Dear reader,

The rise of DeepSeek signals a seismic shift in AI competition, challenging OpenAI’s dominance and exposing the fragility of US-led AI innovation. OpenAI’s concerns over “knowledge distillation” highlight an uncomfortable truth—AI progress is built on open research, but when that openness benefits rivals, the rules suddenly change.

The US has long championed free-market innovation, yet its response to China’s AI advancements leans heavily on protectionism—export controls, investment restrictions, and now potential legal action.

While these measures may slow competitors like DeepSeek, they also expose a deeper issue: Can AI leadership be sustained through barriers rather than breakthroughs?

Meanwhile, accusations of intellectual property misuse raise broader ethical questions. Many of the same US firms now calling out AI copying have themselves built on open-source research. The AI race is increasingly mirroring the semiconductor war—where cutting off supply chains and imposing restrictions might delay competition, but won’t stop it.

For startups in Southeast Asia, this battle underscores the need for self-reliance and innovation beyond regulatory shields. As AI technology continues to globalise, those who can adapt and iterate—rather than simply block competition—will be the true winners.

Sainul,
Editor.

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NEWS & VIEWS

OpenAI says Chinese rivals using its work for their AI apps
The status of OpenAI – and other US firms – as the world leaders in AI has been dramatically undermined this week by the sudden emergence of DeepSeek, a Chinese app that can emulate the performance of ChatGPT, apparently at a fraction of the cost.

DeepSeek gets Silicon Valley talking
R1 seemingly matches or beats OpenAI’s o1 model on certain AI benchmarks. The company claims one of its models only costs US$5.6M to train, compared to the hundreds of millions of dollars that leading American companies pay to train theirs.

DeepSeek: Everything you need to know about the AI chatbot app
Being a reasoning model, R1 effectively fact-checks itself, which helps it to avoid some of the pitfalls that normally trip up models | Reasoning models take a little longer to arrive at solutions compared to a typical non-reasoning model.

Tech stocks drop after DeepSeek’s low-cost AI release
US Nasdaq futures fell over 3%, while S&P 500 futures dropped nearly 2% | AI chipmaker Nvidia experienced an 8.4% decline during premarket trading | Major tech firms like Microsoft, Meta Platforms, and Alphabet saw declines of 4%, 3.7%, and 3.1%, respectively.

Alibaba releases AI model it says surpasses DeepSeek
The unusual timing of the Qwen 2.5-Max’s release on Chinese New Year points to the pressure Chinese AI startup DeepSeek’s meteoric rise in the past three weeks has placed on not just overseas rivals, but also its domestic competition.

DeepSeek’s AI chatbot disrupts Southeast Asia’s data centres
With the development of its free AI chatbot, DeepSeek has undercut major competitors like OpenAI and Google’s Gemini, questioning the viability of resource-intensive data centre strategies in the region.

Rakuten drops IPO plan, shifts strategy in competitive market
The Japanese company initially sought an IPO to stabilise its finances after entering the competitive wireless carrier market | Rakuten has now opted to focus on strengthening its collaboration with Mizuho Securities Co.

Google staff worry about potential layoffs, call for buyouts
Over 1,250 Google employees in the US and Canada have asked the company not to use low-performance reviews as justification for dismissals | This petition comes amid ongoing cost-cutting measures at Google.

Thailand approves TikTok’s US$3.8B investment
This investment will support data hosting services, with operations expected to commence in 2025 | Other companies – including Amazon Web Services, Google, and Australia’s NextDC – have announced plans for similar developments in Thailand.

SoftBank said to invest US$25B in OpenAI
If this investment is confirmed, SoftBank would become the largest backer of the AI company | SoftBank’s direct investment in OpenAI may range from US$15B to US$25B, in addition to its existing US$15B commitment to Project Stargate.

AI app spending hits US$2B, ChatGPT leads market: report
Since its mobile release in May 2023, ChatGPT has generated US$529B in revenue, far surpassing competitors | Global spending on AI apps nearly quadrupled in 2024, reaching US$1.4B in that year alone, with notable growth in the final quarter.

Microsoft, Meta defend AI spending amid DeepSeek disruption
Mark Zuckerberg stated that heavy spending on AI infrastructure would be a long-term advantage for Meta | Satya Nadella emphasized that Microsoft’s investments are necessary to overcome capacity constraints and meet rising AI demand.

US nominee claims DeepSeek used stolen US technology
President Trump’s commerce secretary nominee, Howard Lutnick, emphasised the need for the US to set global AI standards, similar to its cybersecurity framework, to maintain leadership in the field.

Ex-Binance CEO’s YZi Labs invests US$16M in token platform
The platform, Sign, specialises in token distribution and on-chain credential verification | Sign is recognised for its token airdrop services | It aims to streamline the distribution of new cryptocurrencies.

OpenAI requests Indian court to dismiss copyright lawsuit
The Federation of Indian Publishers claims that OpenAI’s ChatGPT generates book summaries and extracts from unlicensed copies, thus violating intellectual property rights.

FEATURES & INTERVIEWS

SquareX’s paradigm shift: Tackling cyber threats one browser at a time
Unlike traditional solutions that focus on prevention by blocking known threats, SquareX adopts an attack-focused approach, detecting and neutralising attacks as they happen.

Easing access to government bonds: Libeara’s vision for financial inclusion
Libeara’s platform enables governments to issue bonds directly to citizens in low denominations, eliminating unnecessary intermediaries.

The 2 forces shaping coffee consumption and how Fore Coffee uses them to push for growth
With 61 new outlets launched across 43 cities in Indonesia and one in Singapore, Fore Coffee operates 217 locations as of September 2024.

FROM THE ARCHIVES

Beyond disposal: How businesses can embrace sustainable IT practices in Malaysia
Businesses can contribute to sustainable practices by adopting circular economy principles and making eco-conscious choices.

Proactive defense: The role of incident response plans in cybersecurity
Organisations must proactively plan for cybersecurity threats with tailored strategies rather than adopting a reactive stance.

