As a father, one of my greatest hopes for my daughter is that she grows into a woman who pursues her passions and inspires and uplifts others. International Women’s Day is more than just a celebration—it is a reflection on the journey she has embarked on and the ripple effect of empowerment she is creating in the world.

The power of a role model

When she was just eight years old, she unknowingly taught me a profound lesson about influence. At that time, I had recently transitioned from the military and was stepping into my new career as a speaker. The shift was a significant one—moving from a structured, high-discipline environment to a field where my voice and message had to create an impact.

One evening, I was rehearsing a speech at home, deeply engrossed in perfecting my delivery. My daughter sat beside me, watching with quiet curiosity. She observed how I articulated my words, how I paced my speech, and how I used my presence to command attention. After hours of practicing, she looked up at me and said, “Appa, I’m so inspired by how well you speak. I want to be an awesome speaker just like you.”

Those words struck me in a way I hadn’t expected. It wasn’t just admiration—it was a realisation that she saw in me something she aspired to become. She wasn’t just watching me rehearse a speech; she was absorbing confidence, articulation, and purpose. She even memorised parts of my speech and flawlessly recited them back to me. That moment made me realise that our children don’t just listen to what we say—they internalise how we live.

From that day forward, I understood that my role extended beyond being a father. I had the responsibility of shaping a woman who would inspire others, who would use her gifts to empower those around her, and who would one day stand on her own stage—both figuratively and literally.

Also Read: Invest in women, accelerate progress: Why gender equality matters now more than ever

Rising to her potential

Fast forward to today—at 20 years old, she has transformed that childhood inspiration into reality. She has not only honed her speaking skills but has excelled, winning the National Speech Championship and securing first runner-up in the YMCA ‘PESA’ competition. But as much as I take pride in her achievements, what moves me even more is the intention behind her success.

She doesn’t just speak to win competitions. She speaks to make an impact. She has realised that her voice carries weight, and she wants to use it to empower, challenge perspectives, and drive change. Whether she is delivering a speech to a room full of people, mentoring young girls, or simply carrying herself with confidence, she is shaping the aspirations of those who cross her path.

Her impact on other women

A woman’s success is never just her own—it is a beacon for others. This International Women’s Day, my hope for my daughter is that she continues to:

I want her to be a beacon of confidence, showing other women that their voices matter. I want her to inspire them to stand tall, speak boldly, and embrace their stories with conviction. Too often, women hesitate to use their voices because of fear—fear of judgment, fear of inadequacy, fear of being unheard. But a single empowered woman has the power to break that cycle for many others.

I hope she continues to lift others as she climbs. Success means little if it is not shared. I want her to mentor, guide, and empower those who are searching for their own paths. The beauty of leadership is not in standing at the top alone but in bringing others along and watching them rise beside you.

Also Read: How this introvert started a community of women investors in SEA

I hope she uses her voice for change, speaking up for the issues that matter. In a world where inequalities still exist, where voices are often silenced, I want her to be unafraid to take a stand. Whether advocating for fairness in opportunities, addressing challenges that women face, or simply encouraging another woman to pursue her dreams, she holds the power to create a meaningful impact.

Most importantly, I want her to lead by example, not just in words but in action. I hope she inspires women to break barriers, redefine their own limits, and pursue their true potential, no matter the challenges they face.

The future she will shape

The world still struggles with gender biases, with preconceived notions about what women can or should do. But history has shown us that strong female role models change the narrative. I hope my daughter will be one of those women—someone who challenges the status quo, who refuses to settle for less, and who paves the way for others to rise.

Already, she is proving that when women are given opportunities, they don’t just succeed—they transform industries, influence communities, and shape the future. As her father, I will continue to support her journey, knowing that every step she takes is not just for herself but for the countless women who will walk in her footsteps.

This International Women’s Day, I don’t just celebrate my daughter—I celebrate the force of change she is becoming. I celebrate the lives she will touch, the voices she will inspire, and the countless women who, like her, are rising, uplifting others, and shaping a better world for generations to come.

—

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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In Southeast Asia, blockchain gaming continues to grow massively bolstered by several factors such as the region’s large, digitally-native population, mobile phone and internet penetration, as well as the attractiveness of cryptocurrency as a potential income stream. The region’s Web3 gaming market is expected to grow rapidly to US$3 billion by 2032, representing an impressive compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 40.1 per cent.

This rapid growth in blockchain gaming brings along potential beyond our wildest imaginations. By leveraging blockchain technology to enhance the playing experience of classic, widely played games, we can effectively guide Web2 gamers towards engaging with and embracing Web3 technologies.

Asia, which is home to approximately 1.5 billion gamers, with a vast majority of them being Web2 gamers, holds immense potential in introducing more players to the world of Web3 via blockchain gaming. Merging the ubiquity of traditional games with the innovative possibilities of blockchain, promises to modernise classical games and breathe new life into our favourite, age-old pastimes – from attracting new audiences to engaging players with new gameplay.

What if we add blockchain elements to a classic game enjoyed by 700 million players?

Game developers are exploring ways to innovate by tapping into the widespread appeal of beloved games. Blockchain games are showcasing how expanding upon the foundations of a classic game can reshape its timeless appeal through new ideas and imagination, without intending to replace the cherished original.

Take chess for instance, a game enjoyed by over 700 million players worldwide and undoubtedly one of the most enduring and beloved games for thousands of years. An example of this innovation is Anichess, a decentralised chess variant that adds a unique spell layer to the classic game. In partnership with Chess.com, the world’s most popular chess website, Anichess is co-creating a platform to introduce chess players and gamers to Web3 gaming.

Unlike Web2-based games, blockchain games enable players to truly own in-game items which can also be used across different games and platforms, allowing them to maximise the utility of their assets and enjoy cross-game ecosystems.

Also Read: The future of gaming: How AI technologies are shaping a new era of immersion

However, it remains essential to focus on building games that are genuinely fun to play first, then integrate blockchain where it truly adds value to players. Games that succeed long-term are those that enhance gameplay through blockchain, rather than those that simply focus on blockchain.

