Tag Archives: ECM

Personal connections on social media drive more consumer purchases than influencers, Mintel research reveals

MUMBAI, India, Oct. 5, 2023 /PRNewswire/ — Indian consumers are more inclined to be influenced by people they know personally on social media when making purchasing decisions, according to the latest research by Mintel.

While urban consumers show a preference for online influencers, with 28% relying on them compared to 19% of the total sample, they are more heavily influenced by social media posts from people they know across various categories like clothing and accessories (51%), dining out (33%), and household items (31%).

This trend is not exclusive to urban areas. In Tier 3 cities, a significant 67% of consumers have not made purchases based on online influencers’ recommendations in the last six months through May 2023. Mintel research suggests that despite engaging with online influencers, consumers in low-tier cities remain unconvinced when making purchase decisions.

Urban Gen Z and Millennials draw inspiration from sports and entertainment celebrities

However, in urban settings, an affinity toward sports celebrities has emerged due to the increasing preference for an active lifestyle, particularly for Gen Z and Millennials. In the past six months, two in five women (40%) and men (36%) aged 18-34 have made clothing and accessory purchases based on influencer recommendations. Notably, nearly four in 10 (39%) men aged 18-34 who follow influencer advice favour sports celebrities over entertainment celebrities.

“When developing their social media marketing strategy, it’s critical for brands to consider consumers’ preferences, whether they’re targeting young men who admire sports stars for their lifestyle and fashion choices, or young women who tend to look up to entertainment celebrities and movie stars for fashion inspiration,” said Saptarshi Banerjee, Senior Lifestyle Analyst, Mintel Reports India.

Women aged 18-44, particularly those between the ages of 35 and 44, show a significant inclination toward entertainment celebrities. Nearly two in five (37%) female followers of such celebrities say they purchase beauty and grooming products based on online influencers’ recommendations, compared to 24% of female consumers from the total sample who are active on social media platforms.

“The influence of celebrities in social media extends beyond beauty and grooming to a wide range of lifestyle categories, including clothing and accessories, dining out and shopping for household items such as furniture and home décor.

“Our research indicates that sports celebrities influence urban consumers, in particular, while urban females find inspiration in media celebrities’ lifestyles. Brands can leverage the aspirational appeal of these celebrities, combining it with the broad reach of micro and nano influencers to craft compelling and authentic influencer marketing campaigns,” continued Banerjee.

Authenticity and the rise of micro and nano influencers

Consumer awareness is growing regarding the financial gains that drive online influencers, with 24% of metro consumers (compared to 18% of the total sample) feeling that most influencers are untrustworthy. This has underscored the importance of authenticity and trust in successful influencer marketing campaigns.

Moreover, 33% of those distrustful of online influencers believe that social media influencers with fewer followers are more authentic than those with massive followings. “The increasing distrust of online influencers with massive followings highlights the growing relevance of micro and nano influencers* as they are seen to be more relatable and approachable than their more famous counterparts, thus garnering greater trust from consumers,” noted Banerjee.

Furthermore, nearly half (47%) of consumers are drawn to influencers who are knowledgeable, easily accessible and foster a personal connection with their audience. Additionally, authentic reviews in conjunction with humorous content can be instrumental in connecting with 56% of consumers, according to Mintel research.

“Consumers who immerse themselves in social media platforms are often drawn to content that speaks directly to their everyday concerns in an amusing and captivating manner. In this time of uncertainty, humour provides a much-needed reprieve and is thus a particularly attractive form of content,” added Banerjee.

YouTube: The most popular platform

Across different age groups, YouTube is the most widely used social media platform among Gen Z (87%), Millennials (72%) and Gen X (47%). Furthermore, younger consumers are engaging with multiple social media platforms with 47% of Indians aged 18-24 using four or more, while 31% of those aged 25-34 are active on three or more platforms.

Mintel research shows that 21% of Older Millennials aged 34-42 (compared to 16% of the total sample) actively engage with brands on social media, highlighting the growing significance of these platforms for this generation. A majority of them follow brands on Facebook (89%) and Instagram (67%), emphasising the value of maintaining a brand presence on these platforms.

“Facebook can be a great platform for brands to keep Older Millennials up to date with the latest industry trends and product announcements, while Instagram can be used to create visually appealing and unique engagements.

“Additionally, only half of Gen X have been active on social media in the last six months, while 70% of Baby Boomers have not used social media in the same period, making them less conducive to online influencer marketing,” concluded Banerjee.

Notes:

*Micro-influencers (10k100k followers) and nano influencers (<10k followers)

KREAM Announces Business Integration with SODA… To Leap as Asia’s Largest C2C and Fashion E-commerce Platform

  • SODA, Operator of Japan’s Largest Limited-Edition Goods Trading Platform SNKRDUNK, is Leading the Country’s Consumer Trend and Culture
  • Integration of the two companies is expected to create the number one C2C and fashion e-commerce platform in the Asia-Pacific region, beyond Korea and Japan

SEOUL, South Korea, Oct. 4, 2023 /PRNewswire/ — KREAM Corporation (CEO and founder Kim Changwook) has announced its strategic integration with SODA inc. (“SODA”) (CEO and founder Yuta Uchiyama), the operator of Japan’s largest limited-edition goods trading platform, SNKRDUNK.  Through the investment, Soda is expected to incorporated into KREAM’s consolidated subsidiary.

Soda launched its SNKRDUNK service in 2018 and is best known as a Japanese startup backed by SoftBank’s Vision Fund 2. In 2021, SODA acquired MONOKABU, the second-largest player in the market, solidifying its position as the undisputed leader in the Japanese market

KREAM was launched in 2020 as one of the services operated by NAVER’s subsidiary, SNOW Corporation, and emerged as the largest and fastest growing player in the Korean fashion C2C market. Since its inception, KREAM has recorded an annual growth rate exceeding 230% based on transaction volume strongly followed by the nation’s trend-setting MZ and Alpha generation crowd.

The integration of the two companies is expected to provide an expanded product offering and channel offering to both the consumer and fashion brands not only in Korea and Japan, the two largest Asian markets for limited goods, but also eventually in other countries such as US, Australia, Thailand, Singapore, Indonesia, Malaysia, etc., where KREAM and SODA have respective operations or exposure.

The integration planning for synergies between KREAM and SODA is set to be completed in the first half of 2024. Current SODA management will continue to run SODA’s operation and an IPO of SODA in Japan is also being considered. SODA’s CEO and founder Yuta Uchiyama will be joining KREAM as its board member as well as chief officer for the combined operation’s global expansion.

Meanwhile, KREAM has also made additional investments in Sasom Company, which operates the leading Thailand’s limited-edition trading platform SASOM. Thailand is an emerging market leading Southeast Asia. As the size of the 1020-centered market is growing rapidly, the business is expected to grow even higher in the future.

Casio to Open Virtual G-SHOCK STORE in the Metaverse

First to Offer Watch Customization Experiences in VRChat

TOKYO, Oct. 3, 2023 /PRNewswire/ — Casio Computer Co., Ltd. announced today the launch of a metaverse-based virtual store for the G-SHOCK brand of shock-resistant watches. The new store will open on October 6, 2023 on the social virtual reality platform VRChat, allowing visitors to enjoy watch customization experiences and more.


In recent years, it has become more and more popular for younger users to create avatars (virtual personalities), explore virtual spaces and engage in communication with each other in the metaverse.

