Singapore-based digital healthcare provider WhiteCoat Global recently announced its expansion into Indonesia by acquiring telemedicine company Good Doctor Indonesia. According to WhiteCoat founder and CEO Bryan Koh, this union will enable the firm to serve as the first and single touchpoint for all regional health needs.

In an interview with e27, Koh shares more insights into the deal and Southeast Asia’s healthtech sector.

Excerpts:

Indonesia is the largest economy in Southeast Asia. What specific challenges and opportunities do you anticipate in expanding WhiteCoat’s operations in such a dynamic and diverse market?

Indonesia is a vast and complex market, offering tremendous opportunities for growth alongside significant challenges. The country’s large and young population is increasingly tech-savvy, which aligns well with WhiteCoat’s digital healthcare services.

However, Indonesia’s geography presents obstacles to accessing healthcare in remote and rural areas. This creates opportunities for platforms like ours to bridge the gap, providing medical consultations and medication fulfilment to underserved regions.

WhiteCoat has a strong omnichannel healthcare model. How do you plan to balance the expansion of both digital and in-person services as part of your regional growth strategy?

Our strategy revolves around seamless and borderless access to care, both digitally and in person.

Telemedicine offers unparalleled accessibility and convenience. However, certain cases require in-person visits and physical examinations. To address this, our digital platform serves as the first point of contact, with conditions managed remotely online. Cases requiring in-person care are triaged to our network of physical providers, such as clinics and hospitals.

Also Read: One doctor for every family: Good Doctor wants to make healthcare accessible for all Indonesians

In markets like Indonesia, where healthcare access is a challenge, we are expanding our physical network through partnerships with brick-and-mortar providers. This approach allows us to scale rapidly and meet the health and wellness needs of our users more effectively.

You’ve highlighted WhiteCoat’s commitment to technology-driven care. How do you see advancements in AI, data analytics, and telemedicine shaping the future of your healthcare offerings?

AI and data analytics are poised to revolutionise healthcare delivery, enabling a more personalised and proactive approach to patient care.

At WhiteCoat:

• AI-driven diagnostics and decision-support tools will integrate care models across digital and in-person channels, providing practitioners with real-time insights to inform clinical decisions.
• Data analytics allows us to harness patient data (with strict privacy controls), identify healthcare trends, and tailor our services to meet the specific needs of various populations.

These technologies will enable us to address current healthcare demands and anticipate future ones, ensuring we remain at the forefront of healthcare innovation.

Now that you’re working with over 130 insurers and 7,500 corporate partners, how do you plan to leverage these partnerships to scale WhiteCoat’s services and improve accessibility?

Our partnerships provide direct access to a diverse population base across Southeast Asia. We leverage these relationships by:

• Developing targeted healthcare plans for underserved communities.
• Offering affordable telemedicine services as part of corporate wellness programs, reducing costs for employers while improving access for employees.
• Introducing microinsurance policies to make preventive and medical care more affordable.

Additionally, we work with insurers to encourage regular health screenings, followed by virtual consultations that empower users to manage their health proactively and efficiently.

The recent funding round led by Raffles Family Office and participation from MDI Ventures and The SoftBank Vision Fund is a significant boost. How do you plan to allocate these funds to strengthen WhiteCoat’s regional presence?

Also Read: WhiteCoat closes a tranche of Series B round, poised to break even in Singapore

The funds will be used to:

• Accelerate growth in existing markets such as Singapore, Indonesia, Vietnam, and Malaysia.
• Enter at least two additional markets through partnerships and selective M&A opportunities.
• Invest in technology, including GenAI for preventive diagnostics and treatment, upgrading digital health infrastructure, and expanding data analytics capabilities.

What initiatives are you planning to increase access to affordable healthcare for uninsured communities in Southeast Asia?

We’re focusing on:

• Creating low-cost telemedicine plans with our payer partners.
• Collaborating with NGOs and local governments to provide subsidised telemedicine consultations.
• Working with insurers to pass on cost savings to the broader public, making healthcare services more affordable and accessible.

WhiteCoat’s partnerships with insurers and corporates have been key to your success. How do you plan to evolve your B2B strategy post-acquisition?

Our B2B strategy focuses on:

• Deepening relationships with partners by offering customised wellness solutions and value-added services.
• Expanding into new care verticals to drive user volume efficiently.
• Using AI and data analytics to enhance our Think Well mental wellness program and other insurance products, ensuring partners and members derive maximum value.

As the healthcare industry undergoes rapid transformation post-pandemic, what trends do you see emerging in Southeast Asia’s healthcare landscape, and how is WhiteCoat positioning itself?

