In today’s complex geopolitical landscape, businesses are increasingly at the intersection of international relations and economic interests. Historically, companies have played crucial roles in easing political tensions and fostering deeper ties between nations. However, as political sensitivities escalate—particularly where national security concerns overlap with economic objectives—businesses are facing greater scrutiny and challenges.

The proposed acquisition of US Steel by Nippon Steel, Japan’s largest steel producer and one of the world’s leading steel companies, exemplifies these modern complexities. Despite business leaders advocating for decisions grounded in economic and legal standards rather than political considerations, influential stakeholders—including labour unions and government officials, especially in pivotal US presidential election states—are shaping the outcome. This scenario mirrors earlier times when businesses served as stabilisers in international relations, notably before the intensification of tensions between the U.S. and China.

How businesses stabilised US-China relations — Once upon a time

Before tensions between the US and China heightened, businesses played a key role in building economic interdependence, fostering cultural exchange, acting as corporate diplomats, and integrating supply chains that tied both nations to a shared destiny.

Economic integration: Building interdependence

For decades, businesses from the US and China fostered mutual economic reliance. When China joined the World Trade Organisation (WTO) in December 2001, it opened up new avenues for American companies to enter China’s growing market.

Between 2001 and 2018, US exports to China grew by 527 per cent, from US$19 billion to US$120 billion, according to the Office of the United States Trade Representative. Meanwhile, Chinese manufacturers became essential to US supply chains, with imports increasing from US$102 billion in 2001 to US$540 billion in 2018.

A prime example is Apple Inc., whose relationship with China—particularly its partnership with Foxconn, also known as Hon Hai Precision Industry Co.—became central to its global success. As of 2020, Apple generated approximately 15 per cent of its revenue from Greater China, amounting to US$44 billion, as reported in Apple’s 2020 Annual Report. Foxconn employed over one million workers in China by 2019, contributing significantly to local employment and economic growth.

Similarly, Chinese companies like Lenovo, which acquired IBM’s personal computer division for US$1.75 billion in 2005, benefited from collaborations with US businesses. By 2013, Lenovo became the world’s largest PC vendor by unit sales, showcasing how Chinese manufacturing and American innovation could coexist for mutual benefit.

Cultural exchange: Enhancing mutual understanding

Brands acted as cultural bridges, facilitating mutual understanding between American and Chinese societies. American brands like Nike and Coca-Cola became symbols of modernity and Western culture in China. Nike entered the Chinese market in 1980 and, by 2021, reported revenue of US$8.3 billion from Greater China, accounting for 17 per cent of its total revenue. Coca-Cola, reintroduced in China in 1979 after a 30-year hiatus, now operates 45 bottling plants and employs over 50,000 people in the country.

Also Read: Innovation hubs – the next craze for investment opportunities

On the other hand, Chinese brands like Haier established a presence in the US by aligning their messaging with quality and innovation. Haier opened its first US manufacturing facility in South Carolina in 2000 and, in 2016, acquired GE Appliances for US$5.6 billion, preserving 6,000 American jobs. These cultural exchanges humanised both sides and demonstrated that cooperation could yield positive outcomes, providing a stabilising force.

Corporate diplomacy: Navigating political tensions

Businesses also acted as corporate diplomats, smoothing over political friction. During trade disputes, corporate leaders from both the U.S. and China stepped in to advocate for continued cooperation. The US-China Business Council (USCBC) represents over 200 American companies and facilitates dialogues to address concerns and promote mutual economic interests.

Companies like Walmart, the largest importer of Chinese goods in the US, played key roles in building strong trade relations. As of 2020, Walmart sourced approximately US$49 billion worth of goods from China annually. By providing affordable products to American consumers and supporting Chinese manufacturing, Walmart helped maintain a business environment where both countries benefited, even amid political conflicts.

Supply chain integration: Creating global systems of cooperation

US and Chinese companies, particularly in tech and manufacturing, became integral parts of a shared global supply chain. General Motors (GM) invested over US$16 billion in China and, by 2021, operated 11 joint ventures with local automakers like SAIC Motor. In 2020, GM sold more vehicles in China (2.9 million units) than in the US (2.5 million units), highlighting China’s significance to its global strategy.

Meanwhile, Chinese tech companies like Alibaba and Tencent integrated into global tech markets. Alibaba’s 2014 IPO on the New York Stock Exchange raised US$25 billion, the largest in history at that time. Tencent invested in US companies like Tesla, acquiring a five per cent stake worth US$1.78 billion in 2017, fostering cross-border technological collaboration.

These interwoven supply chains ensured that both nations had a vested interest in maintaining stability. If one side suffered, the other would too, making economic collaboration a buffer against political tensions.

The realist perspective: Can businesses truly stabilise geopolitics?

It is important to acknowledge the Realist school of thought in international relations, which argues that hard power—such as military strength and escalation dominance—is the primary stabilising force between states. Realists assert that states, driven by national interests and power competition, will ultimately prioritise hard power over economic cooperation when security concerns arise.

Also Read: Is Down Under on your investment bucket list yet?

However, soft power and hard power often work hand in hand in maintaining global stability. According to the Soft Power 30 index by Portland Communications in 2019, the US ranked first, highlighting its cultural and economic influence. China’s Belt and Road Initiative, with investments exceeding US$1 trillion across 138 countries by 2020, showcases its use of economic soft power. Clearly, both the US and China exhibit robust capacities for soft power.

While hard power addresses immediate security concerns and deters potential threats, soft power—including cultural influence, diplomacy, and economic interdependence—helps build long-term relationships, foster mutual trust, and promote cooperation. Together, they create a more balanced approach to international relations, where force and persuasion complement each other in achieving a less tenuous modus vivendi between states.

