese metaphysics to provide users with personalized insights and advice [4][21]. Group 1: AI and Fortune-Telling - The DeepSeek app has gained popularity as a social tool, allowing users to engage with AI for fortune-telling and life advice, reflecting a blend of technology and traditional beliefs [6][21]. - Users often seek emotional value rather than precise predictions, indicating a desire for comfort and guidance in uncertain times [5][21]. - The app's ability to generate personalized responses based on user input has made it appealing, as it can simulate a conversation with a knowledgeable friend [8][22]. Group 2: User Experience and Engagement - Many users approach DeepSeek as a form of entertainment, using it to explore various aspects of their lives without serious expectations [7][8]. - The app's design encourages users to input personal information, which can lead to a more tailored experience, but also raises concerns about privacy and data security [16][17]. - Users often engage with the app in a playful manner, testing its responses and enjoying the interaction rather than relying on it for critical life decisions [7][8][22]. Group 3: Market Dynamics and Cultural Relevance - The rise of AI fortune-telling apps like DeepSeek has coincided with a broader trend of integrating technology into traditional practices, appealing to a younger audience seeking guidance [21][24]. - The app has sparked a surge in related products, such as charms and accessories, as users look to enhance their experiences with tangible items linked to their fortunes [21][24]. - The duality of AI's scientific approach and the mystical nature of fortune-telling creates a unique market niche that resonates with users' emotional and cultural needs [4][24].