Key trends include:

• Increased adoption of digital health solutions for primary care, specialist care, and wellness.
• A growing emphasis on preventive care and mental wellness.
• Demand for integrated healthcare ecosystems, providing a seamless experience across digital and physical touchpoints.

WhiteCoat is capitalising on these trends by expanding our digital-first platform, incorporating mental wellness solutions, and ensuring comprehensive care across both digital and physical channels.

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While Singapore and Indonesia have historically been the dominant markets, Vietnam and the Philippines are rapidly gaining ground, attracting significant seed funding and fostering a thriving ecosystem, according to a new report by Jungle Ventures.

The ‘The First Cheque Report 2024’, which analyses seed investment rounds between 2021 and Q3 2024, shows that Singapore continues to lead in terms of deal count, capturing 54.4 per cent of all seed deals in Southeast Asia. This is largely attributed to the country’s favourable policies for entrepreneurs, attracting businesses targeting markets beyond Singapore’s borders.

Also Read: How corporate innovation in Vietnam is fledgling the B2B startup ecosystem

Indonesia holds the second position with 19.2 per cent of seed deals. However, the report highlights a significant trend: other Southeast Asian markets, particularly Vietnam and the Philippines, are catching up.

In the first half of 2024, Vietnam and the Philippines, along with other emerging Southeast Asian markets, collectively surpassed Indonesia in capital deployed for the first time. This signifies a shift in investor focus and highlights the growing potential of these emerging markets.
Several factors contribute to the rise of Vietnam and the Philippines.

Vietnam’s robust economic growth, coupled with a young and tech-savvy population, makes it an attractive destination for startups. The government’s proactive measures to support the startup ecosystem, including funding initiatives and incubator programs, further fuel this growth.

The Philippines, with its large English-speaking population and a burgeoning digital economy, offers a fertile ground for startups. The country’s growing middle class and increasing smartphone penetration present a vast market opportunity.

Also Read: Startup funding in SEA falls 65% to US$4.3B in 2023: Tracxn

The report acknowledges the role of local seed funds, micro-VCs, angel groups, and corporate investors in driving the growth of the startup ecosystem across Southeast Asian countries. This diversification of funding sources is indicative of a maturing entrepreneurial landscape.

The emergence of Vietnam and the Philippines presents a compelling narrative of the evolving startup landscape in Southeast Asia. As these markets continue attracting investment and nurturing innovation, they are poised to reshape the region’s economic future.

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In an era where sustainability is a pressing global priority, intlife Smart Home, a Malaysia-based green tech startup, is making waves with its energy-efficient solutions.

At the helm is Kok Huang, CEO and Co-Founder, whose mission is to combat energy wastage in residential and commercial properties. Speaking to e27, Kok Huang reveals how intlife is transforming spaces with cutting-edge technology and a vision for a greener tomorrow.

“Energy wastage is a significant issue, particularly in residential spaces,” Kok Huang shares. Initially focused on developing small home ecosystems, intlife equipped properties with IoT sensors and mobile app controls. This revealed an alarming trend: rooms often consumed excessive energy, even when unoccupied.

Armed with this data, the company transitioned to AI-driven energy management systems. “By analysing usage patterns, such as when a room is too cold or empty, we optimise energy consumption,” he explains. This approach delivers a holistic solution, cutting energy costs while reducing carbon footprints.

Working primarily with property developers, intlife integrates its systems into new homes and office spaces, reaching end users—homeowners and property managers—who experience improved energy efficiency.

“So far, we’ve implemented our solutions in about 3,000 homes, primarily in Kuala Lumpur and Johor Bahru,” Kok Huang notes.

Also Read: As the demand for energy soars, climate tech is here to save the day

Despite its potential, green tech adoption faces challenges. According to Kok Huang, a lack of awareness and the perception of high costs hinder its uptake. “People think it is expensive, but with maturing tech and cheaper sensors, these systems are now more affordable. The return on investment can be achieved in less than three years.”

Residential energy consumption ranks as the third-largest globally, making it a critical sector for sustainability efforts. “If we don’t address this, achieving net-zero goals becomes impossible,” he stresses.

intlife’s data-driven approach proves that energy efficiency is not just attainable but essential for sustainable living.

intlife’s user acquisition strategy centres on partnerships with property developers. By embedding its systems into showrooms, potential buyers can experience the benefits firsthand. “It is a seamless process. Existing properties can upgrade within four hours,” Kok Huang says, highlighting the accessibility of their solutions.

The company’s participation in the UOB FinLab Green Tech Accelerator has further sharpened the company’s focus.

“We’ve evolved from offering energy-saving solutions to integrating carbon credit calculators and green financing options, like reduced-interest green home loans,” he reveals. These enhancements not only improve customer offerings but also amplify intlife’s environmental impact.