As seen in the period of economic integration between the U.S. and China, business-driven cooperation created mutual dependencies that helped temper geopolitical conflicts for years. For example, bilateral trade between the two countries reached US$659 billion in 2018, illustrating the depth of their economic ties.

Lessons for the Nippon Steel Deal

The challenges facing the proposed acquisition of U.S. Steel by Nippon Steel echo the tensions that emerged in U.S.-China relations. The Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS) would likely review such an acquisition, and political factors—including opposition from labor unions and electoral considerations—are influencing the process.

Nippon Steel, with revenues of approximately US$46 billion in fiscal year 2022, is a major player in the global steel industry. Acquiring US Steel, which reported revenues of US$12.2 billion in 2022 and employs over 23,000 people, could lead to significant technological advancements, capital investment, and potential job growth in the United States.

However, concerns over national security and domestic job protection could lead to political resistance. The U.S. steel industry is considered critical for national defence and infrastructure projects. Labor unions might fear job losses or changes in labor practices, while government officials could be wary of foreign ownership of key industrial assets.

In this context, business diplomacy is crucial. Nippon Steel can engage with U.S. stakeholders to emphasise the mutual benefits of the acquisition:

• Job preservation and creation: Commit to maintaining current employment levels and potentially creating new jobs through expansion and investment.
• Technological innovation: Invest in research and development to enhance steel production technologies, benefiting the US manufacturing sector.
• Economic growth: Contribute to local economies by investing in infrastructure and community development projects.
• Transparency and compliance: Ensure compliance with US regulations and maintain transparent operations to build trust with government entities and the public.

The business of upholding a rules-based order

As geopolitical challenges continue to evolve, the role of businesses and brands as stabilising forces remains essential. According to the World Trade Organisation, global trade reached US$22 trillion in 2021, underscoring the interconnectedness of economies. By fostering dialogue, promoting economic interdependence, and acting as mediators, companies can navigate political complexities and help maintain global cooperation in an increasingly interconnected world.

Their involvement not only benefits their own interests but also contributes to a more stable and collaborative international community. Historical precedents show that when businesses engage constructively across borders, they can mitigate tensions and promote mutual prosperity, even in the face of political headwinds.

In conclusion, while businesses alone may not completely stabilise geopolitical tensions, they have historically played significant roles as economic integrators, cultural ambassadors, corporate diplomats, and builders of global supply chains within a rules-based international order.

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It takes courage to go against the status quo.

My name is Yvonne Lan. I’m a 23-year-old entrepreneur, born and raised in Germany, with a Taiwanese mother from Taipei and a Chinese father from Shenzhen. I’m currently studying at NTU and recently launched my app, Livingo. The app aims to simplify the process of finding roommates and shared housing in Asia’s fast-paced real estate market.

The idea came to life during my gap year in Asia in 2019. I noticed that finding housing in Asia was challenging, and there was no easy way to approach shared living. I studied fashion design as an undergraduate, and I have zero background in tech.

In 2023, I made a surprising leap into the tech world, hoping to challenge the status quo of the traditional rental living market. I finally decided to pursue my dream by moving to Singapore and studying for an MSc TIP (Master of Science Technopreneurship and Innovation) program at NTU while turning my startup idea into reality.

A shift from fashion to tech

Just a year ago, I was only 22 and with a promising career trajectory in fashion design in Berlin. Due to my passion for entrepreneurship,  I boldly chose to pivot to tech—a novel field where I truly saw the potential to make a real impact.

Declining an offer from the University College London (UCL), I flew halfway across the world to Singapore—a country where I had never lived before—to pursue my dream of creating a real estate app that would address the housing challenges faced by many in Asia.

The transition from fashion to tech was more than just a career change for me —it was the beginning of a mission to make co-living a lifestyle, targeting this generation, which has different plans than the status quo. I was deeply inspired by the co-living culture in Berlin, where people of all ages live together.

This led me to envision a platform that would not only allow users to easily find their home but also make meaningful connections along the way. This vision became the driving force behind my Livingo.

I have to say the journey to building Livingo was far from easy. With no prior experience in tech and zero initial funding, I solely relied on my sheer willpower to bring this vision to life. In just one week, I conceptualised Livingo and sketched every page and design of the app on Figma.

After classes, I interviewed 164 applicants for the full stack positions, I eventually hired two; However, they left after just one month. I had to start over. During that period, I felt like a heartbreak. Nevertheless, I kept going, I didn’t want to give up so easily and worked on Livingo non-stop from that point.

Luckily, I hired a team, and within six months, we built the app and successfully launched it after being rejected by the App Store and Google Play 25 times!

Also Read: Equity harmony: Strategies for fair founder equity distribution without discord

The hard work eventually paid off. In less than a year, I also won the NTU x Babson College Student Innovation and Entrepreneurship Challenge and secured first-round funding from the NTUitive NEST Program. As a solo female founder in the male-dominated tech industry, I want my journey to be more than just building an app— I know this is about inspiring other young women to take risks, challenge the status quo, and believe in their ability to create change regardless of their background.

Addressing Asia’s housing crisis

According to the Asian Development Bank, the South East Asia region needs to build 13 million new affordable housing units by 2030 to meet the growing demand. Housing costs have surged to exorbitant levels, with a 35 sqm condominium costing six to 30 times the average annual income in Asia.

In Singapore, homeownership exceeds 80 per cent, yet housing prices exceed eight times the average annual income. More important than ever, addressing the issue of affordability by tapping into the spirit of digital nomadism and the shared economy—concepts that are becoming increasingly relevant in today’s globalised world.

Livingo hopes to challenge the financial and societal pressure of home ownership by offering an alternative and accessible way of living. 

Fostering community through co-living

Beyond housing, Livingo addresses another crucial issue: social isolation. Urbanisation in Asia has led to a rise in loneliness and mental health challenges, particularly in densely populated cities.