Charting a clear course: Building effective communication in SEA’s hybrid work era
Between hybrid and remote teams, problems of communication can be a source of endless frustration for employees and managers.

From peak scrolling to personalised communities: The Gen AI solution
As AI drives change, creators aiming to build a Gen AI app must reassess data flows to craft a magical, creative Gen-AI experience with meaningful data.

Exploring the boundaries of AI: What AI can or cannot do?
AI holds immense promise to transform industries and enhance human capabilities, revolutionising businesses worldwide.

What is the risk of a cyber attack on my company?
If your company employs 100+ individuals, the probability of having at least one vulnerable employee is virtually inevitable | This reality compels business leaders to confront a harsh truth — it’s not a matter of if their company will experience a breach, but rather when it will occur.

Why do people fall for online scams in this digital age?
Insufficient cybersecurity invites identity theft and financial losses as scams target both money and personal information.

Shield your business: A guide to common scams targeting small businesses
As scams become more sophisticated, especially through convincing emails, small business owners must stay vigilant and train their teams.

Securing Singapore’s leadership in AI Innovation
Singapore fosters an ecosystem promoting experimentation, investment, and knowledge exchange, enabling AI technologies to flourish.

Beyond the money: How small angel cheque fuels startup success
Small angel cheques in startup fundraising showcase the dynamic interconnectedness of the investment ecosystem.

Digital scams are on the rise – Is Asia ready for the fight?
The region’s rapid digital expansion has created fertile ground for malicious activities to flourish online, leaving individuals exposed to phishing attempts, AI-powered deepfakes, and a growing range of online cons.

Why Dive Analytics sets its sights on Latin America for its strategic global expansion
Singapore-based edutech company Dive Analytics calls its approach to entering Latin America strategic and collaborative.

Will hybrid schooling break walls for the next generation?
Here’s why I think the hybrid model makes sense for our education system; and how Edutech is making it happen.

How Noodle Factory addresses educator burnout with its AI-powered teaching assistants
Using AI, Noodle Factory provides human-like lessons, creating a personalised learning experience for learners.

Reimagining tuition: How tutors can stay ahead of an evolving learning system
All in all, like any other industry that has been around for a long time, tuition centres must be proactive in embracing and initiating change to remain competitive.

The future of blockchain technology goes beyond just cryptocurrency and NFTs
Even in this intimidating climate, governments worldwide are still experimenting with blockchain technologies and cryptocurrencies.

Decoding digital preferences: A glimpse into the future of health tech ecosystem in SEA
Digital learning trends, peer networks, and healthcare’s alignment with learning habits bode well for health tech innovations in the region.

Post-pandemic education: Why edutech remains a game-changer
It is an exciting time for the world of edutech as we are now presented with the unique opportunity to push boundaries and reinvent ourselves.

THOUGHT LEADERSHIP

DeepSeeking the future: The ripple effect on tech, crypto, and global markets
The global financial landscape is rapidly evolving, shaped by technology, policy shifts, and changing market dynamics.

Tech SMEs play key role in fuelling Asia’s digital economy boom
In a region rich in diversity, SMEs are using digital tools to innovate, adapt, and thrive—shaping the future of Asia’s economic landscape.

Creating agile workspaces: Why flexibility is key in today’s manufacturing landscape
Agile workspaces continue to evolve, driven by technology, market changes, and an increasing focus on sustainability.

The AI age is changing the data centre industry – Here’s how Singapore can pivot
With resilience, innovation, and sustainability, Singapore can achieve its vision and set a precedent for the region and beyond.

Navigating Web3: Challenges and triumphs on the path to decentralisation
Understanding Web3’s potential requires placing it in the context of the Network Economy, which has reshaped industries over the past decade.

Johor-Singapore SEZ: 1963 reimagined?
JS-SEZ offers a chance to strengthen the strategic partnership between Singapore and Malaysia, as their political ties remain solid.

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A new global survey conducted by Ipsos and Google has highlighted a growing positive attitude towards artificial intelligence (AI) worldwide.

The study, titled Our Life with AI: From Innovation to Application, surveyed 21,000 individuals across 21 countries, including Singapore. It found that global usage has reached 48 per cent, with enthusiasm about its potential now outweighing concerns.

Among the key findings, the Asia Pacific (APAC) region—where Singapore is included—demonstrated the highest rates of AI usage. This indicates that adoption is particularly widespread in Singapore, driven by the country’s strong digital infrastructure and tech-savvy population.

Singaporean users engage with AI for a variety of purposes, including entertainment, work-related tasks, personal communication, and education. In the workplace, while country-specific data is not explicitly detailed in the report, AI is commonly used for writing and communications, problem-solving, brainstorming, document summarisation, analysing complex information, and learning new topics.

Given Singapore’s status as a regional business hub, enterprises in the country are likely to integrate the tech into their workflows to enhance productivity and efficiency.

Also Read: AI, transparency, and the rising threat of ad fraud in Google’s Performance Max

Optimism about AI’s benefits

Singaporeans are not only active users but also among the most optimistic about its impact. The survey indicates that a majority of Singaporeans believe AI will bring significant benefits across multiple areas.

Personal benefits
AI-powered applications are being used to assist with daily tasks, such as online searches, acting as personal assistants, and serving as personalised tutors. These tools enhance convenience and efficiency, allowing individuals to complete tasks more quickly and effectively. AI also plays a role in improving healthcare services by enabling early diagnosis and personalised treatment recommendations.

Economic and business advantages
Singaporeans have strong confidence in AI’s ability to positively transform the economy. Businesses are leveraging AI to improve customer service, streamline supply chains, and enhance decision-making through predictive analytics. AI-driven automation is helping businesses reduce operational costs while boosting productivity and innovation. The technology is also fostering the growth of new industries, creating job opportunities in AI-related fields.

Education and workforce development
AI is playing an increasingly important role in education, with adaptive learning platforms providing personalised instruction based on individual needs. For professionals, AI-powered tools help in upskilling, enabling them to stay competitive in an evolving job market. This has positioned Singapore as a leader in workforce preparedness.

