The rise of China’s global champions

For years, China’s role in the global economy was largely associated with manufacturing. Today, a growing number of Chinese companies are shaping markets through technology, design, branding and new business models.

From electric vehicles and consumer electronics to e-commerce and artificial intelligence, Chinese firms are increasingly competing on innovation rather than cost alone. Their rise is transforming industries, challenging established players and reshaping global markets.

What is driving this shift? How do Chinese entrepreneurs and investors think about growth, competition and global expansion? And what does it mean for Europe as it seeks to strengthen its own position in an increasingly competitive world?

To explore these questions, we welcome Boyu Hu, founder and managing partner of XVC, one of China’s leading venture capital firms. Through his investments and network, Boyu has had a front-row seat to the growth of some of China’s most influential technology and consumer companies, including Kuaishou, DJI, Xiaomi and BYD.

He will be joined by investor Yanhuan Wang, whose career has spanned Europe, the United States and Asia. While guiding the conversation with Boyu, Yanhuan will also share her own perspectives on consumer innovation, entrepreneurship and investing across Europe and China, drawing on her experience investing in and serving on the boards of companies in both regions.

Together, they will explore the evolution of China’s innovation ecosystem, the emergence of globally ambitious Chinese brands, and the opportunities and tensions that come with a rapidly changing economic landscape.

Join us for a conversation about innovation, entrepreneurship and the future of global competition, viewed through the lens of two investors operating at the intersection of Europe and Asia.