Livingo aims to counter this by encouraging meaningful connections between flatmates, making the co-living experience fun and interactive. Users can connect with like-minded individuals, expanding their social circles and creating supportive communities within their living spaces.

Also Read: Is co-living a good opportunity for property owners?

The platform is designed to make housing searches seamless across different regions, overcoming language barriers and legal complexities. This focus on simplicity and community might be the right recipe for a great co-living life in a new city, especially for young professionals who are seeking not just a place to live but a sense of belonging.

Scaling up and expanding horizons

Currently, Livingo operates in Singapore, Shenzhen, and Taipei, with plans to expand further into Asia. In its hometown of Singapore, Livingo already has established strategic partnerships with multiple major co-living space operators such as Isa Appartments, Helloaya, Suitetogether, Comfyrooms, Westwood Hostel, and more.

Within 3 weeks Livingo already has over 500 active listings and garnered significant user interest, with over 10,000 impressions just within a short pre-launch period, and it supports crucial localisation features like WeChat Pay and Gaode Maps for Mainland China users, ensuring usability across different regions.

Livingo is ambitious. I truly see the app not just as a tool for finding housing, but as a platform that will revolutionise the way people live and connect globally.

With co-living on the rise, Livingo is well-positioned to lead this shift toward a more flexible and community-centered way of life. I want Livingo to be more than just an app—I want it to be a movement for sustainable living.

 

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Three years ago, El Salvador made history as the first country to adopt Bitcoin as a legal tender to boost financial inclusion and drive economic growth. While the country’s government and major financial institutions benefited from this, smaller businesses and retail users have faced challenges. This is mainly due to Bitcoin’s volatility and the complexity of applying its underlying technology to their day-to-day business operations. 

Around 70 per cent of the population does not have a bank account — a problem that El Salvador President Nayib Bukele sees as a way to provide more financial inclusivity for his people.

As cryptocurrency adoption among Southeast Asian countries likewise grows, we can learn many important lessons from El Salvador and use this as a case study of how emerging technologies can overcome such obstacles and unlock new opportunities for startups and small businesses.

Bitcoin as legal tender — a good idea?

El Salvador’s Bitcoin law addressed critical economic issues affecting the nation, such as high remittance fees and financial exclusion. Remittances represent nearly 24 per cent of the country’s GDP, and the use of Bitcoin was intended to provide a more affordable and efficient way to transfer money across borders. 

However, while the government launched the Chivo Wallet and set up over 200 Bitcoin ATMs, small businesses and casual users struggled with the volatility of Bitcoin as a means of storing value. 

To illustrate, a National Bureau of Economic Research (NBER) study found that only 20 percent of small businesses in El Salvador used Bitcoin regularly. In comparison, 80 percent of citizens who downloaded the Chivo Wallet abandoned it after receiving their initial US$30 incentive.

These challenges are also relevant to Southeast Asia. Micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) form the backbone of the economies in the region, where MSMEs account for at least 97 per cent of business transactions, employing around 67 percent of the workforce.

Layer 2 solutions can make bitcoin more accessible for small businesses

In Southeast Asia, the cryptocurrency and blockchain market is growing, expected to reach US$1.79 billion this year and will grow at a CAGR of 8.75 per cent to US$2.50 billion by 2028. For startups in countries like Indonesia, Vietnam, and the Philippines, where financial inclusion remains challenging, enhancing access to fintech solutions that leverage cryptocurrencies will be transformative.

Also Read: Global Web3 companies on why Asia Pacific is the future of the industry

However, one of the main reasons MSMEs struggle with adopting cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin is the complexity of transacting directly on the Bitcoin network. Its relatively slow transaction times and high fees make it less practical for everyday transactions, especially for small, frequent payments like microtransactions and retail payments. This is where Layer 2 solutions come into play.

Layer 2 technologies offer a blockchain-based scaling solution that complements or integrates with Bitcoin’s existing blockchain. They provide faster, cheaper, and more efficient transactions without compromising Bitcoin’s security. For example, instead of waiting 10 minutes for a Bitcoin transaction to settle, Layer 2 technologies can finalise transactions in mere seconds, similar to current online payment services like Visa and Mastercard.

Addressing the challenge of volatility

While Bitcoin is a secure and decentralised asset, its volatile value can fluctuate wildly, which is not ideal as a regular mode of payment. Stablecoins offer a solution to this problem, pegged to stable monetary assets like the US dollar or other national currencies. PayPal’s PYUSD, for instance, is a USD-backed stablecoin that has reached US$1 billion in market value.

Financial institutions and technology companies are now able to build upon Layer 2 networks to come up with their own solutions for addressing the payment needs of MSMEs and end consumers. Bitfinity Network’s BitFusion Bridge SDK leverages Chain Key Technology to enable the decentralised bridging of assets from any blockchain, such as Bitcoin, to cheaper and faster Layer 2 networks, enabling developers to integrate fintech apps with the Bitcoin network. This also allows businesses to transact in ckBTC, a 1:1 equivalent of Bitcoin that can be transferred for a fraction of the price and time compared to native Bitcoin transactions. 

As another variant, Coinbase introduced cbBTC, a 1:1 equivalent to Bitcoin, enabling users to seamlessly convert BTC to cbBTC when transferring to the Base or Ethereum blockchains. 

Also Read: The rise of Web3 and crypto startups: Pioneering the decentralised future

Such bridge protocols allow faster go-to-market strategies for emerging fintechs looking to implement secure, scalable, and interoperable blockchain solutions. And for end consumers to utilise BTC as micropayments, it solves the initial challenges faced by merchants and consumers in El Salvador. 

For example, a small business using such a solution could accept payments in Bitcoin but immediately convert those into stablecoins, reducing the risk of holding a volatile asset. This means businesses can still take advantage of Bitcoin’s global reach and liquidity without being exposed to its price swings.

