POP MART founder Wang Ning said the company delivered more than 20% growth in the first half of 2026, although he acknowledged that this year’s difficulties could exceed expectations and that pressure would increase in the second half. Earlier remarks had indicated the company was unlikely to achieve its established 20% full-year growth target. POP MART shares fell nearly 8% at one point after its first-half report. Wang said the company’s IP matrix, organizational health, global brand awareness, favorability and reputation had improved, while its new park and dessert businesses exceeded expectations. POP MART plans to launch a share buyback worth 2 billion yuan to 5 billion yuan over the next six months. Major shareholder Duan Yongping defended the company’s long-term prospects, said he considered the financial report quite good and dismissed concerns about weak online sales in the Americas, Asia-Pacific and Europe. In a sharp exchange with a critic questioning POP MART’s competitive moat, Duan replied, "Maybe you should take your medicine?"