The artificial intelligence (AI) startup landscape is evolving at an unprecedented pace. Founders must contend with the challenge of securing essential resources—such as GPUs and cloud infrastructure—while simultaneously navigating complex funding cycles. In response, Antler has launched AI Disrupt, a programme designed to provide startups with capital, resources, and mentorship in a fast-moving AI market.

“The difference between being first and being late isn’t measured in years—it’s months, sometimes even weeks,” said Ryan Thoo, Vice President of Marketing (SEA) at Antler, in an email interview with e27. “Traditional venture funding cycles don’t move fast enough for AI startups that need to ship, scale, and secure capital in parallel.”

AI Disrupt is structured as a four-week sprint that aims to remove barriers for AI founders. Startups receive US$400,000 in pre-seed funding, along with AI perks valued at over US$650,000 from OpenAI, Nvidia, Nebius, and others. The programme also includes deep technical and commercial mentorship, enabling founders to accelerate development and gain a competitive edge.

Startups accepted into AI Disrupt gain access to a suite of AI resources, including GPU, compute, and cloud credits. Partners such as Nvidia, OpenAI, Google’s Gemini, AWS, and GitHub provide infrastructure support to help founders train models, optimise performance, and deploy AI-driven solutions at scale.

“These perks ensure that founders can move faster, iterate efficiently, and focus on achieving product-market fit,” Thoo explained.

Impact in four weeks

Despite its short duration, AI Disrupt is structured to deliver a substantial impact. “It’s a high-intensity, execution-focused sprint,” said Thoo. The programme integrates hands-on mentorship with AI pioneers, strategic investor access, and tactical execution sessions.

Also Read: Elevarm nets US$4.25M to boost smallholder horticulture farmers with AI, sustainable agri-inputs

Founders receive real-time feedback on their product and business model, ensuring they can iterate rapidly. Moreover, peer collaboration within a highly selective cohort fosters innovation and problem-solving. Even after the programme ends, Antler supports invested teams with mentoring, fundraising guidance, and access to its global network.

While AI experience is beneficial, it is not a strict requirement for AI Disrupt applicants. “What matters most is deep technical capability, sharp commercial instincts, and an obsession with solving hard problems using AI,” Thoo noted.

Antler evaluates applicants based on four key qualities:
– Market insight and problem-solving approach
– Technical product execution ability
– Speed and relentless execution
– Ambition and industry-reshaping potential

To qualify, startups must have a working minimum viable product (MVP) and user validation.

Staying ahead in a fast-changing industry

Given AI’s rapid evolution, staying ahead of trends and regulations is crucial. AI Disrupt connects founders with industry experts to provide real-time insights into model optimisation, compute efficiency, and AI commercialisation.

The programme also embeds founders within a network of investors, enterprise partners, and policymakers who offer guidance on compliance, data privacy, and governance frameworks. “The AI regulatory landscape is still evolving, and startups that fail to anticipate changes risk being blocked from major markets,” said Thoo.

Among its portfolio companies, Lovable stands out as an AI-powered full-stack engineer who achieved US$4 million in annual recurring revenue within four weeks of launch.

Also Read: Shoppable bags US$1.16M to tackle supply chain inefficiencies in Philippines using AI

FileAI, another Antler-backed startup, specialises in AI-driven financial data automation. The company leverages AI to streamline financial data processing for businesses across Southeast Asia. Meanwhile, Xailient has developed ultra-efficient AI vision models for real-time edge computing, enabling low-latency, privacy-first applications across industries such as security and retail.

Antler’s portfolio also includes Trust AI, JigsawStack, Persona Studios, Clout Kitchen, and Bootloader.

“While we anticipate supporting a decent number of exceptional founders, our focus is on providing tailored mentorship, substantial funding, and access to a robust AI ecosystem,” Thoo said.

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Image Credit: Antler

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Meta is proud to partner with the Singapore Government to launch the Llama Incubator Program – a first for Meta in APAC – designed to build capabilities and drive innovation on open-source AI among startups, local SMEs, and public sector agencies in Singapore.

Collaborating with the Ministry of Digital Development & Information (MDDI), InfoComm Media Development Authority (IMDA), Government Technology Agency of Singapore (GovTech), Digital Industry Singapore (DISG), Enterprise Singapore (EnterpriseSG), AI Singapore, and SGInnovate, along with programme and technical partners e27 and Deloitte, Meta is adopting an ecosystem approach for this programme. By leveraging Meta’s cutting-edge open-source model, Llama, 100 participating organisations will receive multi-faceted support to develop innovative solutions, and 40 will be incubated to address real-world challenges and enhance efficiencies for both businesses and the public sector.