For example, Anichess introduces a unique spell layer to the gameplay, adding a new level of dynamism to the classic chess experience. While embracing the fundamental rules and structure of traditional chess, this innovation not only enhances strategy and enjoyment with special spells but also levels the playing field between novices and grandmasters, giving players a fair chance to compete against those with more experience.

In addition to the fun factor, the game integrates blockchain technology by allowing players to collect items such as spells, chess piece cosmetics and battle passes on the blockchain, thus providing gamers with greater control and ownership over the game.

By fusing blockchain elements to the traditional 8×8 board game, it is revitalising chess for the approximately 270 million strong gaming community in Southeast Asia and a whopping 826 million gamers in Asia.

Enhancing the social and economic impact of chess through blockchain

While chess has traditionally been a two-player game, decentralising it on the blockchain allows for players and developers to enhance its community-driven aspects. A Decentralised Autonomous Organisation (DAO) structure enables players to vote on rule changes or features, creating the foundation for open innovation — allowing the community to carve the future of the game together and reflecting the true desire of all the players.

Blockchain also enables open networks to grow in value based on various factors such as number of users and investment. A key element in Web3 networks, which are open and permissionless by design, is cultural capital — intangibles like knowledge, skills and experience. Chess players, who tend to be inherently competitive and strategic, form a unique type of cultural capital, making the network even more valuable.

Chess tournaments also feed into the play-and-earn Web3 game model, giving chess players the opportunity to monetise their skills and turn chess into an exciting source of potential income for anyone. This particularly expands its appeal to a large audience of younger players and especially appeals to the significant unbanked population in Southeast Asia.

Also Read: The future of gaming is female and mobile

Chess is just one example; we will see more traditional games beginning to integrate blockchain elements. This integration maintains the fun aspect while bringing benefits of ownership, social interaction, and economic opportunities to the existing fans of these traditional games.

Putting player engagement at the heart of revitalising classic games

We are continuing to see blockchain-enabled games go mainstream, with the lines between Web2 and Web3 gaming becoming increasingly blurred. Blockchain-based games are not only bridging generational gaps by appealing to both seasoned gamers and tech-savvy youth exploring blockchain-powered games, but getting more audiences exploring possibilities of Web3 in an engaging and accessible manner.

The innovative blend of Web3 elements with traditional gaming never fails to captivate me. By enabling the creation of vibrant, community-driven gaming ecosystems, this exciting fusion promises to revitalise beloved classical games for generations to come. I also believe that Southeast Asia is at the forefront of mainstream adoption of these Web3-enabled traditional games.

—

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The burgeoning tech startup ecosystem in the Philippines is witnessing a significant surge in activity, marked by record deal flow and an unprecedented rise in international investor interest, according to the Philippine Venture Capital Report 2025, a collaboration between Foxmont Capital Partners and Boston Consulting Group (BCG).

Also Read: Money talks: How tech can boost Filipinos’ financial literacy

This upswing reflects the nation’s resilient economy, strong domestic demand, and a rapidly expanding digital landscape.

Economic fundamentals underpin growth

The Philippine economy is expanding at a robust pace, boasting a 5.6 per cent GDP growth rate, outpacing many of its Asian peers. This resilience is buoyed by strong domestic demand, a significant reduction in poverty from 22.3 per cent in 2012 to 13.7 per cent in 2023, and decreasing unemployment and underemployment rates, which have fallen below pre-pandemic levels. This solid macroeconomic foundation provides a fertile ground for the growth of tech startups.

Foreign investors flock to Philippine shores

In a notable development, international private market investor interest in the Philippines has surged, with the share of funds raised through foreign investors increasing by 45 per cent over the past year. Foreign direct investment (FDI) now leads over mixed deals, indicating that Philippine startups are not only capturing global attention but also securing larger ticket sizes attractive to global investors.

This growing confidence extends to the public markets, with foreigners becoming net buyers for the first time in six years, signalling renewed faith in the country’s economic trajectory.

Digital economy fuels innovation

The Philippines’s digital economy is experiencing substantial growth, although specific GMV increase figures comparing 2023 and 2024 vary across the provided snippets. The nation continues to exceed global averages in time spent using the internet and social media.

Notably, the country is the fifth largest market on TikTok Shop, with approximately US$3.1 billion in GMV and 116 per cent year-on-year growth. The value of the e-commerce market is projected to increase sevenfold from US$3 billion in 2019 to US$21B in 2024. This thriving digital environment offers vast opportunities for tech startups across various sectors.

Fintech remains a hotbed of activity

Fintech continues to be the most active sector for deals in 2024. Digital payments are on the rise, with the share of digital payments by value reaching 55.3 per cent and by volume 52.8 per cent in 2023.

GCash, a leading digital wallet, has seen its user base grow to 94 million in 2024, representing a significant portion of the total population. The digital loan book balance has also seen substantial increases.

The improving policy environment is further underscored by S&P Global Ratings raising the Philippines’ credit rating outlook to “positive” in November 2024.

Record-breaking deal flow in 2024

2024 marked a record-breaking year for deal flow in the Philippines, reflecting the maturing startup ecosystem. Yearly funds raised reached US$1.12 billion, and yearly deal volume hit 96. While 2023 saw more smaller-ticket deals, 2024 had a larger share of growth-stage investments. Fintech and cleantech emerged as fast-growing sectors, while e-commerce and B2B SaaS saw a decline in deal activity. The relative lack of investors in the US$10 million to US$20 million range presents a potential opportunity for those looking to bridge the gap to later-stage rounds.

The middle class: A powerful consumer force

The rise of the Philippine middle class is reshaping economic and social landscapes. The combined middle-income groups grew from 42 per cent of the population in 2012 to 47.5 per cent in 2023, despite a 20 per cent increase in the total population. This growing middle class exhibits an increasing capacity for discretionary spending, with savings ratios nearly doubling over the last two decades.

Also Read: AI is not slowing demand for software developers in the Philippines

Consumer behaviour is evolving, with a noticeable shift towards commoditisation for necessities and premiumisation for products and services that enhance quality of life, particularly in sectors like health, services, communication, and education. This evolving demand creates significant opportunities for startups catering to these needs in health, financing, power, and agriculture.

Healthcare under scrutiny: Gaps and opportunities

Despite improvements in overall well-being, the Philippine healthcare system faces challenges due to shifting demographics, increased health prioritisation, and a higher prevalence of non-communicable diseases (NCDs).