Scaling up for 2025 and beyond

Looking ahead, 2025 promises to be a pivotal year for intlife. The company plans to expand into commercial and existing buildings, aiming to create sustainable workspaces and living environments.

Also Read: Founders Factory launches in Singapore to bolster SEA deep tech, climate tech ecosystem

“We are launching EMS 2.0, which will analyse energy consumption down to individual appliances,” Kok Huang shares. This granular insight enables users to manage their energy usage with unprecedented precision.

Intlife also aims to grow its user base to 4,000 property owners and introduce a dedicated customer care service. On a broader scale, the company aligns with Malaysia’s pledge to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050. “Our solutions contribute to saving 20 per cent energy in residential and 23 per cent in commercial spaces,” Kok Huang notes.

With plans to expand into Southeast Asia (including Singapore, Vietnam, and the Philippines), intlife is positioning itself as a regional leader in energy efficiency. “Our plug-and-play solutions can easily adapt to different markets, amplifying our impact on net-zero missions across the region.”

Intlife Smart Home exemplifies the power of technology to drive sustainable change. By addressing energy inefficiencies with IoT and AI, the company aims to reshape how homes and offices operate.

As awareness grows and technology becomes more accessible, intlife’s solutions intend to pave the way for a future where smart homes are not just a luxury, but a necessity for sustainability.

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Image Credit: intlife

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Female startup founders remain underrepresented in India and Southeast Asia, yet those who secure seed funding raise significantly larger rounds, according to First Cheque Report 2024 by Jungle Ventures.

In India, female founders comprised only 12 per cent of all seed-funded founders in 2024 year-to-date (YTD), a moderate increase from 7 per cent in 2021. However, companies with at least one woman founder raise median round sizes that are 114 per cent higher than the overall median.

Also Read: Funding into SEA’s female-led startups falls 42% to US$480.8M in 2023: Tracxn

The median round size for companies with at least one woman founder is US$1.05 million. This is 114 per cent higher than the overall median round size of US$0.49 million.

The average round size is also higher for Indian companies with female founders. The average for companies with at least one female founder is US$1.74 million. The overall average is US$1.08 million.

In Southeast Asia, female representation is even lower, at 9 per cent of seed-funded founders in 2024 YTD. While such companies raised only 1.3 per cent more on average than the overall average, their median round size is significantly higher.

Also Read: Shifting tides: Vietnam and Philippines challenge Singapore and Indonesia in startup investment

The median round size for Southeast Asian companies with at least one woman founder is US$2.2 million, which is 29 per cent higher than the overall median of US$1.70 million.

While the report doesn’t explain the reasons behind these funding disparities, data suggests that female founders may face greater difficulty securing seed funding.

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Singapore-based digital bank GXS Bank has announced plans to roll out its business banking services in the first quarter of 2025. The launch will begin in Singapore, Malaysia, and Indonesia, with progressive expansion planned throughout the year.

In Singapore, GXS Bank will prioritise sole proprietorships and micro-businesses, addressing unmet financial needs such as access to expansion loans. These businesses often struggle with limited options from traditional banks.

“2025 will be the year of significant scaling up for the digital banks in the GXS Group,” said Muthukrishnan Ramaswami, Group CEO of GXS Bank, in a statement.

To prepare for the launch, the bank has been running a pilot programme in Singapore with selected sole proprietorships within its ecosystem, co-creating and refining its offerings. Half of the country’s sole proprietorships are either served by or partnered with Grab and Singtel, both stakeholders in the bank.

The pilot will soon expand to include businesses outside this network.

Key products under the new business banking suite include the GXS Biz Account and GXS FlexiLoan Biz. These solutions mirror the innovative features of GXS Bank’s retail offerings, such as daily interest crediting for deposits, no early repayment fees, and interest savings for early loan repayments.

Also Read: A new blueprint for modernising Southeast Asian banking for the digital future

Eligible businesses will also gain access to unsecured credit lines to support their growth.

At a media luncheon on Wednesday, November 20, GXS announced that its growth rate from January to September 2024 has doubled compared to the same period last year.

The group now serves over three million customers regionally through its Singapore-based GXS Bank, Malaysia’s GXBank, and Indonesia’s Superbank.

In Singapore, four out of five customers are underserved, including gig workers, entrepreneurs, and young professionals under 30. Notably, 25 per cent of GXS FlexiLoan users had no or limited credit history at the time of application, but have since demonstrated strong financial discipline.

At the same event, GXS also stated that 20 per cent of GXS FlexiLoan users and nearly 60 per cent of the loan book’s total value were of the so-called affluent customers.

