CATL backs humanoid robotics startup Galbot in $153 million funding · TechNode
China’s CATL, the world’s biggest battery maker, has extended its drive into humanoid robotics, leading a RMB 1.1 billion ($153 million) funding round for Beijing-based startup Galbot, making it a…
Introduction to Cannabis Cultivation: Methods and Best Practices
Executive Summary (TL;DR) Success starts with siting: confirm zoning, buffers, and local approvals before modeling yields or ordering equipment. Pick the lowest-complexity cultivation method (outdoor, mixed-light/greenhouse, indoor) that meets your…
China’s nanotechnology patents top the world: white paper
A staff member works at a nanotechnology company at the Suzhou Industrial Park in Suzhou, East China“s Jiangsu province, Nov 12, 2024. BEIJING – China accounts for 43 percent of…
The Cannabis Retailers Survival Guide: Managing Overhead, Margins, Employees, and Vendors
Executive Summary (TL;DR) Cannabis retail is a low-margin, high-compliance business across the U.S. Winners design for regulatory fit first—zoning, buffers, local authorization/zoning compatibility letters, conditional approvals, and accessibility—then optimize labor,…
EU Strips Putin of Trade Funding, Annihilates Deficit with Russia
From an all-time high trade deficit with Russia to zero in just three years. Said and delivered After Russia invasion, imports from Ukraine fell off a cliff, while Russian exports…
Introduction to Hydrocarbon Extraction
Executive Summary (TL;DR) Hydrocarbon extraction (butane/propane blends) is the dominant method for premium concentrates because it preserves terpenes and yields diverse textures (shatter, badder, live resin). Success hinges on real…
Yiwu factories net early orders for World Cup merchandise
People shop at the Yiwu International Trade Market in Yiwu, East China“s Zhejiang province, May 16, 2025. HANGZHOU – Even with nearly a year to go before the 2026 World…
Cannabis Startup Guide: From First Idea to First Sale
Executive Summary (TL;DR) Treat cannabis as a compliance-first, capital-intensive industry. Your first job is regulatory fit: confirm zoning, buffers, local authorization (zoning compatibility letter), and—if required—CUP (Conditional Use Permit) before…
Hong Kong’s crop of green bonds, ESG funds flourishes under mainland China’s climate push
Hong Kong was responsible for nearly half of the green bonds issued in Asia in 2024 and saw a surge in sustainability-related funds, as strong demand from regional mainland governments…
Consumer Trend Changes: Impacts on Cannabis Business Operator Business Models and Product Offerings
Executive Summary (TL;DR) Consumer trends are reshaping margins and mix. Value-tier growth, convenience formats (pre-rolls, vapes), and low-dose occasions (beverages/edibles) require SKU rationalization, price-pack architecture, and disciplined promotions. Real estate…