Core Insights - Chengdu AG Super Play Team won the 2025 KPL (King of Glory Professional League) annual finals, defeating Chongqing Wolves 4-2, marking a significant moment in the development of mobile esports in China [2][3] - The event at the National Stadium ("Bird's Nest") attracted 62,196 spectators, setting a new Guinness World Record for attendance at an esports event [2][3] - The KPL's growth reflects a broader trend of integrating esports into mainstream culture and urban life, showcasing Beijing's strategy to become an "international event city" [2][3][12] Event Highlights - The finals represented a historic milestone for esports, transitioning from smaller venues to iconic locations like the Bird's Nest, previously used for the Olympics [3][4] - The event not only celebrated the competition but also highlighted the cultural significance of esports in modern society, merging traditional sports venues with digital entertainment [3][4][12] - The KPL finals served as a catalyst for local economic activity, with many businesses in Beijing benefiting from the influx of visitors [4][12] Economic Impact - KPL finals ticket holders enjoyed exclusive discounts at over 30 restaurants and retail outlets in the Asia Olympic Business District, demonstrating the event's influence on local commerce [4] - Approximately 85% of the audience were from outside Beijing, indicating a new consumer trend of traveling for esports events [4] - The event spurred extended operating hours for nearly 150 restaurants, creating a vibrant nightlife atmosphere in the area [4][5] Cultural Integration - The finals showcased the blending of esports with local culture, as fans engaged in various activities around the city, enhancing their overall experience [6][7] - Fans participated in themed events and activities, creating a sense of community and shared passion for esports [6][7] - The event highlighted the potential for esports to drive tourism and cultural exchange, as fans traveled to Beijing specifically for the finals [6][12] Industry Development - KPL's growth over nine years has been characterized by innovation and adaptation, with a focus on connecting with local audiences [9][10] - The league's success is attributed to the development of infrastructure and technology, enabling easier access to esports content for fans [9][10] - KPL aims to establish a sustainable model for esports in China, integrating local clubs and communities into the broader esports ecosystem [10]

Investment Rating - The report rates the industry as "Outperform" [6] Core Insights - Emotional consumption and the rise of the "Guzi economy" are driving the growth of the trendy toy market, with the Z generation leading a new landscape. By 2024, the population of the pan-2D community in China is expected to exceed 500 million, with a market size of approximately 600 billion yuan, and the Guzi economy alone surpassing 150 billion yuan [1][24] - The trendy toy industry is characterized by a "one strong, many strong" pattern, with Pop Mart leading the industry, while foreign brands like LEGO and Bandai hold a certain market share. Domestic brands such as Blok and Card Game are also experiencing rapid growth, with IP operation and overseas market expansion being key future directions for the industry [1][4] Summary by Sections 1. Emotional Consumption and the Rise of Trendy Toys - Emotional consumption has emerged as a new economic driver, with trendy toys becoming a significant social label for consumers. These toys provide emotional value, helping to alleviate anxiety and affirm consumer identity [22][23] - The Guzi economy, which focuses on IP-derived peripheral products, is deeply integrated with 2D culture, creating a vibrant narrative and emotional connection for consumers [23][24] - The market for trendy toys is expected to grow significantly, with the pan-entertainment toy market projected to exceed 1 trillion yuan by 2029, and the trendy toy market reaching 110 billion yuan by 2027 [1][36] 2. Growth Drivers: Blind Boxes, Building Toys, and Card Games - Blind boxes are driven by the thrill of the unknown, with a market size expected to reach 580 billion yuan by 2025. The consumer base is predominantly female, with 75% of buyers being women, and the Z generation pushing for a shift towards mid-to-high-end products [2][67] - Building toys are designed for all age groups, with a market size projected to reach 640 billion yuan by 2028. Local brand Blok leads this segment, focusing on educational aspects [2][3] - The card game market, driven by rarity and low pricing, is expected to reach 446 billion yuan by 2029, with Card Game holding a dominant position [2][3] 3. Competitive Landscape and Key Players - Leading companies such as Pop Mart, Blok, and Card Game are driving industry development through differentiated competition. Pop Mart focuses on IP incubation and blind box mechanisms, while Blok emphasizes educational scenarios through building blocks [4][5] - The market is becoming increasingly concentrated, with Pop Mart holding a 28% market share in the blind box segment. The CR5 of the blind box market is expected to rise from 38% in 2020 to 50% in 2024 [76] 4. International Expansion and Lessons from Overseas - The report highlights the importance of IP-driven multi-business ecosystems, as seen in successful overseas companies like Disney and Bandai. These companies leverage their IP across various platforms, creating a robust business model [4][56] - Chinese toy companies are actively expanding into international markets, with significant growth in exports to the US and Central Asia. This diversification is crucial for mitigating risks associated with reliance on single markets [56][57]