Leading Southeast Asia’s next generation of fintech adoption

The future of Bitcoin and stablecoins in Southeast Asia holds enormous potential, particularly for smaller players. Small businesses, which account for a significant share of the region’s economy, stand to benefit immensely from these innovations. By adopting Layer 2 solutions and leveraging stablecoins, small businesses and their customers can access cheaper, faster, and more secure financial services.

Using lessons from El Salvador, Southeast Asia’s startups have an opportunity to build innovative, scalable solutions that bring millions of unbanked individuals and small businesses into the global digital economy. By addressing these pain points, SEA can pave the way for a more inclusive and accessible financial future.

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The first-ever Echelon Philippines 2024, organised by e27 in partnership with Brainsparks, has kicked off today at SMX Convention Center Manila, setting a high benchmark for tech and startup events in Southeast Asia. The event welcomed over 2,000 attendees, featured 90 insightful speakers, hosted 40 exhibitors and 15 startup showcases, and delivered 38 content sessions over two action-packed days. Supported by 10 sponsors and 55 partners, Echelon Philippines sets to be a remarkable platform for innovation, collaboration, and growth in the Philippine tech ecosystem, all aligned with Echelon’s goal to support and empower the fastest emerging tech market in the world.

Attendees have the opportunity to hear from influential speakers, including Angeline Tham, CEO and Co-Founder of Angkas; Danielle Cojuanco-Abraham, Co-Founder and CEO of Zed; and ER Rollan; CEO and Co-Founder of Growsari. Their insights focused on digital transformation and the future of the Philippine tech ecosystem, highlighting key areas for investment and growth. These discussions made for dynamic and impactful sessions, showcasing where the next big opportunities lie for startups and investors.

Also Read: Echelon X: Leveraging Web3 technologies for business growth in SEA

As this momentum continues, Echelon Singapore 2025 is gearing up for its own milestone, taking place on June 18-19, 2025. For the first time ever, the event will be hosted at the iconic Suntec Singapore Convention and Exhibition Centre in the heart of Singapore’s Central Business District. This new venue offers unmatched accessibility, convenient transport links, a wide array of accommodations, and everything attendees need within walking distance.

The move to Suntec represents a major leap forward for Echelon Singapore, providing a larger, more dynamic space for exhibitions, networking, and content sessions. Following the incredible success of Echelon Philippines, Echelon Singapore 2025 will feature specialised zones, including AI, SaaS, Fintech, and more, creating an unparalleled opportunity for startups, investors, and tech leaders to engage and scale globally.

Join us at Echelon Singapore 2025! For partnership and exhibition opportunities, visit the Echelon Singapore 2025 site or contact us here.

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Now more than ever, data has become paramount. Every organisation, no matter the size, needs to generate timely insights to achieve its business objectives. Those that utilise and act on this information can gain a competitive advantage, tailoring offerings according to customer data to get ahead of the game.

According to a forecast by Forrester, insights-driven companies are projected to earn US$1.8 trillion by 2021 and grow at least seven times faster than the global GDP. Today, with the advent of the cloud and new and emerging technologies that allow firms to accumulate and analyse big data efficiently, companies that are not fostering a cadre of data-savvy employees are not only at a disadvantage. Simply put, they are not going to survive.

But survival does not only rest on the shoulders of a company’s engineers, data analysts and scientists. It is a responsibility shared with every member of the organisation, including creatives, writers and facility managers. With insights from data at the heart of every business decision, top-to-bottom integration of data must be embedded in the very culture of an organisation. All employees must think like data scientists. And companies have to equip them with the right tools, knowledge and support to build a data-centric environment that they can keep learning from, and allows them to experiment.

How we are doing it

At gojek, we have been reaping the benefits of being a data-driven business since day one. We grew along this axis by storing, organising, and utilising our data to power our growth and improve our apps. We have integrated automation, and are leveraging tools and emerging technologies to ensure easy access to data in a centralised, organised manner that enable us to make informed decisions. A decade –and counting– of harnessing the potential of data has led us to adopt a unique approach to wielding it that is built on three key principles.

First, we analyse. After gathering a wealth of information from different data sources, almost daunting in its magnitude, we need to make sense of the data. Uncovering insights then will enable us to make critical business and product decisions. It also helps us identify trends that will allow us to thrive in the future–or threaten to make us irrelevant. Second, we infuse our super app offerings with machine learning and AI to revolutionise the way we price, match, recommend, and even fight fraud on our platform, all in real-time. Then, finally, we go further and deeper than using data for problem-solving. We are futureproofing the business by making ambiguous decisions using automation and machine learning, among other statistical techniques, to tell us whether we should steer right or left.

While we have years of experience on our side, companies that have yet to make the leap can first take these initial but significant steps towards creating a data-driven environment.

Also Read: How this Tokyo-based startup is revolutionising the restaurant industry with AI and big data

Adopting a more data-centric mindset

• Be obsessed with customer experience. 

The rise of the user is upon us –if not already here. What the user needs is influencing not just engineers’ thinking and priorities, but the whole organisation’s strategy in terms of what they can offer to each and every one of them. Every member of a company should anticipate customer needs, aiming to surprise and delight them through personalisation, as well as removing pain points. This ranges from designing personalised homepages to customising search and communication features.

For example, our marketing team has been using data to experiment with creative assets and design campaigns. They would display different marketing banners on the gojek platform to see which ones users most interacted with, and then adapt their initiatives to cater to what customers care most about. The team would also use data to distinguish food consumption behaviour –an activity they conducted to differentiate various districts in Ho Chi Minh City, so as to customise marketing communications for each district based on consumer patterns and preferences.

It is then all about encouraging employees–not just data scientists –to intimately know and meet every user’s need.

• Invest to unearth data and crucial insights. 