In response, Casio is opening a virtual G-SHOCK STORE space, called a “world” in the metaverse, to encourage a culture of outfitting avatars with timepieces, building on the strong support G-SHOCK enjoys from users for its shock resistance and unique designs. Casio has signed a partnership agreement with VRChat Inc., the operator of the world’s largest social virtual reality platform, VRChat. This marks the very first time a watch manufacturer has opened a world (virtual space) in VRChat.

The G-SHOCK STORE virtual world will provide a watch customization service that allows users to combine different components to create their own personalized G-SHOCK watches, as well as to see how their VRChat avatars look wearing the watches they created. In addition, users can purchase watch components as digital items for use in VRChat at the official Casio online shop on BOOTH, a global online marketplace for creative endeavors, to create virtual G-SHOCK watches that can be worn by their avatars in the G-SHOCK STORE and other VRChat worlds. These virtual watches are linked to the time at the user’s location, allowing users to check the time within VRChat.

Inside the G-SHOCK STORE in the metaverse
Inside the G-SHOCK STORE in the metaverse

About VRChat

VRChat is a virtual reality metaverse platform that enables users to assume the forms of avatars and enjoy interactive experiences in virtual worlds. Millions of people have formed a wide array of user communities in which they can freely enjoy activities in metaverse spaces on the platform.

City Beach Partners with NewStore to Launch Mobile Consumer App

Australia’s leading lifestyle and youth fashion brand will leverage the NewStore Consumer App to extend its digital footprint and enhance customer loyalty

BOSTON and BRISBANE, Australia, Sept. 20, 2023 /PRNewswire/ — NewStore, a modular, mobile-first omnichannel cloud platform for retail brands worldwide, today announced a new partnership with City Beach, one of Australia’s premier youth fashion destinations. The retailer will leverage the NewStore Consumer App to design and launch the City Beach App, which will debut on iOS and Android in Australia, New Zealand, and the United States in the coming months.

Since its inception in 1985, City Beach has championed a legacy of youth fashion. With over 65 stores throughout Australia, the retailer boasts a curated selection of 300+ brands and is supported by a team of more than 3,000. City Beach’s digital footprint is equally as impressive, with its ecommerce operations accounting for a significant percentage of the company’s revenue. By rolling out the City Beach App, the business will extend its ecommerce presence beyond desktop and mobile web, strengthening its digital prowess while also enriching customer relationships and driving sales.

“After a comprehensive evaluation, it became evident that the NewStore platform was the perfect match from a feature-functionality standpoint,” said Chris Lockwood, Head of Ecommerce, City Beach. “This journey marks a turning point for City Beach, and we are confident that the end product will benefit our business and further our commitment to offering a superior customer experience.”

With NewStore, City Beach will have access to all the essential capabilities it needs to run a modern and engaging app, as well as real-time omnichannel inventory visibility, custom push notifications, and interactive product lookbooks. NewStore Consumer Apps also offer the following differentiating features:

  • Brand Stories: Provide an unmatched, on-brand in-app experience with interactive storytelling.
  • Immersive Videos: Seamlessly integrate videos to unlock captivating brand visuals that drive engagement.
  • Digital Loyalty: Offer a unique, members-only experience with out-of-the-box capabilities designed to create “superfans.”
  • App Extensions: Easily add external features for endless customization possibilities.

City Beach will benefit from the fact that NewStore Consumer Apps are proven to increase both engagement and brand loyalty. Compared to typical mobile website metrics, NewStore customers have seen 3x more visits from their app users and in-app conversion rates as high as 7x. At the same time, brands using NewStore Consumer Apps have significantly reduced customer acquisition costs, with 90% of users accessing the app directly versus through paid search advertisements.

“Youth fashion retail has its own set of challenges, and businesses must have a vision and strive to continue to adapt. NewStore not only gets this, but the team also brings a much-needed spirit of partnership and collaboration to the table,” added Troy Elliott, Head of Operations, City Beach. “In a rapidly evolving retail landscape, their innovative app development approach and commitment to our brand’s success truly set them apart.”

“The NewStore Consumer App is a vital component of our larger omnichannel platform,” said Stephan Schambach, Founder and CEO, NewStore. “Our modularity is a key differentiator, and brands like City Beach can choose how to leverage our offerings. Their decision to launch a NewStore Consumer App speaks not just to meeting today’s consumer demands but also to their forward-looking vision for retail’s future.”

NewStore runs apps for 25 brands in 40+ countries. To learn more about the NewStore Consumer App and request a demo, visit: https://www.newstore.com/mobile-retail-experience/

About City Beach
For more than three decades, City Beach has been a beacon of Aussie lifestyle, fashion and culture, growing from a small surf and skate shop established in 1985, to an international brand with over 65+ stores Australia wide. Over the years, it has evolved into Australia’s leading lifestyle brand, recognised and adored for its trendsetting apparel, footwear, and accessories.

With an unwavering commitment to an immersive shopping experience, City Beach continues to innovate and expand its global presence via their epic international online offering. City Beach stocks over 300 of the world’s biggest brands, with new arrivals landing every day.

About NewStore
NewStore provides Omnichannel-as-a-Service for retail brands worldwide that want to accelerate their digital transformation. Built with MACH principles, NewStore allows brands to easily deliver amazing shopping experiences that store associates and consumers love. Its mobile-first, modular cloud platform includes POS, order management, clienteling, inventory, and consumer apps. NewStore customers such as Burton, Faherty Brand, G-Star RAW, Marine Layer, Roots Canada, UNTUCKit, and Vince benefit from the most complete, global omnichannel retail solution available — now supercharged with Tap to Pay on iPhone. The company is backed by General Catalyst, Activant Capital, and Salesforce Ventures. Learn more at www.newstore.com

Logo – https://techent.tv/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/city-beach-partners-with-newstore-to-launch-mobile-consumer-app.jpg

Source: NewStore, Inc.

LightInTheBox Reports Second Quarter 2023 Financial Results

SINGAPORE, Sept. 15, 2023 /PRNewswire/ — LightInTheBox Holding Co., Ltd. (NYSE: LITB) (“LightInTheBox” or the “Company”), an apparel e-commerce retailer that ships products to consumers worldwide, today announced its unaudited financial results for the second quarter ended June 30, 2023.

Second Quarter and First Half 2023 Financial Highlights

Three Months Ended

Year-over-

Six Months Ended

Year-over-

In millions,

June 30,

June 30,

Year %

June 30,

June 30,

Year %

except percentages

2022

2023

Change

2022

2023

Change

Total revenues

$

132.4

$

191.8

44.9

%

$

226.1

$

339.5

50.2

%

– Apparel sales

$

108.7

$

163.2

50.1

%

$

175.9

$

282.5

60.5

%

 Apparel sales/total 
    revenues

82.1

%

85.1

%

3.0

%

77.8

%

83.2

%

5.4

%

Gross margin

55.3

%

57.5

%

2.2

%

53.4

%

56.7

%

3.3

%

Net loss

$

(2.4)

$

(1.5)

$

(7.9)

$

(5.4)

Adjusted EBITDA

$

(1.5)

$

(0.7)

$

(6.1)

$

(3.8)

As of June 30,

As of June 30,

In millions

2022

2023

Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash

$

65.7

$

94.6

Mr. Jian He, Chairman and CEO of LightInTheBox, commented, “We’re pleased to deliver a strong operational and financial performance in the second quarter of 2023. Amid a complex macro environment, we achieved the highest quarterly revenue in our history, primarily driven by apparel sales growth of 50% over one year ago. Meanwhile, our efforts to enhance operating efficiency paid off, evidenced by improved profitability with fulfillment and G&A expenses as a percentage of revenue at an all-time low. Furthermore, our cash balance was $95 million as of the end of this quarter, illustrating our robust free cash flow generation ability.

