Group 1 - The core viewpoint of the articles highlights the emergence of the "谷子" economy in China, projected to reach a market size of 168.9 billion yuan in 2024, with a year-on-year growth of 41% [1][2] - The "谷子" market encompasses a variety of products including badges, cards, figurines, and other IP-licensed merchandise, with a structured supply chain involving upstream IP creators, midstream developers, and downstream retailers [1][2] - The demand for "谷子" products is driven by the expanding community of fans in the ACGN (Animation, Comics, Games, Novels) sector, with the user base expected to grow from 212 million in 2017 to 503 million by 2024 [4] Group 2 - The IP landscape in China's "谷子" market is dominated by Japanese and American IPs, which account for 38% and 22% of the top IPs respectively, while Chinese IPs make up 36%, primarily from gaming content [2][3] - The potential for growth in the "谷子" industry is significant, with improvements in IP conversion rates and an increase in the number of specialized players in the supply chain, including copyright agents and retail stores [4] - The interaction between "谷子" consumption and gaming content, along with the rise of social platforms for second-hand trading and community engagement, is expected to further stimulate demand [4]

Core Insights - The article emphasizes the rapid growth of the "Guzi economy," a derivative of the ACG (Animation, Comic, and Game) culture, which is becoming a new engine for economic growth in China, particularly in cities like Zhengzhou [1][2]. Industry Overview - The Guzi economy, which refers to merchandise related to IP (Intellectual Property) from the ACG culture, has seen a significant market expansion, with the market size projected to grow from 120.1 billion yuan in 2023 to 168.9 billion yuan in 2024, and potentially reaching 308.9 billion yuan by 2029 [1]. - The market was historically dominated by Japanese IPs, but the rise of domestic IPs like "Genshin Impact" and "Mo Dao Zu Shi" has shifted the market dynamics, increasing the share of domestic products [6][8]. Market Dynamics - The resurgence of the Guzi economy is linked to the social needs of ACG enthusiasts, leading to the establishment of dedicated stores and commercial spaces that cater to this demographic [3][9]. - The introduction of new product categories and collaborations with well-known brands has diversified the Guzi offerings, making them more integrated into everyday life [10]. Consumer Behavior - The primary consumers of Guzi products are fans of content-driven IPs, who view these products as emotional and social symbols, enhancing their identity and community belonging [9]. - The trend indicates a growing willingness among consumers to purchase practical items that also serve as expressions of their fandom, such as headphones and passport holders [10].

Core Insights - The "Guzi Economy," emerging from the secondary cultural derivatives of anime and gaming, is becoming a new engine for economic growth in Zhengzhou, driven by the central government's focus on boosting consumption [1][3][10]. Group 1: Market Development - Zhengzhou is witnessing a rapid expansion of the "Guzi Economy," with major shopping centers like Daxinghai City and Xintian TK360 leading the way in attracting Guzi stores [5][8]. - The number of Guzi stores in Daxinghai City has reached approximately 50, primarily located on the first and second floors, indicating a significant concentration of this market [5][8]. - The overall Zhengzhou market is estimated to have over 100 Guzi stores, showcasing a multi-point flowering development pattern [8]. Group 2: Consumer Behavior - Consumers are drawn to Guzi products for their emotional and social value, with many expressing joy in collecting items like figurines and badges [10][11]. - Events such as character birthday celebrations attract hundreds of fans, highlighting the community aspect of the Guzi Economy [10][11]. Group 3: Industry Dynamics - The Guzi Economy is undergoing a competitive reshuffle, with many stores facing closure due to increased competition and a decline in IP popularity [11][13]. - In 2023, the highest monthly sales for a store in Daxinghai City dropped from over 500,000 yuan to around 200,000 yuan, reflecting the industry's challenges [11][13]. - The industry is transitioning from a phase of rapid growth to a more rational development stage, with a focus on differentiation and building competitive advantages [13][14].

Core Insights - The "Guzi" economy, referring to merchandise derived from comics, anime, and games, is rapidly transitioning from a niche market to a mainstream consumer trend among Generation Z [1][2] - The emotional value associated with "Guzi" products, which provide a tangible connection to beloved IPs, is a key driver of this consumption trend [1][3] Market Dynamics - Over 20 first- and second-tier cities in China are developing "Guzi" themed consumer landmarks, with significant examples including the transformation of the underground level of Wangfujing Joy City in Beijing, which is expected to double its revenue in 2024 compared to the previous year [2] - The "Guzi" economy is projected to reach a market size of 168.9 billion yuan in 2024, reflecting a 40.63% increase from 2023, with expectations to exceed 300 billion yuan by 2029 [2] Cultural Impact - Generation Z not only consumes "Guzi" products but also actively creates related cultural content, contributing to the growth of quality cultural IPs [3] - The success of domestic animations and games, such as "Nezha 2," illustrates the synergy between cultural production and consumer demand, enhancing the "Guzi" economy [3] Industry Development - The "Guzi" economy is fostering innovation in consumption scenarios and is seen as a significant contributor to the evolution of China's cultural industry [4] - Ensuring a stable market order and high-quality cultural output is essential for the sustainable growth of the "Guzi" economy, with a focus on copyright protection and product quality [3]