To mark the launch of the programme, Meta hosted a Foundational Workshop on the potential of Llama, Meta’s open-source AI, and its built-in trust and safety tools. The workshop, which drew over 100 attendees, featured a special keynote address from the Guest-of-Honour, Dr. Janil Puthucheary, Senior Minister of State for Digital Development and Information & Health.

Speaking at the launch, Simon Milner, Meta’s VP of Public Policy for APAC, said, “The Llama Incubator Program will play an important role in driving AI and innovation among business and the public sector in Singapore. It strategically aligns with the Singapore government’s AI vision under Smart Nation 2.0, which also aims to empower local small businesses and attract innovative startups to build and innovate.”

The Llama Incubator Program is designed to build capabilities and drive innovation on open-source AI among startups, enterprises and public sector agencies in Singapore. Over the course of six months, each participant will receive dedicated technical and business mentorship from industry experts, providing tailored advice and feedback. Participants will also gain access to technical resources, enabling them to further develop and refine their Llama use cases.

Speaking about the program, Philbert Gomez, Executive Director of DISG said: “Meta’s Llama Incubator Program empowers startups and Singapore-based corporates to leverage LLaMa models and expert mentorship to build Al solutions for real-world impact. Along with Meta’s product engineering presence based here, programmes like this continue to drive AI talent and capability development in Singapore, reinforcing Singapore’s ambition to be a leading hub for Al Innovation in the region.”

Also Read: Navigating the evolving landscape of blockchain regulation in the metaverse era

AI safety will be a key thrust of the programme, and participants will learn about Llama trust and safety tools as well as IMDA’s safety testing framework and AI Verify’s open-source testing toolkit, Project Moonshot.

“The Llama Incubator Program is an excellent platform for the Public Service to customise AI solutions for its specific needs. The government track provides public officers with the opportunity to collaborate with industry partners in developing innovative AI-driven solutions. GovTech looks forward to collaborating with Meta on this initiative,” said Goh Wei Boon, Chief Executive of Government Technology Agency.

Meta has been supporting AI innovation globally through various initiatives. The Llama Incubator Program exemplifies the transformative power of open-source AI in uniting diverse stakeholders to address complex strategic challenges across multiple sectors. By developing meaningful AI use cases, this program aims to create a significant impact in Singapore and inspire the broader region and beyond.

“By democratising access to open-source AI, we’re unlocking a brighter future where powerful tools are within reach of everyone, empowering innovators to create solutions that serve humanity and drive meaningful progress. This approach not only fosters transparency, safety, and accountability but also levels the playing field for underrepresented groups, startups, and researchers, ensuring that the benefits of AI are equitably distributed and its potential is fully realised,” added Simon.

The Llama Incubator Program, a part of our Upskill with Meta initiative in Singapore, will culminate in a Demo Day in October 2025. On this day, participants will showcase their Llama solutions and demonstrate how they can effectively address real-world challenges and drive efficiencies for business and the public sector.

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Image Credit: Meta

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Singapore has been at the forefront of digital transformation since the launch of its visionary Smart Nation initiative in 2014. A decade later, in 2024, Prime Minister Lawrence Wong unveiled Smart Nation 2.0, a refreshed vision that builds upon the successes of the first phase while adapting to the rapidly evolving digital landscape. This commitment was further reinforced in the latest Budget 2025, which introduced new measures such as the SG$150 million Enterprise Compute Initiative to accelerate digital adoption and strengthen Singapore’s position as a tech hub.

Singapore’s Smart Nation 2.0 is built on a vision of trust, growth, and community. It aims to address emerging challenges such as artificial intelligence adoption, online safety, and the need for a more resilient digital infrastructure while fostering a healthy and collaborative technological environment for citizens.

Yet, at its core, a successful Smart Nation is not solely about digital transformation. The heart of it is to deliver seamless, citizen-centric experiences that anticipate and meet individual needs. 

A truly smart and efficient government should not merely offer online services. It should provide intuitive, accessible, and personalised experiences that empower citizens at every touchpoint. This means removing friction, making information discoverable, and ensuring inclusivity for all segments of society. Adobe’s latest Digital Government Index (DGI) for Singapore reveals that while the nation continues to lead in digital innovation, there are opportunities to bridge existing gaps — especially in personalisation, accessibility, and performance optimisation.