The probability of mortality from NCDs in the Philippines is among the highest in Southeast Asia. Significant gaps exist in healthcare infrastructure, with only 0.96 hospital beds per 1,000 people.

There is also a considerable disparity between registered and active healthcare workers, particularly nurses, many of whom migrate for better working conditions. Healthcare costs remain a significant challenge, with a medical inflation rate of 19.3 per cent in 2024.

These gaps, however, present prime opportunities for new players offering innovative solutions in areas like hospital modernisation, digital health, and affordable insurance.

Empowering small businesses: Bridging the funding divide

Micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) are crucial to the Philippine economy, accounting for 99.6 per cent of business enterprises and 67 per cent of total employment. However, they receive only 4.1 per cent of overall banking loans, significantly below the mandated 10 per cent and the real funding gap estimated at US$221 billion.

This funding gap is attributed to banks’ perceived high-risk and cost-to-profit issues, as well as demanding documentation requirements and rigid loan structures. Fintech companies are playing an increasingly vital role in bridging this gap by developing innovative financing models, partnering with banks, and helping MSMEs improve their credit readiness.

Government initiatives, such as reductions in the reserve requirement ratio (RRR) and interest rate cuts by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP), aim to make borrowing cheaper for MSMEs.

Unlocking energy potential: A call for investment

The Philippine energy sector is on the cusp of a major transformation, driven by rising electricity consumption and economic expansion. Electricity demand is projected to grow annually by around 6 per cent until 2050. To meet this demand and the government’s renewable energy targets (35 per cent by 2030 and 50 per cent by 2040), significant investment in renewable energy and infrastructure is required, estimated at US$5.5 billion to US$8 billion per year until 2030.

Also Read: Philippine VC Kaya Founders backs AI, fintech, and B2B innovators in 2025

The Philippines has substantial geographical advantages for renewable energy, with over 800GW in potential capacity. Government initiatives and increasing private sector interest, including commitments from major players like AC Energy, Meralco, and AboitizPower, drive the shift towards cleaner energy sources. Venture capital has a crucial role to play in supporting energy efficiency and optimisation technologies.

Cultivating agriculture: Addressing fundamental challenges

Despite abundant natural resources, the Philippine agricultural sector struggles to meet domestic food demand, with a significant trade deficit. Key challenges include farmland fragmentation, ageing farmers, and lagging productivity.

A recent survey highlights the diverse realities farmers face, segmented into strong, stable, and struggling categories, revealing disparities in income, technology access, and third-party support. Poverty incidence among farmers remains twice the national average.

Addressing these challenges requires financial support through structured loans and insurance, technological advancements to improve efficiency and market access, and enhanced education on best agricultural practices.

A promising horizon for Philippine tech

The Philippine tech startup ecosystem exhibits strong fundamentals and attracts increasing global attention and investment. The confluence of a growing digital economy, a rising middle class with evolving consumer needs, and supportive government initiatives across various sectors like fintech, healthcare, energy, and agriculture presents a wealth of opportunities for innovative startups.

While challenges remain, particularly in areas like MSME funding, healthcare infrastructure, and agricultural productivity, the increasing engagement of both local and international investors signals a promising horizon for the Philippine startup revolution.

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Looking at the evolving narrative around Trump’s tariff policies and their ripple effects across markets, currencies, commodities, and cryptocurrencies. The question at hand offers a rich tapestry of data points—ranging from US economic indicators to equity market movements, Treasury yields, and the intriguing interplay between Trump’s America-First agenda and the crypto sphere.

A blend of optimism for market resilience and a healthy scepticism about the long-term implications of protectionist policies shapes my perspective. Let’s dive into this multifaceted story, unpacking the facts, analysing the trends, and offering a grounded take on what it all means.

The weekend headlines suggesting that Trump’s reciprocal tariffs, slated for April 2, might be more targeted and flexible than feared have undeniably lifted global risk sentiment. This shift in tone is a breath of fresh air for investors who’ve been bracing for a blunt, across-the-board trade war that could throttle growth and stoke inflation. The idea that the administration might tailor these tariffs—perhaps sparing certain sectors or negotiating carve-outs—hints at a pragmatic streak beneath the bombastic rhetoric.

It’s a signal that Trump, now in his second term, may be tempering his approach with an eye on economic stability rather than just political theatre. Markets responded swiftly, with the S&P 500 climbing 1.8 per cent, the Dow Jones gaining 1.4 per cent, and the Nasdaq surging 2.3 per cent, driven by a 3.4 per cent rally in the “Magnificent Seven” megacaps—think Apple, Amazon, and Nvidia. This buoyancy reflects a collective sigh of relief, a belief that the tariff storm might not be as destructive as anticipated.

On the data front, the US March PMIs paint a nuanced picture. The uptick in the Services PMI is a welcome surprise, easing fears of a sharp economic slowdown and suggesting that the consumer-driven backbone of the US economy remains intact. Services, after all, account for over two-thirds of US GDP, so any sign of resilience here is a bulwark against recession chatter.

But the manufacturing PMI slipping back into contraction territory—below the 50 threshold—raises a red flag. The culprit? A tariff-related spike in materials costs. Manufacturers are already feeling the pinch of uncertainty, with supply chains recalibrating and input prices ticking up.

This divergence between services and manufacturing underscores a bifurcated economy: one part humming along, the other creaking under trade policy pressures. It’s a reminder that tariffs, even if targeted, don’t operate in a vacuum—they ripple through production networks, hitting some sectors harder than others.

Also Read: Small country and market? Punch heavier with an ecosystem strategy

The bond market’s reaction reinforces this cautious optimism tinged with concern. US Treasuries fell on Monday, pushing yields up across the curve. The 2-year yield rose 8.6 basis points to 4.035 per cent, while the 10-year yield climbed 8.8 basis points to 4.335 per cent. This uptick reflects a dialling back of expectations for Federal Reserve rate cuts, as investors digest the possibility that tariffs could keep inflation stubbornly above the Fed’s two per cent target.