This dual strategy has contributed to steady loan growth, with GXS Bank doubling its personal loan portfolio to 200,000 in just six months, making it one of Singapore’s top six personal loan providers.

“Our business banking solutions are well underway and will be rolled out in the three markets in the near future. We are well-positioned to grow our business and serve even more customers in the coming year,” said Ramaswami.

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Image Credit: GXS

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As we delve into the transformative journey of digital payments in rising markets, a powerful wave of innovation and inclusion is reshaping how people and businesses engage in these economies. While the global payments landscape often features broad themes of digitisation, some regions are experiencing accelerated, distinct evolutions within this movement.

Latin America, Africa, and India each present unique narratives in the shift toward digital commerce, with local payment methods like Pix, UPI, PSE, and mobile money making seismic impacts.

In this exploration, I’ll touch on key innovations that we at EBANX, a global technology company specialising in payment services for rising markets, see as vital to the growth and development of these regions.

Localised payment innovation: more than just alternatives

As new payment technologies evolve, the need to adapt to specific markets has become non-negotiable for global businesses. The one-size-fits-all model no longer holds for payment systems. Each region — indeed, each country – has unique user habits, regulatory environments, and cultural preferences that demand tailored solutions.

In Latin America, Pix in Brazil and PSE in Colombia demonstrate how tailored digital payments can make digital commerce more accessible and inclusive. Pix, introduced by Brazil’s Central Bank in 2020, has expanded dramatically, growing to nearly half of Brazil’s digital payment transactions in just a few years and being part of the daily lives of 90 per cent of the adults in the country.

According to Payments and Commerce Market Intelligence (PCMI) data analysed by EBANX, Pix is set to surpass credit cards as the most widely used payment method in Brazilian digital commerce by next year. The projection for 2025 estimates that Pix will account for 44 per cent of all value transacted in online purchases in Brazil, an increase of four percentage points, while cards will have a 41 per cent share.

Additionally, data from the Brazilian Central Bank indicates Pix has integrated 71.5 million users into the financial system in the first two years of operation. This is a potent example of how a payment method can drive financial inclusion and consumer convenience through seamless, quick, and free transfers.

Similarly, in Colombia, PSE (Pagos Seguros en Línea) is a preferred gateway for many people, especially those new to digital commerce. We see its wide use in retail as well as by new consumers venturing into e-commerce. This is not merely about introducing a different payment option; it’s about creating a payment experience that meets people where they are, encourages trust, and simplifies their journey into digital engagement.

Internal data from EBANX show that companies accepting Pix in digital commerce experience a 16 per cent increase in revenue and a 25 per cent growth in the number of clients. In Colombia, PSE brought in more than half of the new customers for two of EBANX’s online retail merchants over a three-year period. These figures highlight the importance of global companies having tailored payment strategies for each region.

With expertise in those local solutions, our operation includes over 200 payment methods, having connected more than 150 million consumers to global brands. Within the Pix system alone, we currently process payments for over 33 million users, 20 per cent of all Pix users in the country.

How “digitised cash” is driving digital and financial inclusion globally

In regions like Africa, mobile money has become a cornerstone of digital finance, leapfrogging traditional banking infrastructure and providing millions with instant access to digital commerce. According to the last EBANX annual study, Beyond Borders 2024, since 2007, Kenya has been at the forefront of mobile money innovation.

This platform allowed people, for the first time, to transfer funds using a basic mobile phone without requiring a bank account or internet access, thanks to SIM card-based technology. Today, more than 90 per cent of Kenyan adults have a mobile money account, according to a GSMA consumer survey, underscoring this technology’s widespread adoption and impact over the past 15 years.

Also Read: Do cards have the opportunity to flourish in Southeast Asia’s digital payment services landscape?

With nearly half of digital commerce in Kenya relying on mobile money, the implications for increased access are profound. This shift has provided an economic lifeline for those previously excluded from financial services, especially in rural areas where banking infrastructure is limited or nonexistent.

In Egypt, cash remains the dominant transaction method, accounting for a large portion of the digital commerce volume: 73 per cent of Egyptians are unbanked, and only 22 per cent have a credit or debit card, making the country heavily reliant upon cash transactions, based on Beyond Borders 2024.

However, innovative solutions like QR code-based payments and cash vouchers are paving the way for more inclusive digital finance. The hybrid approach, digitising cash transactions and ensuring that consumers can participate in digital commerce even without bank accounts, is a significant step toward financial inclusion. The continued push to blend cash-based solutions with digital technology signals a path forward for Egypt and other cash-reliant economies in Africa and beyond.