Setting the benchmark: Singapore’s digital government strengths

Singapore’s commitment to digital excellence is evident. With 99 per cent of public services online and customer experience (CX) scoring highest at 70.4 on the Index, the country remains at the forefront of citizen-first digital service delivery. Platforms like Singpass and LifeSG streamline access to essential services, offering an integrated and convenient user experience.

This year’s 11 per cent increase in digital equity to a score of 62.2 also reflects strong government efforts to enhance inclusivity, particularly through initiatives like the Digital for Life Movement and Co-Creation Labs, which focus on empowering seniors and persons with disabilities. These efforts demonstrate that Singapore is heading towards the right direction, with an understanding that a successful digital government is also about ensuring that no one is left behind.

The next frontier: Personalisation as a pillar of citizen engagement

A government that truly serves its people must recognise and respond to individual needs. Today, citizens expect interactions that are not just digital, but also personalised. Whether it’s pre-filled forms, proactive service recommendations, or tailored content based on life stages, having customised touchpoints has become an increasing priority for citizens.

Also Read: Adobe’s APJ Digital Trends Report 2024: The rise of generative AI

While some agencies, like the Central Provident Fund Board (CPFB), have successfully deployed personalised citizen dashboards and predictive tools with Adobe Experience Cloud, there is always room for greater consistency in personalisation across government services. As Singapore advances its Smart Nation 2.0 vision, enhancing digital experiences to be more tailored and user-centric will further strengthen citizen engagement and service adoption.

Governments that fail to deliver tailored experiences risk creating inefficiencies, increasing citizen frustration, and diminishing trust in public digital services.

Bridging the gaps: Leveraging AI for an inclusive digital future

Another area for improvement is in site performance, which declined by 8 per cent. Mobile experiences are still 40 per cent slower than desktop, and readability registered as a score of 48 on the Flesch-Kincaid scale, indicating a text that is considered fairly difficult to read. These issues could potentially undermine accessibility and digital inclusion, and addressing them will help ensure that all users, including lower-literacy individuals and non-English speakers, can fully engage with digital services in Singapore’s diverse, multiracial context. 

This is where emerging technologies like AI can be game changers. By embedding AI-powered content personalisation, multilingual translation, and smart automation, Singapore can deliver hyper-personalised citizen experiences at scale. These can manifest in the form of AI-driven chatbots, voice assistants, and predictive service recommendations that can proactively guide citizens through their digital interactions, reducing friction and improving service efficiency.

Furthermore, enhancing site health and authority through AI-driven search optimisation and content verification will ensure accurate, trusted, and easily discoverable government information. This is an essential step in a search ecosystem that is becoming increasingly AI-driven with the advent of ChatGPT, DeepSeek and other AI search tools.

The hallmarks of a smart and efficient digital government

Digital transformation isn’t just about lines of code; it’s about the lines of connection between government and citizen. The success of Singapore’s Smart Nation 2.0 hinges on ensuring every citizen’s journey is uniquely tailored, making services accessible to all, and leveraging AI to scale services and anticipate needs. It anticipates, it personalises, it builds trust.

As digital expectations evolve, it is incredible to note Singapore’s approach on elevating its game. With strategic investments like the SG$150 million Enterprise Compute Initiative, going into supporting data-driven, citizen-centric public service delivery, and the right strategies in place, Singapore is well-positioned to usher in the Smart Nation 2.0 era.

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Singapore-based AI stack development platform JigsawStack has secured US$1 million in a pre-seed funding round led by UK-based Ada Ventures.

This investment brings the startup’s total funding to US$1.5 million, following Antler’s previous US$500,000 investment.

JigsawStack is focused on providing a unified, multipurpose API suite designed to streamline the development and deployment of AI-powered products. It offers access to fine-tuned, custom AI models that automate tasks across diverse technology stacks.

According to JigsawStack, these smaller, specialised models are faster and more cost-effective, unlocking the full potential of AI by transforming it into actionable solutions.

Also Read: AI infrastructure: The unsung hero of technological innovation

Since its beta launch in June 2024, the platform claims to have processed 10 million API requests from developers, indicating strong initial traction.

The venture recently launched an open-source AI framework and is developing a multimodal embedding model for retrieval-augmented generation (RAG) applications, supporting formats such as PDF, images, CSV, and JSON. It aims to enhance processes like AI web scraping, AI vOCR, and AI translation, providing businesses with the AI infrastructure needed to build advanced solutions.