Atlanta Fed President Raphael Bostic’s comments amplify this shift: he’s now projecting just one rate cut in 2025, down from two, and doesn’t see inflation hitting two per cent until early 2027. That’s a significant recalibration, signaling that the Fed might stay hawkish longer than hoped, especially if tariff-induced price pressures persist. The Fed’s reticence to push back on this market repricing suggests they’re in wait-and-see mode, letting the data—and Trump’s policy moves—dictate the pace.

The US Dollar Index, up 0.2 per cent to 104.30, its highest since early March, is another piece of the puzzle. A stronger dollar aligns with the narrative of a US economy holding its own amid global uncertainty, bolstered by higher yields and a perception of relative safety. But it’s a double-edged sword—while it boosts purchasing power for American consumers, it squeezes exporters and multinational corporations, potentially denting S&P 500 earnings down the line.

Commodities, meanwhile, tell a split story: gold dipped 0.4 per cent, perhaps as risk-on sentiment reduced its safe-haven appeal, while Brent crude rose 1.2 per cent to US$69.11 per barrel, buoyed by supply-side optimism or perhaps a flicker of demand recovery in Asia.

Speaking of Asia, the MSCI Asia ex-Japan index snapping a three-day losing streak with a 0.46 per cent gain is a subtle but telling sign. India’s SENSEX 30, up 1.40 per cent, has clawed back nearly all its year-to-date losses, showcasing the resilience of an economy less exposed to US trade whims.

Chinese stocks, too, caught a bid—Hang Seng up 0.91 per cent, CSI 300 up 0.51 per cent — possibly reflecting hopes that targeted tariffs might spare Beijing the worst. Yet early trading today showed mixed results across Asian indices, hinting that the relief rally might be fragile, contingent on further clarity from Washington.

Also Read: Global markets in flux: Trump’s tariff pause and bitcoin reserve shake sentiment

Now, let’s pivot to crypto, where Trump’s influence is weaving an unexpected thread. Bitcoin spot ETFs saw a net inflow of US$84.17 million yesterday, marking seven straight days of gains. Fidelity’s FBTC led the pack with US$82.85 million, pushing its historical total to US$11.47 billion, while Bitwise’s BITB added US$19.23 million. Even with Ark Invest’s ARKB shedding $40.97 million, the broader trend is clear: institutional appetite for Bitcoin remains robust.

This resilience stands in contrast to Ethereum, which is grappling with its own challenges. ETH tested resistance at US$2,069 on Monday, buoyed by transaction fees hitting an all-time low—a double-edged sword. Lower fees might attract users, but they also signal waning network activity, a bearish undercurrent for a blockchain whose valuation hinges on usage. Grayscale’s research team nailed it: Ethereum’s price weakness—down 35 per cent in two months—ties directly to this fee slump and a broader crypto downturn sparked by Trump’s tariff threats.

The correlation between crypto and macroeconomics is tightening, and Trump’s policies are a big driver. US spot Ethereum ETFs have bled nearly US$390 million over 13 consecutive days of outflows, per Farside data, while on-chain metrics like transaction counts echo pre-election lows. Validators and token burners, who rely on fees, are feeling the pinch, undermining ETH’s value proposition.

Yet here’s where it gets fascinating: Trump Media and Technology Group (TMTG) is diving headfirst into this space, partnering with Crypto.com to launch “America-First Investment Funds” under the Truth.fi brand. These ETFs and SMAs, backed by a US$250 million TMTG investment and custodied by Charles Schwab, will span cryptocurrencies and “Made in America” securities—think energy and manufacturing. Trademarks like Truth.Fi Bitcoin Plus ETF and Truth.Fi US Energy Independence ETF scream Trump’s playbook: blending nationalism with financial innovation.

This move is a masterstroke of branding and ambition. By tying crypto to an America-First ethos, Trump’s team is betting on a narrative that could galvanise retail and institutional investors alike. It’s a counterpoint to Ethereum’s struggles—Bitcoin, with its ETF inflows, is riding a wave of momentum, while ETH languishes. The tariff flexibility hinted at over the weekend might bolster this venture further; if energy and manufacturing sectors get a pass, those “Made in America” funds could thrive, drawing capital away from more volatile altcoins like Ether.

Let me sum up. The US economy’s resilience, as seen in the Services PMI and equity gains, is real, but manufacturing’s woes and sticky inflation (thanks, tariffs) temper my optimism. The Fed’s hawkish tilt and a stronger dollar could cap upside, especially if global growth falters. In Asia, selective strength—India and China holding firm—suggests diversification might shield some markets, but the jury’s out on sustainability.

Crypto’s split fate—Bitcoin soaring, Ethereum stumbling—mirrors this dichotomy, with Trump’s Truth.fi gambit potentially reshaping the landscape. I’m cautiously bullish on equities and Bitcoin, skeptical of ETH’s near-term prospects, and watchful of how Trump’s tariff chess game unfolds. It’s a high-stakes story, and we’re only in the opening chapter.

—

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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BrainEye, an Australian health-tech company, is preparing to introduce its AI-driven brain health screening app to the Indonesian market. This will mark a significant milestone in its mission to make neurological health assessments more accessible and affordable.

With a growing global focus on brain health and concussion safety, BrainEye offers a smartphone-based platform that delivers rapid, non-invasive assessments of brain function. Using artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning, the app provides a snapshot of a user’s neurological health in under 40 seconds without the need for expensive hardware or clinical environments.

Steven Barrett, Chief Operating Officer at BrainEye, in an email interview with e27, highlighted the scale of the issue the company seeks to address. “Neurological disorders are the leading cause of disability worldwide. It is estimated that one in three people will suffer from a neurological disorder at some point in their lifetime. Yet, as many as 75 per cent of those affected go undiagnosed until symptoms are disabling … Our aim is to reduce this gap by providing an early indicator of dysfunction.”

BrainEye’s upcoming Indonesian launch is supported by French football legend Emmanuel Petit, a FIFA World Cup and UEFA European Champion. As BrainEye’s brand ambassador, Petit advocates for greater awareness of brain health and concussion safety in sports, particularly in grassroots and community settings where access to medical professionals may be limited.