“These solid results once again demonstrate our effective business strategy, as well as our core competitive advantages across our value-for-money offerings, quality customer cohorts, and innovative technologies. As we move into the third quarter 2023, we are seeing that macroeconomic turbulence, together with normal seasonality in the apparel sector, is impacting on our top-line performance. Nevertheless, we will continue to execute our proven business strategy and refine our operations to navigate the evolving market dynamics as we strive to deliver sustainable value to all of our stakeholders in the long run,” Mr. He concluded.

Second Quarter 2023 Financial Results

Total revenues increased by 44.9% year-over-year to $191.8 million from $132.4 million in the same quarter of 2022. Sales from apparel increased by 50.1% to $163.2 million in the second quarter of 2023, compared with $108.7 million in the same quarter of 2022. Revenues from apparel represented 85.1% of total revenues in the second quarter of 2023 and 82.1% in the same quarter of 2022.

Total cost of revenues was $81.6 million in the second quarter of 2023, compared with $59.2 million in the same quarter of 2022.

Gross profit in the second quarter of 2023 was $110.2 million, compared with $73.2 million in the same quarter of 2022. Gross margin was 57.5% in the second quarter of 2023, compared with 55.3% in the same quarter of 2022. The increase in gross margin was a result of the increase in the percentage of sales represented by apparel, which grew from 82.1% to 85.1%. Apparel typically has higher margins than other product types.

Total operating expenses in the second quarter of 2023 were $111.8 million, compared with $75.6 million in the same quarter of 2022.

  • Fulfillment expenses in the second quarter of 2023 were $9.9 million, compared with $7.8 million in the same quarter of 2022. As a percentage of total revenues, fulfillment expenses were 5.2% in the second quarter of 2023, compared with 5.9% in the same quarter of 2022 and 5.8% in the first quarter of 2023.
  • Selling and marketing expenses in the second quarter of 2023 were $94.0 million, compared with $58.2 million in the same quarter of 2022. As a percentage of total revenues, selling and marketing expenses were 49.0% in the second quarter of 2023, compared with 44.0% in the same quarter of 2022 and 46.8% in the first quarter of 2023.
  • G&A expenses in the second quarter of 2023 were $8.2 million, compared with $9.7 million in the same quarter of 2022. As a percentage of total revenues, G&A expenses were 4.3% in the second quarter of 2023, compared with 7.3% in the same quarter of 2022 and 6.1% in the first quarter of 2023. As part of G&A expenses, R&D expenses in the second quarter of 2023 were $5.1 million, compared with $4.7 million in the same quarter of 2022 and $5.2 million in the first quarter of 2023.

Loss from operations was $1.6 million in the second quarter of 2023, compared with $2.5 million in the same quarter of 2022.

Net loss was $1.5 million in the second quarter of 2023, compared with $2.4 million in the same quarter of 2022.

Net loss per American Depository Share (“ADS”) was $0.01 in the second quarter of 2023, compared with $0.02 in the same quarter of 2022. Each ADS represents two ordinary shares. The diluted net loss per ADS in the second quarter of 2023 was $0.01, compared with $0.02 in the same quarter of 2022.

In the second quarter of 2023, the Company’s basic weighted average number of ADSs used in computing the net loss per ADS was 113,369,462.

Adjusted EBITDA was negative $0.7 million in the second quarter of 2023, compared with negative $1.5 million in the same quarter of 2022.

As of June 30, 2023, the Company had cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash of $94.6 million, compared with $65.7 million as of June 30, 2022.

First Half 2023 Financial Results

Total revenues increased by 50.2% year-over-year to $339.5 million from $226.1 million in the same period of 2022. Sales from apparel increased by 60.5% to $282.5 million in the first half of 2023, compared with $175.9 million in the same period of 2022. Revenues from apparel represented 83.2% of total revenues in the first half of 2023 and 77.8% in the same period of 2022.

Total cost of revenues was $146.9 million in the first half of 2023, compared with $105.5 million in the same period of 2022.

Gross profit in the first half of 2023 was $192.7 million, compared with $120.7 million in the same period of 2022. Gross margin was 56.7% in the first half of 2023, compared with 53.4% in the same period of 2022. The increase in gross margin was a result of the increase in the percentage of sales represented by apparel, which grew from 77.8% to 83.2%. Apparel typically has higher margins than other product types.

Total operating expenses in the first half of 2023 were $198.2 million, compared with $129.5 million in the same period of 2022.

  • Fulfillment expenses in the first half of 2023 were $18.5 million, compared with $14.6 million in the same period of 2022. As a percentage of total revenues, fulfillment expenses were 5.5% in the first half of 2023, compared with 6.5% in the same period of 2022.
  • Selling and marketing expenses in the first half of 2023 were $163.2 million, compared with $97.3 million in the same period of 2022. As a percentage of total revenues, selling and marketing expenses were 48.0% for the first half of 2023, compared with 43.0% in the same period of 2022.
  • G&A expenses in the first half of 2023 were $17.2 million, compared with $17.7 million in the same period of 2022. As a percentage of total revenues, G&A expenses were 5.1% for the first half of 2023, compared with 7.8% in the same period of 2022. Included in G&A expenses, R&D expenses in the first half of 2023 were $10.3 million, compared with $9.3 million in the same period of 2022.

Loss from operations was $5.6 million in the first half of 2023, compared with $8.9 million in the same period of 2022.

Net loss was $5.4 million in the first half of 2023, compared with $7.9 million in the same period of 2022.

Net loss per American Depository Share (“ADS”) was $0.05 in the first half of 2023, compared with $0.07 in the same period of 2022. Each ADS represents two ordinary shares. The diluted net loss per ADS for the first half of 2023 was $0.05, compared with $0.07 in the same period of 2022.

In the first half of 2023, the Company’s basic weighted average number of ADSs used in computing the net loss per ADS was 113,349,914.

Adjusted EBITDA was negative $3.8 million in the first half of 2023, compared with negative $6.1 million in the same period of 2022.

Share Repurchase Program

On June 27, 2023, the Company’s board of directors authorized a share repurchase program under which the Company may repurchase up to $10 million of its ordinary shares in the form of ADSs no later than December 31, 2023. As of September 12, 2023, the Company has repurchased 517,240 ADSs with a total aggregate value of approximately $0.7 million.

Business Outlook

For the third quarter of 2023, based on current information available to the Company and business seasonality, the Company expects net revenues to be between $145 million and $160 million.

Non-GAAP Financial Measure

In evaluating the business, the Company considers and uses a non-GAAP measure, Adjusted EBITDA, as a supplemental measure to review and assess operating performance. The presentation of this non-GAAP financial measure is not intended to be considered in isolation or as a substitute for the financial information prepared and presented in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“U.S. GAAP”). The Company’s non-GAAP financial measure excludes share-based compensation expenses, depreciation and amortization expenses, interest income, interest expenses and income tax expense.

The Company presents this non-GAAP financial measure because it is used by management to evaluate operating performance and formulate business plans. The Company believes that the non-GAAP financial measure helps identify underlying trends in its business. The Company also believes that the non-GAAP financial measure could provide further information about the Company’s results of operations and enhance the overall understanding of the Company’s past performance and future prospects.