All companies, regardless of the industry, should continually sharpen the tools at their disposal and incorporate new technologies to get additional useful insights from data. You can tap into emerging technologies such as machine learning (ML), biometrics, 5G, augmented reality, and AI/Robotics to improve the customer experience. These allow employees to have easier access to data and insights.

We have benefitted from investing in this tech ourselves. For instance, customer feedback is one of the most important sources of information a company should capitalise on. But a constant challenge has always been its unstructured text format and how it tends to focus on a particular side of the business. So we developed natural language processing tools to gather and provide an understanding of our users’ or driver-partners’ main concerns via various channels, ranging from customer care platforms to app reviews. Listening carefully using various machine learning techniques enables us to disseminate feedback to multiple and the correct businesses and product teams in a structured and systematic manner. It also enables us to detect new issues being raised by users, as well as monitor the improvement on frequently-encountered issues.

We also use machine learning to power the search experience. One of our ML models understands the customer’s intent. This allows us to look at a customer’s past transactions, behaviour, preferences, location, time of day and various other signals to delight them with a great, customised experience that reduces the time it takes for them to find a cuisine, restaurant, or dish.

Also Read: WhatsApp takes a U-turn in its data privacy. Is it time to switch to alternative platforms?

• Build a data-centric culture that starts and ends with the right people. 

All the tech and tools in the world are no good without the right team to spearhead it. Hire the right people across all departments, with the mindset to learn and appreciate data for what it can give. Train, encourage, and empower all employees to utilise technology to gain insights from data and make decisions backed by data.

The adoption of a data-driven culture will be a long and steady learning process for everyone, so let employees experiment and even fail, to gain the lessons that will allow them to progress. After all, data is always intimidating at first. But once you take the time to know it, organisations, their employees and customers, can reap the rewards.

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This article was first published on March 3, 2021

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Have you ever thought about a smart assistant dedicated to keeping your workplace safe and compliant? Imagine AI stepping in as your high-tech safety officer, analysing real-time data and spotting potential issues before they become non-compliant. It’s not science fiction — it’s happening now.

But the questions arise: Is AI genuinely changing how we manage safety and compliance, or is it just a shiny new gadget?

However, with advanced algorithms, real-time monitoring, and predictive analytics, AI is transforming regulatory requirements by changing the way safety protocols are handled in workplaces. Thus, AI cannot be stated merely as a shiny new gadget; rather, it’s a powerful tool that actively improves risk management, streamlines compliance processes, and creates safer work environments. The integration of AI into existing EHS monitoring systems is proving to be a game-changer, making a tangible impact on how safety and compliance are managed today.

A safety showdown

In the industrial landscape of contemporary times, the idea of operating safely without AI seems increasingly unrealistic. Modern environments are too complex and fast which demands a level of vigilance and precision that traditional methods struggle to provide.

AI technologies, with their advanced data analysis and real-time monitoring capabilities, offer an unprecedented edge in tracking compliances allowing EHS teams to respond swiftly to emerging issues, reducing the likelihood of accidents, and improving overall workplace safety.

Gary Ng, CEO of viAct, an AI company from Hong Kong aptly says “As industries evolve and the stakes rise, AI’s role in safeguarding operations especially in critical risk-prone workplaces becomes not just beneficial but essential, highlighting a critical shift from conventional safety practices to a more dynamic, AI-driven approach.” He further adds it by stating “92 per cent faster Risk Assessments & Safety Audits was observed in automotive manufacturing units that otherwise had a lot of non-compliance due to Simultaneous Operations (SIMOPs)”.

Also Read: How to use Gen AI enabled chatbots for workplace safety?

Traditional manual checks to manage safety by EHS teams through periodic inspections may cause “a safety shutdown” as these methods struggle to keep up with the rapid pace and complexity of modern operation lines. IoT sensors and cameras throughout modern facilities allow AI to continuously monitor equipment and worker behaviour in real time.

This approach is termed a proactive approach which prevents accidents by enhancing compliance with safety standards. It underscores how AI has become essential in high-stakes industrial environments like manufacturing, construction, oil & gas, mining, and logistics as it serves as not just a luxury but a vital component for maintaining a safe and efficient operation.

New face of industry-specific safety

In today’s industrial ecosystem, another revolution in the field of AI for workplace safety is brought by Generative AI. Think of a workplace where AI doesn’t just observe safety compliances through video analytics but actively participates in it by answering— that’s where generative AI is stepping in, transforming the way safety and compliance are managed.

This can be explained by the safety chatbot of viAct named “viGent” which is so powerful that has changed how the EHS team works. Instead of relying on manual checks or waiting for reports, viGent provides real-time assistance helping EHS teams in mapping issues for 85 per cent quicker safety resolutions, ensuring 90 per cent amendments in best safety practices, and contributing to 70 per cent long-term safety improvement. Thus, Generative AI is an upgrade that’s reshaping the entire approach to workplace safety, turning reactive measures into proactive, intelligent systems.

What makes generative AI solutions like viGent even more impressive is how they tap into a vast data pool, providing insights and predictions not just by reacting to incidents but by helping prevent them from happening by identifying patterns and risks early on.The chatbot seamlessly integrates data from multiple sources, such as video analytics and IoT sensors for compliance monitoring and assistance.

For EHS teams, this means a complete shift towards a focused strategy in compliance tracking. Beyond simple alerts, generative AI helps to foster a culture of safety. By integrating directly into the daily routines of workers and aligning with real-time operations, these generative AI applications anticipate, communicate, and drive compliance with a level of intelligence that traditional CCTV-based monitoring cannot guarantee.

Also Read: Why AI will be critical to brand strategy

Finding the sweet spot

As AI continues to revolutionise workplace safety, the balance between innovation and regulation becomes crucial. AI-powered tools like safety chatbots, integrate cutting-edge video analytics and IoT data which comes with regulatory responsibilities.