In sports, BrainEye’s tech is poised to address longstanding concerns about the effectiveness of traditional concussion protocols. The company argues that conventional methods, such as the Sports Concussion Assessment Tool (SCAT), rely heavily on subjective observation and are typically deployed after symptoms manifest.

Also Read: The neuroscience of startups: Unlocking the brain’s potential for business success

By contrast, BrainEye offers objective, real-time data that has proven up to three times more reproducible than SCAT.

“In clinical trials with elite AFL athletes, BrainEye achieved 100 per cent sensitivity and 85 per cent specificity, successfully identifying players diagnosed with concussion through abnormal eye movement data,” Barrett shared.

“This empowers club doctors with real-time insights and extends vital concussion screening to schools, academies and community sports clubs, where 95 per cent of athletes do not have immediate access to medical professionals.”

At the core of BrainEye’s solution is the digitisation of ocular motility tests, which have long been used by frontline medical personnel to assess neurological function.

“Eye movements are generally very stereotyped, so any change in brain function will manifest through a change in ocular motility,” Barrett explained. “We have digitised this process, making it more objective and sensitive to subtle changes that might otherwise go unnoticed.”

The tech has been clinically measured and validated against gold-standard clinical devices, distinguishing it from many competitors in the market. With over 120,000 tests performed worldwide, BrainEye is classified as a Class 1M medical device and is designed for use across various sectors, including clinical neurology, sports safety, mental wellness, and elder care.

Machine learning plays a pivotal role in BrainEye’s precision and reliability.

“The more data we collect, the more accurate our app becomes,” Barrett noted. “Our algorithms are constantly tightening, becoming more accurate and reliable with every test. AI is central to our current success and future evolution as a leader in brain health technology.”

Also Read: Neuroscience-backed productivity tips every tech founder should adopt

The app allows users to monitor their brain health over time, with consistent downward trends prompting medical consultation. Early identification of potential neurological issues opens the door to earlier intervention and better patient outcomes.

“Earlier identification means earlier treatment, leading to better patient outcomes and reduced healthcare costs,” Barrett said. “For caregivers, disease progression can be slowed, reducing the intensity of care needed. Meanwhile, healthcare systems benefit from reduced physical and economic burdens as conditions are more effectively managed.”

Barrett acknowledged the challenges involved in developing the platform, particularly in securing data from unhealthy populations and balancing user-friendliness with data accuracy. “Usability was a major focus. The app is user-friendly, but it requires users to keep their hands and heads still during testing. Striking that balance was not easy,” he noted.

The team has also placed significant emphasis on ensuring regulatory compliance. BrainEye’s certified quality management system is built on established software development and risk management standards, with data encryption and high-level security protocols in place.

The company has secured approval from Australia’s Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA), a milestone that paves the way for further approvals in other jurisdictions, including Southeast Asia.

“AI regulation is at the forefront of every major jurisdiction,” Barrett said. “Securing regulatory approval for our cutting-edge technology has been one of our biggest challenges, but it also underscores the robustness of our approach.”

As BrainEye prepares for its Indonesian rollout, the company remains focused on expanding both its platform capabilities and its global footprint. “We are presented with new use cases every time we meet someone new. There is so much potential,” Barrett added.

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Image Credit: BrainEye

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SeaX Ventures, a Thai and US-based venture capital firm, has announced the launch of SeaX Zero, a US$6 million climate-focused fund dedicated to supporting deep tech startups tackling global carbon emissions. The fund, which is part of SeaX’s broader US$100 million investment strategy, aims to back early-stage innovators with the potential to deliver scalable climate solutions across critical industries.

The new fund aligns with SeaX Ventures’ ambitious mission to reduce one per cent of global carbon emissions by investing in breakthrough technologies.

SeaX Zero will target seed to Series A companies developing solutions in next-generation materials, alternative proteins, sustainable food systems, and clean energy.

“At SeaX Ventures, we have always been drawn to transformative technologies that can reshape industries and improve lives,” said Dr Kid Parchariyanon, Founder and Managing Partner of SeaX Ventures, in an email interview with e27.

“The climate crisis, especially in Southeast Asia – responsible for around seven per cent of global emissions – demands urgent action. Yet, there’s a significant investment gap when it comes to deep tech solutions capable of real impact. SeaX Zero was created to bridge that gap.”

SeaX Zero has already deployed capital into four pioneering startups: Hoxton Farms, Type One Energy, Active Surfaces, and Bluu Seafood. Each represents a strategic bet on scalable technologies poised to drive substantial carbon reductions.

Also Read: Eco-investing: Driving change through climate technology and strategic finance

Among them, Type One Energy is working to commercialise fusion energy – a zero-carbon, limitless power source that could transform the global energy landscape. “Fusion is one of the most exciting breakthroughs in clean energy. It offers the potential for constant power without emissions or long-lived waste,” Dr Parchariyanon added.

Meanwhile, Hoxton Farms and Bluu Seafood are rethinking food production, using cultivated proteins to replace traditional animal farming, which is a major contributor to methane emissions and overfishing.

“Hoxton Farms, for instance, is developing cultivated fat to improve the taste and texture of plant-based meats, which is crucial for mainstream adoption,” he explained.

On the materials front, Active Surfaces has created ultra-thin, flexible solar technology that integrates seamlessly into building structures, turning everyday surfaces into clean energy generators.

SeaX Zero plans to invest in 15 to 20 startups by the end of 2025, deploying initial cheques between US$100,000 and US$500,000. Beyond capital, the fund offers strategic support, leveraging SeaX’s global network to help startups overcome commercialisation challenges and access key markets—particularly in Asia, where demand for climate solutions is surging.

“Early-stage climate tech startups face long development timelines and need strong industry partnerships to scale,” Dr Parchariyanon noted. “We go beyond funding by connecting our founders with the right partners, customers, and policymakers to accelerate their path to market.”

SeaX Ventures’ core focus on deep tech innovations spans health tech, agritech, and clean energy. The addition of SeaX Zero strengthens its commitment to sustainability while sharpening its impact investment thesis.

Also Read: Adopting electric trucks for a greener logistics future in Singapore

“This initial fund is designed to prove that early-stage deep tech ventures can drive massive carbon reductions while delivering strong financial returns,” Dr Parchariyanon said. “We’ll be closely monitoring technological progress, market adoption, and regulatory tailwinds as we prepare for a larger follow-on fund.”