The non-GAAP financial measure is not defined under U.S. GAAP and is not presented in accordance with U.S. GAAP. The non-GAAP financial measure has limitations as an analytical tool. The Company’s non-GAAP financial measure does not reflect all items of income and expenses that affect the Company’s operations and does not represent the residual cash flow available for discretionary expenditures. Further, the non-GAAP measure may differ from the non-GAAP information used by other companies, including peer companies, and therefore their comparability may be limited. The Company compensates for the limitations by reconciling the non-GAAP financial measure to the nearest U.S. GAAP performance measure, all of which should be considered when evaluating performance. The Company encourages you to review the Company’s financial information in its entirety and not rely on a single financial measure.

For more information on the non-GAAP financial measure, please see the table captioned “Unaudited Reconciliations of GAAP and Non-GAAP Result” set forth at the end of this press release.

Conference Call

The Company’s management will hold an earnings conference call at 8:00 a.m. Eastern Time on September 15, 2023 (8:00 p.m. Hong Kong/Singapore Time on the same day).

Preregistration Information

Participants can register for the conference call by going to https://s1.c-conf.com/diamondpass/10033153-fue64r.html. Upon registration, participants will receive dial-in numbers, an event passcode, and a unique registrant ID.

To join the conference, simply dial the number in the calendar invite you receive after preregistering, enter the event passcode followed by your unique registrant ID, and you will be connected to the conference instantly.

A telephone replay will be available two hours after the conclusion of the conference call through September 22, 2023. The dial-in details are:

US/Canada:

+1-855-883-1031

Singapore:

800-101-3223

Hong Kong, China:

800-930-639

Replay PIN:

10033153

Additionally, a live and archived webcast of the conference call will be available on the Company’s investor relations website at http://ir.lightinthebox.com.

About LightInTheBox Holding Co., Ltd.

LightInTheBox is an apparel e-commerce retailer that ships products to consumers worldwide. With a focus on serving its middle-aged and senior customers, LightInTheBox leverages its global supply chain and logistics networks, along with its in-house R&D and design capabilities to offer a wide selection of comfortable, aesthetically pleasing and visually interesting apparels that bring fresh joy to customers. LightInTheBox operates its business through www.lightinthebox.com, www.miniinthebox.com, www.ezbuy.sg and other websites as well as mobile applications, which are available in over 20 major languages and over 140 countries and regions. The Company is headquartered in Singapore, with additional offices in California, Shanghai and Beijing.

For more information, please visit www.lightinthebox.com.

Investor Relations Contact

Investor Relations
LightInTheBox Holding Co., Ltd. 
Email: ir@lightinthebox.com

Jenny Cai
Piacente Financial Communications
Email: lightinthebox@tpg-ir.com

Brandi Piacente
Piacente Financial Communications
Tel: +1-212-481-2050
Email: lightinthebox@tpg-ir.com

Forward-Looking Statements

This announcement contains forward-looking statements. These statements are made under the “safe harbor” provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements can be identified by terminology such as “will,” “expects,” “anticipates,” “future,” “intends,” “plans,” “believes,” “estimates,” “potential,” “continue,” “ongoing,” “targets” and similar statements. Among other things, statements that are not historical facts, including statements about LightInTheBox’s beliefs and expectations, the business outlook and quotations from management in this announcement, as well as LightInTheBox’s strategic and operational plans, are or contain forward-looking statements.

LightInTheBox may also make written or oral forward-looking statements in its periodic reports to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”), in press releases and other written materials and in oral statements made by its officers, directors or employees to third parties. Forward-looking statements involve inherent risks and uncertainties. A number of factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statement, including but not limited to the following: LightInTheBox’s goals and strategies; LightInTheBox’s future business development, results of operations and financial condition; the expected growth of the global online retail market; LightInTheBox’s ability to attract customers and further enhance customer experience and product offerings; LightInTheBox’s ability to strengthen its supply chain efficiency and optimize its logistics network; LightInTheBox’s expectations regarding demand for and market acceptance of its products; competition; fluctuations in general economic and business conditions and assumptions underlying or related to any of the foregoing. Further information regarding these and other risks is included in LightInTheBox’s filings with the SEC. All information provided in this press release and in the attachments is as of the date of this press release, and LightInTheBox does not undertake any obligation to update any forward-looking statement, except as required under applicable law.

LightInTheBox Holding Co., Ltd.

Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets

(U.S. dollars in thousands, or otherwise noted)

As of December 31,

As of Jun 30,

2022

2023

ASSETS

Current Assets

Cash and cash equivalents

88,575

88,157

Restricted cash

5,993

6,451

Accounts receivable, net of allowance for credit losses

695

1,424

Inventories

14,260

9,427

Prepaid expenses and other current assets

6,452

18,120

Total current assets

115,975

123,579

Property and equipment, net

2,946

2,794

Intangible assets, net

5,630

4,404

Goodwill

28,177

26,835

Operating lease right-of-use assets

10,874

8,728

Long-term rental deposits

1,211

1,259

TOTAL ASSETS

164,813

167,599

LIABILITIES AND EQUITY / (DEFICIT)

Current Liabilities

Accounts payable

26,518

38,981

Advance from customers

32,241

27,559

Operating lease liabilities

4,993

5,184

Accrued expenses and other current liabilities

90,357

94,671

Total current liabilities

154,109

166,395

Operating lease liabilities

6,576

4,103

Long-term payable

34

10

Deferred tax liabilities

111

150

Unrecognized tax benefits

107

107

TOTAL LIABILITIES

160,937

170,765

EQUITY / (DEFICIT)

Ordinary shares

17

17

Additional paid-in capital

282,722

282,805

Treasury shares

(28,615)

(28,105)

Accumulated other comprehensive loss

(1,024)

(2,754)

Accumulated deficit

(249,224)

(255,129)

TOTAL EQUITY / (DEFICIT)

3,876

(3,166)

TOTAL LIABILITIES AND EQUITY / (DEFICIT)

164,813

167,599

LightInTheBox Holding Co., Ltd.

Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations

(U.S. dollars in thousands, except per share data, or otherwise noted)

Three Months Ended

Six Months Ended

June 30,

June 30,

June 30,

June 30,

2022

2023

2022

2023

Revenues

Product sales

129,828

189,730

221,171

334,331

Services and others

2,527

2,037

4,952

5,217

Total revenues

132,355

191,767

226,123

339,548

Cost of revenues

Product sales

(58,214)

(81,142)

(103,284)

(145,318)

Services and others

(983)

(435)

(2,167)

(1,538)

Total Cost of revenues

(59,197)

(81,577)

(105,451)

(146,856)

Gross profit

73,158

110,190

120,672

192,692

Operating expenses

Fulfillment

(7,774)

(9,906)

(14,638)

(18,542)

Selling and marketing

(58,225)

(94,038)

(97,257)

(163,150)

General and administrative

(9,661)

(8,176)

(17,727)

(17,233)

Other operating income

26

332

92

677

Total operating expenses

(75,634)

(111,788)

(129,530)

(198,248)

Loss from operations

(2,476)

(1,598)

(8,858)

(5,556)

Interest income

7

143

17

173

Interest expense

(1)

(1)

(3)

(2)

Other income, net

83

(1)

945

20

Total other income

89

141

959

191

Loss before income taxes

(2,387)

(1,457)

(7,899)

(5,365)

Income tax expense

(9)

(9)

(48)

Net loss

(2,396)

(1,457)

(7,908)

(5,413)

Net loss attributable to LightInTheBox Holding
Co., Ltd.

