KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 5 (Bernama) -- Bursa Malaysia closed lower on Friday amid mixed regional market performance as investors turned cautious over a possible rate hike by the Bank of Japan (BOJ) and upcoming US economic data that may influence the Federal Reserve’s (Fed) interest rate decision next week. At 5 pm, the FTSE Bursa Malaysia KLCI (FBM KLCI) pared most earlier losses to settle 4.55 points easier, or 0.28 per cent, to 1,616.52 from Thursday’s close of 1,621.07. The benchmark index, which opened 0.37 of-a-point lower at 1,620.70, moved between 1,609.67 and 1,621.25 throughout the day. The broader market was negative, with decliners outpacing advancers 604 to 439. A total of 550 counters were unchanged, 1,151 untraded, and 18 suspended. Turnover declined to 3.17 billion units worth RM2.24 billion from 4.48 billion units worth RM2.75 billion yesterday. Rakuten Trade Sdn Bhd vice-presiden...
Toy Story Rewritten
Labubu — a plush, pointy-eared monster — isn’t just a toy, it’s a global phenomenon. Chinese toy giant Pop Mart has become a US$43B export success thanks to its collectibles mania.
Here’s Why It Matters:
Gross profit margin: nearly 67% — higher than Xiaomi and BYD.
Sales in U.S. & Europe growing faster than China.
Retail model: low-cost manufacturing, direct-to-consumer, premium pricing overseas.
Global Fever
Celebs like Kim Kardashian and Lisa from Blackpink are fans.
U.S. sales up 900% YoY, Europe up 600%.
Over 100 global stores, including Paris’s Louvre and K-Pop-themed shops in Seoul.
The Secret Sauce
Blind boxes, character customization, and social media hauls are driving repeat purchases and virality. Margins in the U.S. reach up to 75%, even with tariffs.
MoneyMaster Take — Key Insights:
Pop Mart shows how Chinese culture can succeed abroad with smart branding.
Premium margins + direct sales = strong business model.
Labubu is hot, but reliance on one IP is risky — diversification needed.
Our Move:
Pop Mart’s global rise is impressive, but current valuation may reflect hype. For long-term investors, monitor IP expansion efforts and possible regulatory risks around blind boxes.
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