The e-commerce landscape in Southeast Asia is on the cusp of a profound transformation, evolving from AI-assisted to truly “AI-native” platforms.

This shift, detailed in a recent report by Momentum Works and Lazada, signifies a future where AI is not merely a tool but the very fabric of how consumers shop and sellers operate. The implications for tech startups and established players in the region are immense, pointing towards highly personalised interfaces, intuitive interactions, and largely automated operations.

Also Read: Alibaba’s AI muscle supercharges Lazada across Southeast Asia

The report outlines three distinct phases of AI-driven e-commerce platform transformation, illustrating a clear progression towards this AI-native future:

• Interface layer: AI as a tool (2022-2024): In this initial phase, AI functionalities are integrated at the user interface level, acting primarily as helpful tools. This includes applications such as AI chatbots and assistants, as well as AI-assisted copywriting and content generation for product listings. While useful, AI here primarily augments existing processes without fundamentally altering the core interaction model.
• Embedded intelligence: AI throughout the funnel (today): In this phase, AI is woven throughout the entire e-commerce funnel, providing deeper, more integrated functionalities. Examples include personalised search and feed ranking, smart product recommendations that learn from user behaviour, and seller insights dashboards equipped with AI-generated suggestions. This level of integration moves beyond simple tools to actively influence and optimise various stages of the buying and selling journey.
• AI-native platforms: Smarter shopping and selling, personalised for all (the future): The ultimate vision is the emergence of truly AI-native platforms. In this future state, the interaction between users and the platform will be profoundly personalised. Interfaces will dynamically change based on individual user intent and preferences, making every shopping experience unique. This will facilitate interactive discovery, where AI agents guide consumers through product exploration, potentially even simulating virtual try-ons or offering real-time, context-aware advice. On the seller side, AI agents will manage complex tasks, from inventory optimisation to dynamic pricing, freeing human operators to focus on strategic growth. This represents a complete paradigm shift, moving beyond merely assisting human tasks to intelligently orchestrating the entire e-commerce ecosystem.

The competitive imperative for sellers

The transformation to AI-native e-commerce is not merely a technological evolution; it is a profound competitive imperative. Sellers who effectively tap into this transformation will “leap ahead of their peers,” gaining a significant advantage in areas like operational efficiency, personalisation, and customer acquisition.

Also Read: AI at the core: Lazada shows how tech can supercharge sellers and shoppers

With AI capable of unlocking an additional US$131 billion in annual GMV for Southeast Asia by 2030, the question is no longer if AI will shape e-commerce, but who will capture the growth it unlocks.

The report stresses that success with AI extends beyond mere tool adoption; it demands “AI-aware leadership, teams empowered to test and iterate, and organisations structured for continuous learning and adaptation”.

AI has the unique ability to distil individual strengths and discoveries into powerful organisational capabilities, enabling faster iteration and smarter decision-making at scale.

This new “AI-led E-commerce Growth” flywheel, which links AI-driven personalisation, better customer experience, improved conversion, operational optimisation, better prices, and marketplace expansion, will be key to sustained success.

As platforms like Lazada continue to build upon advanced AI foundations established by Alibaba, the trajectory towards AI-native e-commerce is clear and accelerating.

For tech startups in Southeast Asia, this means a future filled with both challenges and unprecedented opportunities. Developing AI-native solutions, understanding hyper-personalisation, and fostering an agile, AI-savvy culture will be crucial for any entity aiming to thrive in the region’s evolving digital commerce landscape. The time to embrace this shift is now.

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The closure of CXA Group marks the end of a significant chapter in Southeast Asia’s insurtech story. Founded in 2013, CXA pioneered the idea of an integrated digital marketplace for employee benefits–long before “AI-driven HR” became a buzzword.

At its peak, the firm, once a local success story, attracted marquee backers including HSBC, B Capital, and EDBI, raising over US$58 million (including a US$25 million Series B round in 2027) and expanding across Asia. Yet despite its early promise, sustaining scale in the highly regulated, low-margin world of insurance proved elusive.

Rosaline Chow Koo’s announcement reflects both the ambition and challenges of building in this sector. CXA’s technology itself has not disappeared; it continues to operate under Pacific Prime, HSBC Life, and other licensees.

However, the original company could not maintain its independent path. This trajectory mirrors a common theme in Southeast Asia’s startup ecosystem: innovation can outpace the business fundamentals needed to survive funding cycles and competition from entrenched incumbents.

The extraordinary general meeting to decide on liquidation is a formal closing of the books, but also a reminder of how capital-intensive and compliance-heavy B2B insurtech remains. For founders and investors, CXA’s rise and fall underscores the importance of aligning visionary technology with sustainable revenue models and disciplined scaling strategies.

REGIONAL

CXA that raised US$58M in funding shuts down after 12 years; moves to liquidate assets
The group has convened an extraordinary general meeting of its shareholders on September 25 | Shareholders will vote on whether to liquidate the company’s assets under Section 160(1)(b) of the Insolvency, Restructuring and Dissolution Act 2018, which governs voluntary winding-up procedures in Singapore.

Singapore hit by 6.4M cyberattacks in 2024 as AI supercharges threats
Cybersecurity firm Kaspersky warns that AI is significantly amplifying these threats, enabling cybercriminals to launch “stealthier and less predictable” campaigns across the highly digitalised hub and the wider Asia Pacific region.

GoTo secures US$281M loan to strengthen balance sheet, fuel growth
A portion of the proceeds will be allocated to settle the outstanding amount from GoTo’s previous facility, which stood at US$28.2M as of June 2025 | The remaining funds are designated for general corporate purposes, including investments that will drive the company’s ongoing expansion.

SGX tightens climate reporting rules, expands green products as sustainable finance demand grows
Investor appetite for climate-focused ETFs surged, with AuM in SGX’s six sustainability-themed ETFs rising 133 per cent y-o-y to US$2.2B | The iShares MSCI Asia Ex-Japan Climate Action ETF tripled in size since its 2023 launch, driven by inflows from Finnish pension fund Ilmarinen, while the CSOP FTSE APAC Low Carbon ETF added US$75M.

Philippine fintech firm Salmon raises US$50M in oversubscribed bond
The company said the bond was oversubscribed, bringing its total bond financing to US$110M under a US$150M framework | This follows a US$60 million bond issued in April 2025 | Salmon Group offers credit lines, cards, loans, and deposit services.

Saison Capital launches US$50M Onigiri fund to bridge global blockchain with Asia
Onigiri Capital, which has already secured US$35M, will focus on startups building real-world asset solutions across five pivotal sectors: stablecoins, payments, tokenised assets, DeFi, and financial markets infrastructure.

Dat Bike teams up with Japan’s FCC in US$22M Series B round
Other investors are Rebright Partners, Jungle Ventures, Cathay Venture, and AiViet Venture | Vietnam’s two-wheeler EV sector braces for a monumental shift, propelled by substantial government support for green mobility and a global decarbonisation agenda.

