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Tag: shakes

  • 7Up Shakes Up the Soda Scene: Unveils Lime-Forward Flavor and Bold New Identity After 15 Years

    7Up Shakes Up the Soda Scene: Unveils Lime-Forward Flavor and Bold New Identity After 15 Years

    7Up, owned by Keurig Dr Pepper (KDP), has undertaken its most significant brand renovation in over 15 years. The company has given a fresh identity to the 7Up brand, which is valued at US$5 billion in the lemon-lime category.

    A New Identity

    7Up is revising its soda recipe, emphasizing the lime flavor to appeal to younger consumers who prefer citrus-flavored beverages. The move comes as competition in the citrus soda market continues to intensify. Since its launch in 1929 as the Original Uncola, 7Up has been positioning itself as an alternative to traditional sodas. The recent brand refresh aims to return to these founding principles.

    The revamped recipe will be utilized across Regular, Zero Sugar, Cherry, and Cherry Zero Sugar product lines starting from mid-August in North America. The new face of the 7Up brand involves a refreshed visual identity characterized by a vertical logo, more vibrant colors, and a new Lime Lemon tag.

    Strategies for Engaging Consumers

    Drew Panayiotou, the chief marketing and innovation officer at Keurig Dr Pepper, referred to the brand makeover as a “bold reinvention” designed to appeal to a new generation of consumers. The flavor modification is the first step in this process.

    “By giving lime the spotlight, we’re rewriting the rules of the lemon-lime category,” Panayiotou said. “We are transforming a beloved heritage brand into a modern disruptor – delivering a sharper visual identity, a more refreshing taste experience, and a distinct position that attracts new users and deepens brand loyalty.”

    To further bolster the brand’s new image, a multi-platform marketing campaign dubbed ‘Flip the Sip’ will roll out. The campaign will leverage social storytelling, cultural moments, and in-store experiences to celebrate the unexpected.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the objective of the 7Up brand refresh?
    The brand refresh aims to appeal to younger consumers who prefer citrus-flavored sodas amidst growing competition in the market.

    What changes will be implemented in the 7Up product line?
    The revamped recipe will be used across Regular, Zero Sugar, Cherry, and Cherry Zero Sugar products and will emphasize the lime flavor. The brand will also feature a refreshed visual identity with a vertical logo, brighter colors, and a new Lime Lemon tag.

    What is the ‘Flip the Sip’ campaign?
    The ‘Flip the Sip’ campaign is a multi-platform marketing initiative that will use social storytelling, cultural moments, and in-store experiences to reinforce the brand’s new identity.

  • S&P Soars as Crypto, Gold Tumble: How the Feds Shift Shakes Up Market Landscape in 2026

    S&P Soars as Crypto, Gold Tumble: How the Feds Shift Shakes Up Market Landscape in 2026

    As we approach the midway point of 2026, a stark disparity has emerged across various asset categories. The S&P 500 is showing an upward trend with a 5.7 percent increase so far this year. However, cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum have experienced significant losses, with a 32.2 percent and 46.4 percent decrease respectively. Likewise, precious metals like gold and silver, having initially surged due to geopolitical tensions earlier in the year, have since suffered losses of 7.5 percent and 19.4 percent respectively.

    Shifting Dynamics in the Financial Landscape

    This contrast raises a straightforward question among multi-asset allocators – why has the same macro environment produced such a sharp divergence? To answer this, we need to observe the two concurrent structural forces that lead to this phenomenon.

    During his inaugural Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) meeting in June, the new Chair of the Federal Reserve, Kevin Warsh, made a significant policy statement. He reduced the statement from 341 words to a mere 130, eliminated forward guidance, and ended with a promise in six words – “The Committee will deliver price stability.”

    This statement led to an immediate shift in rate expectations as projections turned from cuts to a higher year-end target. This stark reversal marked the closing of the window for a liquidity-driven recovery in risk assets, resulting in the evaporation of speculative risk capital, particularly in cryptocurrency markets.

    The Resilience of Equities

    Contrarily, large-cap equities have shown impressive resilience, bolstered by strong employment rates and a flourishing AI and services sector. This resilience is due to a structural reason – corporate earnings are majorly concentrated in sectors that directly benefit from the current macro environment, and hence, are capable of absorbing higher rates.