(2,396)

(1,457)

(7,908)

(5,413)

Weighted average numbers of shares used in
calculating loss per ordinary share

—Basic

226,140,929

226,738,924

226,124,192

226,699,828

—Diluted

226,140,929

226,738,924

226,124,192

226,699,828

Net loss per ordinary share

—Basic

(0.01)

(0.01)

(0.03)

(0.02)

—Diluted

(0.01)

(0.01)

(0.03)

(0.02)

Net loss per ADS ( 2 ordinary shares equal to 1 ADS )

—Basic

(0.02)

(0.01)

(0.07)

(0.05)

—Diluted

(0.02)

(0.01)

(0.07)

(0.05)

LightInTheBox Holding Co., Ltd.

Unaudited Reconciliations of GAAP and Non-GAAP Results

(U.S. dollars in thousands, or otherwise noted)

Three Months Ended

Six Months Ended

June 30,

June 30,

June 30,

June 30,

2022

2023

2022

2023

Net loss

(2,396)

(1,457)

(7,908)

(5,413)

Less: Interest income

7

143

17

173

Interest expense

(1)

(1)

(3)

(2)

Income tax expense

(9)

(9)

(48)

Depreciation and amortization

(861)

(826)

(1,719)

(1,655)

EBITDA

(1,532)

(773)

(6,194)

(3,881)

Less: Share-based compensation

(30)

(78)

(66)

(83)

Adjusted EBITDA*

(1,502)

(695)

(6,128)

(3,798)

* Adjusted EBITDA represents loss from operations before impairment loss on investment, share-based
compensation expense, interest income, interest expense, income tax expense and depreciation and amortization
expenses.

Source: LightInTheBox Holding Co., Ltd.

Cross-border eCommerce Enabler Buyandship Secures Initial US$10M in Series B Funding with Strategic Investment from Cool Japan Fund

HONG KONG, Sept. 12, 2023 /PRNewswire/ — Buyandship, a leading global cross-border eCommerce platform headquartered in Hong Kong, announced today first closing of its Series B raise with a US$10 million strategic investment led by Cool Japan Fund. The funds will be allocated to automation of operations, research, and development in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning, and market expansion into the Southeast Asia (SEA) regions.

Cool Japan Fund was founded in November 2013 as a public-private fund backed by the Japanese government, with the aim of contributing to the sustainable growth of Japan’s economy through the expansion of overseas demand and supply of attractive products and services unique to Japanese lifestyle and culture. 

Through its strong community, data analytics, and logistics network, Buyandship has been a market leader in cross-border ecommerce, having processed US$383 million in GMV in the last fiscal year. Buyandship has continuously strived to enhance its technological capabilities to drive real value for consumers. Over the past 12 months, it has built an automated shopping assistant, utilizing a Robotic Process Automation (RPA) model to boost its order processing capacity. Going forward, an AI-powered recommendation system will be integrated into the Buyaholic social commerce platform. This system will utilize algorithm to feed user-generated content (UGC) automatically based on behavioral records to enhance user stickiness and engagement.

Sheldon Li, Co-founder and CEO of Buyandship, said, “Buyandship continues to realize its mission of offering consumers a simple and intuitive ecommerce experience, to purchase products globally, at the most competitive pricing. The latest round of investment, alongside funding from the HKSTP Elite Program, will further cement Buyandship’s leadership and competitiveness in space with AI-driven functionality and machine learning in its service offering, deepened community engagement, and enhanced margins from warehouse automation. From a geographical expansion perspective, Buyandship looks forward to widening its coverage within SEA and South Korea, benefiting even more consumers in the region.”

Kenichi Kawasaki, President, CEO and COO of Cool Japan Fund, said, “This investment will encourage overseas consumers to purchase local Japanese e-commerce products that do not support overseas shipping, and will help raise the profile of Japanese products among overseas users, while expanding sales opportunities.”

The global B2C e-commerce market was valued at an estimated $4.92 trillion, representing 19.6% of all commerce being conducted electronically in 2021. By 2025, these numbers are projected to increase to $7.39 trillion and 24.5% respectively. Included within these statistics is the segment of cross-border e-commerce, which is predicted to experience a swift expansion, growing from $780 billion in 2019 to a projected $4.82 trillion in 2026[1].

For corporate image, please visit: https://bns.is/3Upu4V1.

About Buyandship
Established in 2014, Buyandship is committed to empowering consumers to buy any product globally through big data, global pricing comparison, social commerce, and logistics technologies. Buyandship’s core value is “more product, lowest priced and easy.” 

The company has expanded its presence across 11 countries and regions, operating 11 overseas warehouses and 1.72 million registered users, handling over 11 million packages to date. Our vision is to be consumers’ default shopping platform.

For more information, please visit the company website: https://www.buyandship.today/.

Trip.com Group Limited Reports Unaudited Second Quarter and First Half of 2023 Financial Results

SHANGHAI, Sept. 5, 2023 /PRNewswire/ — Trip.com Group Limited (Nasdaq: TCOM; HKEX: 9961) (“Trip.com Group” or the “Company”), a leading one-stop travel service provider of accommodation reservation, transportation ticketing, packaged tours, and corporate travel management, today announced its unaudited financial results for the second quarter and first half of 2023.

Key Highlights for the Second Quarter of 2023

  • Domestic and international business continued to show robust recovery in the second quarter of 2023

– Domestic hotel bookings grew by 170% year over year and by over 60% compared to the pre-COVID level for the same period in 2019.
– Outbound hotel and air reservations recovered to over 60% of the pre-COVID level for the same period in 2019, surpassing the industry-wide recovery rate of 37% in terms of international air passenger volume for the same period.
– Air ticket bookings on the Company’s global OTA platform grew by over 120% year over year and nearly doubled compared to the pre-COVID level for the same period in 2019.

  • The Company delivered strong results in the second quarter of 2023 

– Total net revenue increased by 180% year over year and exceeded the pre-COVID level for the same period in 2019 by 29%.
– Net income for the second quarter was RMB648 million (US$91 million), which improved from RMB43 million for the same period in 2022.
– Adjusted EBITDA for the second quarter was RMB3.7 billion (US$507 million). Adjusted EBITDA margin was 33%, compared to 9% for the same period in 2022 and 31% for the previous quarter.

“During the second quarter of 2023, the demand for both domestic and international travel remained resilient.” said James Liang, Executive Chairman. “Despite limited air capacity recovery, the robust rebound of travel activities reflects travelers’ strong desire to explore the world. We remain optimistic about the enduring demand for travel and the long-term market outlook.”

“We are encouraged by our solid results in the second quarter,” said Jane Sun, Chief Executive Officer. “With the thriving market demand and our outstanding performance, we are poised to take the lead in driving the industry’s recovery and actively creating an abundance of job opportunities alongside our esteemed business partners.”

Second Quarter of 2023 Financial Results and Business Updates

The Company’s business continued to recover significantly since the pent-up demand for travel remains strong, which led to an increasing volume of travel bookings.

For the second quarter of 2023, Trip.com Group reported net revenue of RMB11.2 billion (US$1.6 billion), representing a 180% increase from the same period in 2022 and a 22% increase from the previous quarter, primarily due to the substantial recovery of travel market.

Accommodation reservation revenue for the second quarter of 2023 was RMB4.3 billion (US$591 million), representing a 216% increase from the same period in 2022 and a 23% increase from the previous quarter, primarily due to the substantial recovery of travel market.

Transportation ticketing revenue for the second quarter of 2023 was RMB4.8 billion (US$664 million), representing a 173% increase from the same period in 2022 and a 16% increase from the previous quarter, primarily due to the substantial recovery of travel market.