Atomionics bags US$12.7M to map earth’s subsurface with quantum sensors
Investors include BHP Ventures, In-Q-Tel, Wavemaker Partners, VU Venture Partners, SG Growth Capital, and Alex Turnbull | Atomionics’s core innovation lies in its Gravio device, a portable, basketball-sized sensor that functions as a “virtual X-ray” for the earth | This quantum gravimetry technology enables high-resolution subsurface mapping up to ten times faster than conventional methods.

Terra Oleo emerges from stealth with US$3.1M to reinvent palm oil and cocoa
Investors include ADB Ventures, The Radical Fund, Elev8.vc, and Better Bite Ventures | Terra Oleo offers sustainable alternatives to palm oil derivatives and cocoa butter–crucial ingredients in the personal care, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and food sectors.

Quantum investor QAI Ventures picks Singapore for APAC headquarters
The Swiss VC firm has partnered with EnterpriseSG to bring its acceleration and venture-building activities to the island nation | It will also run a 5-month QuantumAI Accelerator programme, designed to scout and scale global startups.

VinFast, BDO Unibank team up to expand EV network in Philippines
The agreement aims to help expand electric vehicle availability, charging stations, and electric taxi operations in the country, with BDO Unibank providing financial services such as leasing, insurance, and tailored financing.

US$16M boost: NUS Enterprise joins forces with SG Growth Capital, Lotus One
These initiatives will provide greater support for NUS-affiliated startups and broaden co-investments in VC funds, complementing the US$116M NUS VC Programme launched in July 2025.

Openspace Ventures rebrands as Openspace Capital, launches funds
The venture capital firm is launching the Orbit Listed Growth Fund in partnership with Australian fund manager Perennial Partners, aiming to help companies list on the SGX | Onyx Growth Credit targets US$200M to provide loans between US$15M and US$30M to companies seeking growth capital.

REPORTS, FEATURES & INTERVIEWS

Alibaba’s AI muscle supercharges Lazada across Southeast Asia
Alibaba’s multilingual machine translation model, known for its strong performance in low-resource languages, underpins Lazada’s AI translation features | This symbiotic relationship allows Lazada to implement advanced AI solutions tailored to the diverse needs of the Southeast Asian market without having to build every component from scratch.

AI in e-commerce: Big promise, bigger hesitation among sellers in SEA
A new report by Momentum Works and Lazada highlights this paradox: a vast majority of sellers acknowledge AI’s long-term benefits, yet remain hesitant due to perceived costs and usefulness concerns | This presents both a challenge and a clear opportunity for those ready to embrace the shift.

DigiCert CEO: Quantum computing’s “ChatGPT moment” is coming
The aggressive race by tech giants such as Google, Microsoft, and AWS toward quantum supremacy as a signal that the tipping point is not far off | With 24 per cent of organisations still in denial about the risks quantum computing poses to current encryption systems, DigiCert urged a collective move toward preparedness.

INTERNATIONAL

SoftBank-OpenAI Japan venture reportedly delayed to November
The JV aims to provide AI services for Japanese corporate clients | The venture, first announced in February, was scheduled to launch in summer 2025 | The venture will be owned by OpenAI and a company established by SoftBank and its domestic telecom unit.

Alibaba invests in Ant Group-backed Hello for robotaxi market
The Chinese ride-hailing firm said on September 17 that Alibaba’s investment will support joint work on AI algorithms and smart driving technology for commercial robotaxi fleets | The move comes as global tech companies, including Tesla and Alphabet’s Waymo, compete to commercialise driverless taxi services.

SoftBank said to cut 20 per cent of Vision Fund staff for AI push
The Vision Fund, with over 300 employees, is moving away from broad startup investments to concentrate on founder Masayoshi Son’s AI projects, including a proposed US$500B Stargate data centre network with OpenAI.

Uber to test drone food deliveries by end of 2025
Uber will begin testing deliveries with Flytrex in select Uber Eats pilot markets by the end of 2025 | The company is also investing in Flytrex, a US-based drone delivery startup | This marks Uber’s return to logistics experiments after exiting its in-house drone program due to regulatory challenges and pandemic cost-cutting.

PayU increases stake in Indian fintech firm Mindgate to 70 per cent
This follows its initial 43 per cent acquisition in March 2025 | The remaining 30 per cent is held by founders George Sam and Guhan Muthusamy, who will continue to run the company | PayU also plans to invest an additional US$5M to US$10M to drive synergies with its other business verticals.

Panasonic to develop new EV battery in two years for Tesla
The “anode-free” EV battery removes the anode during manufacturing and forms a lithium metal anode after the first charge | Panasonic said this could boost battery capacity by 25 per cent, extending the driving range of vehicles such as the Tesla Model Y by up to 90 miles.

ECHELON

AI agents at work: The future of productivity
At Echelon Singapore 2025, Prahlad Jaya of kurate opened a fireside chat with Clare Leighton of fileAI by reflecting on the company’s evolution from Blue Sheets into a key player in AI workflow automation.

SEMICONDUCTOR

Nvidia to invest US$5B in Intel for AI products
The partnership, pending regulatory approval, aims to develop custom data centre and PC products for AI applications | Intel has struggled to keep up with competitors, missing key technology shifts and facing rising competition from Asian manufacturers like TSMC and Samsung.

Huawei unveils AI infrastructure to compete with Nvidia
At its Huawei Connect conference in Shenzhen, the company announced SuperPoD Interconnect technology, which can link up to 15,000 graphics cards, including Huawei’s Ascend AI chips | The new system is positioned as an alternative to Nvidia’s NVLink, which enables high-speed communication between AI chips.

Nvidia plans US$2.7B UK AI investment in partnership with VCs
The chipmaker will work with VC firms including Accel, Air Street Capital, Balderton Capital, Hoxton Ventures, and Phoenix Court | It will allocate capital to UK startups and researchers, with funding sourced from its balance sheet.

Nvidia spends US$900M to hire AI startup Enfabrica CEO, staff
Enfabrica, founded in 2019, develops technology that connects large numbers of GPUs for AI systems | Nvidia had previously invested in Enfabrica during its US$125M Series B round in 2023 | Nvidia’s last billion-dollar acquisition was the US$6.9B purchase of Mellanox in 2019.

AI

AI’s silent sorting: How you get filtered, priced, and denied
When many firms adopt similar pricing algorithms—or license the same vendor—markets can drift toward tacit collusion: agents “learn” that undercutting gets punished and orbit around higher prices without any chatroom cartel | Competition authorities have mapped this risk and the evidentiary challenge of distinguishing “parallel algorithmic play” from unlawful coordination.

Why AI-driven influencer marketing is the future of B2C in 2025
Consumers today want to feel like a brand is speaking directly to them | AI has made it possible to create that kind of personalisation, even across dozens of campaigns | And when people feel the message is tailored just for them, they’re more likely to engage.

AI assistant or replacement? A PR pro’s take on using ChatGPT
ChatGPT gobbles up and thrives on the information you feed it | Tailor your prompts by supplying specific details, facts and information, and guide them with desired parameters, such as length and tone, for optimal results.