India’s digital payment evolution: from cash to UPI

India’s journey in digital payments has been equally transformative. Over the past decade, UPI (Unified Payments Interface) has shifted the nation’s payment culture from predominantly cash-based to digital-first. With UPI adoption growing exponentially since its introduction in 2016, India has emerged as a leader in real-time digital payments, outpacing traditional cards and attracting a wide range of businesses.

Currently, UPI represents 64 per cent of all digital payments in India, and the share is growing. From April 2022 to March 2023, payments in retail through UPI amounted to US$1.6 trillion, the Beyond Border 2024 report shows. In a market where nearly half of consumers lacked banking access just a few years ago, UPI now drives over 55 per cent of digital commerce, according to PCMI, transforming consumer habits and the business landscape.

An important factor is India’s successful integration of various payment methods within a single platform. UPI’s ability to merge credit cards, debit cards, and bank accounts into one payment system is a powerful example of hybrid payment solutions that adapt to the consumer’s needs.

As more consumers engage with digital transactions and become financially included, the future of UPI—and by extension, India’s digital economy—holds vast potential. We see the potential for similar solutions in other rising markets, where diverse payment methods are united under a single, consumer-centric platform.

Blending old and new: hybrid payment models and digital wallets

In many rising markets, particularly those transitioning from cash-based economies, hybrid payment models bridge the gap between traditional and digital payment systems. The integration of alternative payment methods (APMs) with credit and debit cards allows consumers to move between digital and physical transactions seamlessly.

In Latin America, credit cards still hold a strong place, especially in SaaS, streaming services, and other subscription-based industries. However, hybrid models—where cards and instant payments coexist—have found their sweet spot. For instance, in Tanzania, mobile money services like M-Pesa now integrate with Visa, providing a virtual card for digital commerce, while in India, UPI enables credit card payments within an instant payment framework.

For global companies entering these markets, such hybrid models present a compelling strategy to cater to a diverse range of consumer habits. Whether it’s enabling instalment payments, auto-renewals, or other flexible models, hybrid solutions create a pathway for people at varying stages of financial inclusion to participate in the digital economy. The flexibility to use a familiar method, like mobile wallets or credit cards, in combination with instant payment options, meets consumers where they are and builds trust.

The hybrid aspect is also evident in how cards and alternative payment methods adopt each other’s features. For example, Pix Automático is incorporating recurring payment capabilities, a feature initially associated with cards. Set to launch in June 2025,  Pix Automático aims to bring recurring payment options to all users in Brazil, enabling them to use Pix for subscriptions to streaming services, SaaS products, and other subscription-based offerings.

Enabling global growth through local payment expertise

Emerging markets across Latin America, Africa, and India are not only rising but defining new standards in global commerce. These regions offer a vast, eager customer base for digital commerce—one that is often overlooked due to perceived complexities around local payments and regulatory hurdles.

Also Read: Building bridges to close gaps in cross-border payment

For example, the e-commerce market in Latin America is expected to grow 20 per cent in volume between 2023 and 2027, with a projected volume of more than US$1 trillion, according to PCMI data analysed by EBANX. Our experience in these markets tells us that while the pathways to growth are unique and sometimes intricate, the payoff is considerable. Businesses that invest in understanding local payment ecosystems and work with experienced partners can achieve lasting success in rising markets.

For global businesses, understanding these payment trends and customising their approaches is crucial for growth. Payment methods are no longer simply transactional tools; they have become strategic enablers of customer engagement and retention. Take Brazil, for example, where Pix is rapidly becoming the default choice for online purchases.

The simplicity and speed of Pix encourage more frequent purchases, and many merchants now offer discounts to consumers who pay with Pix, further incentivising its use. In India, the integration of UPI with various banking and credit systems facilitates broad, deep engagement with customers, boosting their loyalty and willingness to transact digitally.

At the heart of this payment evolution lies a powerful message: payment preferences matter. Local payment methods are not “alternative” —they are mainstream. And as businesses look to grow globally, an understanding of local payment trends is as essential as understanding local languages or cultural norms.

Toward an inclusive, connected digital economy

The rapid evolution of payment landscapes in Latin America, Africa, and India speaks to a broader, hopeful vision of digital financial inclusion. The varied ways that people pay—and the increasing ease with which they can do so—point toward a connected digital economy that embraces both the banked and unbanked, narrowing socio-economic gaps. Payments are no longer a passive component of commerce; they are now active agents in societal transformation.

In this new global landscape, businesses willing to adapt and innovate can drive more than just revenue growth—they can foster a more inclusive economy. The journey of rising markets is complex and, at times, unpredictable, but it’s also a story of resilience, opportunity, and the power of technology to bridge divides.

