Financing Dynamics - Pianzaihuang Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. announced an investment of RMB 2 billion in the CICC Medical Fund, representing 20% of the fund's target size, focusing on the healthcare sector including traditional Chinese medicine and biomedicine [3] - Chobani raised $650 million (approximately RMB 4.6 billion) in its latest funding round, aiming to expand its product lines and processing capabilities, with a valuation now at $20 billion [5] Listing Dynamics - Bama Tea announced a global offering of 9 million shares, aiming to raise approximately HKD 428 million (around RMB 39 million) for expanding production capacity [7] Acquisition Dynamics - Kering Group announced a strategic cooperation with L'Oréal, involving a €4 billion acquisition of Kering's high-end fragrance brand Creed and exclusive rights for future beauty products from Gucci, Bottega Veneta, and Balenciaga [9] - Meili Tianyuan announced the acquisition of 100% of Shiyuanli for RMB 1.25 billion, aiming to enhance its brand portfolio in the high-end beauty service sector [11] - Birkenstock signed an agreement to acquire its long-term distributor in Australia, ensuring continuity in contracts and operations, with an annual sales revenue of approximately €55 million [15] Personnel Dynamics - Paul Smith Foundation appointed Taylor Thompson as the first American resident designer, aiming to provide guidance and workspace for emerging designers [19] - Kim Jones was appointed as the creative director for Bosideng's new Areal high-end urban line, marking his return to the fashion industry [22] - Zalando appointed Thomas Schwulera, a former executive from L'Oréal, as the vice president of the beauty category, focusing on strategic growth [25]

Core Viewpoint - L'Oréal Group and Kering Group announced a strategic partnership valued at €4 billion, where L'Oréal will acquire Kering's beauty business, including the Creed perfume brand and exclusive licenses for Gucci, Balenciaga, and Bottega Veneta for 50 years [1][3]. Group 1: Transaction Details - The transaction is expected to be completed in the first half of 2026, pending regulatory approval [2]. - L'Oréal will acquire Kering's beauty business, which includes the Creed brand that Kering purchased for €3.5 billion in 2023 [3]. - L'Oréal will receive exclusive licenses for Gucci, Balenciaga, and Bottega Veneta's beauty and fragrance products for 50 years, with Gucci's current license held by Coty Group set to transfer to L'Oréal in 2028 [3]. Group 2: Financial Context - Kering faces significant financial pressure, with net debt reaching €9.5 billion and long-term lease liabilities of €6 billion as of June 2025 [4]. - Gucci's operating profit fell by 52% year-on-year to €486 million, with revenue down 16% to €7.587 billion in the first half of 2025 [4]. Group 3: Strategic Implications - Kering's CEO, Luca de Meo, emphasized that this strategic alliance is crucial for accelerating the development of major brands in the fragrance and cosmetics sectors, similar to the success of YSL beauty under L'Oréal [4]. - The decision to sell the beauty business marks a significant shift from Kering's previous strategy of expanding its beauty division, which included the acquisition of Creed and the hiring of a former Estée Lauder executive [5]. - The beauty business is seen as a key area for luxury brands to attract a broader consumer base, especially in a slowing luxury goods market [5][6]. Group 4: L'Oréal's Position - This acquisition represents L'Oréal's largest transaction in its history, surpassing the $2.5 billion acquisition of Estée Lauder in 2023 [6]. - L'Oréal has been expanding in the fragrance sector, acquiring several brands, including the high-end Middle Eastern brand Amouage in 2025 [7]. - The partnership with Kering may set a new trend in the industry, focusing on equity cooperation and joint ventures to align interests while maintaining brand prestige [8].