The future of work with AI: 2025 and beyond
According to Singapore’s second National AI Strategy (NAIS 2.0), AI has progressed “from opportunity to necessity”, and people “must know” AI, not just see it as a “good to have” | The strategy goes on to add that rather than seeing AI as a threat, it can be the great equaliser, enhancing human capabilities rather than replacing them.

AI: Boon or bane? Workers fear job loss despite productivity gains
According to the 2023 Work Trend Index, most business leaders are looking to leverage AI to improve employee productivity, not reduce headcount | High on the list of priorities are automating repetitive yet necessary tasks, eliminating low-value activities, and augmenting the capabilities of existing talent to accelerate the pace and quality of their output.

Building trust in the age of AI: Lessons for Southeast Asia’s startups
Southeast Asia is tightening data-protection rules. Countries like Singapore and Indonesia emphasise localisation, while others are exploring AI-specific governance | Startups must design for compliance across borders, not just at home | Retrofitting privacy later is far costlier than building it in from day one.

AI is eating the world and startups are riding the infrastructure wave
AI isn’t just a software revolution | It’s an energy-hungry, capital-intensive transformation that’s reshaping the foundations of the internet | For small businesses and founders, understanding this wave and its risks, could be the key to surviving and thriving in the next decade.

THOUGHT LEADERSHIP

Liquidity dreams meet reality: How the Fed’s 25-basis-point cut is (and isn’t) changing everything
This adjustment brought the fed’s funds rate target range down to 4 per cent to 4.25 per cent, marking the first cut in the current easing cycle.

A new era of impact: Beyond the bottom line in Southeast Asia’s tech revolution
Across the region, impact-oriented investors are increasingly adopting a ‘Theory of Change’ approach that channels capital toward technology solutions addressing Southeast Asia’s most pressing challenges | This lens guides much of TNB Aura’s investment activity.

The great corporate flip: Why Korean startups are caught between dreams and tax bills
Across Seoul’s bustling startup districts, from Gangnam’s tech towers to Hongdae’s co-working spaces, founders face the same brutal reality: to play on the global stage, you need the right passport—a corporate one.

DePIN’s US$3.5T opportunity: Turning fragmented projects into unified infrastructure
DePIN, as a sector, is held back by the lack of fundamental infrastructure needed to function at scale | Right now, each individual project is like a country, building its own border controls to admit people from other networks.

PR is your megaphone: Why startups must master visibility in the AI era
PR is your megaphone | In the AI era, it does more than win human eyeballs | It teaches the algorithms that will advise your customers, investors and partners | For startups, this is not a nice-to-have | It is how you make sure your brand is heard in the conversations that shape your future.

Decentralised, intelligent, unstoppable: The future of the internet with Web3 and AI
Unlike traditional software, AI can process vast amounts of data, recognise patterns, and make decisions autonomously | It introduces intelligence to Web3, allowing decentralised applications to evolve in real time, predict changes, and optimise themselves without external input.

The post Ecosystem Roundup: CXA shuts down after US$58M raise | Singapore faces 6.4M cyberattacks in 2024 | AI in e-commerce sees big promise, bigger hesitation appeared first on e27.

A new report, the 2025 State of Design & Make Report – APAC, sheds light on the evolving landscape of architecture, engineering, construction and operations (AECO), design and manufacturing (D&M), and media and entertainment (M&E) industries across the Asia Pacific (APAC) region, including key Southeast Asian nations.

The study, based on surveys and interviews with over 2,152 industry leaders, futurists, and experts, reveals a region grappling with economic headwinds and technological disruption, even as digital transformation continues to yield significant benefits.

Digital transformation delivers, but challenges persist

The report underscores the overwhelmingly positive impact of digital transformation efforts, with most APAC leaders reporting over 50 per cent return on investment through improvements in customer satisfaction, innovation, and productivity.

Digitally mature companies, defined as those approaching or having achieved their digital transformation goals, are notably more resilient, better equipped to diversify supply chains (by 61 per cent), and faster in developing products and completing projects.

Also Read: Building a better future: How sustainable architecture is leading the way for the built environment

However, the path to digitalisation is not without obstacles. Cost remains the primary barrier to digital transformation for 40 per cent of APAC leaders, a rise from 32 per cent in the previous year. Time investment and a lack of necessary knowledge or technical skills follow as significant challenges.

Notably, more digitally mature organisations in APAC are less concerned with cost and talent, focusing instead on the limitations of current digital tools.

Sustainability gains momentum, AI emerges as key enabler

Sustainability transitions are moving from being solely pressure-driven to becoming a source of profitability, with 94 per cent of leaders in APAC reporting their organisations are taking steps to be more sustainable.

This shift is driven by a growing understanding of the business value of sustainability, with 71 per cent of business leaders in APAC believing sustainability measures can generate more than 5 per cent of their annual revenue. Stakeholder influence on sustainability initiatives is declining, suggesting organisations are increasingly incorporating sustainability into their long-term strategies.

Artificial intelligence (AI) has solidified its position as the top sustainability enabler for Design and Make organisations in APAC for the third consecutive year, with 39 per cent of leaders using it for sustainable outcomes, up from 37 per cent in the previous year. Applications range from natural disaster mitigation to project lifecycle management.

Interestingly, India has taken the lead in AI adoption for sustainability within APAC, with 52 per cent of business leaders utilising it. South Korea has witnessed the most significant and consistent increase in AI adoption for sustainability.

AI hype meets implementation realities

Despite the enthusiasm surrounding AI, sentiment towards the technology has cooled across APAC. While 72 per cent of leaders believed AI would enhance their industry in the 2024 survey, this figure has dropped to 68 per cent. Concerns about industry disruption from AI have risen, with 50 per cent of leaders now agreeing it will destabilise their sector, a notable increase from 43 per cent in the previous year.

Also Read: Optimising workplace design for employee engagement and organisational success

Fumihiro Ojima, General Manager at Japan’s Tokyu Construction Co. Ltd., observes, “I think that generative AI is important, but when generative AI first appeared, there was an excessive sense of expectation towards generative AI and AI in general, and I think that we have just passed the peak of that. There was an impression that generative AI could do anything, but in fact there are things that it is suited to and things that it is not suited to, and I think that we have finally come to understand that”.

This adjustment reflects the realities of AI implementation, the ongoing shortage of technical skills, and the technology’s current limitations.

Consequently, leaders are adopting a more conservative outlook on their AI roadmaps. However, investment in AI remains strong, with 68 per cent of respondents in APAC stating their AI investments will increase over the next three years.

Digitally mature organisations are leading this charge, with 78 per cent planning increased AI investment compared to 58 per cent of less digitally mature companies.

Yongsik Jeong, Vice President at South Korea’s Samoo Architects & Engineers, notes, “AI requires a much larger investment than we expected. So, there is a bit of a delay moving forward. And, not all things related to AI are positive signals; there are clear limitations… We clearly believe that we will be able to reach ROI when we invest in AI for new business opportunities and business areas”.

Cost, technology, and talent remain key concerns

Amidst geopolitical and economic uncertainties, cost control has emerged as the top business challenge for 34 per cent of leaders in APAC. Technological advancements, including AI, are a close second, cited by 32 per cent of leaders as a major challenge, particularly concerning implementation. Talent acquisition and retention also remain a significant hurdle, with 29 per cent of leaders identifying it as a top concern.

