Pop Mart founder Wang Ning said at the company’s 2026 interim results presentation last week that the group achieved more than 20% growth in the first half of 2026. He said the company’s IP matrix and organizational health improved notably, while its park and dessert businesses outperformed expectations. Global brand awareness, favorability and reputation also continued to rise. Wang acknowledged that this year’s difficulties may be greater than anticipated but said the company was confident it could address short-term challenges. Over the next six months, Pop Mart plans to launch a share buyback program of no less than 2 billion yuan and no more than 5 billion yuan, which Wang said would demonstrate increasing confidence in the company’s long-term development.