As we look to the future, the challenge remains for global companies to embrace this diversity in payments with agility and respect. The rewards—both financial and societal—are immense. The future of payments in Latin America, Africa, and India is not just a shift in numbers but a pathway to progress itself. And for those who are ready to engage thoughtfully, it offers a chance to be part of a profound, positive transformation that is redefining the world’s digital economy.

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Transforming Urban Mobility: How Angkas is Navigating Regulatory Challenges and Redefining Transportation Solutions

As part of Echelon Philippines 2024, the fireside chat titled ‘Transforming Urban Mobility: How Angkas is Navigating Regulatory Challenges and Redefining Transportation Solutions in the Philippines’ explored the company’s innovative strategies for addressing transportation issues in urban areas. Moderated by Arthur Adrian Lopez, Co-Founder of Brainsparks and NextPay, the discussion featured insights from Angeline Tham, CEO and Co-Founder of Angkas.

The session highlighted Angkas’ efforts to overcome regulatory challenges and transform urban mobility. Angkas aims to provide a safer and more efficient commuting experience while fostering dignified livelihoods for motorcycle riders. Despite navigating cultural stigmas and legal obstacles, the company has achieved a safety rating of 99.997 per cent. Angkas also integrates financial literacy initiatives and enables access to government services such as Social Security System (SSS) and PhilHealth for its riders.

Also Read: Echelon Philippines 2024: Expanding Web3 applications for real-world challenges

Key innovations discussed included the integration of technology to enhance customer experiences and operational efficiency. Angkas’ future plans involve expanding services to additional cities, introducing Angkas Cars, and committing to sustainability by transitioning to electric vehicles. The chat underscored how Angkas is not just redefining mobility but also shaping market dynamics and consumer behaviour in the Philippine transportation sector.

Watch the session video above to learn more about these insights and the strategies shaping the future of entrepreneurship.

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The buy-now-pay-later (BNPL) market in Southeast Asia is expected to reach US$53.2 billion by 2027, according to analysts at UnaFinancial.

The region, with its young and tech-savvy population, has seen a rapid increase in buy-now-pay-later adoption, particularly among Gen Z consumers who are open to new financial technologies.

According to the UnaFinancial study, Indonesia is projected to lead the market with US$16.8 billion in buy-now-pay-later transactions by 2027, a 209 per cent increase from 2024. The Philippines is expected to witness the fastest growth at 235 per cent, reaching US$8.2 billion by 2027.

Also Read: Report: BNPL remains popular amongst Indonesian fintech services users

Malaysia is forecast to reach US$11.3 billion, growing at 215 per cent from 2024. Thailand and Vietnam will see more moderate growth, reaching US$8.2 billion and US$5.9 billion, respectively.

Singapore’s buy-now-pay-later market is projected to reach US$2.9 billion by 2027.

The key driving factors:

High Gen Z population: Southeast Asia has a high concentration of Gen Z consumers who are driving the demand for BNPL services.

Alternative to traditional banking: BNPL provides an alternative to traditional banking and credit systems, which are often inaccessible to younger generations.

Growing cashless payments ecosystem: The increasing adoption of cashless payments is further fueling the growth of the BNPL market.

Challenges:

Mature banking infrastructure: In countries like Malaysia, the mature banking infrastructure may moderate the expansion of BNPL services.

Also Read: How BNPL can provide lower-income households with new opportunities

Established financial systems: Singapore’s established financial system and access to traditional loans pose a challenge to BNPL adoption.

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Locad, a cloud supply chain-as-a-service company based in Singapore, has raised US$9 million in a pre-Series B funding round, co-led by Global Ventures and existing investor Reefknot Investments.

Other participants include Sumitomo Equity Ventures and returning backers Antler Elevate, Febe Ventures, and JG Summit.

Also Read: The digital revolution in supply chain management: Efficiency, visibility, and resilience

The firm will use the money to accelerate its international expansion, starting with the UAE and Saudi Arabia in Q4 2024, as part of its “grow global, go local” strategy. A portion of the money will be used to enhance Locad’s AI-driven smart logistics capabilities.

Locad is a smart digital logistics engine aiming to build the supply chain infrastructure of modern commerce, connecting brands to consumers in growth markets with a global cloud supply chain as a service. It enables e-commerce brands to grow their omnichannel business and automatically store, pack, ship, and track orders across their B2C and B2B distribution channels.

Locad’s tech platform syncs inventory across online channels and organises end-to-end order fulfilment through its network of warehouses and carriers across APAC, the US, and the Middle East.

Through this, brands and merchants get a geographically distributed warehousing infrastructure that allows them to stock goods closer to customers, enabling faster delivery at a lower cost.

The company said it works with over 300 consumer brands across Southeast Asia and Australia.

