Core Insights - The report highlights a shift in high-end consumption trends among Chinese high-net-worth individuals, emphasizing the influence of generational differences and evolving definitions of luxury and premium goods [1] Group 1: Generational Insights - The study covers four generations: Silver-haired, post-80s, post-90s, and post-00s, revealing that Generation Y and X remain the core consumers of high-end products, while Generation Z is emerging as a new driving force due to their digital literacy and strong self-awareness [1] - Generation Z's consumption behavior is characterized by personalization, emotional engagement, and social influence, moving from status-driven purchases to value-based lifestyles [1] Group 2: Changing Definitions of Luxury - High-net-worth consumers are redefining "high-end" and "luxury," focusing less on brand labels and more on identity, meaning, and connection through their purchases [1] - Brands are encouraged to rethink their definitions of "high-end" and "luxury" to align with the evolving consumer landscape and trends [1] Group 3: Economic Context - The report notes that retail sales in China increased from 16 trillion to 41 trillion yuan in 2020, indicating a significant consumption upgrade [11] - The rise of e-commerce platforms, particularly Pinduoduo, has driven consumption in lower-tier cities, with Pinduoduo's annual active users reaching 731 million in 2020 [12] Group 4: Consumption Patterns - The report identifies a shift in consumption patterns from conspicuous consumption to a focus on emotional and identity-driven purchases, with consumers prioritizing experiences and personal meaning over utility [27][32] - There is a growing emphasis on health, safety, and risk management in purchasing decisions, influenced by post-COVID anxieties [25][35]

Core Business Update - Waldencast plc reported strong performance in H1 2025, with significant revenue growth in its core strategic channels, particularly in the U.S. and international markets [1][4][14] - The acquisition of Novaestiq Corp. is a strategic move that doubles Obagi Medical's addressable market in the U.S., marking its entry into the aesthetics space [6][17] - Milk Makeup experienced a strong retail sales performance in the U.S., with sales accelerating to the high-20s percentage growth in Q2 2025 [3][19] Financial Performance - The company anticipates net revenue growth in the low to mid-single digits for FY 2025, reflecting a more moderated industry environment [7][22] - Adjusted EBITDA margins are expected to be in the low to mid-teens, indicating strong operating discipline and cost management [7][22] Strategic Initiatives - Waldencast is conducting a strategic review to explore various alternatives aimed at maximizing shareholder value, with Lazard retained as a financial advisor [8][9] - The company is focused on refining its distribution strategy by exiting non-equity building distribution points and investing in supply chain improvements [5][6] Brand Performance - Obagi Medical achieved high single-digit growth in U.S. core strategic channels, with international growth accelerating to mid-40s in Q2 2025 [14][16] - Milk Makeup's digital presence expanded with the launch of Amazon Premium Beauty, contributing to its revenue growth [20][25] Market Challenges - The company faces challenges in international markets, including soft consumption and destocking by key retailers, which necessitates incremental investment [3][5][25] - Ongoing out-of-stock issues have limited overall growth, although improvements in stock levels are expected in the third quarter [5][6]