Yoeven D. Khemlani, founder and CEO of JigsawStack, has a track record of successful ventures, having previously launched a property and travel startup in Singapore that achieved US$1 million in annual recurring revenue within its first year and US$3 million in its second year before being acquired.

Michael Tefula, Principal and Head of Product at Ada Ventures, highlighted the potential of JigsawStack to simplify back-end software engineering, noting the increasing number of developers and the rise of AI-code generation.

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The global workforce is undergoing a fundamental transformation, driven by the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence (AI) and the pressing need for skills-based strategies. Workday’s recent report, The Global State of Skills, highlights how global business leaders are increasingly concerned about workforce readiness amid ongoing talent shortages.

As AI reshapes the nature of work, organisations must take proactive steps to ensure their employees are equipped with the skills required for success in this evolving landscape.

The report states that AI is playing a crucial role in mitigating skills shortages and accelerating the transition to a skills-based approach. In fact, 41 per cent of business leaders strongly agree with this.

AI supports organisations in several key ways:

Automation of routine tasks
By automating repetitive processes, AI allows employees to focus on higher-value activities, increasing productivity and job satisfaction.

Data-driven decision-making
AI analyses vast amounts of data to provide insights into workforce trends, enabling informed talent management strategies.

Personalised learning and development
AI-driven learning systems tailor development opportunities to individual employees, making upskilling and reskilling more effective.

Skills mapping and job matching
AI helps create a structured skills taxonomy by analysing job descriptions and resumes, ensuring a better alignment between talent and organisational needs.

Also Read: Future-proofing talent management: The impact of AI on retention in Southeast Asia

Real-time skills gap analysis
AI enables businesses to identify critical skills shortages, allowing managers to address gaps efficiently.

Enhancing human creativity and innovation
With 83 per cent of business leaders believing AI will elevate human skills, organisations can leverage AI-driven insights to foster innovation and economic value.

Embracing a skills-based strategy

As businesses shift towards a skills-first mindset, several strategic actions can facilitate this transition:

1. Prioritising skills identification

A foundational step is understanding the current skills landscape. Businesses must assess both the existing skill sets of employees (supply) and the skills required for future success (demand). AI can assist by inferring and curating relevant skills from various data sources, helping organisations create a comprehensive skills taxonomy.

2. Adopting skills-based hiring practices

Shifting hiring practices to focus on skills rather than traditional credentials broadens the talent pool and ensures a better job fit. Behaviour-based interview techniques and AI-driven skill assessments can support this transition. Notably, 86 per cent of business leaders are comfortable with prioritising skills over traditional qualifications.

3. Investing in upskilling and reskilling

Given the evolving nature of work, many organisations recognise that their current workforce skills may not meet future demands. AI-powered learning platforms can identify critical skills and tailor training programmes accordingly. Internal mobility, where employees are matched with new roles based on their evolving skills, can also help retain top talent.

Also Read: From authentic leadership to talent investment: 5 proven tips to win the startup game

4. Implementing AI-powered skills management

AI-driven tools such as Workday Skills Cloud offer a structured way to infer, curate, and match skills to opportunities. For instance, Best Buy Canada leverages AI to align employee skills with internal job openings, enhancing career development and talent retention.

5. Addressing challenges in the transition

Transitioning to a skills-based approach comes with challenges such as resistance to change and data integration complexities. Businesses must invest in scalable, integrated systems to manage skills data effectively and ensure seamless adoption.

6. Strengthening change management and communication

A clear communication strategy is essential for gaining leadership and employee buy-in. Change management efforts should include structured implementation plans, support systems, and transparent messaging about the benefits of a skills-first approach.

7. Fostering a culture of continuous learning

Businesses must cultivate an environment where continuous learning is encouraged. This involves providing access to AI-powered learning platforms, recognising skill development achievements, and creating pathways for career progression based on acquired competencies.

8. Investing in quality skills data

Reliable skills data is critical for successful implementation. Organisations must use both internal and external data sources to build a robust skills framework, ensuring accurate insights for workforce planning.

9. Taking a value-driven approach

Rather than implementing skills-based strategies as a standalone HR initiative, businesses should align them with key organisational objectives. Pilot projects can demonstrate tangible benefits, encouraging broader adoption.

Also Read: Venture capital remains elusive for women-led startups in SEA

10. Iterating and adapting for continuous improvement

The shift to a skills-based approach requires an iterative mindset. Businesses should start with pilot projects, analyse results, and refine strategies based on insights gained before scaling up.