Notably, Japan stands out as the only surveyed country where attracting, training, and retaining talent is the most pressing challenge. Leaders in Australia, India, and Singapore are primarily focused on cost.

The search for skilled talent is intensifying, with 62 per cent of APAC business leaders reporting that a lack of access to skilled talent hinders their company’s growth, a significant increase from 50 per cent in 2024.

Alarmingly, 50 per cent of leaders report having had to let people go due to a lack of technical skills, up from 37 per cent, exacerbating labour shortages.

When it comes to future hiring priorities, AI skills top the list for 45 per cent of leaders in APAC, up from 41 per cent, highlighting the continued strategic importance of AI despite implementation challenges.

Cautious near-term outlook despite strong investment intent

Overall sentiment across the design and make industries in APAC has cooled, with most business leaders feeling more uncertain about the future and less prepared to handle unforeseen changes. Sixty-eight per cent of leaders agree that the global landscape is now more uncertain, a 9-point jump from the previous year. Confidence in their organisation’s ability to weather future obstacles has also declined.

Despite this caution, 68 per cent of business leaders in APAC still anticipate increasing their investments over the next three years, although this is a decrease from 72 per cent in 2024, reflecting a more conservative approach.

Notably, China is the only country in the region where a greater percentage of leaders plan to increase investment. India continues to lead the region, with 84 per cent of leaders indicating increased investment.

However, companies generally pull back on expansion efforts, with reduced enthusiasm for entering new markets and offering new services.

These findings present a mixed bag for Singapore and Southeast Asia’s burgeoning tech startup ecosystem. The strong emphasis on digital transformation and AI skills highlights significant opportunities for startups offering solutions.

Also Read: Why the future of AI needs more diversity and the arts

However, the challenges related to cost control and the need for practical AI applications suggest that startups must offer demonstrable value and return on investment. The intensifying search for talent, particularly with AI expertise, also indicates a competitive landscape for skilled professionals.

Ultimately, the report underscores the critical importance of digital maturity and strategic technology investments for companies in the Design and Make sector to navigate current uncertainties and secure a competitive edge in the APAC region.

The post Beyond the buzz: How AI and sustainability are reshaping design, manufacturing, and construction in APAC appeared first on e27.

Southeast Asia’s tech and business landscape is growing at lightning speed. Across the region, companies are raising funds, expanding to new markets, building game-changing products, and finding creative ways to solve everyday problems. From fintech breakthroughs to AI-powered tools, there’s no shortage of innovation happening right now.

At e27, we love seeing these exciting updates straight from the companies themselves. Milestones are more than just announcements, they’re a window into how businesses are growing, the challenges they’ve overcome, and the impact they’re making in their industries and communities. Whether it’s a new feature launch, a funding win, or a big market expansion, these moments deserve to be celebrated.

Want to shine a spotlight on your own company’s progress? It’s simple:

•        Create your company profile: https://e27.co/startupprofile
•        Post your milestone: https://e27.co/milestone/post/

Sharing your milestone on e27 is an easy way to get noticed by other founders, potential investors, and the wider community, and maybe even get featured in our next listicle, just like the companies below.

Here are 10 of the latest milestones from companies across the region

LenderLink – Scaling access to credit in the Philippines
LenderLink has grown to 36M+ borrower records and 600K+ monthly credit record exchanges. This makes it easier for lenders to confidently provide financing to more Filipinos, especially those who’ve been left out of traditional banking systems.

Kredit Hero – AI fraud checks for smarter lending
Kredit Hero launched a new AI-powered Fraud Analysis tool on its Marketplace and KreditOS platform. It helps lenders quickly spot tampered documents or inconsistencies, making loan approvals faster, safer, and smarter.

ChatterBooth – Meet Memo, a new way to leave notes
ChatterBooth just dropped Memo, a feature that lets you leave a note for someone who can’t reply in real time — think of it as a digital sticky note. No more missed messages, just simple, seamless communication.

Smart-Wares – Smarter clinic management with AI
Smart-Wares launched MedibotX (Alpha), an AI-powered clinic management system that helps healthcare professionals manage everything in one place — from appointments and billing to inventory and staff scheduling.

Good Bards – Taking students on an AI journey
Good Bards hosted a session with the Institute of Technical Education, walking participants through the history of AI and into today’s era of AgenticAI. Big thanks to Senior Lecturer Amos Lim and everyone who joined in!

Unified Intelligence – Joining Indonesia’s AIIP program
Unified Intelligence was selected to join Indonesia’s AIIP program, where they’ll be contributing to national AI innovation and development while collaborating with other leading tech players.

Serbiz – Early funding from Antler Vietnam
Serbiz, a Gen Z-founded flexible employment platform, just raised pre-seed funding from Antler Vietnam. Using ChatGPT to ride the latest TikTok trends, they’re building a platform that resonates with young job seekers.

PriyoShop – AI-powered credit scoring for MSMEs
PriyoShop teamed up with Community Bank and Insights Genie to launch Bangladesh’s first AI-driven alternative credit scoring system, giving small businesses faster and fairer access to short-term financing.

OTONOCO AI – Helping financial firms stay compliant
OTONOCO AI rolled out a system that tracks daily updates from regulators like MOHA and AGC. It keeps a full record of changes, helping companies prepare for audits — with plans to add UN sanctions tracking next.

Arches Corporation – Expanding to the Americas
Arches Corporation is going global! They’ve opened a new office in Bogotá, Colombia, connecting APAC expertise with U.S. and LATAM clients and creating more opportunities for cross-border growth.

Also Read: From funding wins to product launches: 10 SEA startups sharing milestones on e27

These milestones show how Southeast Asia’s companies are taking bold steps forward, whether it’s through AI innovation, market expansion, or helping communities gain access to better opportunities.

Got something exciting to share?

•        Create your profile: https://e27.co/startupprofile
•        Post your milestone: https://e27.co/milestone/post/

—

Photo by Thirdman

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Global risk sentiment has improved markedly in recent days, driven by the Federal Reserve’s decision to lower interest rates, which has injected fresh optimism into financial markets worldwide. Investors appear to view this move as a signal that policymakers are prioritising economic growth amid signs of a cooling labour market, even as inflation remains somewhat elevated. The cut has ripple effects across asset classes, from equities to commodities and cryptocurrencies, fostering an environment where risk-taking feels more rewarded. In this context, Wall Street has pushed to new heights, while emerging trends in digital assets suggest a sector on the cusp of broader institutional acceptance.

The Federal Reserve announced a 25 basis point reduction in its benchmark rate on September 17, bringing it down from previous levels and marking the first easing since late last year. This adjustment aims to support hiring and prevent a sharper slowdown in employment, as recent data showed initial jobless claims dropping significantly to 231,000 for the week ending September 13, the largest decline in nearly four years. Officials emphasised that the move addresses risks to the job market while keeping an eye on inflation, which ticked up slightly to 2.9 per cent in August but remains within a manageable range. Markets had largely anticipated this step, with probabilities exceeding 75 per cent leading up to the announcement, though some volatility ensued as traders digested the forward guidance indicating potential for two more cuts by year-end.