AI’s ability to monitor and guide workers in real time must align with existing safety standards and laws. Ensuring that AI solutions comply with local and international safety regulations is key to their widespread adoption.

viAct’s Responsible AI Approach is a very good example in this context which finds “the sweet spot” amid the regulatory bedlam. The approach helps viAct by ensuring that their AI technologies are not simply meant to enhance workplace safety but also uphold ethical and legal standards by incorporating transparent data handling practices and designing AI systems that align with regulatory frameworks at its core.

Such approaches enable industries to confidently adopt AI-driven solutions, knowing that the technology supports both operational efficiency and compliance with stringent safety regulations.

Thus, the intersection of AI innovation and safety regulation, driven by responsible AI practices, is the future of workplace safety—one that embraces progress while ensuring worker protection and regulatory alignment.

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e27 has been nurturing a supportive ecosystem for entrepreneurs since its inception. Our Contributor Programme offers a platform for sharing unique insights.

As part of our ‘Contributor Spotlight’ series, we shine a spotlight on an outstanding contributor and dive into the vastness of their knowledge and expertise.

This episode features Kailash Madan, Global Head of Sales at Primer, with over 10 years in payments and financial services, including roles at Stripe and Citi. Kailash leads Primer’s team in APAC, helping enterprises automate and optimise e-commerce workflows with unified global payments infrastructure.

Thoughts, goals, and journey

Madan shared that around a decade ago, he entered traditional payments while working at Citi as a Management Associate. His role in commercial and consumer banking introduced him to cross-border commerce and the broader impact of payments on the global economy. He then moved into digital payments, helping grow the internet’s GDP at Stripe before joining Primer to help merchants and partners rethink payment management.

Madan remarked, “Having been at the forefront of what you’d today call traditional payments, including export and import finance, and now igniting growth for global businesses through digital payments, I’ve learned that providing businesses with the right infrastructure to offer a best-in-class customer experience is key. I intend to continue doing so while driving greater advocacy for payments within large organisations.”

He added, “There’s a monumental shift taking place in the payments industry towards greater optionality, flexibility, and freedom in how businesses build and manage payments. Until recently, many leaders were comfortable with one Payment Service Provider (PSP) driving their business, but it’s becoming clear that this model can’t meet the needs of modern businesses operating across multiple markets. Earlier this year, Stripe made a major move by decoupling payments from the rest of its financial services, moving towards a more open and inclusive system where businesses can design their payments strategy around their needs, not the other way around. Primer has been driving this shift for some time, and our model is the catalyst for it, making it an exciting time to be working here.”

Also Read: Camellia Chan: Transforming cybersecurity with hardware-based solutions and and building a global brand

The driving force

Madan joined the e27 Contributor Programme in 2022 and has since been an active member, regularly sharing his insights on the payments industry.

Madan said, “e27 is one of the most impactful platforms for entrepreneurs, innovators, and businesses in Southeast Asia’s tech scene, offering a wealth of thought leadership content and knowledge exchange between leaders and experts. Through this platform, I’ve been exposed to new industries and ideas, and I hope to add as much value as I’ve gained from the Contributor Programme. The payments industry continues to be somewhat of a ‘black box’ for those outside the sector, which Primer is working to change. By contributing thought leadership, I aim to show how we’re simplifying payments and how any business can use digital payments as a growth lever.”

Advice for budding thought leaders

Juggling too many things?

Madan said, “I’m fully committed to the remote work model at Primer. While it’s not for everyone, it gives me the flexibility to pursue personal goals and routines that matter to me, while also succeeding at work. For me and my team, it’s not about presenteeism, but the quality of our output, and once you focus on that, achieving work-life balance becomes a bit easier.”

He added, “Working at a fast-growing startup isn’t for everyone, but for those willing to put in the hard yards, it’s an opportunity to advance quickly. With my global role based in Singapore, managing time zones can be tough, so I make sure to block certain times to recharge.”

Also Read: Jackie Tan: Navigating the startup journey and paying it forward

Staying in the loop

Madan says he learns the most from daily conversations with business leaders and his team, who are attuned to global market shifts. Primer’s remote model, with teams in over 35 countries, enables seamless collaboration, allowing him to connect with leaders worldwide for insights and on-ground perspectives. He also highlights that staying updated through news outlets and platforms like LinkedIn remains essential.

Madan recommends subscribing to newsletters like TechCrunch, Tech In Asia, Benedict Evans, The Ken, e27, and Sifted to stay updated on industry trends. He also follows LinkedIn authors like Linas Beliunas and Dwayne Jefferie, whose posts offer valuable insights into current discussions in the space.

“Although digital payments seem complicated and mature, we’re only at 10 per cent of global commerce today. The runway to grow is massive and with it are the opportunities to innovate, evolve and re-invent existing processes. Learning every day is something I live with and I’d encourage everyone to consider,” he concluded.

Take a look at his articles here for more information and perspectives on his expertise.

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Are you ready to join a vibrant community of entrepreneurs and industry experts? Do you have insights, experiences, and knowledge to share?

Join the e27 Contributor Programme and become a valuable voice in our ecosystem.

The post Kailash Madan: Unlocking growth through innovative payments appeared first on e27.

Dear reader,

Temasek’s recent commitment of SGD100 million (US$78 million) in concessional capital through its Climate Action (CCCA) initiative marks a significant step in addressing climate change financing gaps, particularly in developing economies.

By providing patient, flexible capital, the CCCA aims to unlock opportunities in marginally bankable projects, such as clean infrastructure, that would otherwise struggle to secure funding. This approach aligns with the global push to meet the 1.5-degree climate goal and reflects Temasek’s broader strategy of integrating sustainability with its philanthropic efforts.

As the world grapples with the urgency of climate action, particularly in Asia where structural barriers hinder progress, Temasek’s approach of using blended finance to mobilise commercial, concessional, and philanthropic capital offers a pathway for impactful change.