As organisations navigate this transition, AI will continue to be a driving force in shaping workforce readiness. Companies that embrace AI-powered skills strategies will be better positioned to adapt to evolving market demands, enhance employee engagement, and drive innovation.

By proactively addressing skills shortages and leveraging AI-driven insights, businesses can build agile, resilient workforces that thrive in an increasingly complex and competitive landscape.

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Image Credit: Brooke Cagle on Unsplash

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Shoppable Business, a Filipino AI-powered supply chain platform, has secured US$1.16 million in seed funding led by Ignite House of Innovation.

Tenco Capital, Indelible Ventures, ApolloTech Ventures, Manila Angel Investors Network, Seaborne Capital Partners, Select Ventures Holding, and strategic angel investors also participated.

With the new capital, Shoppable intends to develop Quotable, its AI-driven middleware platform. This platform allows businesses to automate critical supply chain processes and improve decision-making through data-driven insights and reporting.

Shoppable will also expand its customer base, enhance its marketplace technology, develop a lending dashboard for lender partners to finance buyers and suppliers, and roll out Quotable for free to MSMEs.

“We built Shoppable to simplify B2B transactions, and Quotable is the next evolution of that vision. This funding will help us bring powerful automation tools to more businesses, especially MSMEs who need it the most. By making supply chains more efficient and connected, we’re not just solving procurement problems — we’re helping businesses grow and thrive in the digital economy,” said COO Sam Blanquera.

Also Read: Filipino B2B e-commerce startup Shoppable Business attracts US$1.15M funding

Founded in 2022 and led by Carlo Silva, Sam Blanquera, Chris Blanquera, and Mark Reyes, Shoppable addresses supply chain inefficiencies by making it easier for companies to procure and supply products through a single supplier on record with their managed marketplace model.

Its flagship product, Quotable AI, is middleware software that automates quotes, invoicing, purchase orders, payments, financing, and product information management—helping businesses optimise workflows, reduce manual errors, and scale procurement and distribution operations seamlessly.

Quotable is currently in private beta.

With over 1,000 buyer companies and 2,500 suppliers in its supply chain network, the company is now accelerating its growth trajectory and aiming to be profitable by the end of 2025.

“We understand how frustrating it is to do everything manually through spreadsheets, which is why we decided to build Quotable. Quotable was originally built for our own problems, but our suppliers and buyers had the same problems too. By reducing manual inefficiencies and improving data accuracy, we empower businesses to scale faster and operate with greater agility in an increasingly complex supply chain landscape like the Philippines,” added CEO Carlo Silva.

“In order for us to compete globally, we need to digitise how we do things. Shoppable is transforming B2B procurement and supply chain operations by equipping businesses both Enterprise and MSMEs with the right tech because we believe that technology is a great equalizer. This funding is accelerating our mission, allowing us to drive efficiency, transparency and growth for businesses of all sizes,” noted Mark Reyes, CBO of Shoppable.

“B2B commerce and supply chain–when you see it at the scale, not just of big companies, but more so through the lens of millions of MSMEs doing tens of thousands of transactions daily– is primitive, with lots of gaps and opportunities,” said Ignite House of Innovation CEO Andre Yap. “Shoppable’s key insight is to fix the daily workflows, both supply and demand-side inefficiencies, and build the marketplace from there. This is precisely the kind of 100x ROI and impact we invest in at Ignite–something like Shoppable needs to happen.”

In 2023, Shoppable Business secured US$1.15 million in an oversubscribed pre-seed funding round, co-led by Foxmont Capital and Seedstars International Ventures.

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I’ve been closely following the whirlwind of events shaping global markets on March 12, 2025. The past 24 hours have been a rollercoaster for investors, policymakers, and analysts alike, with shifting narratives around tariff measures, deteriorating global trade relations, and a bold new step into the cryptocurrency realm by the US government.

From President Trump’s tariff tango with Canada to the unveiling of a Crypto Strategic Reserve, there’s a lot to unpack. Here’s my take on what’s driving the global risk sentiment, how markets are reacting, and what this all might mean for the future—grounded in the data and developments at hand.

Let’s start with the tariff saga, which has been the headline-grabber of the day. Overnight, President Trump sent shockwaves through markets by threatening to double tariffs on Canadian steel and aluminum to a hefty 50 per cent. This wasn’t just a shot across the bow—it was a cannon blast aimed at one of the US’s closest trading partners.