    Precious metals and crypto assets, however, lack this buffer. They rely on favorable liquidity conditions and the opportunity cost of capital, both of which have moved decidedly against them. Gold and silver, which initially spiked due to geopolitical tensions and rising energy costs, were hit hard by the aggressive stance of the Federal Reserve following persistently high inflation readings. This led investors to move away from these non-yielding assets towards risk-free cash yields.

    Questions & Answers

    What has caused the stark disparity in performances across asset classes in 2026?
    The divergence comes as a result of two concurrent structural forces in the market. The aggressive stance of the Federal Reserve and the booming AI and services sectors have affected different asset classes differently.

    Why have cryptocurrencies and precious metals performed poorly?
    These assets rely heavily on favorable liquidity conditions and the opportunity cost of capital. The aggressive stance of the Federal Reserve, coupled with rising inflation, has moved decisively against them, resulting in significant losses.

    Why have large-cap equities shown resilience despite the current macro environment?
    Corporate earnings in large-cap equities are majorly concentrated in sectors that directly benefit from the current macro environment, such as the booming AI and services sectors. This has allowed them to absorb higher rates and maintain steady growth.

  • Beijing Liyuan Shakes Up Beauty Industry: Eyes Exit from Shiseido China Venture

    Beijing Liyuan Shakes Up Beauty Industry: Eyes Exit from Shiseido China Venture

    Beijing Liyuan is said to be planning a sale of its 35% stake in its longstanding cosmetics joint venture with Japanese beauty firm Shiseido. This decision would conclude a partnership that has spanned more than thirty years.

    According to information available on the China Beijing Equity Exchange, Beijing Liyuan is looking for a minimum of RMB199.5 million (US$29.3 million) for its stake in Shiseido Liyuan Cosmetics.

    Details of the Proposed Sale

    Shiseido China Investment, which owns the remaining 65% of the joint venture, has confirmed the planned sale. However, they haven’t specified if they plan on acquiring the stake.

    Shiseido Liyuan Cosmetics was established in 1991 with a focus on developing products specifically for Chinese customers.

    Their leading brand, Aupres, was exclusively designed for the Chinese market. Over the years, this brand became a significant part of Shiseido’s local strategy as the company expanded its operations throughout the country.

    The proposed sale is still in progress and remains subject to completion. Both Beijing Liyuan and Shiseido have refrained from disclosing any additional details about the transaction.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the proposed sale price for Beijing Liyuan’s 35% stake in Shiseido Liyuan Cosmetics?
    Beijing Liyuan is seeking at least RMB199.5 million (US$29.3 million) for its stake in Shiseido Liyuan Cosmetics.

    Who owns the majority stake in Shiseido Liyuan Cosmetics?
    Shiseido China Investment owns the majority stake, holding 65% of the joint venture.

    What is the significance of the Aupres brand in Shiseido’s strategy?
    The Aupres brand, which was exclusively created for the Chinese market, became a cornerstone of Shiseido’s local business strategy as the company expanded its presence across China.

  • Australian Brand Naked Life Shakes Up the US Market with Non-Alcoholic Cocktails at Target Stores Nationwide

    Australian Brand Naked Life Shakes Up the US Market with Non-Alcoholic Cocktails at Target Stores Nationwide

    The Australian non-alcoholic cocktail maker, Naked Life, has broadened its footprint in the US by launching its products in 800 Target stores nationwide.

    Naked Life’s Unique Offering

    Naked Life is renowned for their non-sugar, non-alcoholic beverages crafted from natural botanicals. This strategic move into the vast US market signifies the brand’s commitment to offering premium non-alcoholic and ready-to-drink cocktails. This expansion comes at a time when a growing number of consumers are leaning towards non-alcoholic alternatives in the market.

    The company’s top-selling flavours, Cosmopolitan and Margarita, each contain a mere five calories, appealing to health-conscious consumers. These popular flavours are available in four-packs at Target for a retail price of $8.49.

    Meeting Consumer Demand

    Tracey Bien Schenck, a spokesperson for Naked Life, reflected on the changing market trends and consumer preferences. “Gen Z and Millennials of legal drinking age are incorporating non-alcoholic cocktails into their evolving drinking habits. They are on the lookout for drinks that offer an elevated experience and stay true to classic recipes,” she said.

