China cracks down on Labubu banking promotions
Chinese regulators have barred domestic banks from offering popular consumer gifts — such as Labubu dolls — to attract deposits, amid rising concerns over shrinking profit margins and excessive competition in the financial sector. The directive follows a widely publicized campaign by Ping An Bank, which had offered Pop Mart Toy Company’s viral Labubu dolls to new customers depositing at least 50,000 RMB ($6,965) for three months. Labubu, a collectible character created by Hong Kong-born artist Kasing Lung, has gained international popularity, especially after being seen with celebrities like Lisa from BlackPink and Rihanna.