Also Read: Caroline Yap of Google Cloud: AI transformation at scale requires people as much as technology

The government has implemented policies to support AI adoption while maintaining ethical and legal safeguards. Initiatives such as Singapore’s National AI Strategy demonstrate a structured approach to integrating the tech across various sectors, ensuring that the benefits are maximised while potential risks are mitigated.

Given Singapore’s well-established position as a tech-driven economy, its high adoption rates and positive outlook suggest that the country will continue to be a leader in AI innovation. The Ipsos and Google survey highlights a growing global trend towards AI acceptance, and in Singapore, this trend appears particularly strong.

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Image Credit: Eddy Billard on Unsplash

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As artificial intelligence (AI) continues to advance, a key trend shaping the technological landscape in 2025 is “agentification.” Highlighted in Capgemini’s TechnoVision 2025 report, agentification represents a shift in AI from performing isolated tasks to operating as interconnected and autonomous agents.

This evolution is expected to transform industries by improving efficiency, decision-making, and adaptability.

What is agentification?

Agentification refers to the development of AI systems that function as independent agents rather than mere tools for singular tasks. These AI agents are designed to interact, collaborate, and manage increasingly complex processes with minimal human intervention.

Unlike traditional AI applications that require direct input and oversight, agentified systems operate autonomously, leveraging advanced reasoning and learning capabilities.

One of the most significant advancements in this area is the emergence of superagents, AI systems that orchestrate multiple models to optimise processes. These superagents act as decision-makers, integrating insights from different AI models to create a more cohesive and responsive technological ecosystem.

The move towards autonomous AI agents is driven by several tech advancements, particularly in generative AI (Gen AI). These improvements enable AI to take on responsibilities previously managed by humans, such as predictive maintenance, supply chain management, and risk assessment. The ability to provide “reliable, evidence-based outputs” is a key factor in making these agents viable for real-world applications.

Also Read: Report: Singaporeans are among the most optimistic about the economic impact of AI

Multi-agent systems are also becoming more adept at complex and dynamic decision-making. By leveraging transformer models and other advanced AI architectures, these systems can process vast amounts of data, recognise patterns, and react to unpredictable situations.

This makes agentification particularly valuable in industries that require real-time responses, such as healthcare, finance, and legal services.

Industry impacts

Agentification is poised to revolutionise various industries by introducing AI-driven decision-making and automation. Some of the key sectors expected to benefit include:

Healthcare
AI agents can enhance diagnostics, monitor patient health, and assist in personalised treatment plans, reducing the burden on medical professionals.

Financial services
AI-driven agents can manage fraud detection, risk assessment, and automated trading, improving efficiency and security.

Supply chain management
AI agents can optimise logistics, predict disruptions, and streamline operations, increasing resilience and agility.

Cybersecurity
AI-enhanced cyber defences can detect and respond to threats in real-time, mitigating risks associated with Gen AI-driven cyberattacks.

Also Read: Startup ecosystem in Indonesia defies innovation potential expectation in new global report

The rise of superagents

A survey by the Capgemini Research Institute found that 32 per cent of top executives consider AI agents the leading tech trend in data and AI for 2025. This underscores the growing recognition of agentification as a transformative force in business operations.

Furthermore, a crucial development within agentification is the emergence of superagents. These systems go beyond individual AI agents by coordinating multiple AI models to optimise performance and decision-making. Superagents act as orchestrators, integrating insights from different AI sources to provide a comprehensive and efficient solution.

This multi-layered AI approach allows businesses to scale applications more effectively, reducing inefficiencies and enhancing productivity.

Superagents will likely play a central role in enterprise AI ecosystems, facilitating seamless interaction between different AI models and automating complex workflows.

Despite its potential, agentification comes with challenges that must be addressed to ensure responsible implementation:

Reliability and accountability
As AI systems become more autonomous, ensuring the reliability and accuracy of their outputs remains a priority. Mechanisms for error detection and human oversight must be integrated into AI agent frameworks.

Ethical considerations
With AI making more decisions independently, ethical concerns around bias, privacy, and decision transparency must be carefully managed.

Security risks
As AI systems become more interconnected, they also become more vulnerable to cyber threats. Companies will need robust cybersecurity measures to protect AI ecosystems from potential attacks.

Also Read: Report: New fintech talents emerge as GenAI becomes increasingly popular in Singapore

AI’s broader influence in 2025

Beyond agentification, AI is expected to drive several other key technological advancements in 2025:

Cybersecurity
AI is both a threat and a defence mechanism, with more sophisticated AI-driven attacks emerging alongside advanced AI-powered security solutions.

Robotics
AI is improving robotics, enabling them to adapt to various environments and work alongside humans more efficiently.

Energy industry
The massive energy demands of AI are driving investments in alternative energy sources, particularly nuclear power.

Supply chain innovation
AI, in combination with blockchain, IoT, and satellite connectivity, is improving predictive analytics and operational efficiency.

The rise of Artificial General Intelligence (AGI) is also a topic of increasing discussion. Predictions suggest that AGI may reach commercial viability by 2030, with 60 per cent of top executives and venture capitalists believing in its maturation within this timeframe. This indicates a broader shift towards AI systems that can reason and operate beyond narrow applications.

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Image Credit: Andy Kelly on Unsplash

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The world today is locked in an Artificial Intelligence (AI) race, and Singapore is working to leverage its position as a tech hub in the Asia-Pacific to be a leader in this technology. For one, over SG$20 million (US$14.8 million) will be allocated in the next three years to increase the number of SG Digital Scholarships and overseas internships in AI roles.

The government has also pledged to invest up to SG$500 million (US$370 million) to secure high-performance computing (HPC) resources for AI innovation and capability building. These initiatives are just two examples of how the country is aiming to establish itself as a critical player in the global tech landscape.

However, meeting the demands of AI workloads will require accelerated IT and high-performance computing (HPC) architectures. That is because power consumption and heat generation from AI chips are significantly higher than conventional IT equipment. For data centres that power AI applications, traditional cooling technologies might not have the capabilities to address these workloads.