The initiative is designed not only to promote environmental sustainability but also to catalyse further investments by demonstrating the viability of green projects in challenging markets.

This move reflects Temasek’s commitment to sustainability, complementing its existing portfolio of climate and sustainability-focused investments.

By advancing concessional capital as an asset class, Temasek is positioning itself as a leader in the global effort to combat climate change while driving intergenerational impact for a sustainable future.

Sainul,
Editor.

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NEWS & VIEWS

Temasek sets aside US$78M Concessional Capital for Climate Action (CCCA)
CCCA seeks to support climate action initiatives by providing more flexible, patient, and favourable financing, which will address these market barriers.

MAS directs Singapore e-commerce platform Qoo10 to suspend payment services
The market regulator will review the suspension when Qoo10 is able to satisfy MAS of its ability to resolve the payment delays and safeguard the interest of its customers in Singapore on an ongoing basis.

Peak XV has reaped US$1.2B in the year since it split from Sequoia
The investor has sold stakes in nearly a dozen portfolio companies that went public in the past year, including food delivery group Zomato, cosmetics retailer Mamaearth, and spam protection firm Truecaller.

OpenAI CTO Mira Murati says she’s leaving the company
“There’s never an ideal time to step away from a place one cherishes, yet this moment feels right … My six-and-a-half years with the OpenAI team have been an extraordinary privilege,” she said.

Cybersecurity startup Blackpanda raises US$6.7M for Asia expansion
The investors are Singtel Innov8, Gaw Capital Partners, and WI Harper Group; Blackpanda’s IR-1 solution integrates proactive attack surface management, incident response services, and automated access to insurance.

Qarbotech secures US$1.5M funding to boost farm yields by 60%
The investors are 500 Global, Better Bite Ventures, ID Capital, EQT Foundation, and Epic Angels; The capital will enable Qarbotech to scale its operations in Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, and Vietnam.

South Asia, SEA rank high in potential for fintech lending in Asia: Study shows
South Asia stands out with 43 incubators for alternative lending firms and 118 funding rounds in the industry, making it the leading region in fintech investments and startup activity.

Gobi Partners joins Pakistani BNPL startup Qist Bazaar’s US$3.2M round
Since its inception in 2021, Qist Bazaar claims to have disbursed over 55,000 product-based loans amounting to US$12 million; Qist Bazaar’s customers include domestic workers, rickshaw drivers, students, and micro-entrepreneurs.

Echelon Singapore 2025 gears up for its first time at Suntec
The move represents a major leap forward for Echelon Singapore, providing a larger, more dynamic space for exhibitions and sessions.

WeRide partners Uber to launch robotaxis in UAE
The partnership is expected to launch first in Abu Dhabi later this year; After launch, when a rider requests a qualifying ride on the Uber app, they may be presented with the option to have their trip fulfilled by a WeRide autonomous vehicle.

FEATURES & INTERVIEWS

YGG’s Future of Work: Empowering gamers for the AI age
YGG launches Future of Work, a programme aiming to equip participants with in-demand skills for the future workforce.

Revolutionising urban safety: AI-driven WaveScan in non-destructive testing of infrastructure
A spin-off from A*STAR, WaveScan harnesses electromagnetics-based sensor technology and AI to offer NDT solutions for urban infrastructure.

Operva AI elevates facade inspections with autonomous drone, collaborative cloud platform
Operva AI streamlines the process of building inspection by using AI to detect and label defects and observations.

AI will spur growth in data centres, potentially leading to semiconductor shortage: Bain & Co
The rise of generative AI has also pressured software developers to improve efficiency in their operations.

FROM THE ARCHIVES

The rise of M&A in Vietnam: Strategies and trends in the tech sector
Vietnam’s M&A market is seeing new buyers emerge, including regional firms, big tech, and domestic corporations.

How is fintech different in Asia
The faster fintech develops in Asia, richer the local digital landscape becomes leading further spread of digital financial services.

Unlocking green fintech prosperity in Asia: Navigating the top 4 challenges
Despite the ongoing ‘funding winter’ faced by global startups, the trajectory of development for green fintech has shown strong momentum.

Pitching prep: Anticipating key questions VCs pose in pitch sessions
Even during the pandemic, opportunities to attend a pitching session with a potential investor remain abundant.

Some lessons on how to fulfil the climate tech promise
When it comes to promoting climate tech investment, there is a need for investors to play the long-term game.

Propelling SG businesses towards sustainable future: How to inspire emissions plan creation
There are several steps to encourage businesses to develop emission plan, starting with involving CFOs and finance teams.

Unlocking green fintech prosperity in Asia: Navigating the top 4 challenges
Despite the ongoing ‘funding winter’ faced by global startups, the trajectory of development for green fintech has shown strong momentum.

The climate change and gender equality connection: How to support underfunded women-owned business
While there is a distinct relationship between gender inequality and climate change, investment mandates rarely combine both of these lenses.

Pitching prep: Anticipating key questions VCs pose in pitch sessions
Even during the pandemic, opportunities to attend a pitching session with a potential investor remain abundant.

The rise of M&A in Vietnam: Strategies and trends in the tech sector
Vietnam’s M&A market is seeing new buyers emerge, including regional firms, big tech, and domestic corporations.

Seizing the e-commerce wave: Unveiling opportunities in Southeast Asia
The time is ripe for local e-commerce sellers in SEA to look beyond their borders, supercharged by recent cultural and technological changes.

Unveiling the eco gender gap: Essential insights for a sustainable future
Eco gender gap is when solutions to tackle climate change seem to be geared only toward women. How should businesses deal with this?

Seizing the e-commerce wave: Unveiling opportunities in Southeast Asia
The time is ripe for local e-commerce sellers in SEA to look beyond their borders, supercharged by recent cultural and technological changes.