The move came after a weekend interview where Trump had already stoked recessionary fears by hinting at aggressive trade policies to protect American interests. For a moment, it looked like we were hurtling toward a full-blown trade war escalation.

But then, in a classic Trumpian pivot, he walked it back to the previously announced 25 per cent rate after Ontario agreed to suspend a 25 per cent surcharge on electricity exports to the US This rapid de-escalation underscores a pattern we’ve seen before: bold threats followed by pragmatic deal-making. It’s a high-stakes game of chicken, and so far, it seems Canada blinked first.

The market reaction was predictably volatile. US stock indices took a beating on Tuesday, with the MSCI US index sliding 0.7 per cent, dragged down by a 1.5 per cent drop in industrials—sectors most exposed to trade disruptions. The S&P 500, already nursing a six per cent decline from last week (its lowest point in six months), couldn’t shake off the tariff jitters, though it did claw back some losses from session lows.

Across the Atlantic, the STOXX 600 shed 1.7 per cent, reflecting Europe’s growing unease about being the next target of Trump’s tariff threats. Meanwhile, US Treasury yields ticked higher, with the 10-year note climbing 6.7 basis points to 4.280 per cent and the 2-year up 6 basis points to 3.943 per cent.

The yield spread widened slightly to 33.9 basis points, hinting at lingering uncertainty about the economic outlook. The US Dollar Index, however, dipped 0.5 per cent, while gold—a classic safe-haven asset—rebounded 0.9 per cent. Brent crude eked out a 0.4 per cent gain to settle at US$69.56 per barrel, reversing some recent losses but still reflecting oil’s sensitivity to global growth fears.

What’s fascinating here is the contrast in Asia, particularly China. Despite the heavy sell-off in US equities overnight, China’s onshore markets bucked the trend. The Shanghai Composite (SHCOMP) and Shenzhen Composite (SZCOMP) both rose 0.4 per cent, buoyed by robust domestic buying.

This resilience suggests that Chinese investors are betting on Beijing’s ability to cushion any fallout from US tariffs—perhaps through stimulus or a weaker yuan. It’s a reminder that while the US remains the world’s economic heavyweight, other players are finding ways to adapt and thrive amid the chaos.

Also Read: A guide on analysing market opportunity for a new product

On the data front, the US economy is sending mixed signals. The NFIB Small Business Optimism Index for February fell more than expected, a worrying sign for the backbone of the American economy.

Small businesses are often the first to feel the pinch of trade uncertainty and rising costs, and this retreat could foreshadow broader weakness. Yet, the labor market continues to hold its own. January’s JOLTS data showed job openings edging up to 7.74 million, or a 4.6 per cent rate—proof of resilience despite the tariff noise.

All eyes are now on tonight’s February CPI inflation data, which could either soothe or inflame market nerves. If inflation ticks higher than anticipated, it might force the Federal Reserve to rethink its rate-cutting stance, adding another layer of complexity to an already jittery landscape.

Then there’s the cryptocurrency bombshell, which could prove to be the most consequential story of the day. David Sacks, the White House’s newly minted crypto czar, announced that the Treasury Department will focus on boosting the value of Bitcoin, XRP, and other digital assets already in the government’s possession.

This follows President Trump’s signing of an executive order to establish a Crypto Strategic Reserve, greenlighting Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), XRP, Solana (SOL), and Cardano (ADA) for inclusion. It’s a stunning move—one that signals the US is not just dipping its toes but diving headfirst into the digital asset pool. The stated goal? To diversify national assets and bolster America’s financial posture in a world where cryptocurrencies are increasingly influential.

Bitcoin, currently trading above US$82,000 after a four per cent gain in the past 24 hours, is at the heart of this narrative. It’s a sharp rebound from its recent 30 per cent correction off an all-time high of US$109,350, and technical indicators suggest this dip might be nearing its end. Unlike the brutal 41 per cent crash in November 2021, this pullback feels different—less like the start of a bear market and more like a healthy breather amid unprecedented government backing.

Also Read: Marketing in the AI era: Going fast isn’t going far enough

The inclusion of other heavyweights like Ethereum, XRP, Solana, and Cardano only amplifies the stakes. This isn’t just about holding tokens; it’s about integrating crypto into the fabric of the US financial system, potentially legitimising it on a scale we’ve never seen.

The implications are profound. For one, it could reshape global risk sentiment in ways tariffs never could. While trade wars dent growth and stoke inflation, a US-led crypto reserve might spark a digital arms race, with other nations racing to stockpile their own reserves.