Meanwhile, the power is subject to voltage sags, spikes, and complete failure during transmission and distribution, which therefore may interrupt computer operations, cause data loss, and damage equipment. As we are gearing towards AI compute age, knowing what cooling and power methodology and solution is key to ensure we keep the AI compute operating at their optimum performance without degradation or disruption.

Singapore’s unique challenge

It is a pivotal moment for the collective effort to find solutions that will shape Singapore’s future. The demands for AI coincide with rising power challenges and decarbonisation requirements.

For instance, Singapore’s heavy reliance on natural gas for electricity — approximately 95 per cent of its energy supply — poses a barrier to the integration of renewable energy sources. This dependence limits the ability to diversify energy portfolios and reduce carbon footprints effectively.

Compounding this issue are Singapore’s limited land area and high population density, which present obstacles for large-scale renewable energy projects. With little room for expansion, finding solutions that balance energy needs with sustainability goals becomes increasingly complex.

Unlike many of its regional peers, who also have high population densities, Singapore also has to contend with limited land area. That means limited space for data centres that are pivotal to AI workloads, as there is no shortage of competing uses for land. Singapore also has to grapple with limited freshwater resources.

Also Read: GenAI’s twisted impact on the creative world: Navigating chaos to find new order

These unique circumstances imply that the country’s policymakers have had to be cautious about how to encourage data centre growth. The recent lifting of its moratorium on new data centres is proof of the selectiveness needed for the realities facing Singapore. Simply put, the country needs more data centres to continue to support technology innovations but not at the cost of resource efficiency.

Rethinking infrastructure and cooling methods

These challenges put the industry at an inflexion point. In regard to thermal management, for instance, there will need to be more deployments of liquid cooling solutions, as air-cooling technologies alone cannot efficiently support higher-density workloads. With the demands of the digital space set to escalate, it is crucial for data centres to adapt continuously, leveraging innovative solutions and operational efficiencies to meet the future head-on.

Since standard cooling systems cannot handle the heat created by GPUs based on the latest demands for AI computing, most installations will necessitate the introduction of the newest liquid-cooling technologies into the data centre and eventually enterprise server rooms. In the near future, rack densities exceeding 100 kW per rack will become widespread and on a massive scale, necessitating significant capacity improvements throughout the entire power train, from the grid to the chips in each rack.

Significant investments are required to modernise the infrastructure required to power and cool AI systems. Incorporating liquid cooling technology into uninterruptible power supply (UPS) systems is also essential for maintaining a steady power supply, which is necessary for coolant distribution’s mechanical demands. The ideal temperatures for facilities and equipment can be maintained by dependable cooling systems.

In terms of energy, there are emerging bring-your-own-power (BYOP) options to meet growing data centre demands. The role of the uninterrupted power supply (UPS), for example, can transform into a dynamic energy resource that creates an “always on” environment. Till now, data centres have largely been purely electricity consumers.

However, with recent advancements, future data centres could be a stabilising element to the local grid. The ability to shift loads, to start fuel cell systems, and to share energy from large battery energy storage (BESS) will also change how data centres move from consumers to partners in stabilising the future grid.

Also Read: Embracing AI in Southeast Asia: The strategy for avoiding cost overruns

Partnerships within the industry can also facilitate efforts to address these challenges. For instance, Vertiv is collaborating with NVIDIA to offer expertise in critical power and cooling infrastructure with advanced computing capabilities. This provides a comprehensive solution that includes high-performance power and cooling technologies to address  the demands of AI applications, including high-density heat removal and energy efficiency.

Becoming future ready

With AI adoption critical to continuous innovation, the need for robust, AI-ready infrastructure solutions will be necessary. This includes pre-engineered systems that can be deployed up to twice as fast as traditional setups, allowing businesses to respond swiftly to market changes and technological advancements.

Despite significant challenges, Singapore has all the potential to become an AI hub. That will, however, depend on addressing sustainability concerns, leveraging forward-looking infrastructure, and prioritising continuous learning. The good news is that the country already has the potential to realise these imperatives. Through its continued commitment to resilience and a focus on innovation and sustainability, Singapore can realise its vision and set a precedent for others in the region and beyond.

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The Current AI wave defines itself as a transformative era impacting all industries and everyday applications. Drawing parallels with my experiences navigating previous tech waves, such as mobile, where being mobile-ready was imperative for survival, a similar story emerges for the current AI wave. 

The question I want to pose here is not just about the disruption AI itself brings, but more crucially, how it distinguishes itself from the past mobile wave, what are the most important aspects of relearning and how Gen AI will help reshape human connections and ease our digital burnout.

Riding the AI wave

In 2009, I developed one of the first geolocation mobile apps, aiming to enhance connections by connecting strangers based on shared interests. Initially viewed as a novelty, by 2024, mobile apps had become the primary medium for connecting and engaging with others. While it’s now easier to connect with like-minded individuals, we’re undeniably losing touch with the simplicity of genuine conversations with strangers.

Amidst the AI wave, we face a familiar dichotomy: the promise of deeper, more meaningful connections juxtaposed with the risk of increased social isolation due to advanced algorithms introduced by Gen AI on social media platforms. Addressing this challenge requires AI applications to prioritise genuine connections while tackling societal fragmentation through thoughtful design and implementation.

The Gen AI deal

The mobile era has undeniably brought remarkable progress, extending access to information and connection even to remote populations in Africa. However, it has also introduced significant challenges. Despite this, I am confident that Gen AI has the potential to alleviate these issues and drive transformative change.

Here are key principles to consider when designing any social system:

Peak scrolling, swiping, and zoomification

My life’s work has focused on leveraging technology to create more meaningful human connections within communities. Through GST, I organised 135 global gatherings using only WhatsApp chat groups, email, and event link RSVPs to bring people together worldwide.

However, with the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic and the subsequent ‘Zoomification’ era, we now face a saturation point in technology characterised by decision fatigue and digital overwhelm.

Also Read: AI assistant or replacement? A PR pro’s take on using ChatGPT

While we have the potential to connect with anyone across the planet, the challenge lies not just in accumulating connections but in navigating this abundance to cultivate meaningful engagements. A 2020 Pew Research Center study revealed that almost half of Americans believe dating has become more difficult in the past decade, with users of dating sites or apps reporting frustration over endless swiping, scrolling, and mundane text conversations without finding meaningful connections.