According to Dr Parchariyanon, SeaX Zero’s approach balances scientific credibility, economic viability, and market demand. “The technologies we back must be commercially scalable and cost-competitive – not just greener but better than the status quo,” he added.

Looking ahead, Dr Parchariyanon sees growing momentum in fusion energy, AI-driven climate solutions, and bio-based materials. “Over the next five years, climate tech will evolve from niche to mainstream. The winners will be those creating superior, cost-effective solutions that make sustainability the default choice for industries and consumers alike.”

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Image Credit: SeaX Ventures

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Singapore-based Flagright, an AI-native anti-money laundering (AML) compliance and risk management platform, has announced a US$4.3 million seed funding round.

The investment was led by Frontline Ventures, with significant participation from existing investors including Y Combinator, Pioneer Fund, and Moonfire Ventures.

Rubin Ritter (ex-co-CEO of Zalando), André Silva (ex-Global Head of Expansion at Revolut), Phillip Chambers (CEO of Orbex), Ahmed Badr (COO of GoCardless), Teng Sherng Lim (ex-CCO of Advance.AI), and Saqib Mirza (CEO of Sciopay) also participated in this funding round.

Also Read: Reimagining anti-money laundering processes with blockchain technology

This new capital injection will be channelled towards accelerating AI innovation, notably the launch of their AI Forensics product family, and facilitating expansion into the North American market by establishing new offices in New York and San Francisco.

Founded by Baran Ozkan (CEO) and Madhu G Nadig (CTO) and incubated in Y Combinator’s Winter 2022 batch, Flagright provides an AI-native operating system designed for modern risk management teams. The company currently serves over 50 customers across six continents.

The funding announcement comes when the complexities and consequences of financial crime are increasingly apparent, as highlighted by recent high-profile cases such as Singapore’s SGD3 billion (US$2.24 billion) money laundering scandal and TD Bank’s US$3 billion settlement over AML failures. These incidents underscore the critical need for more effective and proactive compliance tools.

Flagright’s platform aims to address the limitations of traditional compliance vendor systems, which are often characterised as outdated, slow, and inefficient, leading to excessive false positive rates and labour-intensive manual processes. Its no-code platform offers a centralised solution encompassing dynamic risk scoring, automated case management, real-time transaction monitoring, and AML screening.

Notably, Flagright boasts a high-performance scenario builder with sub-second API response times and advanced integrations with data providers like LSEG and Dow Jones.

According to the company, customers have reported significant improvements in operational efficiency, including 98 per cent fewer false positives, 87 per cent less manual monitoring effort, and a 90 per cent improvement in compliance accuracy. The platform’s reliability is underscored by its 99.99 per cent uptime and real-time data processing in under 700 milliseconds.

Also Read: XTransfer’s AI-driven Anti-Money Laundering technology empowers B2B international trade

Flagright’s newly launched AI Forensics product family promises to automate compliance workflows across screening, monitoring, governance, and quality assurance. This includes AI agents for monitoring (automating alert investigations), governance (simplifying regulatory change management), and quality assurance (enhancing compliance QA processes). These agents are integrated into Flagright’s AML solution with a centralised data lake, enabling superior risk detection and continuous improvement.

The firm also has offices in Berlin and Bangalore.

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Over the weekend, fresh headlines hinted that President Donald Trump’s much-discussed reciprocal tariffs, slated for April 2, might not be the broad, blunt instrument markets initially feared. Instead, they could be more targeted, potentially easing some of the anxiety that’s kept investors on edge. But let’s not kid ourselves—the situation remains fluid, and a major risk still looms large. Markets hate uncertainty, and this story is far from written.

Last week offered a glimpse into how these dynamics are playing out. The Federal Open Market Committee’s (FOMC) latest dot plot stuck to its script, signalling expectations of two rate cuts this year despite a bump in near-term inflation projections from 2.5 per cent to 2.8 per cent.

That’s a notable shift—it suggests the Fed sees price pressures sticking around a bit longer than anticipated. Meanwhile, the median growth forecast took a hit, sliding from 2.1 per cent to 1.7 per cent, a clear nod to the mounting headwinds facing the US economy.

Friday’s market action encapsulated the mood: equities spent most of the day in the red, only to be yanked into positive territory by a late rally from mega-cap tech giants, nudging the S&P 500 up 0.1 per cent by the close. It’s a classic case of the market’s bipolar nature—pessimism giving way to a flicker of optimism driven by a handful of heavyweights.

The bond market, meanwhile, told its own story. The US Treasury yield curve steepened, with long-end yields creeping higher after Fed Governor Christopher Waller suggested the banking system still has plenty of reserves to handle the Fed’s ongoing Treasury runoff without disruption. The 10-year yield edged up 0.9 basis points to 4.246 per cent, reflecting confidence in the longer-term outlook.

At the front end, however, yields dipped—the 2-year yield fell 1.6 basis points to 3.948 per cent—as markets priced in more Fed easing to come. It’s a delicate balancing act: the Fed resisting short-term pressure to pivot aggressively while signalling it’s not blind to the softening growth picture.

The US Dollar Index, up 0.2 per cent to 104.09, notched its first weekly gain in three weeks, a subtle flex of muscle amid the uncertainty. Commodities offered a mixed bag: gold, often a safe-haven darling, shed 0.7 per cent as profit-taking kicked in, while Brent crude eked out a 0.2 per cent gain, buoyed perhaps by geopolitical jitters or steady demand signals.

Over in Asia, the MSCI Asia ex-Japan index dropped 0.9 per cent on Friday—its third straight day of losses—dragged down by tariff fears, though it still managed a 1.22 per cent weekly gain. Chinese tech stocks weren’t so lucky; profit-taking hammered the Hang Seng and CSI 300, which slumped 2.19 per cent and 1.52 per cent, respectively, as investors cashed out amid the overhang of potential trade disruptions.

Also Read: Examining global hybrid and remote work trends beyond the West

Looking ahead, this week’s economic calendar is packed with potential market movers. Friday’s US Personal Consumption Expenditures (PCE) data—the Fed’s preferred inflation gauge—will be the headliner, offering fresh clues on whether those upwardly revised inflation projections hold water.

