By now, we know Alibaba's 11.11 Global Shopping Festival broke all sales records this year. But there are two lesser-discussed parts of 11.11 that are reflective of Alibaba's broader strategy and the company's - and China's - growing influence on global brands.

My reactions to recent news that's been widely shared.

As I've told people I'm heading to China this week for "Singles Day", I've found I need to remind some what this holiday - also known as "11.11" - is. 

Below you'll find:

1. What I'm most excited to learn more about in Shenzhen

2. Key quotes from Alibaba's earnings conference call last week

Throughout, I'm linking to recent articles about 11.11, Alibaba and its competitors.