In contrast, the Bank of England opted to hold its key rate steady at four per cent on September 18, citing persistent inflationary pressures alongside uncertainties in growth and the jobs landscape. The Monetary Policy Committee voted 7-2 to maintain the status quo, with members expressing caution that the UK economy is not yet out of the woods on price stability. Looking ahead, the Bank of Japan is set to reveal its policy stance today, with expectations leaning toward no change from the current 0.5 per cent short-term rate, as officials navigate tariff risks and a potential US slowdown. These divergent approaches among major central banks highlight a global economy at a crossroads, where easing in one region could spill over to influence others.

Also Read: Quantum investor QAI Ventures picks Singapore for APAC headquarters

Equity markets have responded positively overall, with US indices scaling fresh peaks on September 18. The Dow Jones Industrial Average climbed 0.27 per cent to close above 46,000, the S&P 500 advanced 0.48 per cent to around 6,600, and the Nasdaq Composite surged 0.94 per cent to over 22,200, buoyed by strength in technology shares. This rally reflects investor confidence that lower borrowing costs will sustain corporate earnings and consumer spending. Yields on US Treasuries moved higher in response to the robust jobless claims figure, which eased fears of a rapid labour market deterioration. The 10-year Treasury note rose three basis points to above 4.11 per cent, while the 2-year yield increased two basis points to 3.56 per cent. Such movements suggest markets are pricing in a soft landing rather than a recession, though the bond market’s reaction also underscores ongoing sensitivity to economic data.

Currency and commodity dynamics have shifted as well. The US dollar index strengthened by 0.49 per cent to 97.35, benefiting from the perception of relative US economic resilience amid global uncertainties. Gold prices dipped 0.4 per cent to US$3,643.40 per ounce, as profit-taking followed a recent record high, with the metal’s appeal dimming slightly in a risk-on environment. Brent crude oil fell 0.9 per cent to US$67.32 per barrel, pressured by concerns over US demand despite the rate cut’s potential to stimulate activity. These declines illustrate how commodities are caught between supportive monetary policy and lingering worries about global growth, particularly with trade tensions simmering.

Asian equities displayed a mixed performance, trimming some gains post the Fed’s meeting but still showing resilience in key benchmarks. Japan’s Nikkei 225 crossed the 45,000 threshold for the first time, closing higher amid a tech-led advance, reflecting spillover optimism from US markets. Early trading today saw varied movements across the region, with US futures pointing to a positive open, suggesting the upbeat sentiment may persist. This regional response highlights the increasing interconnectedness of global markets, with policy shifts in the US often setting the tone for Asia’s trading sessions.

Also Read: How a 10-day silent retreat made me a better investor

Cryptocurrencies, on the other hand, have shown remarkable vigour, with Bitcoin maintaining momentum around US$117,000 despite initial sluggishness following the rate cut. Technical indicators point to a bullish setup, with a trend line support at US$115,800 and recent breaks above resistances at US$116,200 and US$116,500. The price peaked at US$117,920 before a minor retracement to the 50 per cent Fibonacci level near US$116,750. Analysts anticipate resistance at US$117,500 and US$117,850, with a clear breach of US$118,000 potentially propelling it toward US$118,500 or even US$118,800. On-chain data reveals strong institutional accumulation, with ETF flows and whale activity supporting the floor. Social media discussions on platforms such as X highlight this breakout potential, with traders noting that a close above US$117,000 on high volume could ignite further upside. However, overbought signals from the RSI above 88 suggest a possible short-term pullback, with supports at US$116,550 and US$115,800 if resistance holds firm.

Solana has emerged as a standout performer, rallying beyond US$250, its highest in nearly eight months, and outperforming the altcoin market by 25 per cent over the past month. Institutional adoption drives this surge, with corporations holding over 17 million SOL tokens valued at US$4.3 billion. Notable players include Forward Industries with 6.82 million SOL, Sharps Technology at 2.14 million, and others like Defi Development Corp and Upexi Inc., nearing 2 million each. Helius Medical Technologies’ $500 million SOL treasury program echoes strategies like MicroStrategy’s Bitcoin reserves, bolstering SOL’s case as a reserve asset. The blockchain’s total value locked stands at US$14.6 billion, making it the second-largest DeFi ecosystem, while a 6.8 per cent staking yield surpasses Ethereum’s 2.9 per cent. Options data shows higher call premiums, indicating bullish trader sentiment, with predictions eyeing US$300 as the next target amid ETF approval hopes. X conversations amplify this enthusiasm, with users pointing to treasury strategies and network upgrades as catalysts.

Regulatory developments have further catalysed crypto’s ascent. The US and UK signed a memorandum to collaborate on quantum computing and AI, impacting blockchain security. Coinbase CEO Brian Armstrong expressed confidence in the Digital Asset Market Clarity Act passing through Congress, clarifying the roles of the SEC and CFTC. Australia’s ASIC eased stablecoin licensing, while the SEC approved Grayscale’s Digital Large Cap Fund—the first multi-asset crypto ETF and proposed rule changes to expedite ETF listings. These steps signal a maturing framework, reducing uncertainty and attracting institutional capital.

Also Read: The Fed, tariffs, and digital assets: What investors are watching

From my perspective, this moment feels pivotal for cryptocurrencies. The convergence of monetary easing, regulatory clarity, and institutional inflows positions digital assets for sustained growth, potentially eclipsing traditional markets in volatility but also in returns. Bitcoin’s resilience above US$117,000 amid broader economic shifts suggests it’s evolving from a speculative play to a legitimate hedge, much like gold in past cycles. I remain cautious. Rate cuts don’t erase risks like stagflation or geopolitical tensions, and crypto’s history of sharp corrections warrants prudence. Investors should diversify their portfolios and closely monitor macroeconomic indicators.

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Image Credit: Mathieu Stern on Unsplash

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Nvsion, a Malaysian startup specialising in AI-powered automated optical inspection (AOI) solutions, has raised undisclosed funding from Cambrian Fund.

The new capital injection is earmarked to accelerate Nvsion’s expansion, focusing on advancing product development, recruiting top-tier talent, and growing its customer base.

Also Read: ‘The future of semiconductor manufacturing is regional’: Global TechSolutions CEO

Founded in October 2024 by Jeffrey Chung, Nvsion develops critical AOI solutions that enhance precision, improve quality, and increase efficiency in outsourced semiconductor assembly and test (OSAT) and electronics manufacturing services (EMS) segments.

Beyond semiconductors, Nvsion sees significant opportunities to deploy its platform into other advanced manufacturing sectors demanding high precision and throughput, such as advanced electronics, automotive, and medical devices.

At the core of Nvsion’s offering is its proprietary Synthia Vision AI Platform, which employs a hybrid of artificial intelligence and rule-based algorithms for high-speed industrial applications.