AI brings simplification

Gen AI provides a straightforward solution for reducing decision fatigue and endless scrolling and swiping. Its promise lies in streamlining our digital lives, aiding in data curation, and minimising friction points. By integrating intelligence into daily activities, Gen AI has the potential to facilitate more nuanced connections tailored to individual circumstances, personal values, missions, and goals.

Unlike mobile apps with numerous screens and buttons, Gen AI offers a simple response to a single prompt question, such as ‘Who should I talk with today?’ by incorporating all learned parameters for a personalised recommendation.

AI functions like a super-creative brain

At its core, AI’s effectiveness hinges on quality data — the fuel that powers its capabilities. However, foundational models like GPT4, Gemini, and Claude rely on the same internet data, potentially leading to similar responses. The key lies in obtaining the best data possible. While tech giants possess abundant information about individuals, it’s scattered across various online platforms, hindering its usefulness for Gen AI apps.

However, Gen AI has the potential to bridge this gap by learning from user interactions and enabling matches based on nuanced personality traits. Yet, comprehensive data on people’s character and personalities remains scarce. This highlights the critical role of data in AI. As AI continues to drive change, it prompts anyone wanting to create a Gen AI app to reevaluate data flows and create a magical, creative Gen-AI experience with meaningful data.

Make magic with Gen AI

AI is not new; it is actually very old, but the reason that we got a breakthrough with chatGPT and Gen AI is not the tech itself but the magical experience it has created for users. One interesting approach to designing Gen AI-driven products is through ‘frankersteining’ — coming up with a magical Gen AI experience and merging it with established mobile user dynamics with a proven track record. For instance, while point systems or badges have been successful in many social products, envisioning Gen AI magic that could enhance these badges opens up a world of possibilities.

Personalised connections for problem-solving

Now, using these principles, I launched Agent-A to create communities with Gen AI. Our focus is on creating personalised matches between professionals and forming communities, starting in South Asia and Southeast Asia, that align with individuals’ personalities and skills.

Agent-A acts as a personal AI matchmaker, utilising advanced Gen AI frameworks to connect professionals facing similar industry challenges. Moreover, it breaks language barriers, understanding over 100 languages for accurate matches across cultures.

Also Read: What will the third-wave of artificial intelligence look like?

As we accumulate data, Agent-A will create collective matches based on skills, personality traits, and shared problem-solving interests. It automatically connects individuals, facilitates real-life meetings, and executes events or meetups without the need for organisers. This represents the future of collaborative problem-solving, revolutionising how people come together to tackle challenges.

Gen AI everywhere 

Traditional mobile apps and information systems pale in comparison to the capabilities of Generative AI. Large Language Models (LLMs) excel at inferring responses based on prompts and probabilities. However, as AI continues to evolve, it is poised to revolutionise every aspect of our lives by achieving higher levels of reasoning and self-awareness.

In the near future, AI will be ubiquitous and seamlessly integrated into every information system and hardware device. Data will flow effortlessly between these systems, serving as AI’s lifeblood to continuously learn and enhance response accuracy.

AI will evolve into a highly dynamic entity, akin to biological systems, capable of adaptation and learning. Individuals will train their personal AI to understand preferences better and shield against persuasive AI influencing decision-making processes.

Understanding our future necessitates viewing human existence as a collective of information processing systems, much like cells receiving signals, integrating information, and coordinating responses. Think of a future where you will prompt, and it will create the most magical result and, in probability, the best suggestion ever made at the moment in time.

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This article was first published on March 21, 2024

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Elon Musk may hate it, but there is no doubt that hybrid and remote work is here to stay for Southeast Asian (SEA) teams. Research by McKinsey has shown that SEA workers prefer a hybrid mixture of on-site and remote work setups. Employees are overwhelmingly looking for flexibility and work-life balance, but at the same time, maintaining a strong connection to their organisation and colleagues. However, many are finding this is not always the case.

Despite the surge in usage of communication and collaboration tools during the COVID-19 pandemic, many businesses are failing to effectively communicate their hybrid work policies to their teams. Workers are left feeling adrift by their managers, unsure about when and where they are expected to work, leading to confusion and decreased productivity. 

Between hybrid and remote teams, problems of communication can be a source of endless frustration for employees and managers. The classic phrase of the pandemic ‘you’re on mute’ still regularly makes an appearance on many video calls.

Even four years after the beginning of the pandemic, businesses across the world still struggle to maintain clear and consistent communication across dispersed teams and time zones. 

Zooming in: Navigating hybrid hurdles in SEA work culture

Collaborating solely remotely can also create friction between team members. The tone is much harder to gauge from the written text than it is from verbal communication, which can lead to many miscommunications. People may come across as more direct and brusque on a messenger platform, and things like cultural nuances and non-verbal cues are easily lost in a long stream of text. 

Meanwhile, one of the biggest hybrid pain points for business leaders is the loss of the so-called ‘water cooler’ moments. These are the informal office interactions that help foster relationships and collaboration, as well as spark occasional inspiration.

Also Read: Connecting clouds in SEA: How to ensure interoperability in the hybrid and multi-cloud context

Losing these opportunities to connect easily with your colleagues is detrimental to the critical tasks of teamwork and brainstorming. If hybrid organisations fail to build these collaborative environments, they will find themselves with reduced engagement, strained knowledge sharing, and difficulty building rapport.

It is also worth bearing in mind that while SEA markets may be close geographically, there are some significant disparities between internet and mobile data speeds. Singapore boasts the fastest mobile and internet speeds at 88.91 Mbps and 277.57 Mbps, respectively. Its neighbour, Indonesia, however, lags with 25.37 Mbps in mobile speeds and 29.43 Mbps in internet speeds.

Charting your tech journey through hybrid hurdles

Navigating these hybrid work challenges in SEA can be a headache for business leaders, but technology is, thankfully, making the process easier. Drawing up a technology roadmap means choosing the right communication platforms for various needs, whether that’s video conferencing, instant messaging, project management tools and full-scale cloud enterprise resource planning (ERP) platforms.