Also Read: Beyond 3PL: BBTruck’s 5PL solution for a smarter, greener global supply chain

Constantin Robertz, CEO and co-founder of Locad, said: “Over the last four years, we have built a cloud supply chain platform in APAC that allows brands to unify their omnichannel distribution and access localised fulfilment in SEA and AU growth markets. We are now excited to take Locad global, opening our presence in the US and entering the GCC to make it easier for brands to sell anywhere with a fully localised customer experience.

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AMD, a global semiconductor leader, designs and delivers high-performance and adaptive computing solutions. The 50-year-old behemoth works with companies in industries including technology, automotive, telecom, financial services, gaming, and entertainment to provide computing and artificial intelligence (AI) solutions across cloud, edge, and end devices.

The tech giant established an office in Singapore in 1984, which has been a cornerstone of the local semiconductor industry, evolving from a high-volume manufacturing plant to a hub of innovation and research. In the island nation, it works closely with system integrators and OEM manufacturers to provide its CPU and GPU technology for consumers. It recently collaborated with leading smart parking solutions provider Sun Singapore Systems to deploy a new AI-based smart parking solution.

e27 recently spoke with Peter Chambers, MD (APAC Sales) and Country Manager (Australia), who shared more about AMD’s work in Singapore.

Below are the edited excerpts:

How does AMD’s mission align with current trends in AI, and what future trends do you foresee in these areas?

AI is the single most transformative technology of the past 50 years, and we are just beginning to see its true potential. The use cases are growing exponentially daily, and the seamless incorporation of AI capabilities across a wide range of applications is occurring at breakneck speed, enabling intelligent and automated decision-making. This inadvertently translates to an insatiable demand for computing that will further drive requirements for more powerful hardware.

At AMD, we are uniquely positioned to power the end-to-end infrastructure driving the AI era with the broadest portfolio of high-performance compute engines, an open, proven, and developer-friendly software platform, and deep collaboration and co-innovation with our partners, including the largest cloud, OEM, software, and AI companies in the world.

We aim to provide the computational power necessary to drive applications and bring use cases to life in gaming, data centres, and other industries.

Also Read: SEA’s role in the global semiconductor supply chain is poised to strengthen: GlobalFoundries’s Siah Soh Yun

We don’t believe a single company, product, or vision will realise the next five years of advancement in the AI space. The future of technology will be born from open ecosystems and deep industry partnerships that drive true innovation.

AMD has been an active player in Singapore’s semiconductor industry. What factors have driven its involvement in the country’s ecosystem? How important is it for AMD to work with local universities and institutions to build a skilled workforce capable of leading APAC’s semiconductor innovations?

Following its entry into the market, AMD Singapore expanded its horizons by establishing the IC Design Centre in the early 90s, signalling its entry into the microcontroller and Ethernet controller design. We have since transformed our local operations into a full-fledged R&D centre by 2012, spearheading CPU product development and expanding its portfolio to include client, graphics, server, and console gaming products. In fact, the Singapore labs contributed to the development of the recent AMD Instinct MI300 and MI325 series accelerators.

At the same time, we also work closely with system integrators and OEMs to ensure the wide availability of our leading CPU and GPU technology for consumers in Singapore.

We proactively seek avenues to collaborate with key local stakeholders—such as the Economic Development Board, Singapore Semiconductor Industry Association (SSIA), and NTU—and focus on initiatives where our power is amplified most: putting AMD technology in the hands of the next generation so the best and brightest minds can solve the world’s biggest problems for a better tomorrow.

We run several programmes to empower local students with the passion alongside necessary skills and tools for data science, AI, and chip design, fostering the next generation of tech leaders in the APAC region and supporting the development of advanced AI processors like the MI325X and future generations.

With the increasing demand for AI-driven solutions, how do you see Singapore contributing to accelerating AMD’s goals for the semiconductor and AI industries?

As mentioned, AMD Singapore houses an R&D centre that spearheads CPU product development and is expanding its portfolio to include client, graphics, server, and console gaming products.

Talent is a crucial piece of the puzzle. We strongly believe that people power AMD, so we strive to attract, acquire, develop, and advance the most engaged, diverse, and inclusive workforce in the semiconductor industry so that it can fully realise the benefits of the work we do in Singapore.

With Singapore’s well-illustrated track record of empowering companies especially in the adoption of emerging technologies, we remain committed to furthering the highly collaborative partnerships we have established throughout the years with the local government as well as OEM partners, industry associations such as SSIA, and the various local institutions and universities to nurture a stronger tech ecosystem.

The semiconductor industry in Asia Pacific is evolving rapidly. What trends or shifts do you anticipate over the next five years, particularly in producing speciality chips and sustainable manufacturing?