Chung said: “With their [Cambiran Fund’s] support, we are confident in our ability to deliver greater innovation, expand our world-class customer base, and contribute to Malaysia’s emergence as a leader in advanced manufacturing.”

Cambrian Fund’s investment aligns with its strategic objective to back technology companies across Southeast Asia that possess exceptional founders and a clear trajectory towards market leadership. The fund, managed by Southern Capital Group, is anchored by leading institutional investors and industry founders. It targets high-growth companies within the semiconductor, Industry 4.0, and advanced manufacturing value chains in Malaysia and Southeast Asia, providing strategic capital and operational expertise.

Kenneth Tan, CEO of Southern Capital Group, stated: “Nvsion’s advanced, software-first approach to machine vision is set to make a significant impact in a critical and rapidly growing part of the Industrial 4.0 landscape. We are confident in their potential to scale and become a market leader, and we look forward to supporting them on their transformative journey.”

Also Read: Semiconductors at risk: The invisible threats that could break global supply chains

Malaysia’s strategic geographical position and expanding ecosystem make it an ideal hub for semiconductor innovation in Southeast Asia. Plus, there’s an increasing global demand for designers based in the region, substantial growth in key end-markets like AI and high-performance computing.

Recently, local semiconductor integrated circuit (IC) design firm SkyeChip raised a significant investment from Gobi Partners.

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Indonesian tech company Bliink has launched a dedicated business travel management platform to modernise how the country’s MSMEs handle corporate travel. The launch was unveiled at the “Bliink Elevate” mini-conference in Jakarta, accompanied by a whitepaper titled “Breaking Barriers: The Rise of Accessible Business Travel for Indonesian MSMEs.”

Bliink’s new offering is tailored to reduce inefficiencies in a segment that forms Indonesia’s economic backbone yet remains largely underserved by traditional corporate travel solutions. The company partnered strategically with the Ministry of Communication and Informatics to support MSME digitalisation.

In a market where 97 per cent of businesses are classified as MSMEs, Bliink’s whitepaper highlights that most still manage travel manually, incurring up to 30 per cent in cost inefficiencies, compliance risks, and administrative burdens. The study found that last-minute bookings can inflate airfares by as much as 61 per cent, and 25 per cent of employees admit to misreporting personal expenses as business ones.

Founder and CEO Larry Chua noted, “MSMEs are the backbone of the Indonesian economy, but inefficient business travel processes often hinder them. In an Indonesian business culture prioritising personal relationships, face-to-face meetings are key to building trust and closing deals.”

Also Read: Elevating travel experiences: The power of value-added services

Bliink’s platform offers a range of enterprise-grade travel management features without the traditional barriers of high cost or contractual commitments. Its key value propositions include Access to corporate rates on flights and accommodations typically reserved for large companies, policy management tools to enforce travel rules and budget controls, an integrated booking and reimbursement system that cuts administrative work by up to 50 per cent, no minimum commitment, allowing flexible, pay-as-you-go usage, and 24/7 Support, with a combination of AI and human assistance.

This suite of features is designed to allow MSMEs to “operate with enterprise-class efficiency,” as the press release states.

The launch signals growing recognition of MSMEs as a strategic market for digital transformation and B2B services like travel. While regional unicorns often chase large corporate clients or consumer superapps, Bliink’s focus on MSMEs reflects a broader shift in Southeast Asia: building tech infrastructure for the “missing middle” that sustains local economies.

With over 65 million MSMEs in Indonesia alone, and many more across ASEAN, scalable tools for this segment represent both a social and commercial opportunity.

The collaboration with Indonesia’s Ministry of Communication and Informatics adds institutional weight to Bliink’s ambitions. It aligns with broader national priorities around MSME digitalisation and economic resilience post-pandemic.

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Image Credit: Bliink

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When it comes to B2B marketing, there’s more to it than just following a checklist of tasks. It’s an art form, one that requires passion, dedication, and a constant drive to improve. Over the years, I’ve come to see marketing as much more than just a business function (in particular, B2B marketing in fintech) — it’s a craft, and like any craft, it demands both skill and heart.

If you’re looking to elevate your marketing game, here are a few tips that have helped me along the way, and I hope they’ll be just as valuable to you.

Recognise marketing as a craft, not just a function

I used to think marketing was just something I did—it was easy, almost second nature. But then someone reminded me just because something feels effortless doesn’t mean it’s not a skill worth appreciating. Marketing, especially in the B2B space, is a craft. It’s about blending creativity with strategy.  For example, recently, I have been looking at Gen AI strategies to facilitate marketing processes.

Tip: Take a moment to think about what you’re really good at in marketing. Is it crafting compelling content, deciphering analytics, or maybe brand strategy? Whatever it is, lean into it and keep sharpening those skills. And don’t forget to keep learning—there’s always something new to discover.

Specialise, but stay adaptable

In marketing, it’s easy to feel like you need to be a jack-of-all-trades. But the truth is, the best marketers are those who know where their strengths lie. Specialising in a particular area doesn’t mean closing yourself off to new opportunities—it just means you’re more focused on what you enjoy and excel at.

Tip: Figure out which part of marketing you’re most passionate about. Maybe it’s content creation, maybe it’s digital strategy. Whatever it is, make it your specialty. At the same time, stay connected with others who have different expertise. It’s all about building a network where you can both give and receive support.

Appreciate the nuances of digital marketing

Digital marketing isn’t just about taking traditional methods and putting them online. It’s its own beast, with its own set of rules. From SEO to user experience, there’s a lot to keep up with, and the customer journey is more complex than ever. But that’s also what makes it exciting—the challenge of it all.

Also Read: B2B growth strategies every startup should know: Your checklist

Tip: Dive deep into the world of digital marketing – whether it’s getting better at SEO or understanding the nuances of social media algorithms. And remember, what works in the digital space might be entirely different from what works in traditional marketing, so don’t be afraid to adapt.

Separate personal and professional social media expertise

We all have social media accounts, but managing a personal account is a far cry from running a corporate one. Professional social media marketing is about strategy, consistency, and understanding your audience on a deeper level. It’s not just about what you post, but why you’re posting it and what you hope to achieve.

Tip: If you’re handling social media for a brand, treat it like the strategic endeavor it is. Set clear goals, know your audience, and be intentional with your key conversation themes or messaging. Don’t just wing it because it’s “social media”—give it the thought and planning it deserves.

Value your expertise, even when it feels easy

One of the signs that you’re truly skilled at something is when it starts to feel easy. But just because something is easy for you doesn’t mean it’s not valuable. In fact, that’s often a sign that you’ve mastered your craft. Don’t let the ease of your work diminish its importance—what’s easy for you might be incredibly difficult for someone else.

Tip: Own your expertise. Whether it’s spotting a typo in a split second or knowing exactly how to tweak a campaign for better results, these are skills that you’ve spent years developing. Don’t be shy about communicating the value you bring to the table, even if it feels effortless.

Conclusion

B2B marketing is a journey, and like any journey, it’s filled with learning, growth, and discovery. By treating marketing as a craft, you not only improve your skills but also deepen your connection to the work you do. Remember, it’s not just about getting the job done—it’s about doing it with passion, precision, and pride. Keep honing your craft, stay curious, and never stop pushing yourself to new heights.