Packaged-tour revenue for the second quarter of 2023 was RMB722 million (US$100 million), representing a 492% increase from the same period in 2022 and an 87% increase from the previous quarter, primarily due to the substantial recovery of travel market.

Corporate travel revenue for the second quarter of 2023 was RMB584 million (US$81 million), representing a 178% increase from the same period in 2022 and a 31% increase from the previous quarter, primarily due to the substantial recovery of travel market.

Cost of revenue for the second quarter of 2023 increased by 106% to RMB2.0 billion (US$277 million) from the same period in 2022 and increased by 23% from the previous quarter, primarily due to the substantial recovery of travel market. Cost of revenue as a percentage of net revenue was 18% for the second quarter of 2023.

Product development expenses for the second quarter of 2023 increased by 67% to RMB3.0 billion (US$407 million) from the same period in 2022 and increased by 10% from the previous quarter, primarily due to an increase in product development personnel related expenses. Product development expenses as a percentage of net revenue was 26% for the second quarter of 2023.

Sales and marketing expenses for the second quarter of 2023 increased by 185% to RMB2.4 billion (US$325 million) from the same period in 2022 and increased by 34% from the previous quarter, primarily due to an increase in expenses relating to sales and marketing promotion activities. Sales and marketing expenses as a percentage of net revenue was 21% for the second quarter of 2023.

General and administrative expenses for the second quarter of 2023 increased by 58% to RMB955 million (US$132 million) from the same period in 2022 primarily due to an increase in general and administrative personnel related expenses and increased by 7% from the previous quarter. General and administrative expenses as a percentage of net revenue was 8% for the second quarter of 2023.

Income tax expense for the second quarter of 2023 was RMB562 million (US$77 million), compared to RMB173 million for the same period in 2022 and RMB341 million for the previous quarter. The change in Trip.com Group’s effective tax rate was primarily due to the combined impacts of changes in respective profitability of its subsidiaries with different tax rates, certain non-taxable income or loss resulting from the fair value changes in equity securities investments and exchangeable senior notes, and changes in valuation allowance provided for deferred tax assets.

Net income for the second quarter of 2023 was RMB648 million (US$91 million), compared to RMB43 million for the same period in 2022 and RMB3.4 billion for the previous quarter. Adjusted EBITDA for the second quarter of 2023 was RMB3.7 billion (US$507 million), compared to RMB355 million for the same period in 2022 and RMB2.8 billion for the previous quarter. Adjusted EBITDA margin was 33% for the second quarter of 2023, compared to 9% for the same period in 2022 and 31% for the previous quarter.

Net income attributable to Trip.com Group’s shareholders for the second quarter of 2023 was RMB631 million (US$89 million), compared to RMB69 million for the same period in 2022 and RMB3.4 billion for the previous quarter. Excluding share-based compensation charges, fair value changes of equity securities investments and exchangeable senior notes recorded in other income/(expense) and their tax effects, non-GAAP net income attributable to Trip.com Group’s shareholders for the second quarter of 2023 was RMB3.4 billion (US$475 million), compared to non-GAAP net loss attributable to Trip.com Group’s shareholders of RMB203 million for the same period in 2022 and non-GAAP net income attributable to Trip.com Group’s shareholders of RMB2.1 billion for the previous quarter.

Diluted earnings per ordinary share and per ADS was RMB0.94 (US$0.13) for the second quarter of 2023. Excluding share-based compensation charges, fair value changes of equity securities investments and exchangeable senior notes and their tax effects, non-GAAP diluted earnings per ordinary share and per ADS was RMB5.11 (US$0.70) for the second quarter of 2023. Each ADS currently represents one ordinary share of the Company.

As of June 30, 2023, the balance of cash and cash equivalents, restricted cash, short-term investment, held to maturity time deposit and financial products was RMB75.0 billion (US$10.3 billion).

Conference Call

Trip.com Group’s management team will host a conference call at 8:00 PM EST on September 4, 2023 (or 8:00 AM CST on September 5, 2023) following this announcement.

The conference call will be available live on Webcast and for replay at: https://investors.trip.com. The call will be archived for twelve months on our website.

All participants must pre-register to join this conference call using the Participant Registration link below:
https://register.vevent.com/register/BI90bc7b46919e4b55a896bf30b59d4a4a 

Upon registration, each participant will receive details for this conference call, including dial-in numbers and a unique access PIN. To join the conference, please dial the number provided, enter your PIN, and you will join the conference instantly.

Safe Harbor Statement

This announcement contains forward-looking statements. These statements are made under the “safe harbor” provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements can be identified by terminology such as “may,” “will,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “future,” “intend,” “plan,” “believe,” “estimate,” “is/are likely to,” “confident” or other similar statements. Among other things, quotations from management in this press release, as well as Trip.com Group’s strategic and operational plans, contain forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements involve inherent risks and uncertainties. A number of important factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statement. Potential risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, severe or prolonged downturn in the global or Chinese economy, general declines or disruptions in the travel industry, volatility in the trading price of Trip.com Group’s ADSs or shares, Trip.com Group’s reliance on its relationships and contractual arrangements with travel suppliers and strategic alliances, failure to compete against new and existing competitors, failure to successfully manage current growth and potential future growth, risks associated with any strategic investments or acquisitions, seasonality in the travel industry in the relevant jurisdictions where Trip.com Group operates, failure to successfully develop Trip.com Group’s existing or future business lines, damage to or failure of Trip.com Group’s infrastructure and technology, loss of services of Trip.com Group’s key executives, the impact of COVID-19 to Trip.com Group’s business operations, adverse changes in economic and political policies of the PRC government, inflation in China, risks and uncertainties associated with PRC laws and regulations with respect to the ownership structure of the variable interest entities and the contractual arrangements among Trip.com Group, the variable interest entities and their shareholders, and other risks outlined in Trip.com Group’s filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission or the Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited. All information provided in this press release and in the attachments is as of the date of the issuance, and Trip.com Group does not undertake any obligation to update any forward-looking statement, except as required under applicable law.

About Non-GAAP Financial Measures

To supplement Trip.com Group’s consolidated financial statements, which are prepared and presented in accordance with United States Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (“GAAP”), Trip.com Group uses non-GAAP financial information related to adjusted net income attributable to Trip.com Group Limited, adjusted EBITDA, adjusted EBITDA margin, and adjusted diluted earnings per ordinary share and per ADS, each of which is adjusted from the most comparable GAAP result to exclude the share-based compensation charges that are not tax deductible, fair value changes of equity securities investments and exchangeable senior notes, net of tax, and other applicable items. Trip.com Group’s management believes the non-GAAP financial measures facilitate better understanding of operating results from quarter to quarter and provide management with a better capability to plan and forecast future periods.

Non-GAAP information is not prepared in accordance with GAAP, does not have a standardized meaning under GAAP, and may be different from non-GAAP methods of accounting and reporting used by other companies. The presentation of this additional information should not be considered a substitute for GAAP results. A limitation of using non-GAAP financial measures is that non-GAAP measures exclude share-based compensation charges, fair value changes of equity securities investments and exchangeable senior notes and their tax effects that have been and will continue to be significant recurring expenses in Trip.com Group’s business for the foreseeable future.

Reconciliations of Trip.com Group’s non-GAAP financial data to the most comparable GAAP data included in the consolidated statement of operations are included at the end of this press release.