Posts on X already hint at this sentiment, with users like @digitalartchick noting that the real story isn’t the US buying assets but signalling to the world that crypto is now a geopolitical chess piece.

If countries like China or Russia follow suit, we could see a seismic shift in how wealth and power are measured. On the flip side, critics like @mansikthecat warn of downsides—government control over crypto could lead to price manipulation, undermining the decentralised ethos that drew many to the space in the first place.

From a market perspective, the crypto reserve adds a wild card to an already turbulent mix. Bitcoin’s four per cent jump today contrasts sharply with the S&P 500’s woes, suggesting digital assets might decouple from traditional markets in times of stress. Gold’s 0.9 per cent rise shows safe-haven demand is alive and well, but crypto could soon rival it as a go-to hedge if the US keeps pushing this agenda.

The Treasury’s focus on “increasing the value” of these assets also raises questions: Will they actively manage the portfolio? Buy more during dips? The lack of clarity keeps markets on edge, but the intent is clear—America wants to dominate the crypto frontier.

My view? This is a watershed moment, but it’s not without risks. The tariff flip-flops show Trump’s penchant for disruption, which keeps markets guessing and risk aversion high. The Crypto Strategic Reserve, while visionary, could backfire if it spooks investors or triggers retaliation—imagine China dumping US Treasuries to fund its own crypto hoard.

Yet, the US labour market’s strength and China’s equity resilience offer glimmers of hope. Tonight’s CPI data will be a litmus test: a tame reading could steady the ship, while a hot one might sink it.

For now, I see a world in flux—trade tensions pulling one way, digital innovation the other, and markets caught in the crossfire. I’ll keep digging for the facts, but one thing’s certain: March 12, 2025, will be remembered as a day when the old and new economies collided.

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The global food industry faces an urgent dilemma: how to meet the growing demand for oils and fats while minimising environmental harm. According to the World Wildlife Fund’s Living Planet Report (2022), food production has contributed to a 70 per cent loss of biodiversity on land and a 50 per cent loss in freshwater ecosystems.

At the centre of this challenge is palm oil, a widely used but environmentally destructive ingredient.

ÄIO Technologies, a biotech startup spun out from Tallinn University of Technology in Estonia, is pioneering a sustainable alternative. Founded in 2022 by Dr Nemailla Bonturi (CEO) and Dr Petri-Jaan Lahtvee (COO), the company is developing microbial lipid products that intend to replace palm oil, coconut oil, and animal fats.

By leveraging proprietary yeast strains to upcycle industrial side streams into value-added ingredients, ÄIO Technologies is setting a new standard for circular economy practices in the oleochemical sector.

Palm oil dominates global supply chains, with over 80 per cent of production concentrated in Malaysia and Indonesia. This monoculture farming practice leads to deforestation, carbon emissions, and biodiversity loss. ÄIO Technologies’s innovative solution offers an alternative that requires 100 per cent less land, uses ten times less water, and is ten times faster to produce than traditional plant or animal-derived oils.

Also Read: Agros lands US$4.25M Series A to scale climate-resilient farming in Indonesia

The startup’s microbial lipids can be used across multiple industries, including food, cosmetics, biofuels, and household chemicals. Unlike traditional methods, which depend on resource-intensive plantations, ÄIO’s technology converts agricultural and industrial by-products into high-value oils.

This reduces dependency on land-intensive crops and mitigates greenhouse gas emissions, a crucial factor given the industry’s current environmental footprint.

Scaling up and market readiness

Despite its technological breakthrough, ÄIO Technologies remains pre-revenue and is navigating regulatory approval processes to commercialise its ingredients. The company is actively seeking permits in key markets, including Singapore, to introduce its novel food products.

“We are still discussing how to upscale production,” said Dr Mary-Liis Kütt, CIO at ÄIO Technologies, in a presentation that e27 attended at the university. “Singapore is one possible site, and we are looking for strong partners to enable continuous production and apply different novel food applications.”

ÄIO has secured investor funding to sustain operations and is currently evaluating potential collaboration opportunities with institutions such as A*STAR, CPIP, and ScaleUp Bio in Singapore. The company is also in discussions with the Singapore Food Agency to ensure regulatory compliance.

At the heart of ÄIO Technologies’s model is a commitment to sustainability and circular economy principles. The company works with partners to identify industrial side streams that can be converted into microbial lipids. This approach not only reduces waste but also provides businesses with sustainable ingredients for testing and development.