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Editor’s note: e27 aims to foster thought leadership by publishing views from the community. Share your opinion by submitting an article, video, podcast, or infographic.

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Image credit: Canva Pro

This article was first published on August 29, 2024

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Dat Bike, a leading electric motorbike startup in Vietnam, has closed a US$22 million Series B funding round, bringing its total capital to US$47 million.

The new round was led by Japanese manufacturing giant FCC and Japan/Singapore-based Rebright Partners. Existing and new investors, including Jungle Ventures, Cathay Venture (the investment arm of Taiwan’s largest financial holding company with over US$400 billion in total assets), and AiViet Venture (a Vietnamese firm backed by industry leaders from major tech and finance companies), also joined.

Also Read: Thinking out loud: Are electric vehicles as sustainable as we believe?

The capital will be strategically deployed to scale manufacturing capacity through facility expansion, advanced tooling, and automation to “meet soaring demand”. A significant portion will bolster ongoing R&D efforts to advance core technologies and diversify its product portfolio with next-generation electric motorbikes.

Furthermore, Dat Bike plans to enhance its online and offline retail networks and customer service infrastructure for a more seamless and personalised customer experience. Crucially, the company will deepen partnerships with ride-hailing platforms and financing providers.

In addition, Dat Bike has formed a strategic partnership with FCC, a global leader in motorcycle clutches with 22 production facilities across 10 countries.

Vietnam’s electric two-wheel sector braces for a monumental shift, propelled by substantial government support for green mobility and a global decarbonisation agenda. For example, Hanoi plans to ban all fossil fuel-powered motorbikes from its inner-city, slated for July 2026. This will create an impetus for EV adoption and a lucrative opportunity for players like Dat Bike, whose vision is to drive mass adoption of green transportation and transform Vietnam’s vehicle market from petrol to electric.

Founded in 2019 by Son Nguyen, a software engineer from Silicon Valley, Dat Bike boasts a robust domestic supply chain encompassing everything from chassis and plastic fairings to motor controllers, battery packs, and the full software stack.

This localised approach grants Dat Bike tighter control over quality and costs, enabling the delivery of superior performance at an affordable price. It is crucial for direct competition with traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) motorbikes.

The company’s manufacturing capacity has already expanded five times in 2024, and its 3S network covers major cities nationwide. Further expansion is planned.

Also Read: Is India on the verge of shifting gears to EVs?

Son Nguyen, CEO of Dat Bike, said, “Our strong product focus and deep integration with the local supply chain enable us to continuously innovate and build bikes that rival internal combustion engine (ICE) motorcycles in both performance and range. This principle is the foundation for developing Vietnam’s EV ecosystem and driving the broader transformation of mobility across Southeast Asia.”

In 2023, Dat Bike secured US$8 million funding round led by Singapore-based Jungle Ventures, with GSR Ventures, Delivery Hero Ventures, Wavemaker Partners, and Innoven Capital participating. A year earlier, the EV company bagged US$5.3 million in Series A funding led by Jungle Ventures with participation from Wavemaker Partners.

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Global risk sentiment demonstrated resilience on Thursday, September 18, following the Federal Reserve’s anticipated 25 basis point reduction in its benchmark interest rate during the FOMC meeting that concluded the previous day. The decision passed with an 11-1 vote, a move that aligned with market expectations amid signs of a softening labour market in the US. Investors absorbed the news without much disruption, as the central bank navigated a delicate balance between supporting economic growth and guarding against persistent inflation pressures.

This adjustment brought the federal funds rate target range down to 4.00 per cent to 4.25 per cent, marking the first cut in the current easing cycle. The lone dissenter, Stephen Miran, whom President Donald Trump recently appointed to the Federal Reserve Board, pushed for a more aggressive 50 basis point reduction instead. Miran’s position reflected a bolder approach to monetary policy, one that prioritised quicker stimulus to bolster employment and consumer spending in the face of recent job market weaknesses, such as the unemployment rate ticking up to 4.2 per cent in August data released earlier in the month. His vote highlighted internal divisions within the Fed, particularly as Trump’s influence shapes the board’s composition with appointees who favour looser policy to align with the administration’s pro-growth agenda.

Fed Chair Jerome Powell addressed the media in a press conference after the announcement, and his remarks carried a subtly hawkish undertone that tempered immediate enthusiasm for further easing. Powell emphasised the economy’s underlying strength, pointing to robust consumer spending and a solid corporate sector as reasons to proceed cautiously with rate adjustments. He avoided committing to a rapid series of cuts, instead stressing the need for data-dependent decisions amid uncertainties like potential trade tariffs and geopolitical tensions. This stance contrasted with more dovish expectations from some analysts who anticipated a clearer path toward sub-3 per cent rates by mid-2026. The Fed’s updated economic projections reinforced this measured approach, forecasting two additional quarter-point cuts by the end of 2025 and just one more in 2026, a trajectory that fell short of the market’s hopes for deeper relief.

Participants in the Summary of Economic Projections median outlook saw the federal funds rate ending 2025 at 3.875 per cent, with inflation projected to hover around 2.5 per cent, slightly above the central bank’s long-term target. In my view, Powell’s comments serve as a prudent reminder that the Fed prioritises stability over knee-jerk reactions, even if it disappoints those betting on aggressive easing to fuel asset rallies. This hawkish lean could cap upside in equities and commodities in the near term, but it also prevents the kind of overheated markets that led to past bubbles.

Also Read: From MoU to action: How e27’s partnership with NTT Holdings is bridging Southeast Asia’s innovation gap

Wall Street wrapped up trading on Wednesday, September 17, with a mixed performance that reflected the nuanced Fed outcome. The Dow Jones Industrial Average climbed 0.57 per cent, buoyed by gains in cyclical sectors like industrials and financials that stand to benefit from lower borrowing costs. In contrast, the S&P 500 dipped 0.10 per cent, while the Nasdaq Composite shed 0.33 per cent, dragged down by technology stocks sensitive to interest rate shifts.

Big tech names such as Apple and Nvidia posted modest declines, as investors rotated out of high-valuation growth plays toward value-oriented sectors. This rotation underscores a broader market dynamic where the Fed’s tempered guidance prompted a reassessment of risk premiums, with the VIX volatility index easing slightly to 15.2, indicating subdued fear levels. Overall, the session’s close suggested that while the rate cut provided a tailwind, Powell’s hawkish signals introduced caution, preventing a broad rally.

US Treasury yields moved higher on Wednesday, signalling that bond investors viewed the Fed’s path as less accommodative than hoped. The 10-year Treasury yield rose four basis points to settle at 4.07 per cent, while the two-year yield also increased by four basis points to 3.54 per cent. This uptick flattened the yield curve slightly, with the spread between the 10-year and two-year notes narrowing to 0.53 percentage points, a level that hints at lingering concerns over future growth without aggressive policy support. Higher yields typically pressure equities by raising the cost of capital, but they also attract foreign inflows to US debt, bolstering the dollar. In this context, the modest rise appears justified, as it aligns with the Fed’s projection of slower rate convergence to neutral levels.