Earlier in the week, the UK’s February CPI on Tuesday and Tokyo’s March CPI on Friday will shed light on global price trends. Stateside, the Congressional Budget Office’s debt ceiling estimate on Wednesday could stir the pot, especially with the Treasury’s cash pile under scrutiny.

And let’s not forget the steady drumbeat of Fedspeak—comments from Fed officials could either soothe or spook markets, depending on their tone.

Asia’s in the spotlight too. The China Development Forum, which kicked off in Beijing on Sunday and wraps up today, Monday, March 24, has drawn global business leaders eager to gauge China’s next moves. Some are slated to meet President Xi Jinping later this week, a rare chance to take the pulse of China’s leadership amid trade tensions. Early trading in Asian equities today has been a mixed bag, reflecting the push and pull of optimism over narrower tariffs and lingering unease about what’s next.

Then there’s the crypto angle, which has been lighting up financial headlines. Bitcoin, XRP, and Solana (SOL) kicked off Monday with gains, riding a wave of positivity tied to those reports of more targeted Trump tariffs. Bitcoin’s hovering around US$86,500, up 2.7 per cent in the last 24 hours, while SOL’s outpacing the pack with a near six per cent jump to US$138. The S&P 500 futures are cheering, too, pointing to a higher open for US stocks.

It’s tempting to see this as a sign that Bitcoin may have found a floor, with some analysts eyeing a rebound toward US$90,000 if tariff fears continue to ease and the Fed holds steady. Trump’s signalling of a lighter touch on trade and the Fed’s resistance to knee-jerk rate cuts last week seems to have injected a dose of cautious optimism into the crypto space.

Also Read: Global economic shake-up: Bitcoin hits US$90K, German bonds slide

Michael Saylor’s MicroStrategy is another piece of this puzzle. The company’s CEO has been dropping hints via his “Saylor Bitcoin Tracker” posts on X, a reliable signal that more Bitcoin buys are coming. Sure enough, the word is that MicroStrategy might announce a massive purchase—potentially 500,000 BTC, worth billions—tomorrow morning.

Saylor’s strategy of scooping up Bitcoin during dips has turned MicroStrategy into a crypto behemoth, with its holdings currently valued at US$8.73 billion, down from a peak of US$19.50 billion. It’s a bold bet on Bitcoin’s long-term value, and if this rumoured US$21 billion acquisition pans out, it could light a fire under the market just as sentiment starts to thaw.

Fidelity Investments is making waves too, stepping into blockchain tokenisation with a filing to register a tokenised version of its US dollar money market fund on the Ethereum network. Submitted last Thursday to the SEC, the plan involves a new “OnChain” share class for its US$80 million Fidelity Treasury Digital Fund, mostly made up of US Treasury bills.

It’s a move that echoes efforts by BlackRock and Franklin Templeton, signalling that traditional finance is increasingly cozying up to blockchain’s promise of transparency and efficiency. If approved, it could mark a turning point for how institutional money flows into digital assets.

Ethereum itself is a bit of a paradox right now. The price has been sliding—down over 51 per cent from its December peak of US$4,100 to around US$2,000—yet so-called “Ethereum whales” are quietly stacking their bags. Glassnode data shows wallets holding at least US$100,000 worth of ETH jumped from 70,000 on March 10 to over 75,000 by March 22, a stark contrast to the 146,000 seen when ETH was flying high in December. Analysts are eyeing a potential breakout to US$2,200 if buying pressure builds, but for now, ETH’s stuck in a rut, caught between whale accumulation and broader market malaise.

The prospect of more targeted tariffs is a lifeline for markets desperate for clarity, but the risks haven’t vanished—they’ve just shifted shape. The Fed’s juggling act—balancing inflation worries with growth concerns—keeps everyone guessing, and this week’s data could tip the scales either way.

Crypto’s riding a wave of cautious hope, bolstered by big players like Saylor and Fidelity, but it’s tethered to the same macro uncertainties as equities and bonds. Asia’s fate hinges on how China navigates this tariff tightrope, and the US debt ceiling looms as a wildcard. It’s a high-stakes game, and while the pieces are moving, the board’s still a mess.

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Image credit: DALL-E

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In the bustling streets of Chandigarh in north India where two-wheelers weave through traffic and helmet laws are strictly enforced, Arvind Sethi, CEO and co-founder of DualSafe, experienced a life-altering moment. Years ago, a near-fatal accident left him shaken but unscathed—thanks to a properly strapped helmet.

That incident, coupled with the daily hassle of managing helmets for himself and his wife, planted the seed for an idea: a smarter, more practical safety solution for riders.

Fast forward to 2025, and DualSafe’s innovative two-in-one wearable safety helmet is turning heads, not just in India but globally, as it redefines road safety with a blend of ingenuity and advanced technology.

A helmet born from pain points

For Sethi, the inspiration behind DualSafe’s flagship product, the dual helmet, was deeply personal. Growing up in Chandigarh, a city known for its disciplined traffic culture, he was no stranger to the logistical headache of carrying, storing, and maintaining helmets. “Even one helmet can be a hassle, let alone two,” he recalls.

The problem compounds for pillion riders, who are often handed substandard helmets—if any at all—leaving them disproportionately vulnerable in accidents. Add to that the wear and tear from sun, pollution, and moisture, plus hygiene issues like hair fall from sweaty, dirty helmets, and it’s no wonder many riders skip this critical safety gear altogether.

DualSafe set out to solve these pain points with a helmet that’s more than just protective headgear—it’s a safety gadget. Launched after over four years of development, the dual helmet is a two-in-one design that fits seamlessly into the limited storage of standard two-wheelers while packing advanced features like mobile connectivity, helmet-to-helmet communication, and an integrated camera.

Recognised by SiliconIndia as one of the Top 10 wearable startups in 2023, DualSafe’s minimum viable product (MVP) showcases IoT capabilities that hint at its potential to evolve into a fully connected device.

How it works: Safety meets convenience

The dual helmet tackles the practical and safety challenges head-on. Its compact, patented design ensures both rider and pillion helmets slot into a single unit, eliminating the need to juggle multiple pieces.

