Executive Summary

• This week’s note “From the Desk of Deborah Weinswig” discusses the part Amazon is playing in the changing back-to-school shopping season.
• Deepening their strategic alliance, Walmart and JD.com have revealed a new omnichannel shopping festival set for August 8 and a set of initiatives to integrate their supply chains and other operations as the battle for the Chinese consumer intensifies.
• Fashion brand Michael Kors has acquired luxury shoe brand Jimmy Choo for €1 billion (US$1.2 billion).
• Amazon is continuing its international expansion push with the launch of its services in Singapore coming imminently, marking Amazon’s entry into Southeast Asia.