DBS says China Unicom’s H1 net profit fell 34.6% YoY to RMB9.5bn, about 26% below market expectations, driven by VAT reclassification and employee benefits rising >19% YoY. Management describes the suspension of an interim dividend as a one-off, citing front-loaded capex; full-year capex guidance remains around RMB50bn and H1 capex was RMB24.1bn (≈48% of budget). DBS trims 2026–28 EPS forecasts by about 6.2%, 8.9% and 11.1% to RMB18.0bn, RMB19.0bn and RMB20.2bn (YoY -12.3%, +5.6%, +6.3%). Target

OpenAI has released a new image engine, ChatGPT Images 2.5, saying generation speed is up to 50% faster and fidelity for people and pets is improved. The update adds precise editing controls — users can specify edit locations via sketches or region selection instead of relying solely on text — and enables photo-to-style conversion, logo design and tattoo modification. OpenAI says the tool is intended to increase user participation in the creative process. The upgrade has renewed disputes over AI image copyright and creator rights, with observers questioning whether training used artists’ works and flagging potential impacts on the traditional creative industry.

Vice Premier He Lifeng met Andre Demare, honorary chair of the Canada-China Trade Council, and said that after President Xi’s January meeting with Prime Minister Karni both sides agreed to advance a new-style China‑Canada strategic partnership, providing fresh strategic guidance for bilateral ties. He welcomed Canadian companies to participate in China’s high-quality development and urged the council to act as a bridge to expand trade and investment. Demare said Canadian business remains confident in China’s economic outlook and the council will continue to support steady, healthy growth in bilateral economic relations.