Also Read: The future of farming in the Asia Pacific is here to empower farmers

“If we could utilise just seven per cent of Brazil’s annual agricultural waste, we could replace 30 per cent of the palm oil used in the country and mitigate 100 million tonnes of CO2 emissions,” Dr Kütt explained. “At an industrial scale, our process can compete with conventional palm oil production costs.”

ÄIO Technologies’s ability to repurpose waste streams into valuable products underscores its potential to disrupt the market. By demonstrating viable alternatives, the company is challenging long-standing supply chains while aligning with global sustainability goals.

The palm oil industry, projected to reach a market value of US$98 billion by 2030, has long been criticised for its environmental impact. Yet replacing it on a global scale is no small feat.

“Even if we capture just one per cent to two per cent of the palm oil market, we would be in a very strong position,” Dr Kütt noted. “Our technology proves that sustainable alternatives can be produced efficiently without harming biodiversity.”

The oleochemical industry, which encompasses a broad range of applications beyond food, is expected to be worth over US$36 billion by 2027. With its ability to provide tailored lipid solutions, ÄIO Technologies is positioning itself as a major player in this space.

While initial plans for demo-scale production are centred in Estonia, ÄIO Technologies is exploring global expansion opportunities. Singapore, with its robust research ecosystem and food innovation initiatives, is a key consideration for future operations.

“We are actively looking for a location to build our demo-scale production and are in discussions with several partners to establish full-scale production globally,” Dr Kütt said.

ÄIO’s recognition as one of the Top 50 Global Startups at SLINGSHOT 2023 in Singapore further validates its potential. Securing strategic partnerships will be critical to scaling operations and market adoption as the company advances towards commercialisation.

Also Read: HiFeed aims to revolutionise cattle farming with pre-seed funding

As the world grapples with environmental challenges, ÄIO Technologies presents a compelling case for sustainable innovation. By replacing conventional oils with eco-friendly microbial lipids, the company offers a tangible solution to reduce carbon emissions, enhance biodiversity, and promote responsible production.

With regulatory approvals on the horizon and expansion plans underway, ÄIO Technologies is poised to become a key disruptor in the global oil and fats industry. The transition to sustainable alternatives is no longer a vision for the future—companies like ÄIO are making it a reality today.

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Image Credit: Kristiina Tammik, Trade Estonia

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Revenue-based financing (RBF) and growth platform Choco Up has formed a strategic alliance with investment management firm Wonder Capital Group to launch a series of private credit funds, projected to raise US$50 million.

The collaboration seeks to unlock the untapped potential of asset-light businesses in Asia Pacific by combining Choco Up’s financing platform with Wonder Capital’s financial expertise.

Together, they aim to support the region’s SMEs and “deliver a compelling investment proposition” for institutional players seeking high-growth opportunities.

Also Read: Choco Up, Set Sail AI forge partnership to help businesses grow through Gen AI adoption

The partnership has commenced with the closing of a US$10 million private credit funding round financed by the CMAG Private Credit Fund under the guidance of Wonder Capital. The fund, spearheaded by Wonder Capital, will catalyse growth for e-commerce, SaaS, and technology businesses.

SMEs constitute 98 per cent of all businesses in Asia yet contribute only 38 per cent to the region’s GDP, highlighting a substantial US$2 trillion funding gap that hinders their growth and expansion. Singapore- and Hong Kong-based Choco Up aims to bridge this gap through innovative financing solutions, offering flexible, non-dilutive, revenue-based financing and tailored growth strategies.

Choco Up’s adaptable financing solutions help businesses increase revenues, introduce new products, expand their user bases, grow their teams, and achieve acquisitions. It has so far financed over US$1 billion in gross merchandise value across APAC.

Gigi Chan, founder and CEO of Wonder Capital, noted that the partnership with Choco Up allows them to tap into the “blue ocean” of asset-light businesses across APAC.

Percy Hung, founder and CEO of Choco Up, added that the partnership extends beyond funding, leveraging Wonder Capital’s network and resources to help businesses overcome growth barriers and realise their expansion plans.

Also Read: Choco Up, Atlas Growth Fund to provide US$15M capital to F&B firms in Singapore

Last year, Choco Up partnered with restaurant tech company Atlas to provide F&B firms with Atlas’s restaurant Operating System and up to SGD20 million (~US$15 million) in capital from Choco Up. Three months later, it joined hands with Set Sail AI, an intelligent contact centre solution provider, to promote the adoption of generative AI solutions among businesses and merchants.

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