Collaboration is more than just teams talking to each other. It is about real-time collaboration, document sharing and secure accessibility across devices. These are the mechanisms that allow teams to work together effectively, meet deadlines and create business success.

Organisations should be open about their expectations from employees in a hybrid environment. This requires fostering open communication and information-sharing within the organisation. Leaders should be transparent about their business expectations and plans through regular team meetings, knowledge-sharing sessions and feedback forums.

They should also invest and advocate for training employees on effective communication skills in a hybrid environment. This includes mastering technology tools, practising active listening, and building virtual relationships.

Unified communication tools for a mobile workforce

Once these cultural steps are in place, then leaders and IT procurement officers can examine their technology stack. For the modern workplace, unified communications-as-a-service (UCaaS) is increasingly used to manage large, disparate teams across locations and markets.

Also Read: Is hybrid work arrangement the future of work?

UCaaS are end-to-end solutions that include integrated video conferencing, instant messaging and online collaborations for project management. These bring together the holy trinity of collaboration: rapid response, clear communication and room to create into one platform. Optimised for smartphone-first and mobile workforces, UCaaS helps connect people remotely, wherever they are. 

Due to the global pull encouraging more workers back to the office, many UCaaS solutions now come with features such as interactive meetings. Hybrid teams can re-create a fully in-office experience with features like polls, whiteboards, and breakout rooms for dynamic and engaging virtual meetings.

Harnessing UCaaS for enhanced team communication and productivity

UCaaS project management tools also help facilitate task assignments, progress tracking, and team communication within a centralised platform. Seamless collaboration on documents and projects in real-time is now possible through file-sharing and tracking.

UCaaS and collaboration technology are constantly innovating. Simple virtual meetings are now being infused with everything from full collaboration tools to transcription and even artificial intelligence. Leaders who consider the full spectrum of collaboration technology, even down to something as simple as file-sharing, will be the ones reaping the most benefits from their teams, regardless of whether they are in the office or at the beach. 

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This article was first published on May 7, 2024

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Governments around the world often depend on bonds to fund infrastructure and services, but the path for citizens to invest in these securities has historically been fraught with barriers. Libeara, a fintech platform founded by former banking executive Aaron Gwak, aims to change this by democratising access to government bonds and fostering a culture of savings.

“At its core, our goal is to make eligible investments more accessible,” says Gwak, who previously spent over 13 years at Standard Chartered Bank overseeing debt origination in ASEAN. “Accessibility is not just about whether you can access something—it’s about eligibility. Do you know what you’re buying, and should you be buying it?”

Libeara’s platform enables governments to issue bonds directly to citizens in low denominations, eliminating unnecessary intermediaries. This approach not only stabilises government funding but also provides citizens with a secure and straightforward investment option.

The platform features bank-grade security, comprehensive compliance controls, and a seamless user experience across web and mobile applications.

Gwak highlights the rationale behind this innovation: “Government bonds are almost your birthright. You live in a country, earn and use its currency. Why shouldn’t you be able to lend money directly to your government instead of depositing it in a bank that lends it on your behalf?”

Also Read: The next fintech innovation will be a customer-led phenomenon

This philosophy underpins Libeara’s mission. Traditionally, investing in government bonds has been cumbersome, requiring significant thresholds that exclude retail investors.

“The costs of KYC and regulatory compliance often make it infeasible for securities companies to cater to small investments,” Gwak explains. Libeara seeks to address this by lowering these barriers, allowing even modest investors to participate.

Driving change with tech

Libeara’s tech extends beyond direct bond purchases. The platform also supports tokenised government bond funds, offering investors an alternative route to participate in this market. In collaboration with a licensed fund manager in Singapore, Libeara enables customers to buy tokenised fund securities.

“The biggest advantage of token technology is twofold,” says Gwak. “First, it reduces the need for intermediaries. Second, it enhances mobility. Tokens are not just records of investments; they can also be utilised for other purposes, enabling greater flexibility.”

By tokenising investments, Libeara aligns with broader trends in the financial sector. Gwak recalls the earlier days of manual processes in banking and sees tokenisation as the natural evolution of securities management: “Behavioural changes will follow technological advancements. As systems articulate investment opportunities more clearly, adoption will grow organically.”

Libeara’s initial milestones include proof-of-concept projects in Singapore, the Philippines, and Hong Kong.

“In 2021, we realised this was a venture-class problem,” Gwak reflects. “Our technological, legal, and securities expertise allowed us to articulate a clear vision, which ultimately led to Libeara’s creation.”

Also Read: How the global growth of fintech defies age and gender

These early projects demonstrated the platform’s potential to streamline access to government bonds, even across borders. “For instance, if you’re in Singapore and want to invest in Indonesian government bonds, the process is often complicated,” Gwak notes. Libeara simplifies such transactions, providing a direct pathway for retail investors.

The path ahead

Despite its promise, Libeara faces the challenge of educating consumers about digital assets and tokenised securities. Gwak acknowledges that societal adoption of new technologies requires time and effort. “Education is crucial, but so is demonstrating the practical benefits. Life becomes easier for individual investors when technology reduces complexity,” he says.

Regulators also play a pivotal role. Drawing parallels to the Monetary Authority of Singapore’s approach to consumer protection, Gwak emphasises the importance of informed investment decisions: “It is not just about whether you can buy something; the first question should always be whether you should buy it and if you understand it.”

Libeara’s broader mission is to bridge gaps in financial inclusion. By enabling governments to issue bonds directly to citizens—both domestically and abroad—the platform fosters a deeper connection between individuals and public finance.

“Government bonds are securities that everyone should be able to own, but access and eligibility have historically been mismatched,” Gwak asserts. “We are working with governments to change that dynamic, ensuring citizens can invest in their nation’s future with ease.”

As Libeara continues to expand its footprint, its focus remains on empowering individuals through accessible, secure, and innovative investment solutions. “This is not just about technology; it’s about reshaping the way we think about savings and investment. The trajectory is clear, and we’re excited to be part of this transformation,” says Gwak.