    The partnership with Target allows Naked Life to engage with consumers directly in their shopping environment. “This launch enables us to introduce Naked Life to more households across the US. It gives everyone the opportunity to join in the cheers,” added Schenck.

    Recognition for Quality

    Naked Life’s range of products has been recognised and awarded by major US spirit competitions including the USA Spirits Awards, SIP Awards, and Miami Global Spirits Awards. These accolades underscore the brand’s commitment to producing non-alcoholic cocktails that match the taste, complexity, and craftsmanship of their alcoholic counterparts.

    Questions & Answers

    What is Naked Life known for?
    Naked Life is known for its non-sugar, non-alcoholic cocktails made with natural botanicals.

    How is Naked Life addressing the changing consumer preferences?
    By introducing its non-alcoholic, low-calorie drinks to the US market, Naked Life is addressing the increasing demand for non-alcoholic options.

    Which Naked Life products are being launched in the US?
    Naked Life is launching its best-selling flavours, Cosmopolitan and Margarita, in the US.

  • Vietnam Shakes Up Gold Market With New 0.1% Transaction Tax: Aiming for Level Playing Field in Asset Classes

    Vietnam Shakes Up Gold Market With New 0.1% Transaction Tax: Aiming for Level Playing Field in Asset Classes

    As per a newly enacted legislation on Wednesday, sales of gold bars will now be subjected to a 0.1% tax, as declared by the National Assembly. However, the responsibility of determining the tax threshold and the schedule of implementation has been delegated to the government.

    The Rationale Behind the Taxation

    The government has previously expressed its stance that taxing gold is a crucial measure in order to limit speculation and facilitate the redirection of more resources towards the economy. The establishment of a taxable threshold is aimed at excluding those individuals who engage in the buying and selling of gold as a form of investment rather than for speculation.

    Investment in gold is a common practice in Vietnam, and the act of selling gold has never been subjected to taxation in the past.

    Creating a Level Playing Field

    Industry analysts have voiced their opinions that the taxation of gold could potentially establish a more balanced environment for all asset classes. The domestic gold market has been a source of major concern for lawmakers due to its volatility, with gold prices witnessing a hike of over 80% since the beginning of the current year.

    At the time of publishing, the price of gold was hovering around VND153.7 million (equivalent to US$5,829.60) for a tael of 37.5 grams, marking 15% higher than the global rates.

    Questions & Answers

    Why has the government decided to tax gold sales?
    The government views this taxation as a necessary step to curb speculation and channel more resources into the economy.

    What does the establishment of a “taxable threshold” imply?
    The taxable threshold is intended to exempt individuals who buy and sell gold as an investment, not for speculation.

    How does this new tax regulation impact the domestic gold market?
    The new tax regulation could potentially create a more balanced field for all asset classes and help control the volatility in the domestic gold market.

  • New Zealand’s Non-Alcoholic Sensation Free AF Shakes Up UK Market with Delectable RTD Cocktails

    New Zealand’s Non-Alcoholic Sensation Free AF Shakes Up UK Market with Delectable RTD Cocktails

    Free AF, a New Zealand-based company specializing in non-alcoholic beverages, has made its debut in the UK market. Their range of ready-to-drink (RTD) cocktails is now available to consumers across the country in Morrisons retail locations and online.

    Product Availability

    The product lineup available in Morrisons stores includes two flavours: Apero Spritz and Spiced Rum & Ginger. The Margarita flavour, on the other hand, can be purchased online through both Amazon and Free AF’s own website.

    Each 250ml can is reasonably priced at £2.50 (equivalent to A$5). The beverages feature Afterglow, a unique blend of New Zealand botanicals that give the drinks a warming sensation similar to that of alcohol, without any actual alcohol content.

    Company Expansion

    Free AF, founded by Lisa King, has already established a significant market presence in New Zealand and the United States. Their products are available in over 4,000 stores across the US, including popular retail chains Target, Walmart, and Sprouts.

    King expressed her excitement about the company’s expansion into the UK market, despite the challenging economic climate. “Entering the UK market is a huge milestone for us,” she said. “Every stage of growth has been shaped by our customers here at home. Their feedback influenced everything – from flavour to purpose – and that’s what’s enabled us to scale globally.”