A protective shell shields the interior from environmental damage, while enhanced ventilation and a cooling effect keep riders comfortable, even at sweltering traffic stops.

Also Read: Indonesian startup Helmad turns your two-wheeler helmet into a moving billboard

Perhaps most impressively, the helmet’s structural design mimics the multi-directional impact protection system (MIPS)—a premium feature that typically adds €50-60 (US$54-65) to a helmet’s cost—without the extra price tag.

In a country like India, where road accidents claim over 150,000 lives annually, and helmet non-compliance remains a stubborn issue, DualSafe’s approach could be a game-changer. By addressing usability (storage and hygiene) alongside safety (MIPS-like protection), the helmet encourages consistent use—potentially shifting rider behaviour in a market where enforcement alone isn’t enough.

Watch it in action here: Dual helmet demo.

From concept to reality: A four-year journey

The road to DualSafe’s MVP wasn’t without bumps. Sethi and his team finalised the concept in April 2020, partnering with InventIndia Innovations Private Limited to bring it to life. But the COVID-19 pandemic threw a wrench in their plans.

“We couldn’t find a single vendor in India with the capacity and capability to develop the protective shell per our design,” Sethi explains. After a global search, DualSafe turned to manufacturers in Hong Kong and China to complete the critical component.

Four years later, the result is a helmet that’s not only functional but scalable. With patents secured in India, the UK, and the USA, and a Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT) clearing 10 claims, DualSafe has already brainstormed 11 additional features based on expert feedback—think geospatial photography, RFID sensor scanning, and volumetric video cameras for AR/VR integration.

A business model built for scale

DualSafe’s revenue strategy is as ambitious as its product. The company is targeting B2B sales, with ongoing talks with two-wheeler manufacturers, taxi aggregators, delivery organisations like Zypp Electric and rental organisations (details remain under NDA).

From there, the plan is to flow into B2B2C and B2G channels through dealerships, eventually hitting a threshold of 150,000 helmets annually to launch direct-to-consumer (D2C) sales via their website and marketplaces.

Globally, DualSafe has its sights on 62 countries with significant two-wheeler populations, 34 of which mandate helmets for both riders and pillion passengers. Exports are on the horizon, starting with the US, UAE, and South Africa. For markets with stringent certifications like DoT, SNELL, or ECE, Sethi envisions a royalty model, licensing DualSafe’s patented tech to local manufacturers. “It’s impossible to achieve every certification ourselves,” he admits, “but we can still bring the benefits of DualSafe to riders everywhere.”

Beyond two-wheelers: A helmet for all

While two-wheeler safety is DualSafe’s core focus, its applications extend far beyond. Industries like mining, construction, cement, oil rigs, and defence have shown interest, drawn by the helmet’s compact storage and IoT features.

Imagine a construction site where helmets double as communication hubs via Wi-Fi or RF, or an oil rig where a chinstrap alarm ensures compliance. Features like speed monitoring, geospatial tracking, and 360-degree environmental scanning could even transform the Dual Helmet into an industrial “black box” for safety audits.

Driving change in India and beyond

In India, where helmet compliance lags despite alarming accident stats, DualSafe’s strategy hinges on redefining the helmet experience. “It’s not just about meeting regulations,” Sethi says. “It’s about making helmets something riders want to wear.” Enhanced comfort and built-in safety features address the root causes of non-compliance— inconvenience, discomfort, and poor quality—while partnerships with major manufacturers could flood the market with DualSafe helmets, normalising their use.

Internationally, regulatory navigation remains a challenge, but Sethi is optimistic. Tie-ups via the royalty model will ease entry into complex markets, ensuring DualSafe’s vision reaches riders worldwide.

The future is smart—and safe

As smart wearables gain traction—much like wristwatches evolved into fitness trackers—Sethi sees helmets following suit. “Safety headgear will be replaced by safety gadgets, especially two-in-one designs,” he predicts. With its blend of practicality, protection, and IoT potential, the dual helmet is poised to lead that charge, proving that innovation can save lives, one ride at a time.

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Vietnamese solar energy firm Stride has announced that it has secured a Series A equity investment from new investor UOB Venture Management, alongside existing investors Clime Capital and Touchstone Partners.

This round comes less than a year after the company secured US$3 million in a debt financing facility from the Swedish solar investment platform Trine.

The company stated that this fresh capital injection will be crucial in scaling its operations and unlocking further green financing opportunities from current and potential lenders.

Stride’s business model revolves around a platform that integrates tailored financing, technology, and quality assurance to simplify adopting rooftop solar and battery energy storage systems for residential and small and medium-sized enterprise (SME) customers across Vietnam.

The firm claims it has experienced rapid growth through strategic partnerships with a wide network of solar installers. This network, combined with Stride’s proprietary digital platform, ensures that homeowners and SMEs receive high-quality solar installations.

This development aligns with Vietnam’s ambitious plans to increase its solar power capacity. The Ministry of Industry and Trade (MoIT) is revising its Power Development Plan VIII (PDP8) to elevate the targeted solar power capacity from over 25GW to 34GW by 2030.

Also Read: Swedish firm Trine backs Vietnamese solar energy startup Stride

Notably, solar energy is expected to constitute approximately 45 per cent of this added power capacity. Stride believes its innovative platform will play a significant role in supporting PDP8 and facilitating the widespread adoption of solar energy in Vietnam.

Andrew Fairthorne, co-founder and CEO at Stride, said this funding will contribute to Vietnam’s climate goals by enabling more households and small businesses to access cost-efficient green energy.

Clarissa Loh, Executive Director at UOB Venture Management, commented on Stride’s unique position in supporting micro businesses transitioning to solar energy via rooftop installations. She stated that Stride is making a significant contribution to Vietnam’s clean energy transition needs, especially considering the country’s vulnerability to climate change impacts. Furthermore, she added that this new financing round will enable Stride to expand its solution and generate positive social and environmental impact within the ASEAN region.

Since its establishment in 2021, Stride has rapidly expanded its presence across Vietnam, establishing itself as a leading provider of financed clean energy solutions for Vietnamese residential and SME customers.

Previously, Stride raised seed-stage equity capital from Clime in May 2023 through its first fund, SEACEF I, and Touchstone Partners.

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