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Image Credit: Libeara

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The first step to having a successful business is having a deep comprehension of the market. In 2025, numerous trends such as AI, sustainability, remote work and health tech are disrupting industries and providing a plethora of possibilities for business people. Choosing what startup should I start depends on aligning your skills and passions with these evolving demands.

Trends are always shaped by technology changes, customer behaviour changes and new regulations. You can generate innovative business ideas, which address pressing issues and appeal to your target market or market segment by researching and clarifying your concepts. Subsequently, this will assist you in generating lasting solutions for currently relevant issues and in being adaptable to upcoming changes in the business world.

The article goes on to explain how you can formulate strategic innovative business ideas tailored to the trends of 2025, helping you build a relevant and future-proof startup.

Understanding market trends in 2025

Tracing market tendencies is the first part of being successful, so if you ask yourself what startup should I start in 2025, then this is the thing to focus on. The market landscape is rapidly changing and being able to predict these changes can enable you to better strategise your idea.

AI will continue transforming industries with innovative business ideas such as automation or personalised services, this will go hand in hand with the fact that treating the planet as a priority is no longer an option and consumers have started to value eco-friendly products over anything else as a result of the shift towards greener energy. According to NIQ’s latest sustainability study, 69% of global consumers say sustainability matters more to them now than it did two years ago, yet barriers like cost, accessibility, and unclear information hinder their ability to live more sustainably.

With workplaces in a remote setting becoming a standard, there will always be a need for better automation tools that increase productivity and enhance communication among team members. While during all of this, health tech solutions such as wearables and mental apps being at the forefront will start redefining what wellness looks like.

All of these changes have the common denominator of technology, as they allow for creating unique business ideas that aid in solving people’s day-to-day issues. Though consumers are shaping these changes too, for now, consumers are more inclined towards convenience, transparency and ethics when making a purchasing decision. Furthermore, the opportunities in compliance sectors are being intensified due to regulatory changes that are more focused on data privacy and environmental requirements.

Starting with valid research is very important when approaching a startup. One needs to comprehend their target audience, analyze existing competitors and verify their concept against actual customers. This is to ensure that you are not just trying to be part of a bandwagon but that you are solving real problems. By completing these tasks, you will not only mitigate risks but would also enhance your ability to create a robust business that is prepared for the future.

Evaluating your skills and interests

When thinking of a startup idea, it becomes crucial to ask yourself what business should I start? Identifying your abilities, interests, and expertise areas that your business idea encompasses becomes highly important. Research from CB Insights shows that five per cent of startups fail due to burnout/lack of passion, often because founders pursue ideas disconnected from their strengths or interests.

It requires a great deal of effort to be an entrepreneur, and the success of your business would largely hinge on how well those seamless skills match with the requirements of the target market. If you’re doing something that you love, then all the invincible frustrations will equally drive you to do better.

Also Read: Navigating the future of crypto: How can we truly tap into the blue ocean of altcoins as we step into 2025?

As you assess your hobbies and your skills, keep these important questions in mind about yourself:

• Which industries interest you the most? Check the industries where you have some experience or sectors in which you have some interest. It can be technology, health, sustainability, or any other thing that you are passionate about because passion can dramatically alter the outcomes of your startup.
• What are your competencies? Are you creative, good with technology or an excellent manager or leader? Pinpoint the specific attributes which you find make you one of a kind and analyse how this can be beneficial in solving problems or adding value in the area you want to specialise.
• Would you be able to embrace the new trends? Today’s market requires fresh ideas and concepts. Embrace new innovations so that new trends do not render your business concept redundant.

Successful startups often stem from founders who match their skills with the market’s demands. For example, Airbnb’s founders, with backgrounds in design and tech, leveraged their expertise to create a platform that revolutionised the hospitality industry. Similarly, companies like Tesla have thrived because their founders’ deep passion for innovation in clean energy matched a growing market need.

Top startup ideas based on 2025 market trends

2025 is sure to have some of the most avid business concepts that capture unique market trends. If you find yourself pondering the question, “What startup should I start?” then make sure to take a glance over these five incredible business ideas.

• AI-driven solutions

The new era of time-saving tools is ushering in an explosion of AI-centric automation, content generation and bespoke services-focused startups. And in 2025 these AI-based tools won’t just be cool, they will be an absolute necessity. Just imagine constructing software that would allow companies to save minutes in dealing with an unnecessarily complex interface.

• Sustainability and green technology

The worldwide shift towards sustainable and eco-friendly living principles has opened up incredible possibilities for startup businesses, such as providing new energy sources, environmentally friendly goods, and even carbon offset technologies. From solar-powered devices to zero-waste packaging, green startups are both lucrative and meaningful as consumers are more conscious about their environmental footprint and are willing to try what is on the market.

• Health and wellness

Though there is an influx of health and wellness tech now in the health sector, it isn’t going away anytime soon. AI health can ease the aging process by providing virtual as well as wearable tech that keeps track of health. As people become more health-conscious and invest in their wellness, there are many new startups every day that can better one’s life and help foster long-term loyalty.

• Remote work solutions

With remote work now the norm, there’s a huge demand for tools that enhance collaboration, productivity, and workforce management. Whether it’s a unique virtual office platform or a project management app, your startup could help businesses thrive in a decentralised world.

• Education technology

There is more to e-learning than schools, and that is what has made its development so captivating. The market now is rich with game-based learning, professional skills building, and specialised courses that have great potential. If education is an area of your interest, then the current trends bring great scope for innovative business ideas.

Starting a business based on these trends does not only enhance your ability to be more competitive since it will also guarantee that your startup remains up to date. Which of these concepts do you find intriguing? The most important aspect is undertaking the needed efforts and imagining what the future requires and delivering it.

Also Read: East Ventures: SEA can expect a significant surge in AI-first startups in 2025

Validating your startup idea

How do you tell the difference between a good and a terrible business idea? Well, I can tell that starting your own business is challenging but fun, but the question remains how can you forecast whether your idea will flourish? Anyone who has gone into the business knows that a crucial step to launching is validating your startup idea to mitigate loss and future complications. Here’s how you can do it.