    Brand Presence

    The brand has made appearances at high-profile events such as Coachella, New York Fashion Week, and NZ Fashion Week. Recently, Free AF announced a three-year partnership with The Nelson Mandela Foundation. As part of their commitment, a portion of Free AF’s global sales will go towards supporting the non-profit organization.

    Questions & Answers

    What is Free AF?
    Free AF is a New Zealand-based company that specializes in non-alcoholic beverages.

    What flavours are available from Free AF in the UK?
    The flavours available in the UK include Apero Spritz and Spiced Rum & Ginger in Morrisons stores, and Margarita online.

    Where else is Free AF available?
    Apart from the UK, Free AF products are also available in New Zealand and the United States, with their products being stocked in over 4,000 stores across the US.

  • Typhoon Kalmaegi Shakes Up Vietnam Air Travel: Over 50 Flights Canceled and Rescheduled

    Typhoon Kalmaegi Shakes Up Vietnam Air Travel: Over 50 Flights Canceled and Rescheduled

    As Typhoon Kalmaegi approaches the central coast of Vietnam, Vietnam Airlines has been forced to cancel and reschedule over 50 flights on November 6th and 7th, causing disruptions to air travel across several central provinces.

    Impact of Typhoon on Flight Schedules

    Several routes have been affected by the impending storm. Most notably, flights between Ho Chi Minh City’s Tan Son Nhat Airport and Phu Cat in Gia Lai Province have been suspended. This includes flights VN1390, VN1391, VN1394, and VN1395 on November 6th, and flights VN1392 and VN1393 on November 7th. Hanoi to Phu Cat flights VN1622 and VN1623 have been rescheduled to depart before noon on November 6th.

    Flights between Hanoi and Tuy Hoa in Dak Lak, specifically VN1650 and VN1651, have been cancelled for November 6th, while four other flights connecting Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City and Tuy Hoa have been postponed to the afternoon of November 7th.

    On the Tan Son Nhat to Chu Lai (Da Nang) route, certain flights are scheduled to operate earlier, before noon on November 6th. These include VN1464, VN1465, VN1468, and VN1469. The Hanoi to Chu Lai flights VN1640 and VN1641 on November 7th have also been rescheduled to depart after 10 a.m.

    Additional Changes to Flight Schedules

    Further changes have been made to flights between Tan Son Nhat and Pleiku in Gia Lai. Flight VN1422 and VN1423 have been rescheduled to depart before noon on November 6th, and Hanoi to Pleiku flights VN1614 and VN1615 are now scheduled to depart after 1 p.m. on November 7th.

    Flights connecting Tan Son Nhat, Da Nang, and Buon Ma Thuot in Dak Lak on November 6th, as well as certain flights between Hanoi and Buon Ma Thuot on November 7th, will now depart after 1 p.m. Additionally, flights between Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Hue on November 6th will fly after noon, and flights from Ho Chi Minh City to Hue on November 7th will leave after 1 p.m.

    Vietnam Airlines has also indicated that over 50 other flights across its network could face consequential delays on both days due to the typhoon. Vasco Airlines has also canceled two Tan Son Nhat to Lien Khuong flights on November 6th because of the storm.

    Advice for Passengers

    In anticipation of potential turbulence due to unstable weather conditions, carriers are advising passengers to keep their seatbelts fastened throughout flights, even when the fasten seatbelt sign is off.

    According to the National Center for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting, the eye of Typhoon Kalmaegi was approximately 390 kilometers from Quy Nhon of Gia Lai Province as of 5 a.m. on Thursday. The storm is moving west-northwest at 30 kph with maximum sustained winds of 166 kph and gusts up to 220 kph. By 4 p.m. Thursday, it is expected to be about 120 kilometers off Quy Nhon of Gia Lai, maintaining wind speeds of 150-166 kph before making landfall around 7-8 p.m. across Quang Ngai, Gia Lai, and Dak Lak.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the expected impact of Typhoon Kalmaegi on Vietnam’s central coast?
    The typhoon is expected to make landfall across Quang Ngai, Gia Lai, and Dak Lak with sustained winds of up to 166 kph.