About Trip.com Group Limited

Trip.com Group Limited (Nasdaq: TCOM; HKEX: 9961) is a leading global one-stop travel platform, integrating a comprehensive suite of travel products and services and differentiated travel content. It is the go-to destination for travelers in China, and increasingly for travelers around the world, to explore travel, get inspired, make informed and cost-effective travel bookings, enjoy hassle-free on-the-go support, and share travel experience. Founded in 1999 and listed on Nasdaq in 2003 and HKEX in 2021, the Company currently operates under a portfolio of brands, including Ctrip, Qunar, Trip.com, and Skyscanner, with the mission “to pursue the perfect trip for a better world.”

For further information, please contact:

Investor Relations

Trip.com Group Limited
Tel: +86 (21) 3406-4880 X 12229
Email: iremail@trip.com

Trip.com Group Limited

Unaudited Consolidated Balance Sheets

(In millions, except share and per share data)

December 31, 2022

June 30, 2023

June 30, 2023

RMB (million)

RMB (million)

USD (million)

ASSETS

Current assets:

Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash

18,487

36,843

5,080

Short-term investments

25,545

18,532

2,556

Accounts receivable, net 

5,486

10,689

1,474

Prepayments and other current assets 

11,917

17,028

2,348

Total current assets

61,435

83,092

11,458

Property, equipment and software

5,204

5,192

716

Intangible assets and land use rights

12,825

12,738

1,757

Right-of-use asset

819

715

99

Investments (Includes held to maturity time deposit and
financial products of RMB15,527 million and RMB19,581
million as of December 31,2022 and June 30, 2023,
respectively)

50,177

54,757

7,551

Goodwill

59,337

59,382

8,189

Other long-term assets

570

624

86

Deferred tax asset

1,324

1,716

237

Total assets

191,691

218,216

30,093

LIABILITIES

Current liabilities:

Short-term debt and current portion of long-term debt

32,674

32,414

4,470

Accounts payable

7,569

14,729

2,031

Advances from customers

8,278

13,505

1,862

Other current liabilities

12,718

15,029

2,073

Total current liabilities

61,239

75,677

10,436

Deferred tax liability

3,487

3,647

503

Long-term debt

13,177

19,697

2,716

Long-term lease liability

534

484

67

Other long-term liabilities

235

310

43

Total liabilities

78,672

99,815

13,765

SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY

Total Trip.com Group Limited shareholders’ equity

112,283

117,649

16,224

Non-controlling interests

736

752

104

Total shareholders’ equity

113,019

118,401

16,328

Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity

191,691

218,216

30,093

Trip.com Group Limited

Unaudited Consolidated Statements of Income/(Loss)

(In millions, except share and per share data)

Three Months Ended

Six Months Ended

June 30, 2022

March 31, 2023

June 30, 2023

June 30, 2023

June 30, 2022

June 30, 2023

June 30, 2023

RMB (million)

RMB (million)

RMB (million)

USD (million)

RMB (million)

RMB (million)

USD (million)

Revenue:

Accommodation reservation 

1,357

3,480

4,285

591

2,807

7,765

1,071

Transportation ticketing 

1,763

4,156

4,814

664

3,426

8,970

1,237

Packaged-tour 

122

386

722

100

246

1,108

153

Corporate travel

210

445

584

81

432

1,029

142

Others

564

744

857

118

1,216

1,601

221

Total revenue

4,016

9,211

11,262

1,554

8,127

20,473

2,824

Less: Sales tax and surcharges

(5)

(13)

(15)

(2)

(7)

(28)

(4)

Net revenue

4,011

9,198

11,247

1,552

8,120

20,445

2,820

Cost of revenue

(976)

(1,637)

(2,007)

(277)

(2,043)

(3,644)

(502)

Gross profit

3,035

7,561

9,240

1,275

6,077

16,801

2,318

Operating expenses:

Product development *

(1,772)

(2,674)

(2,953)

(407)

(3,746)

(5,627)

(776)

Sales and marketing *

(826)

(1,755)

(2,355)

(325)

(1,669)

(4,110)

(567)

General and administrative *

(604)

(891)

(955)

(132)

(1,188)

(1,846)

(255)

Total operating expenses

(3,202)

(5,320)

(6,263)

(864)

(6,603)

(11,583)

(1,598)

(Loss)/income from operations

(167)

2,241

2,977

411

(526)

5,218

720

Interest income 

544

441

513

71

1,135

954

132

Interest expense

(351)

(486)

(555)

(77)

(692)

(1,041)

(144)

Other income/(expense)

469

1,652

(1,961)

(270)

(238)

(309)

(43)

Income/(loss) before income
tax expense and equity in
income of affiliates

495

3,848

974

135

(321)

4,822

665

Income tax expense

(173)

(341)

(562)

(77)

(159)

(903)

(124)

Equity in (loss)/gain of affiliates

(279)

(133)

236

33

(478)

103

14

Net income/(loss)

43

3,374

648

91

(958)

4,022

555

Net loss/(income) attributable to non-
controlling interests

26

1

(17)

(2)

38

(16)

(2)

Net income/(loss) attributable
to Trip.com Group Limited

69

3,375

631

89

(920)

4,006

553

Earnings/(losses) per ordinary share 

– Basic

0.10

5.18

0.97

0.13

(1.42)

6.14

0.85

– Diluted

0.10

5.02

0.94

0.13

(1.42)

5.98

0.82

Earnings/(losses) per ADS 

– Basic

0.10

5.18

0.97

0.13

(1.42)

6.14

0.85

– Diluted

0.10

5.02

0.94

0.13

(1.42)

5.98

0.82

Weighted average ordinary shares outstanding 

– Basic

647,866,001

651,849,468

653,392,956

653,392,956

647,843,829

652,625,256

652,625,256

– Diluted

650,906,465

672,743,729

671,942,381

671,942,381

647,843,829

670,838,392

670,838,392

* Share-based compensation included in Operating expenses above is as follows:

  Product development 

146

179

234

32

253

413

57

  Sales and marketing 

28

31

44

6

46

75

10

  General and administrative 

130

168

219

30

228

387

53

Trip.com Group Limited

Unaudited Reconciliation of  GAAP and Non-GAAP Results

(In millions, except %, share and per share data)

Three Months Ended

Six Months Ended

June 30, 2022

March 31, 2023

June 30, 2023

June 30, 2023

June 30, 2022

June 30, 2023

June 30, 2023

RMB (million)

RMB (million)

RMB (million)

USD (million)

RMB (million)

RMB (million)

USD (million)

Net income/(loss)

43

3,374

648

91

(958)

4,022

555

Less: Interest income

(544)

(441)

(513)

(71)

(1,135)

(954)

(132)

Add: Interest expense

351

486

555

77

692

1,041

144

Add: Other (income)/expense

(469)

(1,652)

1,961

270

238

309

43

Add: Income tax expense

173

341

562

77

159

903

124

Add: Equity in loss/(income) of affiliates

279

133

(236)

(33)

478

(103)

(14)

(Loss)/income from operations

(167)

2,241

2,977

411

(526)

5,218

720

Add: Share-based compensation

304

378

497

68

527

875

120

Add: Depreciation and amortization

218

201

204

28

445

405

56

Adjusted EBITDA

355

2,820

3,678

507

446

6,498

896

Adjusted EBITDA margin

9 %

31 %

33 %

33 %

5 %

32 %

32 %

Net income/(loss) attributable to Trip.com Group Limited

69

3,375

631

89

(920)

4,006

553

Add: Share-based compensation

304

378

497

68

527

875

120

Add: (Gain)/loss from fair value changes of equity securities
investments and exchangeable senior notes

(668)

(1,648)

2,351

324

117

703

97

Add: Tax effects on fair value changes of equity securities
investments and exchangeable senior notes

92

(40)

(45)

(6)

37

(85)

(12)

Non-GAAP net (loss)/income attributable to Trip.com Group
Limited

(203)

2,065

3,434

475

(239)

5,499

758

Weighted average ordinary shares outstanding-
 Diluted-non GAAP 

647,866,001

672,743,729

672,031,445

672,031,445

647,843,829

670,838,392

670,838,392

Non-GAAP Diluted (losses)/income per share 

(0.31)

3.07

5.11

0.70

(0.37)

8.20

1.13

Non-GAAP Diluted (losses)/income per ADS 

(0.31)

3.07

5.11

0.70

(0.37)

8.20

1.13

Notes for all the condensed consolidated financial schedules presented:

Note 1: The conversion of Renminbi (RMB) into U.S. dollars (USD) is based on the certified exchange rate of USD1.00=RMB7.2513 on June 30, 2023 published by the Federal Reserve Board.