The US dollar index advanced 0.25 per cent to 96.87, gaining ground against a basket of major currencies as the Fed’s decision reinforced the relative strength of the American economy. The dollar’s uptick came despite the rate cut, driven by expectations of shallower easing compared to peers like the European Central Bank, which has signalled more cuts ahead. This resilience in the greenback could weigh on exporters and emerging markets, but it also curbs imported inflation, giving the Fed more room to manoeuvre.

Also Read: Dat Bike teams up with Japan’s FCC in US$22M Series B round

Gold prices pulled back 0.2 per cent to US$3,681.39 per ounce after touching a record high earlier in the session, as the dollar’s strength and higher yields diminished the metal’s appeal as a safe-haven asset. Despite the retreat, gold has surged over 40 per cent year-to-date, fueled by central bank purchases and geopolitical risks. The Fed cut typically supports non-yielding assets like gold by improving liquidity, but Powell’s cautious tone introduced profit-taking. I see gold’s pullback as temporary, with its long-term bullish case intact given ongoing uncertainties around elections and trade policies.

Asian equities showed strength on Wednesday, rallying on anticipation of the Fed’s rate cut, with Hong Kong’s Hang Seng Index leading the charge by jumping 1.78 per cent to its highest level since November 2021. This surge is tied directly to Chief Executive John Lee’s policy address, where he outlined ambitious initiatives to invigorate the economy. Lee pledged enhanced support for artificial intelligence development through tax incentives and R&D funding, alongside measures to stabilise the property sector via relaxed stamp duties and increased land supply targets for the next decade. He also accelerated plans for the Northern Metropolis project, aiming to create a tech hub with improved infrastructure and talent attraction programs. These announcements addressed key pain points like high housing costs and sluggish innovation, boosting investor confidence in Hong Kong’s post-pandemic recovery. Mainland Chinese stocks followed suit, with the CSI 300 up 1.2 per cent, while Japan’s Nikkei 225 gained 0.8 per cent on export optimism.

In early trading on September 18, Asian markets traded mixed, with some profit-taking after the prior day’s gains. Tokyo’s Nikkei edged up 0.6 per cent to a fresh record, driven by real estate and tech advances, while Shanghai Composite held flat amid caution over US-China trade rhetoric. Hong Kong’s HSI dipped 0.3 per cent initially, consolidating after the policy boost. US equity index futures pointed to a higher open, with S&P 500 contracts up 0.4 per cent and Nasdaq futures rising 0.5 per cent, signalling renewed risk appetite as traders digested the Fed’s move.

The cryptocurrency market climbed 0.97 per cent over the last 24 hours, extending a seven-day uptrend of 3.56 per cent, as institutional interest and macroeconomic tailwinds propelled digital assets higher. Bitcoin hovered around US$96,000, while Ethereum pushed toward US$4,000, reflecting a risk-on rotation that favoured altcoins amid Fed rate cut optimism. Surging inflows into exchange-traded funds played a pivotal role, with Bitcoin and Ethereum ETFs absorbing US$642 million and US$405 million, respectively, this week, pushing combined holdings to substantial levels. The SEC’s approval of Grayscale’s multi-asset ETF further amplified sentiment, channelling regulated capital into the space and creating sustained demand that offsets typical sell pressures from miners or long-term holders.

Also Read: Terra Oleo emerges from stealth with US$3.1M to reinvent palm oil and cocoa

This institutional demand via ETFs carries profound bullish implications for crypto’s maturation. With Bitcoin ETF assets under management reaching US$152 billion and Ethereum’s at US$24.23 billion, these vehicles democratize access for traditional investors wary of direct wallet management. The week’s US$1.04 billion in combined inflows underscores a structural shift, where pensions and endowments allocate to crypto as a portfolio diversifier. Looking ahead, the September 17 FOMC meeting’s outcome could spark even more inflows if markets interpret the cuts as liquidity-enhancing. In my opinion, this trend solidifies crypto’s place in mainstream finance, reducing volatility over time and attracting trillions in eventual capital, though regulators must balance innovation with consumer protections to avoid setbacks.

Fed rate cut speculation added fuel to the crypto rally, with markets pricing a 96.4 per cent probability of the 25 basis point move via tools like Goldman Sachs’ models and the CME FedWatch. Traders anticipate a US$1.9 trillion liquidity injection across the system, correlating strongly with crypto’s performance, as evidenced by the 0.78 correlation coefficient with the Nasdaq-100 over the past day. Lower rates diminish the opportunity cost of holding high-volatility assets like Bitcoin, while a softer dollar historically boosts crypto prices by making them cheaper for international buyers. Past cycles show Bitcoin gaining an average of 25 per cent in the month following initial Fed cuts, a pattern that aligns with current dynamics. However, the hawkish elements in Powell’s speech introduce risks; if future meetings signal pauses, crypto could face sharp corrections. I view this as a net positive for the sector, as easier money encourages speculative flows, but investors should brace for amplified swings tied to macro news.

The acceleration of altcoin season presents a mixed bag, with the Altcoin Season Index climbing to 72, up 10.77 per cent weekly, indicating alts outperforming Bitcoin. Ethereum led with a 5.63 per cent gain, Solana surged 57 per cent on DeFi momentum, and BNB rose 10.8 per cent amid exchange ecosystem growth. Decentralised exchange volumes jumped 25.11 per cent, as capital rotated away from Bitcoin, whose dominance slipped to 56.91 per cent. This shift signals broadening market participation, with low-cap tokens drawing retail frenzy.

Also Read: The Fed at the crossroads: Rate cuts, political pressure, and the fragile balance of global markets

The rally’s fragility shines through in its reliance on liquidity; a hawkish Fed pivot or regulatory crackdown could reverse gains swiftly, especially for speculative alts lacking fundamentals. Derivatives activity amplified the move, with perpetuals volume hitting US$434.48 trillion, up 8.61 per cent, and funding rates spiking 91.68 per cent, pointing to leveraged exuberance. From my perspective, altseason fosters innovation in areas like AI-blockchain integrations and layer-2 scaling, but it also breeds excess. Prudent investors should focus on established alts with real utility, like Ethereum’s staking yields or Solana’s speed, rather than chasing memes, to navigate the volatility inherent in this phase.

In wrapping up this market panorama, global assets exhibit cautious optimism post-Fed, with equities poised for gains, commodities consolidating, and crypto thriving on institutional bets. The interplay of central bank actions and policy initiatives, from Washington’s rate path to Hong Kong’s reforms, shapes a landscape ripe for opportunity yet laced with uncertainties.

As a journalist tracking these flows, I remain bullish on risk assets over the longer horizon, convinced that easing cycles historically reward patient capital, but I urge vigilance against overextension in the face of evolving Fed rhetoric and geopolitical crosswinds. This week’s developments affirm that while the Fed’s hand guides the market, diverse catalysts like ETF momentum and regional policies add layers of complexity to the narrative.

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Image Credit: Alexander Grey on Unsplash

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