    How has Vietnam Airlines responded to the approaching typhoon?
    Vietnam Airlines has cancelled and rescheduled over 50 flights on November 6th and 7th due to the approaching typhoon, and has warned of potential knock-on delays across its network.

    What advice has been given to passengers traveling during the typhoon?
    Carriers are advising passengers to keep their seatbelts fastened throughout flights, even when the signal is off, as a precaution against possible turbulence caused by the storm.

  • 21Shares Shakes Things Up: New Leadership Structure Amidst $11 Billion Crypto Assets Management

    21Shares Shakes Things Up: New Leadership Structure Amidst $11 Billion Crypto Assets Management

    21Shares, a well-known firm that specializes in exchange-traded products (ETPs) tied to cryptocurrency assets, recently unveiled some major changes in its leadership structure. Having recently been taken over by a U.S. broker, the company currently oversees more than $11 billion in assets.

    Adrian Fritz’s Promotion

    With a tenure of four years, Adrian Fritz, who held the position of Global Head of Research, has ascended to the role of Chief Investment Strategist. In this new leadership role, Fritz will pivot his concentration towards sales and capital markets. As Vice President and Chief Investment Strategist, Fritz’s obligations will comprise of directing the company’s global investment strategy. This involves enhancing market predictions, portfolio evaluations, and the asset allocation strategy in digital assets.

    Eliézer Ndinga to Lead Research

    The leadership baton for the five-member research team has been passed to Eliézer Ndinga, the former Head of Strategy at 21Shares since April 2020.

    Ndinga, who originally founded the research team, served in this role for over three years. He held the position of Vice President, Head of Strategy at 21.co in New York City from December 2023 onwards. Ndinga will now resume his duties from the company’s headquarters in Zurich.

    Questions & Answers

    Who has been promoted to the role of Chief Investment Strategist at 21Shares?
    Adrian Fritz, who previously served as the Global Head of Research for the firm, has been promoted to the role of Chief Investment Strategist.

    Who will succeed Adrian Fritz as the head of the research team at 21Shares?
    Eliézer Ndinga, the former Head of Strategy at the company, will now lead the research team.

    What are the new roles and responsibilities of Adrian Fritz and Eliézer Ndinga?
    As the Chief Investment Strategist, Adrian Fritz will oversee the company’s global investment strategy, improve market forecasts, portfolio assessments, and manage the asset allocation strategy in digital assets. Eliézer Ndinga, on the other hand, will lead the research team from the company’s headquarters in Zurich.

  • Quips Shakes Up Australian Alcohol Industry With Innovative Resealable Cocktail Pouches

    Quips Shakes Up Australian Alcohol Industry With Innovative Resealable Cocktail Pouches

    In a first for the Australian alcoholic beverages industry, cocktail brand Quips has launched a novel range of cocktails housed in a unique pouch packaging.

    Unique Cocktail Packaging

    The pioneering Quips cocktail pouch range boasts an impressive 11 percent ABV. Adding to its distinctiveness, the packaging is resealable, marking a significant industry innovation. This new product line from Quips is launched with three delightful flavours: Margarita, Daiquiri, and Passionfruit Martini.

    Quips’ co-founder, Calvin Koder, underscored that the brand’s offerings provide safer alternatives for consumers, particularly during social gatherings. Key features such as a tamper-proof resealable lid, convenient portability, and options that are devoid of carbonation, ensure enhanced consumer safety and satisfaction.

    Wide Availability

    Quips pouches are currently available for purchase at bottle shops, bars, and public festivals across New South Wales and Victoria. The company also revealed its ambitious plans for a nationwide distribution expansion.

    Questions & Answers

    What is unique about the Quips cocktail pouch range?
    The Quips cocktail pouch range is the first of its kind in Australia’s alcoholic beverage market. It boasts a high ABV of 11 percent and comes with resealable packaging.

    What flavours are available in the Quips cocktail pouch range?
    The Quips cocktail pouch range is launched with three flavours: Margarita, Daiquiri, and Passionfruit Martini.

    Where can Quips pouches be purchased?
    Quips pouches are currently available in bottle shops, bars, and public festivals across New South Wales and Victoria. The company has plans to expand distribution nationally.