As Labubu's demand and resale show signs of cooling, here's a look at the next phase of scalable IPs and what separates lasting franchises from fleeting hype.
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Have we reached peak Labubu? Charting the rise and fall of the ugly-cute viral toy
labubu
What began as a storybook monster became 2024's $430 million phenomenon via TikTok and celebrity flexes, but counterfeit scandals and market corrections now cast doubt on whether Labubu can evolve beyond a one-cycle craze.
Why Chinese youth engage in 'emotional consumption'
emotional consumption
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value
These consumers are going beyond the usual value for money and are willing to pay a premium for the “emotional value” a purchase brings.
The Labubu economy and the business of joy
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recession
small comforts
spending
‘Little joys’ and the continued impact of Asia across Western culture cannot be ignored.
Labubu, the art toy craze and why grown-ups can’t get enough
editors picks
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thelongview
From Bangkok to Ho Chi Minh City, collectible art toys like Labubu are charming Southeast Asia’s adults with a mix of nostalgia, creativity, and exclusivity. Vero’s Marinel Mamac explores what’s driving this playful obsession.