• Conduct market research

When planning a safe start-up or a new business model, it is important to approach it through market analysis ensuring its relevance and competitiveness. Take advantage of tools like Google Trends or Statista. Carry out surveys and delve deeply into the discussions as a mean to understand the potential needs of your future consumers. Remember, understanding the market can help you decide what startup should I start.

• Identify your target audience

Who do you think will benefit after solving a problem? Start by describing your customer segments based on their demographics, behavioural patterns and pain points. Imagine your ideal customer and develop a buyer persona around them. It will be easy to come up with unique business ideas tailored to real-world needs.

• Test your idea with an MVP

An MVP is a version of your product that is enough to provide feedback and improve on your original model. It minimises the risk of making a huge monetary investment while getting feedback on innovative business ideas. Try building a landing page or creating a prototype of your enterprise. Once released, take note of audience reactions and adjust your plan as needed.

Planning for growth and sustainability

When creating a startup, there’s the need to plan for sustainability and growth which are some of the factors to guarantee success over the years. Look at how future-proofed your business will be by concentrating on scalability. This entails guaranteeing that all your processes, technology and team can meet higher demands without succumbing to wear and tear. Scalability really should be the cornerstone that remains foundational whether you are starting to explore your unique business ideas or deciding on what startup should I start.

Another area that is equally paramount in 2025 is raising funds. With the entrance of innovative business ideas, there are more alternatives available than ever before such as venture capital, bootstrapping, or crowdfunding. By crowdfunding, you’re able to eliminate the risk of ideas that don’t work for you while also getting money for the one that does.

Also Read: 2024: The year personalised learning became a reality

On the other hand venture capital connects you to experienced investors who will fund you while bootstrapping allows you to grow while maintaining control of your company. Follow a path that fits your vision.

And finally, be flexible. The tides are constantly changing, meaning what worked yesterday will not work tomorrow. Be conscious of the dynamic marketplace and customers’ preferences. Therefore, have data-based information on the consumers so that you can make changes to your offerings to ensure that you stay relevant.

Conclusion

In 2025, the best startup opportunities will align with emerging trends like AI, sustainability, health tech, and remote work solutions. By focusing on unique business ideas and exploring innovative business ideas that match your skills and market demands, you can create a future-proof venture. The key is to stay adaptable, validate your ideas, and plan for scalability. Remember, the right startup for you is one that not only leverages market trends but also fuels your passion and solves real-world problems.

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Modern business logic tends to favour the bigger, the faster, the more resource-rich. That often applies, but in Asia—a region of diverse economies with a shared push for digitalisation—it doesn’t tell the whole story. Here, small and medium enterprises (SMEs) thrive in a digital economy defined as much by agility as by size.

Across Asia, SMEs make up a staggering 99 per cent of all enterprises. They aren’t just prevalent—they are engines of employment, responsible for over 60 per cent of jobs in the region, according to the ASEAN SME Policy Index (ASPI) for 2024.

More striking still is the contribution these SMEs make to the digital economy: 35–45 per cent of gross domestic product (GDP), a proportion that will only grow as SMEs continue their digital transformation. In fact, 90 per cent of SMEs are projected to reach basic digital intensity by 2030, driven by national initiatives like Singapore’s SMEs Go Digital program and Malaysia’s Digital Economy Blueprint.

Why such prominence? Partly because Asia’s vast diversity demands it. While large corporations can address broad market needs, SMEs are far better equipped to serve the specialised demands of specific regions. For example:

• Banking and finance: In the Philippines, underserved rural communities require banking solutions tailored to their unique financial circumstances. These solutions often involve micro-finance platforms and mobile banking innovations to serve those without access to traditional financial services—drastically different from the high-end banking infrastructure set up by major institutions in Singapore, a global financial hub.
• Agriculture: Indonesia’s agri-food sector provides fertile ground for SMEs to fill crucial gaps. From IoT-powered fish farms to drone-assisted crop management, these innovations help modernise farming, enhancing productivity and sustainability. Yet, due to the sheer diversity of needs, these opportunities often slip past larger companies. And while effective on a local scale, such technologies aren’t always scalable—they can be irrelevant in places like Singapore, where agriculture is nearly nonexistent in its urban sprawl.
• Telecommunications: In Asia’s most remote regions, 5G is a distant dream due to a lack of basic telecom infrastructure. For those living off the grid, SMEs can offer creative alternatives like laser communication systems, bypassing traditional infrastructure to deliver reliable connectivity. It’s a niche need that large telecom companies often overlook, but one that SMEs are uniquely positioned to address.

Also Read: Small steps, big impact: How SMEs can champion ESG initiatives

These are just a few examples that underscore one of the key advantages SMEs have over their larger counterparts: agility and speed. Larger firms, with entrenched processes and hierarchies, often struggle to pivot quickly. SMEs, with leaner structures, are more nimble, able to iterate and innovate rapidly—an essential trait in a region where digital literacy is advancing as fast as demographic shifts.

Despite their contributions, SMEs across Asia face formidable challenges. The ongoing funding winter has slowed access to growth capital, while economic pressures push larger companies into spaces once dominated by SMEs. Moreover, the very nature of SMEs—small, resource-constrained, and often sector-specific—makes them vulnerable to external shocks, be it pandemics, trade tensions, or economic downturns.

Still, there is a silver lining. From a policy perspective, governments are increasingly recognising the strategic importance of SMEs. Initiatives like ASEAN Access aim to enhance internationalisation opportunities, while a surge in business shows and tech events focused on SMEs reflects grassroots momentum.

One of these events is GITEX Asia, set for April 23–25, 2025, at Marina Bay Sands in Singapore. Expected to be among the biggest tech events in Asia, GITEX Asia promises to dive into the ongoing conversation about shaping the next wave of innovation for startups, SMEs, and more.

Individually, SMEs may be small, but collectively, they form the backbone of Asia’s digital economy—proof that bigger isn’t always better.

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