Gaabor Launches Spectacular 9.9 Promotion This September in the Philippines


MANILA, Philippines, Sept. 4, 2023 /PRNewswire/ — Leading household appliance brand Gaabor is bringing great deals to shoppers as the year-end shopping season in the Philippines officially starts with the 9.9 Super Shopping Day. With a strong focus on product quality and specialization in kitchen appliances and household cleaning, Gaabor aims to revolutionize the market.

From September 9th to 11th, embark on a shopping journey like never before with Gaabor’s 9.9 sale this September. Get ready to unlock discounts of up to 80% OFF on a diverse range of must-have products on TikTok, Shopee, and Lazada.

Here are some incredible products:

  • 1.8L Mini Rice Cooker: A versatile cooker with a non-stick inner pot and a steamer.
  • Multifunctional Breakfast Sandwich Maker: Makes breakfast preparation easy.
  • 2L Airfryer – Dorm Friendly: Compact airfryer suitable for smaller spaces.
  • 4.5L Airfryer – LARGE CAPACITY, 60 mins timer: Spacious airfryer with a 60-minute timer.
  • 2 in 1 Electric Pot with 2L Capacity 600w High Power: Convenient electric pot with high power.
  • 3L Intelligent Rice Cooker, One-click Quick Cooking: Smart rice cooker with quick cooking functionality.

And that’s not all, some freebies and vouchers can save you up to 200%!

Gaabor’s ethos centers around bringing the essence of a “Prime Life” to everyone. This means making things easier and affordable while having a wide range of products for all aspects of modern life.

With a focus on what users need and using more than a decade of strong technology, Gaabor is rewriting the rules of daily routines and gaining recognition in local markets throughout Southeast Asia.

From bustling household products to the serene corners of personal spaces, Gaabor products seamlessly integrate into diverse scenarios, making life more comfortable and efficient while ensuring that it has something for everyone. Gaabor is revolutionizing the way we approach our daily routines, offering convenience, affordability, and an abundance of possibilities— one where quality is never compromised.

To be updated on Gaabor’s Newest Sales, Stay connected, inspired, and informed by following Gaabor on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok!

Gaabor Launches 9.9 Super Sales on TikTok


JAKARTA, Indonesia, Sept. 3, 2023 /PRNewswire/ — Leading household appliance brand Gaabor is bringing great deals to shoppers as the second half-year shopping season in the Southeast Asian market officially kicks off with the TikTok 9.9 Brand Festival Sale.

From September 1 to 9, Gaabor is running giveaway and buy 1 get 1 free, and big discounts on the TikTok, including on a wide variety of kitchen, cleaning and personal care products: 

  • Air fryer (AF40M-BK03A): a 4L large-capacity air fryer, the innovative single knob operation, and the precise cooking time setting controlled with fixed stabilized temperature make preparing gourmet dishes very convenient.
  • Electric cooker (GR-N18A): a 600W high-power cooker with 1.8L capacity and double layers that can cook for three to four people, and the non-stick coating is fume-free and easy to clean.
  • Vacuum cleaner (VCW14M-BE01A): a lightweight model with 14,000Pa suction power and two replaceable brushes can handle various tasks with ease and get rid of dust problems completely, and the cyclone filtration system extends the service life of filters and guarantees vacuuming efficiency.
  • Hair dryer (GHD-N700A): a powerful 700W hair dryer with a comfortable grip that comes with a unique silent air duct design that can create perfect hairstyles without the noise, and three temperature settings catering to different hairstyles and hair types.

Gaabor officially entered the Southeast Asian markets in 2021 and achieved great success in last year’s 9.9 Super Shopping Day event – and ranks top three in the category of small household appliances in the Southeast Asia region of the Shopee platform, and its home appliances products rank second in the Philippines and fourth in Malaysia, Indonesia, and Vietnam. Gaabor’s smoke-free air fryer products are the No.1 bestselling in Shopee’s Indonesian official store.

With a user-centric design approach and more than ten years of core technology advantages, the Gaabor brand is becoming more prominent in the local markets across Southeast Asia. This year’s 9.9 Brand Festival Sale Gaabor will also bring a shopping spree on TikTok with high-quality products and multiple offers for users.

Upholding the brand philosophy of “Easy Life and More,” Gaabor is committed to creating innovative, diversified products to relieve the burden of household chores, making everyday life more convenient for our customers.

CONTACT: Gaabor, Gaabor.officialteam@gmail.com

ND Market: From Namdaemun Market in Korea to Amazon, a global retailer and wholesaler

SEOUL, South Korea, Aug. 30, 2023 /PRNewswire/ — ND Market, operating as a wholesale and retail platform, represents a pioneering startup dedicated to the digitization of the largest wholesale market in Korea – the Namdaemun Market. Drawing a daily crowd of 400,000, Namdaemun Market uniquely caters to a wide array of categories, which include accessories, children’s wear, pet supplies, and homeware.

ND Market
ND Market

Through ND Market, wholesale and retail traders can access over 10,000 wholesalers via website and app, without having to visit them in person. Platform services include customer management, order processing, secure payment, and efficient delivery. By digitizing wholesale and retail activities, Namdaemun merchants have been able to prioritize product development.

Significantly, it provided a new opportunity for the Namdaemun wholesale market, which was directly affected by COVID-19. Five businesses achieved cumulative sales in excess of 100 million won (USD 77,000) last year. Furthermore, with 60% of Namdaemun market transactions attributed to overseas exports, ND Market’s impressive performance has both boosted its domestic market and expanded its international reach.

ND Market consolidates products from different suppliers into one shipping box. This allows retailers to individually place delivery requests with various wholesalers, resulting in a cost-efficient alternative to accumulating separate delivery charges. Further, the product itself can be delivered directly to the end consumer through packaging, quality assessment, and consignment delivery services, resulting in a significant reduction in delivery time.

ND Market also offers a unique service by operating its own professional photography studio for the purpose of capturing images of wholesalers’ products. As a result of this strategic offering, wholesalers now have access to a comprehensive digital catalog of products with high-quality visuals. For retailers, the inconvenience of purchasing individual samples and photographing them one by one can now be eliminated.

ND Market’s CEO, Yang Seung-woo, emphasized, “We are not content with merely being a transactional bridge between wholesalers and retailers. We have examined what wholesalers and retailers genuinely require and have successfully implemented it.”

He presented a new perspective, stating, “Our vision now entails venturing into the global wholesale (B2B) market as the Amazon.”

NDmarket participates in “SEASONS Hong Kong: Fashion Jewellery & Accessories Fair” held in Hong Kong. The event takes place at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC) from September 20th to 24th for four days.