AI is defining the next era of computing, and we are just at the beginning of this super cycle. The use cases are growing exponentially every day, and the seamless incorporation of AI capabilities across a wide range of applications is occurring at breakneck speed, enabling intelligent and automated decision-making.

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In the coming years, enterprises need to ensure that they are well-equipped to take on this transition, including ensuring they have the IT infrastructure to power and handle the AI workloads. This inadvertently translates to an insatiable demand for computing further driving requirements for more powerful hardware.

How does AMD balance performance and environmental impact in chip production, and are there any key sustainability goals you’re pursuing in Singapore?

AMD takes a three-pronged approach to reducing environmental impacts and improving sustainability:

1. Addressing environmental impacts at AMD and in our supply chain. Within AMD operations, we aim to reduce operational GHG emissions in line with science-based targets while working closely with manufacturing suppliers to track and improve environmental metrics.

• In 2023, we achieved a 24.5 per cent reduction in our Scope 1 and 2 emissions compared to a 2020 baseline. This is part of our ambition to achieve a 50 per cent absolute reduction in GHG emissions from operation emissions by 2030 from a 2020 base year.
• Our Singapore site is certified to the ISO 14001 standard, certifying our proactive measures to minimise environmental footprint, comply with relevant legal requirements, and achieve the necessary environmental objectives.
• An example of how AMD is helping our foundry wafer partners reduce impacts is through modular “chiplet” architecture. Instead of designing for one large monolithic chip, AMD engineers reconfigured the component IP building blocks using a flexible, scalable connectivity fabric. By breaking our designs up into smaller chiplets, we can get more chips per wafer, lowering the probability that a defect will land on any one chip. As a result, the number and yield percentage of “good” chips per wafer go up, and the wasted cost, raw materials, energy, emissions, and water go down.

2. Advancing environmental performance for IT users: Optimising system-level energy efficiency to help our customers and end users save energy and advance their sustainability goals.

• AMD EPYC processors power some of the most energy-efficient x86 servers, delivering exceptional performance and reducing energy costs. In fact, the latest 5th Gen EPYC processors consume up to 68 per cent less power consumption than its competition, allowing IT leaders to achieve the same level of performance with up to 87 per cent fewer servers.
• AMD powers 157 systems on the Green500 list of the world’s most efficient supercomputers, as of the latest list in June 2024, including Frontier, the world’s fastest supercomputer.

3. Innovating collaborative solutions to address environmental challenges: AMD is working with enterprises and researchers on innovative solutions that optimise renewable energy generation, enhance smart solutions, and power cutting-edge climate and scientific research.

• Climavision uses 3rd-generation AMD EPYC processors to bring more data and smarter analysis to weather forecasting. This critical information helps industries like agriculture, transportation, insurance and risk, and renewable energy better prepare for extreme weather events by providing more accurate and timely data.
• The LUMI supercomputer powered by AMD is driving climate research and helping researchers understand the interrelated forces contributing to climate change and develop solutions to help mitigate the impacts.

How does AMD view the role of private companies in advancing Singapore’s semiconductor ecosystem, especially in fostering innovation and sustainable practices?

Innovation and sustainable practices do not happen in isolation. Lawmakers and industry must work together to develop regulations and establish effective guidelines that foster growth in those specific areas while ensuring that development is responsible and aligned with the national interest.

We believe that the future of technology will be born from open ecosystems and deep industry partnerships that drive true innovation. In fact, our business and AI strategies are built upon this very premise.

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We are driving open-source innovation for AI ecosystems because we feel that is the best path forward for the industry and to enable the best from AI developers. Making our software and hardware open source allows developers to build and deploy AI applications more quickly and easily. Developers and partners can leverage AMD software tools to optimise AI applications on AMD hardware.

Today, the stack includes AMD ROCm for AMD Instinct accelerators and AMD Radeon graphics cards, AMD Vitis AI for adaptive accelerators, SoCs, and FPGAs, as well as AMD ZenDNN open-source libraries for AMD EPYC processors.

We have also joined key partnerships, like the AI Alliance which consists of companies, startups, universities, research and government organisations, and non-profit foundations that are working to innovate across all aspects of AI technology, applications and governance—in an open and transparent way.

Sustainable practices:

Similarly, collaboration is central to our approach to environmental sustainability, largely because AMD operates in a fabless business model with carefully selected external suppliers manufacturing our products. Our strategy considers where we have control and influence.

We also work with our manufacturing suppliers to advance environmental sustainability across a variety of metrics. Our engagement with our direct suppliers is informed by each supplier’s situation and looks toward assertive, forward-looking, and measurable progress.

For example, in 2023, we met individually with numerous suppliers to learn more about their current sustainability efforts and maturity levels to identify milestones for 2024-25.

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