THOUGHT LEADERSHIP

Navigating shareholders’ disputes in startups: Different exit strategies and mechanisms explained
Disputes are usually managed effectively when the parties involved have agreed at the outset with the right legal mechanisms in place.

How to maximise marketing efforts on a shoe-string budget
A robust growth strategy prioritises revenue and relies on data-driven decisions over guesswork to evaluate marketing efforts.

Workplace safety getting a tech makeover with AI
AI-powered tools, like safety chatbots, integrate cutting-edge video analytics and IoT data, which comes with regulatory responsibilities.

The secret sauce to happy customers
Tracking Customer Satisfaction (CSAT) is your golden ticket to understanding what’s working, what’s not, and where you can sprinkle a little more magic.

8 ways to utilise customer data to retain loyalty during economic challenges
Leveraging shopper data helps businesses refine loyalty strategies, build stronger connections, and anticipate future behaviours.

How El Salvador’s bitcoin experiment serves as a blueprint for Southeast Asia’s fintech ecosystem
Southeast Asia’s startups can use El Salvador’s lessons to bring unbanked individuals and businesses into the global digital economy.

The digital classroom: How edutech is sculpting the minds of tomorrow
As education systems embrace technology, edutech holds immense potential to transform learning for future generations.

Challenging traditional rental markets with innovative tech: The story behind Livingo
With co-living on the rise, Livingo is well-positioned to lead this shift toward a more flexibleent and community-cred way of life.

‘Step Zero Before the Hustle’: The psychology of entrepreneurial success
The book explores the psychology of entrepreneurial success, offering insights to build confidence, resilience, and essential startup skills.

The post Ecosystem Roundup: Temasek sets aside US$78M for climate fund | Qoo10 ordered to suspend payment services in Singapore appeared first on e27.

The International Labour Organisation (ILO) estimates that workplace safety risks result in economic losses of up to 5.4 per cent of global GDP annually. In response, businesses have implemented over one billion CCTV cameras and employed hundreds of thousands of security personnel and risk managers to monitor footage and mitigate risks.

However, this process is slow, labour-intensive, costly, and prone to inaccuracies.

“Video is the richest data source, but existing solutions are too rigid, fragmented, impossible to customise, and challenging to scale. This makes it difficult for business owners to maximise the video data and manpower they have on hand to make effective decisions. We see a much better way,” says Natalie Doran, CEO and Co-Founder of Lytehouse, in an email interview with e27.

Lytehouse offers real-time video intelligence that automates risk management by transforming any CCTV camera feed into virtual co-workers, enhancing efficiency and reducing costs. Its AI-powered solution applies advanced computer vision (CV) models, machine learning (ML) algorithms, and generative AI (GenAI) agents to existing cameras, enabling businesses to capture key data points, gain real-time insights, and automate manual tasks for improved decision-making.

Using Large Language Models (LLM), Lytehouse makes video insights easily queryable in natural language. Business owners can request specific actions, such as notifying managers if workers use mobile phones near machinery, to detect risk events and generate reports.

The scalable system tailors GenAI agents to specific industries and tasks, allowing companies to address safety and security risks without replacing their existing camera infrastructure.

Also Read: Gen AI in banking: How to ensure a successful transformation for an age-old industry

“Our approach of effectively giving business owners a fleet of digital workers that can be deployed directly onto their cameras is the biggest difference compared to the alternatives, as it provides enormous flexibility in what these agents should be looking for within various video streams without locking our customers into configuration hell,” Doran says.

The launch of Lytehouse’s security agent marked a significant milestone for the company. Additionally, Lytehouse secured a major partnership with one of Africa’s largest CCTV distributors, providing access to hundreds of thousands of cameras across the region.

Lytehouse’s journey began as a personal mission for security, driven by real-life experiences. Jean-Vicente De Carvalho, CTO and Co-Founder of Lytehouse, comes from a family of small business owners in South Africa who endured 37 instances of armed robberies, kidnappings, and bombings.

In 2018, after his father was held at gunpoint despite the presence of extensive security measures, De Carvalho realised the urgent need for a more effective solution.

“I met Jean in the Entrepreneur First programme in Singapore, and we did a deep dive into security and risk management. We realised there was a huge opportunity to give existing manpower the superpowers to respond effectively to risk, and beyond this, we could empower businesses with the right data to be more proactive and preventative. And so, Lytehouse was born,” Doran explains.

Also Read: Singapore surpasses US in AI investment: Study

“We have evolved a lot since then, and so have the technology capabilities to address these global pain points. We’re proud to say we have assembled a rockstar team driven by the passion to make a tangible difference and have the backing of incredible investors, government departments, and tech giants.”

Lytehouse is part of the inaugural cohort of AI startups graduating from the Google for Startups Accelerator: AI First Singapore, which ran from April to August 2024.

According to Doran, collaborating with Google Cloud has been a transformative experience for the company. The announcement of Gemini 1.5 Pro and Flash models at Google I/O, with their extended context windows and multimodal support, marked a pivotal moment for the company.

By working closely with Google Cloud on the Vertex AI platform, Lytehouse accelerated the development of new product lines. Beyond technical support, Google Cloud offered significant business opportunities, such as featuring Lytehouse on the Google Cloud Marketplace and connecting them with customers across Southeast Asia.

“We’re crafting a future where technology expands human potential, replacing tasks, not jobs, for more meaningful work experiences. To achieve this, we are building the world’s most performant, cost-effective, secure, and extensible intelligence engine to annotate the world’s video data and make it useful,” Doran closes.

“We believe that by the end of 2025, thanks to our powerful intelligence engine, there will be a use case for Lytehouse for every camera in the world – and by leveraging our strategic partners, we will have the reach to attain a large proportion of them.”

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Image Credit: Lytehouse

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